September 1, 2024
In a dramatic turn of events, the Ilangei Tamil Arasu Kachchi (ITAK) is embroiled in controversy over its recent decision to support Sajith Premadasa, the presidential candidate of Samagi Jana Balavega. This decision, which was reached during a Central Committee meeting held on September 1, 2024, has sparked a significant internal dispute within the party.
Mr. Mawei Senadhiraja, the leader of ITAK, has publicly expressed his dissatisfaction with the decision, asserting that he was not consulted. Senadhiraja, who was unable to attend the meeting due to illness, had earlier communicated that no final decisions should be made during the session and that only preliminary matters were to be discussed.
Senadhiraja contends that any endorsement of a presidential candidate should be based on a comprehensive review and decision-making process involving all key party members. He has criticized the manner in which the decision was conveyed to the media, claiming that he was not properly informed or involved in the process.
In defense, ITAK General Secretary P. Sathyalingam has asserted that the decision to support Sajith Premadasa was a collective and deliberate choice of the Central Committee. Sathyalingam stated that Senadhiraja was informed about the decision before the announcement and was expected to receive additional details later.
M. A. Sumanthiran, ITAK’s Media Spokesperson, clarified that the Central Committee’s meeting, held in Vavuniya, lasted nearly five hours. The decision to back Premadasa was made after extensive discussion. Sumanthiran emphasized that the party’s official position was to support Premadasa, aligning with the consensus of the Central Committee.
The discord within ITAK has drawn significant media attention. Reports have highlighted the tensions and disagreements over the decision-making process. The party’s internal conflict has become a focal point of public interest, with critics questioning the transparency and inclusivity of ITAK’s decision-making procedures.
The fallout from this internal dispute could have implications for ITAK’s political strategy and unity going into the presidential election. The party’s ability to present a cohesive front and effectively support Sajith Premadasa could be impacted by the ongoing controversy.
As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how ITAK will address the leadership dispute and whether any further actions or statements will be made to reconcile differences within the party.
