How likely is the outbreak of full scale war in Sri Lanka?

Tracing back what would you identify as a root of the conflict?

There is a long historical background to this problem, and there have been various allegations made against each and every party. The LTTE say various acts of goverment lead to this.
Previously there was no southern consensus for a devolution package, but that is the history.
What is needed now is to ensure that we will not repeat that position. But instead give a solution to this problem. I hope the LTTE will come into the negotiating table and let us discuss what remedies are possible, and we will make any sacrifices which are neccessary to ensure this problem is sorted out from our end.

How do you respond to the  allegations that the government is turning a blind eye to atrocities committed against innocent civilians, particularly members of the Sri Lankan army?

There are claims that the government is not adequately addressing the “Karuna issue” – what is your response to this?

Karuna is not part of the government. Who is Karuna? Karuna was Prabakaran’s
leftenant. His second in command and they had their divisions within their ranks. Now suppose Tamilchelvan [the LTTE political spokesman] wants to leave LTTE and form his own group against the LTTE, how can the goverment of srilanka prevent that?

They should not put the responsiblity to the goverment to Sri Lanka to deal with them. We have no right to in terms of the ceasefire agreement when they engage in acts of violence in the uncleared areas.. We have given a solemn undertaking under the Ceasefire Agreement that we will not go into combat operation in the areas controlledby the LTTE.

How do you answer the accusation that the Sri Lankan government do not view Tamils as equals?

At best what offer can you bring to the negotiating table?

We are with a very open mind.  What ever the problems the Tamil people have, we can discuss that. His Excellency, President Mahinda Rajapakse, even in his election manifesto has said that within Sri Lanka he will give maximum devolution possible. What we are opposed is to have a seperate state, but devolution we do offer and their is no question about that.

What message do you have for the Liberation Tigers?