This past weekend, Thenmarachchi, in Jaffna peninsula, came under heavy shelling from the security forces, one of the reasons that may have prompted the withdrawal of the LTTE truce. Observers also cited the two sea battles last week in which the LTTE is reported to have suffered big losses, including nine Sea Tiger cadres taken captive by the Navy. Still, the announcement by the LTTE was contrary to expectations. At a meeting last week between the Norwegian special envoy, Mr. Erik Solheim, and Mr. Anton Balasingham in London, the LTTE representative reportedly indicated that an extension of the truce was likely to assist Oslo in its efforts to facilitate peace talks. However, the LTTE decision might prove to be a blessing in disguise for the peace process.
Unilateral gestures have no place in a situation of excessive mistrust.
They give rise only to more suspicion. It was not surprising that the Government, which was taken by surprise at the announcement of the truce, refused to reciprocate the gesture, and went on to accuse the LTTE of using the ceasefire as a cover to rearm, recruit more cadres and regroup. Now that the ceasefire is no more, one of the main roadblocks in the peace process no longer exists, namely the Government's refusal to respond positively. Inc. All rights reserved worldwide.