New York based Lankan expatriates body protests media campaign against Dr. Kohona

The Consortium of Sri Lankan Expatriates, a well known patriotic organization that has been organizing successful protest campaigns against the ruthless LTTE for several years, along with other patriotic activists, takes the responsibility of organizing and participating in the event that took place in front of the United Nations on March 12, 2010, says Sumith DeSilva, Member Representative, New York and New Jersey.

The protest was a great success considering the freezing temperature, rainy, windy weather and it being a working day in United States. Over hundred patriots despite the bad weather were present although the protest was organized in a short notice and the attendance was voluntary. Members of Consortium representatives personally handed over a memorandum to the office of the United Nation Secretary General.

It is regrettable that both Lankanews and Lankatruth, have published two identical reports about this event that are grossly inaccurate. Evidently, these reports were done purposefully, bearing in mind party politics, with no consideration of the damage the inflammatory reports can impose on the image of Sri Lanka. It is apparent that these so- called "reporters" lack in-depth knowledge and experience, and have personally disrespected Dr. Palitha Kohona and also the good office of the Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka to the United Nations in a despicable manner, he further said in a press release.

All expatriates should realize that Sri Lanka is our country and not only for Rajapaksa's, Wickremasinghe's, or Fonseka's. We, the patriotic Sri Lankans in New York, defended Sri Lanka against LTTE terrorist propaganda and other activities in New York, and now we need to defend Sri Lanka's right to sovereignty against the pressure of the United Nations.

It only reflects on the character of the writers who engaged in personal mud slinging and character vendetta at a scholarly diplomat like Dr. Palith Kohona. It is especially disheartening when one considers the fact that Dr. Kohona resigned from a comfortable position in the United Nations and joined the government of Sri Lanka, while the war was still going on and did a magnificent job during those turbulent times for the country.

Disagreements should be based on substance. Therefore, we urge all expatriates to refrain from disseminating false and harmful propaganda. Instead, try to practice mutual respect and reap the real benefit of peace and harmony, with which we are all blessed after 30 years of terrorism, Sumith DeSilva said.

- Asian Tribune -