Parliamentarian C.V. Wigneswaran proclaimed, “Tamil Nationalism has not failed. It is in hibernation,” in response to a question regarding his take on the recent parliamentary election results and whether Tamil Nationalists have failed. 

The Tamil Makkal Thesiya Kootani (TMTK) leader denied that Tamil Nationalism has failed, stating that the “Tamil people have reacted to the selfish policy-less behaviour of the TNA [Tamil National Alliance].”  

What formerly consisted of TNA votes has now been divided amongst the TNA, Tamil National People's Front (TNPF) and TMTK, according to Wigneswaran. "Some have shown their disapproval of the TNA by voting to the State favoured parties. Many who so voted felt obliged to repay those who helped them with 'goodies' at various times," he added. 

The TMTK leader also pointed out that no Sinhala government will want to develop the North and East, but merely want to strengthen their control over the region. “Constructing a road, giving a job here or there, opening a park and so on is not development,” Wigneswaran argued. Instead, he claimed that what is really needed is for the Tamil people to become self-reliant. 

“My hunch is our People will soon jettison the TNA, the Cycle Party [TNPF] as well as the government favoured Parties and bring us into power at the Provincial Council Election to be held early next year. The Government favoured Parties will be completely routed. Tamil Nationalism has not failed. It is in hibernation," he added. 

See the full statement here.