Sangam's Statement on Anton Balasingam's Passing
Ilankai Tamil Sangam, December 18, 2006
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Bala Anna believed that the Tamil Diaspora has a role to play in the current situation. Let us take strength from his courage and inspiration from his life, and rededicate ourselves to the journey toward the realization of the Tamils' right to self-determination.
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Tamils all over the world are saddened by the passing away of Dr. Anton Balasingam, the "Voice of the Nation." The Tamils have lost a great soul who sacrificed his whole life in the struggle of the Tamils for justice, dignity and peace.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to Mrs. Adele Balasingam and the rest of his family.
Dr. Balasingam was the theoretician, the political advisor and the chief negotiator of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam, the National Liberation Movement of the Tamils and the de facto government of the NorthEast of the Island of Sri Lanka. He was the most prominent international voice articulating the oppression of the Tamils and their response of asserting their right to determine their own political future.
Many who had the privilege of meeting Dr. Balasingam were struck by his simplicity, his intellect and humanity. He was totally dedicated to the realization of the Tamils' right to self-determination and had a deep concern for the welfare of the Tamil people. His profound knowledge and understanding of international affairs and politics was combined with his diplomatic skills for the benefit of advancing the struggle of the Tamil people for justice and dignity. He had a very close relationship with the Tamil National Leader, Mr. Vellupillai Pirapaharan, and was his trusted advisor. The Tamil Nation affectionately referred to Dr. Balasingam as "Bala Anna" (older brother Bala), reflecting the love and respect we had for this man who had dedicated his life to advance our struggle.
Bala Anna gave voice to the legitimate aspirations of the Tamil nation and defined the political and theoretical framework for it. He argued that the Tamil nation, which has a distinct language and culture, is united in its determination to live with dignity and equality, and inhabits their traditional homeland, has the right to self-determination. He was the international face of the Tamil political campaign to win their right to self-determination. He lived and breathed the Tamils' struggle for self-determination. He believed that, if the Tamils are denied political space to exercise their right to self-determination, they have the right to establish an independent Tamil Eelam as a manifestation of the exercise of their right to self-determination.
Bala Anna was the embodiment of the Tamil nation's persistent and realistic efforts to resolve the national conflict in the island of Sri Lanka through peaceful means. He believed that power symmetry and strategic equilibrium are essential for a peaceful settlement. He led the Tamil delegation from the 1985 Thimpu talks to the current peace process facilitated by the Royal Norwegian Government. He understood the lack of political consensus and the dearth of political will in the South and the limitations of the representatives of the Government of Sri Lanka. Given the above, he showed flexibility in the peace talks with the hope that the Sinhala political leadership would evolve into a position to become a partner with the ability to deliver in the negotiating process. He did not believe in a zero-sum game. He was for a win-win situation. Unfortunately, given dysfunctional politics in the South, his patience and his hopes have proved to be futile.
Bala Anna personified the Tamil diplomatic campaign. He won the respect of International diplomats with his knowledge, flexibility and honesty. Bala Anna believed that international involvement will contribute positively to the peace process. He believed that the international community will take a position based on idealism and realism. He was disappointed at the international community's response towards the Tamil nation.
Bala Anna's contribution to the Tamil cause is immeasurable and the Tamil Nation is grateful for all his dedication and sacrifice.
Adele Acca was a partner and tower of strength to Bala Anna. We look forward to benefiting from her vast experience and wisdom in the future.
Bala Anna believed that the Tamil Diaspora has a role to play in the current situation. Let us take strength from his courage and inspiration from his life, and rededicate ourselves to the journey toward the realization of the Tamils' right to self-determination.
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