EPDP denies intimidation allegations

[TamilNet, Tuesday, 26 October 1999, 09:16 GMT]
The organiser of the Eelam People's Democratic Party (EPDP) for the Ampara District, M.Kunasegaram, has denied the allegations that the group's members are intimidating civilians in Karaithivu.

He said the EPDP members have neither ordered the residents to stay in their houses after 6 p.m. nor threatened to shoot those who violate their orders.

In a statement issued by him yesterday evening, Mr. Kunasegaram said that the group was involved in various projects to help civilians in the area and that the EPDP has never harmed any civilians there.

The statement further assured that EPDP will not harm civilians in future either and that the group would cease all its function in the district if the allegations are true.

Mr. Kunasegaram blamed three former EPDP cadres who have been excluded from the group for corruption and bribery. He claims they have been involved in such activities to tarnish the organisation.

(Editors note: The report 'EPDP intimidates Ampara civilians' filed by TamilNet on 24 October was based on information gathered from local residents.)

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