The Life of "Perunthalaiver" Rajavarothayam Sampanthan

 

The Life of "Perunthalaiver" Rajavarothayam Sampanthan

 

Early Life and Education

Rajavarothayam Sampanthan, commonly referred to as "Perunthalaiver" (a Tamil term meaning "Great Leader"), was born on February 5, 1933, in Trincomalee, a port city in eastern Sri Lanka. He hailed from a prominent Tamil family known for its political engagement and community leadership. His father, Rajavarothayam, was a respected local figure, which influenced young Sampanthan's early exposure to political discourse and public service.

Sampanthan's education began in his hometown, and he later attended St. Patrick's College in Jaffna, a prestigious institution known for its academic excellence. He pursued higher education at Ceylon Law College, where he qualified as an advocate, marking the beginning of a career that would blend law and politics seamlessly.

Political Beginnings

Sampanthan's foray into politics was almost inevitable, given his family's political background and his personal commitment to Tamil rights. He entered active politics in the 1960s, joining the Ilankai Tamil Arasu Kachchi (ITAK), also known as the Federal Party. ITAK was a dominant force in Tamil politics, advocating for federalism and the rights of Tamil-speaking people in Sri Lanka.

In 1970, Sampanthan was elected to the Parliament of Sri Lanka from the Trincomalee constituency. This was a significant achievement, given the turbulent political climate and the growing ethnic tensions between the Sinhalese majority and the Tamil minority. His election marked the beginning of a long and influential parliamentary career.

Advocacy for Tamil Rights

Throughout his political journey, Sampanthan remained a staunch advocate for the rights of the Tamil people. He was instrumental in voicing the grievances and aspirations of the Tamil community, particularly in the face of discrimination and violence. His legal background enabled him to articulate these issues with clarity and conviction, both in Parliament and on international platforms.

The 1980s and 1990s were particularly challenging for Tamil politicians in Sri Lanka. The outbreak of the civil war between the Sri Lankan government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) led to widespread violence and displacement. Sampanthan, while critical of the government’s policies, also distanced himself from the militant approach of the LTTE. He believed in achieving Tamil rights through political and democratic means rather than armed struggle.

Leadership in the Tamil National Alliance

In the early 2000s, Sampanthan played a pivotal role in the formation of the Tamil National Alliance (TNA), a coalition of Tamil parties aiming to provide a unified political voice for the Tamil people. As the leader of the TNA, he led the alliance to significant electoral successes, becoming a central figure in Sri Lankan politics.

Under his leadership, the TNA became the main political representative of the Tamil people, particularly after the end of the civil war in 2009. Sampanthan's diplomatic skills and commitment to peaceful negotiation were crucial in the post-war period, as the Tamil community sought justice and reconciliation.

Contributions and Legacy

Sampanthan's contributions to Sri Lankan politics and the Tamil cause are manifold. He is widely respected for his unwavering commitment to non-violence and democratic principles. Even in the face of personal threats and political challenges, he remained steadfast in his belief that dialogue and negotiation were the only sustainable paths to peace and equality.

One of Sampanthan’s significant achievements was his role in the constitutional reform process. He was a key advocate for a new constitution that would ensure greater autonomy for Tamil-majority regions and protect minority rights. Although the process has been fraught with challenges, Sampanthan's efforts have kept the issue at the forefront of national discourse.

His tenure as the Leader of the Opposition in the Sri Lankan Parliament from 2015 to 2018 was particularly notable. Sampanthan was the first Tamil to hold this position since A. Amirthalingam in the 1970s. In this role, he worked tirelessly to bridge the divide between the Tamil and Sinhalese communities, advocating for national reconciliation and inclusive governance.

Personal Life and Character

Beyond his political life, Sampanthan is known for his humility, integrity, and dedication to public service. His personal life has been marked by simplicity and a strong moral compass, qualities that have earned him respect across ethnic and political lines. He has often been described as a leader who listens, a rare trait in the often tumultuous world of politics.

Sampanthan's influence extends beyond Sri Lanka. He has been a prominent voice in international forums, highlighting the plight of the Tamil people and seeking global support for their cause. His efforts have drawn attention to human rights issues in Sri Lanka, influencing international policy and aid.

Rajavarothayam Sampanthan’s life is a testament to the power of steadfast commitment to one's principles. As "Perunthalaiver," he has led his people with wisdom, compassion, and an unwavering belief in justice and equality. His legacy is not only in the political achievements and reforms he championed but also in the hope and resilience he inspired in the Tamil community. In a country marked by ethnic strife and political instability, Sampanthan remains a beacon of peace and reconciliation, a true statesman in every sense of the word.

 

               By

Asanga Divulwewa

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