Opposition Leader R. Sampanthan, in a message released for Independence Day, which falls on February 4, said he expects this year to usher in reconciliation among the people.

‘I have great pleasure in sending this message of good wishes on our 69th Independence Day. There is much expectation that this year will usher reconciliation amongst all people in this Country on the basis of equality and dignity which will enable them to be true beneficiaries of Democracy,’ he said.

‘This is essential for the benefit of all people in our Country. Though violent conflict has come to an end, the causes of the conflict yet need to be addressed. The Country’s future depends on these issues being addressed on the basis of a reasonable and acceptable consensus.’

 ‘We should all pledge to extend our utmost co-operation to this joint endeavour in the best interests of our Country,’ the Opposition Leader said.