June 02, Colombo (LNW): Former Army Commander General Shavendra Silva has stated that he has no plans to pursue a career in active politics, stressing that his focus remains firmly on national service and the welfare of military personnel affected by the country’s long conflict.
Speaking exclusively to LNW from China, where he is attending an international security forum, Silva said he has no interest in joining any political party or engaging in partisan political activity. However, he noted that he would be willing to serve the nation in any capacity if called upon to do so.
Silva emphasised that one of his foremost priorities is supporting former servicemen and women, particularly those who sustained life-altering injuries during the conflict. He said their welfare and recognition continue to be matters close to his heart.
Reflecting on Sri Lanka’s military campaign against the LTTE, Silva reiterated that the armed forces fought against terrorism rather than any ethnic community. He maintained that this distinction has often been overlooked internationally, arguing that some Western nations continue to treat Sri Lankan military personnel unfairly despite what he described as the absence of objective evidence against them.
According to Silva, the military’s actions were directed solely at defeating terrorism and safeguarding the country, not targeting the Tamil population. He repeated his long-held position that the conflict should be understood within that context and called for a more balanced international assessment of those who served during the war.