Probe sought on Malaysian politician’s alleged LTTE 

An investigation has been sought on a Malaysian politician’s alleged links with the LTTE.

Pas, a Malaysian political party called on the police to investigate Penang Deputy Chief Minister II P Ramasamy’s possible links with the LTTE, the New Straits Times reported.

Its information chief Nasrudin Hassan said the Police needed to step in and check on the matter following the circulation of a picture which showed Ramasamy allegedly paying his respects to a Kalashnikov rifle – which is a symbol of the armed group.

He said it was also reported that Ramasamy had recently hosted a pro-LTTE politician from India.

Nasrudin was referring to a recent visit to Penang by V Gopalasamy, better known as Vaiko, who leads Tamil Nadu-based party Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (MDMK), to attend the wedding of Ramasamy’s son.

He said a picture of Ramasamy and Vaiko had been uploaded on Facebook on July 14, with the caption that the latter was attending Dr Vijaya Bharath’s wedding reception.

Nasruddin said Vaiko had previously been barred from entering Malaysia and was even detained at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) on June 9, 2017, and this had been confirmed by Immigration director-general Datuk Mustafar Ali.

“A thorough investigation must be made on him and other individuals. This is because it could affect the political stability and peace in Malaysia.

“Furthermore, he is a DAP member who holds a senior position in Penang and his position could have an influence on crucial matters,” Nasrudin said.

Ramasamy has come under the spotlight after he questioned the government’s decision not to deport controversial Muslim cleric Dr Zakir Naik back to India.

Ramasamy in responding to the allegations denied any links to the LTTE.

He also denied promoting violence by “worshipping” the Kalashnikov or AK-47 assault rifle, saying that the picture was taken at a memorial to victims of genocide.

“It was a ceremony I attended about two or three years ago, organised by several NGOs… a memorial service for those who died in the Sri Lankan ethnic conflict or victims of genocide,” he was reported to have said. (Colombo Gazette)