Analyzing the non-representation of Tamils in the 2020 parliamentary elections in the Thikamadulla district, Sri Lanka

Abstract

This study examines the reasons behind the absence of Tamil representation in the 2020 parliamentary elections in the Thikamadulla electoral district of Sri Lanka, an area with a multiethnic population predominantly composed of Sinhalese and Muslims. Although Tamils form a significant minority, various political, social, and psychological factors contributed to their electoral marginalization. The study aims to identify the main causes of this nonrepresentation, explore the internal dissatisfaction among Tamil voters—particularly with the Tamil National Alliance—and analyze how the false promise of employment opportunities misled the Tamil youth and distorted their voting behavior. Key findings reveal that deliberate efforts by the ruling party, including the strategic role played by Vinayagamoorthy Muralitharan (Karuna Amman), successfully fragmented the Tamil vote. Additionally, the lack of faith in Tamil political leadership and growing voter apathy led many to disengage from the electoral process. The research concludes that a combination of external manipulation and internal disillusionment contributed to the loss of Tamil political voice in the region, underscoring the need for renewed strategies to ensure inclusive representation in future democratic processes.