They said AKD made history, but it is actually the other way around: history made AKD. While he may not have the same level of education, oratorical skill, or crowd-pulling charisma as Rohana Wijeweera, there is one thing I’ve learned from studying history: History doesn't wait for any leader; it makes use of whoever is available. The men of history appear not because they are great, but because they are necessary.
The conditions that once led to the JVP’s emergence—economic hardship, social injustice, and political disillusionment—have persisted throughout the years. However, during Rohana's time, other factors didn’t fall into place, ultimately leading to his demise. In contrast, AKD found himself in a moment where these factors aligned, allowing him to achieve what Wijeweera could not. When the time is right, a leader will emerge. History has its own momentum, often independent of individual leaders. Leaders emerge not because they are the best suited for the role, but because they happen to be in the right place at the right time.
I am always optimistic about the future of Tamils in Sri Lanka because of my understanding of history. Although it may seem that there is no charismatic leader to champion Tamil aspirations today, history has shown us that when the conditions are right, the Tamil community will rise to seize the opportunity for a brighter future.
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