Harrow’s Mayor of Lankan origin urged to resign following military photos

By

 Staff writer

 -

 February 26, 2019 

Campaigners have called on the Mayor of Harrow to resign after she was pictured with senior military figures during a visit to Sri Lanka.

Councillor Kareema Marikar visited the Commander of the Sri Lankan Army, Mahesh Senanayake, and Brigadier Priyanka Fernando during a trip last year.

She posted pictures of her meetings – in which she is wearing the mayoral chain – on social media alongside messages praising the soldiers for their service.

But members of the Tamil community in Harrow are upset at this representation, given Senanayeke’s alleged involvement in the Sri Lankan civil war.

They were particularly disappointed given that Brig. Fernando was found guilty of violating the Public Order Act when he made a throat cutting gesture at protestors – many of whom were Tamil – outside the Sri Lankan High Commission in London.

A petition with 49 signatures was handed to Harrow Council calling on Councilor Marikar to step down from her role.

Councillor Marikar, who was elected as mayor in May, hails from Sri Lanka herself.

She has lived in Harrow for 28 years and has served as a Councilor since 2010.

The mayor’s office has been contacted for comment.