‘As Cameron travels to CHOGM, my husband - a journalist who criticised the regime - is still missing’

Writing in The Independent newspaper, Sandya Eknaligoda, wife of a Sri Lankan journalist who disappeared after criticising President Rajapaksa’s government, called on the international community to oppose Sri Lanka’s imminent chairmanship of the Commonwealth.

“Whatever small space we get for human rights work in Sri Lanka, comes because of the international community. It is very important that that pressure continues," she wrote.

 

“Disappearances have been a part of political life in Sri Lanka for years. Right back in the 80s and 90s they were already a common feature. But in the war during the 2000s, they were endemic. It is now the weapon of choice used by the government against journalists.

 

“In Sri Lankan media, there must only be positive stories.  The majority of journalists are silent. Those who do speak out do so in the face of immense threat. When CHOGM comes to Sri Lanka there will only be positive stories for the visitors to read. Positive stories, smiling billboards and hidden secrets."