The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) and its affiliate the Sri Lanka Working Journalists Association (SLWJA) have condemned remarks by Deputy Minister of Public Security Sunil Watagala, urging to government to uphold freedom of expression.
The Sri Lanka Working Journalists Association (SLWJA) issued a statement criticising the deputy minister after he suggested that emergency regulations could be used to target media workers and social media users accused of defaming the president or senior ministers. Watagala’s remarks were delivered during a meeting with police officials on 3 December, as the state continues to grapple with the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah.
SLWJA said: “In the backdrop of several prior instances where the government has threatened media freedom during the past year, SLWJA strongly condemns the Deputy Minister’s statement.”
The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) also expressed concern, reminding the Sri Lankan government that public accountability is essential during humanitarian emergencies. The IFJ said: “The media has an enormous responsibility to report and deliver professional and ethical news, especially in times of crisis, and the government should continue to support the public’s right to know and its right to freedom of expression.”
Watagala’s comments were made as the island reels from the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah, which has left hundreds dead, hundreds more missing and more than a million people affected.
