The Tamil National Alliance (TNA) leader, R Sampanthan, marked World Press Freedom Day on Tuesday, calling on the present Sri Lankan government to protect press freedom immediately and investigate the killing of murdered journalists.
"At a time when the freedom of press is being subjected to oppression worldwide, I request the Sri Lankan government to take all necessary steps to ensure the freedom and protection of press immediately in Sri Lanka," Mr Sampanthan said in a statement on Wednesday.
"It is a matter of concern that Sri Lanka ranks 141st place among the list of press freedom of 180 countries."
"It is is no secret that the previous governments turned a blind eye to many incidents of ill treatment, violence and murders that took place against journalists."
"I urge the current government to conduct proper investigations of these incidents and bring the perpetrators before justice."
"At the same time, I wish to congratulate each and every journalist, who is bravely continuing his duty despite witnessing this oppression."
"I request you all to continue with your important task of bringing the truth to the people, with utmost responsibility and even more courage."
"At a time when the freedom of press is being subjected to oppression worldwide, I request the Sri Lankan government to take all necessary steps to ensure the freedom and protection of press immediately in Sri Lanka," Mr Sampanthan said in a statement on Wednesday.
"It is a matter of concern that Sri Lanka ranks 141st place among the list of press freedom of 180 countries."
"It is is no secret that the previous governments turned a blind eye to many incidents of ill treatment, violence and murders that took place against journalists."
"I urge the current government to conduct proper investigations of these incidents and bring the perpetrators before justice."
"At the same time, I wish to congratulate each and every journalist, who is bravely continuing his duty despite witnessing this oppression."
"I request you all to continue with your important task of bringing the truth to the people, with utmost responsibility and even more courage."