(FMM/IFEX) – The following is a 14 July 2004 FMM press release: The Free Media Movement (FMM) expresses its serious concern about the statement made by the chairperson of the Bar Association, Mr. Ikram Mohamed PC, that media critical of the judiciary and of judicial officers should be punished under the law relating to contempt […]
(FMM/IFEX) – The following is a 14 July 2004 FMM press release:
The Free Media Movement (FMM) expresses its serious concern about the statement made by the chairperson of the Bar Association, Mr. Ikram Mohamed PC, that media critical of the judiciary and of judicial officers should be punished under the law relating to contempt of court in order to protect the independence and dignity of the judiciary.
According to newspaper reports, Mr. Mohamed has proposed to use Article 103 (5) of the Constitution to bring charges against media institutions and persons on such occasions. He has made this inappropriate argument at a time when a serious public discussion is underway on the allegedly unethical conduct of the Chief Justice.
The President of Sri Lanka herself has stated that the judiciary is perceived to be the second most corrupt institution after the police, at a ceremony where Mr. Ikram Mohamed PC was also present. The Report of the International Bar Association on the Sri Lankan judiciary clearly demonstrates the deplorable state of affairs regarding the independence of the judiciary.
It is the duty of persons such as Mr. Ikram Mohamed, as the Chairperson of the Sri Lanka Bar Association, to work towards the alleviation of this disgraceful situation rather than to threaten the media by such statements. FMM believes that an independent judiciary which earns the respect of all the peoples of Sri Lanka is necessary to protect and promote fundamental rights, including freedom of expression. FMM also believes that the means of reaching this goal is not by the suppression of media and the silencing of journalists by threats and intimidation, but by opening the doors of the judiciary to fair, constructive and direct criticism by the media.
Sunanda Deshapriya
Spokesperson
FMM
