(IPI/IFEX) – IPI is strongly condemning the murder of Rohana Kumara, editor of a pro-opposition newspaper, in Sri Lanka. IPI is informed that Kumara, editor of the pro-UNP (United National Party) tabloid, Satana (“Battle”), was shot dead by unidentified assailants in a suburb of Colombo. He was travelling home from his office in a taxi […]
(IPI/IFEX) – IPI is strongly condemning the murder of Rohana Kumara, editor
of a pro-opposition newspaper, in Sri Lanka.
IPI is informed that Kumara, editor of the pro-UNP (United National Party)
tabloid, Satana (“Battle”), was shot dead by unidentified assailants in a
suburb of Colombo. He was travelling home from his office in a taxi late on
Tuesday 7 September 1999, after his wife telephoned to tell him that their
house was being attacked.
Opposition leaders demanded a quick investigation into the murder, claiming
that “certain powerful people” who were embarrassed by Kumara’s exposés of
government corruption were behind the killing. IPI understands that no
suspects have been arrested, but that investigations are underway.
IPI fears that Rohana Kumara may have been killed because of his profession.
Recommended Action
Send appeals to the president:
investigation in his killing and that those responsible for this crime are
brought to justice
Appeals To
H.E. Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga
President of Sri Lanka
Office of the President
Colombo, Sri Lanka
Fax: +94 1 333 703
Please copy appeals to the source if possible.
