(FMM/IFEX) – The following is a 16 February 2006 FMM press release: Prasad Purnamal, a provincial journalist working for MTV television network and ANCL newspapers, was assaulted, his video camera worth Rs. 100,000 (approx. US$979) was smashed and his still camera worth Rs.30,000 (approx. US$294) was taken away by supporters of the ruling political party […]
(FMM/IFEX) – The following is a 16 February 2006 FMM press release:
Prasad Purnamal, a provincial journalist working for MTV television network and ANCL newspapers, was assaulted, his video camera worth Rs. 100,000 (approx. US$979) was smashed and his still camera worth Rs.30,000 (approx. US$294) was taken away by supporters of the ruling political party on 16 February 2006 in Puttlam, a town on the western coast.
Prasad was covering a clash between two groups of ruling party supporters, who had submitted nominations for the local government elections, scheduled for 30 March 2006.
Prasad incurred minor injuries and has made a complaint to the police.
FMM categorically condemns this incident and requests that the culprits be immediately apprehended. The FMM also requests that arrangements be made to compensate Prasad for his losses.
Freedom of the press is a necessary pre-condition for free and fair elections. Supporters of political parties have to be disciplined by their leaders to accept freedom of expression and opposing views. FMM holds the members of the ruling party in the Puttlam district responsible for this ugly incident and requests that government leaders promptly investigate the matter. At the same time, FMM urges all political parties to uphold the right to information and take steps to ensure that freedom of expression is respected in the run up to the local government elections.
Sunanda Deshapriya
Spokesperson
Free Media Movement
