The government of Sri Lanka appears to be introducing restrictions on reporting on the question of the so-called “ethnic problem” in their country. The Minister of Information reportedly announced a few weeks ago that press censorship may have to be introduced if newspapers publish material that is “ethnically oriented.” The International Federation of Newspaper Publishers […]
The government of Sri Lanka appears to be introducing
restrictions on reporting on the question of the so-called
“ethnic problem” in their country. The Minister of Information
reportedly announced a few weeks ago that press censorship may
have to be introduced if newspapers publish material that is
“ethnically oriented.” The International Federation of Newspaper
Publishers (FIEJ), understands that the context in Sri Lanka is
very complex, but believes that the process of achieving a
solution requires open and public discussion of the issues, as no
permanent solution could be found without the participation of
the citizens of Sri Lanka.
In a separate case, the government of Sri Lanka recently
expressed displeasure at some of the news and opinions reported
in the papers belonging to Upali Newspapers Ltd. of Colombo —
who have always maintained a critical stance on public affairs —
and apparently as a reprisal, imposed a ban on the continuation
of the construction of a building which was to house a new rotary
press for the group. The likely financial loss to the group could
be crippling, and the company has reportedly appealed to the
Supreme Court on grounds of violation of its constitutional
rights.
Recommended Action
Send appeals to Sri Lankan authorities and media:
urging them to take every step necessary to ensure that no form
of censorship is imposed on the Sri Lankan press
promised in President Kumaratunga’s election pledge, is a pillar
and pre-condition of democracy, and limitations on this
fundamental right will only damage the image of their country in
the international community
Colombo
relevant authorities immediately lift the restriction on the
Upali building
Appeals To
Mrs Chandrika Kumaratunga
President of Sri Lanka
President’s Office, Galle Face
Colombo 01, Sri Lanka
Fax: +94 1 44 6657 or +94 1 54 6657
IF POSSIBLE, COPIES TO:
Hon. Madam Sirimavo R.D. Bandaranaike, Prime Minister
Fax: +94 1 342 992
Hon. Lakshman Kadirgamar, Minister of Foreign Affairs
Fax: +94 1 430 220
Hon. Dharmasiri Senanayake, Minister of Information
Fax: +94 1 541 364
Attorney General’s Office
Fax: +94 1 436 421
Managing Director, Upali Newspapers Ltd
Fax: +94 1 446 851
Chairman, Upali Newspapers Ltd.
Fax: +94 1 447 351
The Chief Editor, Newspapers of the Assoc. Group
Fax: +94 1 449 069
Editor, Times of Ceylon and Lankadipa
Fax: +94 1 449 504
Editor, Leader Publications
Fax: +94 1 699 968
Editor, Sumathi Publications
Fax: +94 1 449 593
Please copy appeals to the originator if possible.
