Journalists must always use their pen with respect for truth: President

“Journalists should always use their pens by choosing the right thing with respect for the truth,” says President Maithripala Sirisena.

“It is very unfortunate if journalists resort to praise politicians and protect them for their private benefits,” he added.

The President was speaking at a ceremony held Thursday (19 Oct) to issue a souvenir stamp in memory of the late senior journalist D.B. Danapala. The ceremony was held at the National Library and Documentation Services Board in Colombo.

He stated that some journalists do not mention about wrongdoings of some persons. “But they disgrace some persons even when they are doing the correct thing,” he said.

The President said the journalists have a responsibility to give correct, qualitative and valued information and news to the society for the betterment of the future generation.

During this event, the President appreciated the social service rendered by Senior Journalist, late D.B. Dhanapala.

The keynote address of this ceremony organised by the Sri Lanka Press Council was delivered by the former Head of the Department of Mass Communication, University of Kelaniya, Prof. Rohana Lakshman Piyadasa.

D.B. Dhanapala joined the field of media as an English medium journalist, and pioneered to create talented media personnel as well as render a great service for the field of Sinhala journalism.

The commemorative stamp issued to commemorate Dhanapala was presented to several senior journalists and to the grandson of Dhanapala, Dr. Dhanushka Meegahawaththa. 

Dignitaries including senior journalists, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Press Council Attorney-at-Law Koggala Wellala and others participated on this occasion.