SJB raises concerns about journalist being questioned by CID

The Samagi Jana Balawegaya yesterday raised concerns about a journalist being questioned by the Criminal Investigation Department regarding an article written about the murder of former Sunday Leader editor Lasantha Wickrematunge. 

Ajith P. Perera

Speaking at a press conference, SJB member and lawyer Ajith P. Perera questioned why journalist and editor of the ‘Eethalaya’ Magazine, Shrilal Priyantha, was summoned to the CID for questioning about an article he wrote regarding the murder. “We as the SJB condemn this media oppression directed at journalist Shrilal Priyantha, we see this as an attempt to safeguard those responsible for the murder of Lasantha Wickrematunge and prevent details of his murder coming to light,” Perera stated.  “Shrilal Priyantha has been a brave journalist who fearlessly wrote about how the investigations into the murder of Lasantha Wickrematunge were being stalled. He was kidnapped and assaulted in relation to his work, why is the State now intimidating this journalist?” questioned Perera. 

“If a journalist in Sri Lanka is summoned to the CID and questioned when they write to registered newspapers and publications, if the State is seen to be using its power to intimidate journalist, it paints a dark picture of media freedom in the country,” Perera opined. 

He pointed out that the former Government worked hard to introduce the Right to Information Act and enabled journalists to obtain information which was in the public’s interests. He called on the public to be vigilant of actions of the Government and stand against media oppression.