The Tamil National Alliance (TNA) leader, R Sampanthan, marked World Press Freedom Day on Tuesday, calling on the present Sri Lankan government to protect press freedom immediately and investigate the killing of murdered journalists.
"At a time when the freedom of press is being subjected to oppression worldwide, I request the Sri Lankan government to take all necessary steps to ensure the freedom and protection of press immediately in Sri Lanka," Mr Sampanthan said in a statement on Wednesday.
"It is a matter of concern that Sri Lanka ranks 141st place among the list of press freedom of 180 countries."
"It is is no secret that the previous governments turned a blind eye to many incidents of ill treatment, violence and murders that took place against journalists."
"I urge the current government to conduct proper investigations of these incidents and bring the perpetrators before justice."
"At the same time, I wish to congratulate each and every journalist, who is bravely continuing his duty despite witnessing this oppression."
"I request you all to continue with your important task of bringing the truth to the people, with utmost responsibility and even more courage."
We need your support
Sri Lanka is one of the most dangerous places in the world to be a journalist. Tamil journalists are particularly at threat, with at least 41 media workers known to have been killed by the Sri Lankan state or its paramilitaries during and after the armed conflict.
Despite the risks, our team on the ground remain committed to providing detailed and accurate reporting of developments in the Tamil homeland, across the island and around the world, as well as providing expert analysis and insight from the Tamil point of view
We need your support in keeping our journalism going. Support our work today.
For more ways to donate visit https://donate.tamilguardian.com.
