Media Minister Nalinda Jayatissa has rejected allegations that the government is suppressing media freedom, stating that criticism from all forms of media is fully permitted, but action must be taken against the deliberate spread of false information.
“There is absolutely no media suppression. Social, electronic, and print media are free to criticize us and point out our weaknesses,” Jayatissa said, responding to recent claims of media restrictions.
However, he expressed concern over what he described as the intentional dissemination of fake news by certain media outlets and social media groups. He warned that such misinformation is especially harmful as the country seeks to recover from a recent disaster, citing false reports related to the health sector and national security.
“These are not mere criticisms, but calculated attempts to create public distrust and threaten national stability,” the Minister said, adding that the government is legally bound to act under existing laws.
Jayatissa also noted that there is growing public pressure on the government to address misinformation. “People are accusing us of not taking action. They have given us a mandate, and the public call is for the government to act against fake news and false reports,” he said.
