September 03, Colombo (LNW): The National Election Commission has issued a stern warning to media outlets, stating that punitive actions will be taken against those who fail to comply with election laws.
During a recent press briefing, Election Commission Chairman R. M. A. L. Rathnayake highlighted concerns over certain media institutions disproportionately promoting specific Presidential candidates, based on multiple complaints received by the Commission.
Chairman Rathnayake revealed that the Government Information Department has been closely monitoring candidate promotion across both mainstream and electronic media platforms.
Their analysis has indicated a significant imbalance in the airtime and coverage allocated to various Presidential candidates, with some receiving notably more exposure than others.
In response, the Election Commission has already advised these media organisations to correct this disparity.
However, Rathnayake warned that if these entities continue to disregard the Commission’s guidance and persist in favouring particular candidates, the Commission is prepared to take decisive action.
The potential measures outlined by Rathnayake include suspending the association between the Election Commission and the non-compliant media institutions, withholding media statements, excluding them from press conference invitations, and even suspending the release of election results through these channels.
The Chairman urged all media outlets to strictly adhere to the guidelines set forth by the Election Commission for the upcoming 2024 Presidential Election, emphasising the importance of fair and balanced coverage to ensure a transparent and democratic electoral process.
