March 27, Colombo (LNW): The Free Media Movement (FMM) has urged the government to ensure transparency and accountability in its proposed restructuring of Sri Lanka’s state-owned media institutions, calling for public disclosure of any related agreements signed with China during President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s recent visit.
In a strongly worded statement, the FMM expressed concern over the government’s failure to provide details on a bilateral agreement reportedly linked to state media, despite repeated requests from local media organisations.
The watchdog stressed that any reform process involving Sri Lanka Rupavahini Corporation, Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation, and Independent Television Network—three institutions that have long faced financial difficulties—should be made public.
While acknowledging the need for financial sustainability, the FMM underscored the importance of ensuring that any restructuring plan does not reinforce state media’s historical role as government propaganda outlets.
Instead, it argued, the reforms should focus on transforming these entities into independent public service broadcasters that serve the interests of citizens rather than political agendas.
The organisation also raised concerns over the use of state resources, particularly broadcasting frequencies, questioning whether the undisclosed agreement with China is linked to the proposed media restructuring.
The lack of government transparency has fuelled speculation about potential foreign influence in shaping the future of Sri Lanka’s media landscape.
In light of these concerns, the FMM called on the government to immediately reveal the terms of any agreements signed with China regarding state media.
Additionally, it urged authorities to open the restructuring process to public consultation, allowing input from media professionals and the broader public.
Such an approach, the statement argued, would foster an environment that upholds press freedom and strengthens independent journalism in the country.
