We, the undersigned Sri Lankan media organisations, respectfully appeal to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and the leadership of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to exercise mercy and compassion and extend clemency to Sri Lankan national Mr. Sivarasa Anojan, thereby sparing his life.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Sri Lanka has confirmed that it is closely following Mr. Anojan’s case, engaging the relevant Saudi authorities through diplomatic channels and taking appropriate steps to safeguard his interests and provide all possible assistance.
While fully respecting the judicial process, we believe that this matter also carries a profound humanitarian dimension.
As media organisations representing Sri Lanka’s diverse communities – Sinhala, Tamil and Muslims alike – we affirm our shared commitment to respect for all religions, religious harmony, responsible expression and peaceful coexistence. We also recognise that mercy, forgiveness, repentance and compassion hold a deeply respected place in Islam.
It is in this spirit that we make this humanitarian appeal.
We respectfully urge the Saudi leadership to consider extending clemency to Mr. Sivarasa Anojan, as his case proceeds through Saudi Arabia’s remaining judicial safeguards, and ultimately to spare his life.
Such an act of mercy would be deeply appreciated by the people of Sri Lanka and would further strengthen the longstanding bonds of friendship, mutual respect and people-to-people relations between Sri Lanka and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
We also urge the Government of Sri Lanka to continue its highest-level diplomatic engagement and pursue every available legal and humanitarian avenue towards a compassionate resolution to this matter.
At a time when the life of a Sri Lankan citizen hangs in the balance, we believe that every possible effort must be made to preserve life and facilitate his safe return to his family.
OUR APPEAL
We respectfully appeal to the leadership of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to extend clemency to Sivarasa Anojan and spare his life.
We sincerely hope that this appeal, made in a spirit of respect, friendship and humanitarian concern, will receive the compassionate consideration of the Saudi leadership.
Secretary Trustee
Free Media Movement (FMM) South Asian Women in Media (SAWM)
President President
Sri Lanka Working Journalists Tamil Media Alliance (TMA)
Association (SLWJA)
President, Sri Lanka Muslim Media Forum (SLMMF)
Colombo, Sri Lanka
22 September 2026