(Media release26 March 2025)
It has been reported that the government is proposing a restructuring plan for the three state-owned media institutions Sri Lanka Rupavahini Corporation, Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation, and Independent Television Network due to their financial losses, under a unified management structure.
While it is necessary to make these institutions financially sustainable, the Free Media Movement emphasizes that if there is a specific plan for this restructuring, it is the government’s responsibility to disclose it. This is particularly important in a context where democratic citizens, including the media community, have consistently called for state media to be transformed into public service media, breaking away from their historical role as government propaganda tools.
Additionally, there are concerns about the use of limited public resources, such as broadcast frequencies, by state media. Notably, one of the agreements signed by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake during his official visit to China reportedly pertains to state media. However, despite requests from media organizations, details of this agreement have not yet been disclosed. In this context, it is not surprising that suspicions have arisen regarding the connection between the new restructuring plan and this undisclosed agreement.
Given these concerns, the Free Media Movement urges the government to immediately disclose the details of the agreements signed with China concerning state media and, if a restructuring plan exists, to present it for public discussion. The government should seek input from media professionals and the general public before implementing any reforms, as this would create a more favorable environment for independent journalism.
Furthermore, the government must respond to criticisms surrounding the proposed National Media Policy and engage in open and transparent discussions. There has been no official statement from the government regarding calls to abolish outdated institutions such as the Press Council. Additionally, progressive citizens have demanded the repeal of laws that restrict freedom of speech and expression, yet the government has remained silent on this matter.
Therefore, the Free Media Movement emphasizes that this is a crucial moment for the government to demonstrate its accountability in the broader process of media reforms.
Hana Ibrahim, Convener
Lasantha de Silva , Secretary