Media Minister Nalinda Jayatissa denied allegations that the government is suppressing media freedom, stating that criticism from all forms of media is permitted but action is required against the 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 deliberate dissemination of fake news by certain media channels and social media groups.
He said such content was particularly harmful as the country works to recover from the recent disaster, citing false reports related to the health sector and national security.
These efforts are not mere criticisms, but calculated attempts to create public distrust and threaten national stability, he said.
“With the existing laws, the government is duty bound to take action.”
Jayatissa also said that the public expects 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. (Newswire)