President Anura Kumara Dissanayake says the Government has no intention of implementing the current Online Safety Act and is instead preparing a revised version of the legislation.

Speaking in Parliament during the adjournment debate on combating the drug menace and organised crime, the President said the Government had opposed the Online Safety Act when it was originally introduced and believed it required significant changes. 

“We have no intention of implementing the Online Safety Act in its present form. Instead, we are undertaking a comprehensive revision of it, and last week we secured Cabinet approval to introduce a new Bill,” he said. 

President Dissanayake said the Government was committed to abolishing or reforming laws that could undermine people’s rights. He added that the proposed changes would safeguard fundamental rights, freedom of expression and democratic freedoms. 

The President also said the Government remains committed to protecting democracy and human rights while ensuring that citizens have the freedom to question those in authority. (Newswire)

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Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Public Security has invited the public, including local and international media, to submit observations, comments, recommendations, and suggestions on proposed amendments to the Online Safety Act No. 09 of 2024.

The ministry said the call follows Cabinet approval for a committee to review the Act and its amendments published in the Gazette on July 31, 2024. The committee will consider submissions received within one month of the notice’s publication.

Members of the public can send their input by post, addressed to the Secretary, Ministry of Justice and National Integration, and marked “Committee to amend the Online Safety Act No. 09 of 2024”—or via email to legal@moj.gov.lk or mail to legal@moj.gov.lk with the same subject line. 

The ministry urged stakeholders to participate in shaping the amendments, which aim to align the Act with public feedback and ensure it meets both national and international standards. (Newswire)

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Cabinet approval has been granted to appoint a committee to recommend amendments to the Online Safety Act No. 9 of 2024.

According to the government, Cabinet approval was granted at their meeting held in February 2025 to amend the Online Safety Act No. 9 of 2024. 

As such, a joint Cabinet Memorandum was presented to appoint a committee representing all the relevant sectors, chaired by a Supreme Court Judge, to submit recommendations to amend the said act, including the already identified revisions and revisions recognised after public consultation. 

The proposal presented by the Minister of Mass Media, the Minister of Public Security, and the Minister of Justice has received the approval of the Cabinet of Ministers. (Newswire)

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The Attorney General’s Department has informed the Supreme Court that the government plans to introduce several amendments to the Online Safety Act, which was passed under the Ranil Wickremesinghe government.

Solicitor General Viraj Dayaratne informed court today (Feb. 5) during a hearing on four fundamental rights petitions challenging the legality of the Act.

The petitions, filed by multiple parties, including Transparency International Sri Lanka, argue that the manner in which the law was passed was unlawful.

During the proceedings, the Solicitor General noted that a Cabinet paper on the proposed amendments would be presented soon.

He also stated that while the previous government had initiated amendments, the process was halted following the dissolution of Parliament. (Newswire)

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A businessman has been handed a six-month suspended prison sentence for spreading misleading information about former State Minister Kader Masthan on social media, following a complaint filed under the Online Safety Act. 

The businessman is accused of spreading audio recordings on social media platforms, such as Facebook and WhatsApp, containing misleading information about the former State Minister. 

Issuing the order this week, Colombo Chief Magistrate Thilina Gamage ordered the execution of the sentence to be suspended for a period of five years and also imposed a fine of Rs. 5000 on the suspect. This is the first reported case of a punishment being given under the Online Safety Act passed earlier this year. 

The judge also ordered the suspect to immediately remove all the statements that he had published on social media about the former state minister.

The Colombo Chief Magistrate had previously issued a conditional injunction on the businessman from Mannar after taking into consideration a complaint filed by former state minister Kader Masthan under the Online Safety Act. M.U.M Ali Sabry PC appeared for the petitioner.  (Newswire)

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The Online Safety (Amendment) Bill has been published via a Government Gazette. 

Sri Lanka’s controversial Online Safety Bill was initially published in the Sri Lankan Government Gazette in September 2023 after which the Supreme Court determined that the several Online Safety Bill provisions were not consistent with the Constitution.

In October last year, the government agreed to revise the Bill in accordance with the Supreme Court’s determinations announced on November 07, 2023.

Key objectives of the bill include establishing the Online Safety Commission, making provisions to prohibit online communication of certain statements of fact in Sri Lanka, preventing the use of online accounts and inauthentic online accounts for prohibited purposes, making provisions to identify and declare online locations used for prohibited purposes in Sri Lanka, and to suppress the financing and other support of communication of false statements of fact.

Upon it being gazetted, at least 45 petitions were filed at the Supreme Court challenging the Bill, with many raising concerns that it violates the fundamental rights of the public. 

Following the objections, the government agreed to revise the bill in accordance with the Supreme Court’s determination, and the Cabinet also approved steps for several amendments.

At the time, the government said proposals had been received from relevant industry professionals regarding the Online Safety Act and that the amendments to the Online Safety Act would be made based on the proposals. 

The Cabinet had approved the proposal presented by the Minister of Public Security to direct the Legal Draftsmen to prepare a draft bill for amending the Online Safety Act based on revisions recognized through further discussions with eminencies in the field who had forwarded proposals for relevant amendments.

Accordingly, the government has amended the Online Safety Act and published it via a Gazette notification dated 31 July 2024. (Newswire)

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The trade union movement, Committee for Social Media Declaration, has called on President Ranil Wickremesinghe to repeal the Online Safety Act immediately, as it suppresses freedom of the press and threatens democratic values and discourse.

In a letter to the President, the movement said the Online Safety Act, passed by Parliament last month, suppresses citizens’ freedom of expression and creates a dire situation that undermines internet freedom and democratic discourse. 

“We, the trade unions that stand for the rights of Sri Lankan citizens, strongly condemn the Online Safety Act due to its ambiguous provisions and the threat it poses to democratic values.

“We believe it is a draconian measure aimed at suppressing dissent and exercising authoritarian control over online content. The broadly drafted provisions pave the way for authoritarian rule by allowing vague and misleading content to be misused under vague legal cover to suppress dissent,” it added.

The Committee for Social Media Declaration further noted that this law poses a serious threat to trade union movements, journalists, comedians, cartoonists, digital content creators, and all citizens who express dissenting views.

“We request the President to immediately repeal the Online Safety Act, which has become a law that bridges the suppression of freedom and poses a threat to democratic values and democratic discourse in Sri Lanka,” it added. (Newswire)

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US Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy Elizabeth Allen has emphasized the serious and escalating challenges to media freedom globally, including concerns raised in Sri Lanka. 

Senior US official Elizabeth Allen, who is currently on a visit to Sri Lanka, stated that the United States stands firmly for the freedom of expression, advocating for press freedom both online and offline, and ensuring the safety of journalists and media workers worldwide.

“When governments intensify efforts to withhold information from the public by restricting internet access and censoring content, we must speak up.  

“Notably, when Sri Lanka’s Parliament passed the Online Safety Bill in January, the United States voiced concerns over its potential effects on freedom of expression, innovation, and privacy,” she added. 

US Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy Elizabeth Allen made the remarks while addressing the ‘Global Media Space and its Impact on Democracy’ event held at the Sri Lanka Press Institute (SLPI) in Colombo on Monday.

The full statement of visiting US Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy Elizabeth Allen:

Thank you, Kumar, for that warm introduction.  It’s fantastic to be here with everyone today, truly.  And Ambassador Chung, thank you for your leadership in representing the American people in Sri Lanka.

I’m thrilled to be here today, thanks to the Sri Lanka Press Institute.  Your dedication to journalism’s craft is nothing short of inspiring.

Know this: the U.S. Embassy is all in on supporting your incredible work.  Sure, we might bump heads over a story now and then, but above all, we’re your biggest fans.  We’re all in on programs that hone your skills because we believe in your right to pursue journalism freely and fearlessly.

As I find myself in front of a room of journalists, I want to thank you for protecting the rights and freedoms of journalists here in Sri Lanka and around the world, ensuring all citizens enjoy the right to express their ideas and opinions openly and freely.  Even in difficult times, you continue to press forward and ask difficult questions.  Your commitment to seeking out the truth and shouting it from the rooftops remains a democratic staple, and I truly appreciate what you do.

It’s only fitting that I begin my remarks this afternoon by telling a story that I think is relevant in light of today’s topic about the media’s role in a democracy.

Over a century ago, American media coined the term “muckraker” for journalists who delved into societal issues, exposing corruption.

Although the term carried a somewhat negative connotation, labelling these journalists as mere “gossip mongers,” today, we honour them as the pioneers of investigative journalism.

These muckrakers played a pivotal role in ushering in the Progressive Era, a time of significant social and political reform in American history.

Even President Theodore Roosevelt referred to them as “muckrakers,” criticizing their focus on society’s flaws through figures like Lincoln Steffens, whose work shed light on corruption and spurred a nationwide call for accountability and reform.

Steffens’ book ‘The Shame of the Cities,’ published in 1904, made him renowned for uncovering corruption within American cities, highlighting the nefarious links between political leaders, businesses, and organized crime.

His fearless journalism raised critical awareness about the urgent need for governmental and corporate accountability.  Steffens wasn’t acting as a public relations officer for the government; his role was to uncover the truth; however unpleasant it might be.

Faced with the stark realities Steffens presented, American officials and the public were compelled to confront a pivotal question: ‘Is this the kind of country we aspire to be?’ The resounding answer was no.

Steffens’ work didn’t just expose wrongdoing; it sparked a nationwide demand for reform and played a crucial role in fostering a dialogue about the essential role of investigative journalism in ensuring power remains accountable.

This story showcases how freedom of the press and freedom of expression are not just fundamental human rights, they are also vital contributors to a country’s development and growth.

This brings me to my main point: how the global media space supports democracy and fosters peaceful, just, and inclusive societies. 

In my mind, the correlation is obvious: When a government constricts the rights and freedoms of its citizens, the future and the development of the country will naturally suffer.

Globally, we’re witnessing serious and escalating challenges to media freedom. The United States stands firmly for the freedom of expression, advocating for press freedom both online and offline, and ensuring the safety of journalists and media workers worldwide.  Unfortunately, these essential freedoms are under threat globally, including concerns raised here in Sri Lanka.

When governments intensify efforts to withhold information from the public by restricting internet access and censoring content, we must speak up.  Notably, when Sri Lanka’s Parliament passed the Online Safety Bill in January, the United States voiced concerns over its potential effects on freedom of expression, innovation, and privacy.

It’s common to hear arguments against unfettered freedom of expression.  Critics claim the media is biased, aiming to embarrass governments and undermine public trust.  Others worry that without checks, freedom of expression may fuel the spread of misinformation.  Some argue that an unchecked press can incite tension and compromise security.  And there’s concern that continuous reports on corruption, violence, and political strife can tarnish a nation’s image, deterring investment and hampering development.

However, the media’s bias should lean towards the public’s interest, acting as a guardian to ensure that leaders fulfil their duties.  This principle holds in Sri Lanka, the United States, and globally.

The challenge of negative press, often labelled as “fake news” or “biased journalism,” is not new.  For generations, governments and the media have navigated a complex, sometimes adversarial relationship.  This dynamic isn’t unique to any one nation; in the United States, for instance, presidents from both major political parties have experienced their share of friction with the press.  This tension, a hallmark of democratic societies, plays a crucial role in fostering transparency and encouraging effective governance.  It’s a familiar scene: politicians and journalists engage in heated exchanges, especially when leaders feel their actions are misrepresented, leading to accusations of inaccuracies and biased reporting.

The press’ duty is to deliver facts as they stand, shedding light on the government’s achievements as well as spotlighting areas where policies or programs fall short.  This transparency not only informs the public but also strengthens the nation as it encourages constructive action and improvement.

And suppressing voices only complicates matters further.  Attempting to conceal issues rather than addressing them is akin to hiding a broken tool rather than fixing it.  True progress comes from collaborative dialogue, even if it means embracing the messiness of public discourse.

This was evident during my recent visit to IdeaHell here in Colombo, a hub for creative minds dubbed “where good ideas go to die.”  My interaction with the young, innovative minds there underscored the critical need to protect the freedom of creators, journalists, and entrepreneurs to explore and innovate without fear.  Yes, some good ideas die, but creators should be free to think and attempt and even fail.  That is how we achieve progress.

Overly broad and ambiguous limitations on expression can choke creativity, robbing society of potential advancements that fuel innovation and economic growth.  A climate of censorship not only stifles innovation but also dampens the community’s spirit to solve pressing issues with novel solutions.

I urge you to reflect on the initial spark that drew you to journalism.  It’s doubtful it was the allure of wealth or fame; more likely, it was a drive to enact change and contribute to Sri Lanka’s betterment.  Should these be the forces that drive you, I implore you to persevere.  Your dedication, your rights, and your freedom are pivotal to the nation’s ongoing growth and prosperity.

Consider this: among you, who will emerge as the modern-day Lincoln Steffens?  Who will pen the narratives that propel Sri Lanka’s economic and social advancement?  That individual could very well be among us now, ready to champion free speech, press freedom, and the unbridled exchange of ideas.  It’s essential to remember that a free press isn’t an adversary to Sri Lanka; it’s one of its greatest allies, paving the way for a resilient and flourishing society. Thank you. (NewsWire)

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The Cabinet has approved steps for several amendments to the recently passed Online Safety Act, Cabinet Spokesman Minister Bandula Guanwardena said.

Addressing the post-Cabinet media briefing held today, the minister said that proposals have been received from relevant industry professionals regarding the Online Safety Act.

Minister Gunawardena further said that the amendments to the recently passed Online Safety Act will be made based on the proposals. 

The announcement comes after the Cabinet approved the proposal presented by Minister of Public Security Tiran Alles to direct the Legal Draftsmen to prepare a draft bill for amending the Online Safety Act.

The government said that having passed in Parliament, the provisions of the Online Safety Act are being implemented at present. 

Since the amendments submitted at the committee sessions in the Parliament concerning the said draft bill should be made on par with the decision of the Supreme Court, there had been no opportunity to introduce proposed amendments furnished by the eminencies in the field, it said. 

Therefore, the Cabinet has approved the proposal presented by the Minister of Public Security to direct the Legal Draftsmen to prepare a draft bill for amending the Online Safety Act based on revisions recognized through further discussions with eminencies in the field who had forwarded proposals for relevant amendments. (NewsWire)

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