• This attack is a sad reminder of the past that once haunted Sri Lanka 
• Media freedom is a vital component of a vibrant Democracy and must be protected

By Yohan Perera 

The United National Party condemns the recent attack on a member of the media fraternity.  

The United National Party (UNP) yesterday expressed concerned on the attack launched against renowned journalist Chamuditha Samarawickrama in the early hours of Monday morning. 

“In 2015 one of the key aims of the UNP Government was to ensure that members of the media were no longer victims of violence. The impunity in which Sri Lanka’s media industry was targeted was brought to an end, and the country is now enjoying the benefits of media freedom. This attack is a sad reminder of the past that once haunted Sri Lanka,” the party said in an official announcement. 

“We urge the Government to ensure that a swift and thorough investigation into this attack is carried out, and those responsible are apprehended, held accountable by the laws of the country. Media freedom is a vital component of a vibrant Democracy and must be protected,” the statement added.