UN urged to protect Lanka press
Media watchdogs all over the world have urged United Nations Secretary General, Ban Ki-Moon, to persuade Sri Lanka government to withdraw statements threatening media freedom.
Nearly thirty media press freedom organisations representing Twenty five countries have informed Mr. Moon of the 'alarming situation' is Sri Lanka with regard to the freedom of expression. Defence Ministry statement The recent statements by the Defence Ministry and Sri Lanka army commander, Lt. Gen. Sarath Fonseka, the letter says, have put journalists in 'grave danger'. The Defence Ministry in a recent statement in it is website has called journalists who criticise the war as 'enemies of the state'. "This follows comments last January by Army Commander Maj.-Gen. Sarath Fonseka who labelled some journalists as traitors," the letter stated. Strongly condemning the statements, the watchdogs have urged Mr. sought Mr. Moon’s help in persuading Sri Lanka to respect Resolution 1738 of UN Security Council. Threats by SLA commander The Resolution 1738 urges all parties in situations of armed conflict to respect the professional independence and rights of journalists, media professionals and associated personnel. "We seek your support in urging all United Nations member states to respect Resolution 1738 in letter and in spirit, and specifically request your help in persuading the government of Sri Lanka to withdraw these statements and immediately stop all actions which undermine the independence and safety of the news community," the statement added. The letter sent to Mr. Moon is signed by watchdogs representing France, Pakistan, Venezuela, Norway, Britain, Paraguay, Somalia, India, Congo, Nigeria, Austria, Belgium, Ukraine, Nigeria, Lebanon, Ghana, Azerbaijan, USA, Philippines, Nepal and Moldova. Free Media Movement (FMM) has signed the letter representing Sri Lanka press freedom watchdogs.