Brigadier Franklin Joseph USP officially assumed duties today as the new Director Media and Spokesman for the Ministry of Defence, succeeding Colonel Nalin Herath in the role .
The formal handover ceremony was held at the Ministry headquarters in Sri Jayawardenepura, Colombo, marked by religious observances and traditional military formalities at an auspicious time, symbolizing a fresh chapter in the Ministry’s public communication strategy .
A veteran of over 30 years in the Sri Lanka Army, Brigadier Joseph enlisted in 1994 and was commissioned on 20 December 1997. His distinguished career encompasses a broad spectrum of command, staff, and instructional posts. These include assignments as Staff Officer I (A) at RHQ SLE, General Staff Officer I (Operations) at SFHQ Wanni, and Colonel (General Staff) at the 52 Infantry Division and SFHQ Wanni. He has also served as Commander of the Field Engineer Brigade, Colonel (Project) at the General Engineer Brigade, and Deputy Centre Commandant at the Engineers Regimental Centre. Most recently, he held the post of Centre Commandant of the Corps of Sri Lanka Engineers .
He is also a certified Level IV technician in Explosive Ordnance Disposal, having completed specialized training in the United States—underscoring his deep technical proficiency .
Brigadier Joseph a seasoned instructor at the Sri Lanka Military Academy has demonstrated a commitment to nurturing future military leadership through his educational roles. His operational leadership, technical acumen, and strategic insight are viewed as assets that will enhance the Ministry’s interface with both domestic stakeholders and international media audiences .
In his new capacity, Brigadier Joseph takes on responsibility for the Ministry’s media relations and strategic communications, reinforcing clarity and consistency in public messaging during a complex national security environment.
Colonel Nalin Herath, his predecessor, completed his tenure as Director Media and Spokesman, paving the way for Brigadier Joseph’s appointment and continued effectiveness in managing the Ministry's public communications .
