Sajith Premadasa Criticizes President’s Advice to the Media

Premadasa argued that maintaining media integrity should be left to the media sector through self-regulation. He pointed out, "Media freedom and ethics are essential, but they must be upheld by standards created by the media industry itself. Government instructions or presidential advice risk undermining both media freedom and democratic values."

He went on to urge President Dissanayake to avoid reprimanding or directing the media, emphasizing that regulation should be managed internally by the media sector. Premadasa also noted that, despite facing critical coverage from various media outlets, he has never attempted to control or censor the media, as he believes in their right to operate independently.

Premadasa concluded by reaffirming his stance on press freedom, stating that the President and government should protect, not limit, media autonomy for the benefit of a transparent and democratic society.