Sri Lanka commemorated the 16th anniversary of the assassination of Lasantha Wickrematunga

Sri Lanka commemorated the 16th anniversary of the assassination of Lasantha Wickrematunga 

Mr. Wickrematunga was brutally gunned down on January 8, 2009, while en route to work in Aththidiya, Rathmalana. His murder shocked the nation and highlighted the dangers faced by journalists in the country. Despite the passage of time and the change of four governments, the perpetrators of the crime have yet to be brought to justice.

Sri Lanka commemorated the 16th anniversary of the assassination of Lasantha Wickrematunga 

Speaking at the event, the slain journalist’s brother voiced his disappointment over the lack of progress in the investigation. 

“There have been four successive governments in the 16 years since Lasantha's death, yet none have shown the political will to investigate his murder thoroughly,” he said.

The Wickrematunga family expressed hope that under the current government led by Anura Kumara Dissanayake, there may finally be accountability. Activists have continued to demand answers, rallying for a transparent and impartial investigation into the assassination.

Sri Lanka commemorated the 16th anniversary of the assassination of Lasantha Wickrematunga 

Lasantha Wickrematunga’s murder is widely believed to be linked to his outspoken journalism, The case has come to symbolize the ongoing struggles for press freedom and justice in Sri Lanka.

As the country marks another year without justice for Lasantha, the call for answers and accountability grows louder among civil society groups and citizens alike.