By Outrage and Uncertainty: Lasantha Wickrematunge Case Sparks Controversy
Colombo—Tension ran high as Cabinet Media Spokesman and Minister of Health, Nalinda Jayatissa, faced a barrage of questions from frustrated and disappointed journalists following the Attorney General’s decision to release three key suspects in the assassination case of veteran journalist Lasantha Wickrematunge. The move has sparked outrage among media professionals, with journalist organizations in Colombo planning protests and considering legal interventions.
A Stormy Exchange
Journalists at the press briefing questioned whether the government was aware of or complicit in the Attorney General’s decision. They reminded Minister Jayatissa of his own past criticisms of judicial inaction when he was in the opposition. The apparent contradiction between past calls for justice and the present legal outcome has intensified public scrutiny.
Responding to these concerns, Jayatissa stated that the government is currently reviewing the decision and will issue an official statement in due course. He acknowledged that the public looks to the government for justice in such matters and admitted that the ruling has raised significant concerns.
“Since 2006, not only in the South but also in the North, we have a public mandate to properly investigate and punish those responsible for the abductions of journalists. We fully understand the mandate given to us in both the presidential and parliamentary elections. Accordingly, you can see that our President and the entire government have provided maximum support for investigations into the abductions and suppression of journalists in the past,” Jayatissa said.
The minister insisted that while the government’s role is to provide resources for investigations and prosecutions, ultimate decisions rest with the judiciary. “We do not believe in filing cases just for the sake of it. Perpetrators must definitely be punished. We understand the concern you raised. The government is currently studying the Attorney General’s decision on this matter, and we will make a statement on it in due course,” he added.
Justice Delayed, Justice Denied?
The decision to release the key suspects has reignited concerns about impunity for crimes against journalists in Sri Lanka. Wickrematunge, the editor of The Sunday Leader, was assassinated in broad daylight on January 8, 2009, just days before he was set to testify in a high-profile corruption case. His killing became emblematic of the deadly risks faced by journalists exposing political and military misconduct.
Over the years, successive governments have pledged justice, but investigations have repeatedly stalled. The latest development, seen as a major setback in the pursuit of accountability, raises fresh questions about the independence of the judiciary and the influence of political forces in legal proceedings.
Media organizations, press freedom advocates, and human rights groups have condemned the decision, with many warning that it could set a dangerous precedent. Some legal experts argue that the Attorney General’s decision warrants further scrutiny, and there are growing calls for an independent review of the case.
Protests and Legal Action Loom
In the wake of the ruling, journalist unions and civil society groups in Colombo are mobilizing to challenge the acquittal. Plans for street protests, legal challenges, and international appeals are underway. Many fear that without continued pressure, justice for Wickrematunge—and for press freedom in Sri Lanka—will remain elusive.
As the government deliberates its next steps, all eyes remain on its response. Will it take decisive action to ensure accountability, or will this case join the long list of unresolved attacks on journalists in Sri Lanka? The answer will shape the country’s media landscape and its commitment to justice for years to come.
