Colombo – The National Election Commission (EC) of Sri Lanka has issued a stern warning to media organizations regarding adherence to election laws. The Commission’s Chairman, RMAL Ratnayake, has indicated that action will be taken against those failing to comply with the legal framework governing election coverage.
In a statement to the media, Ratnayake revealed that numerous complaints have been lodged against certain media outlets for allegedly favoring specific presidential candidates. He noted that discrepancies in the media coverage, where some candidates receive more airtime or coverage than others, have been observed.
The government information department has forwarded campaign reports for candidates from both mainstream and electronic media. According to Ratnayake, the analysis of these reports has revealed unequal treatment of candidates, with some receiving more media exposure than their competitors.
“We have advised the relevant media organizations to address these discrepancies,” Ratnayake said. “Should they fail to comply and continue to promote one candidate disproportionately, we will have to take corrective measures under our authority.”
Potential actions against non-compliant media organizations could include the suspension of the Election Commission’s relationship with these outlets. This may involve withholding press statements, not inviting them to press conferences, and even suspending the release of election results.
The Chairman urged all journalists and media organizations to adhere to the guidelines issued by the Election Commission to ensure fair and balanced coverage of the 2024 presidential election.
