A defamation case meant to silence a journalist has instead reopened uncomfortable questions about truth, political memory, and who really gets to lecture the country on honesty.
Journalist Uvidu Kurukulasuriya has weighed in sharply on the defamation lawsuit filed by Health Minister Nalinda Jayatissa against journalist Dharma Sri Kariyawasam, seeking damages of one billion rupees. In a reflective and pointed social media post, Kurukulasuriya questioned not just the lawsuit itself, but the wider culture of political outrage and selective memory surrounding it.
He noted that supporters of the JVP appear amused by the staggering compensation amount being sought, yet seem to overlook an inconvenient detail. Kariyawasam, he reminded readers, was once the first editor of the JVP’s Lanka Pattare and held that role for five years. During and after that period, Kurukulasuriya argued, the publication became synonymous with exaggeration, gossip, and political distortion.
He asked how much disrespect the paper attracted, how many unverified stories were printed, and how often rumor was elevated to headline status. According to him, much of what appeared on the front pages later ended up circulating informally in betting shops and public chatter, blurring the line between journalism and propaganda.
Kurukulasuriya also widened the lens, questioning how many falsehoods are told by those at the very top, including the President himself. In that context, he suggested that litigation is a waste of time and public money, advocating instead for dialogue and peaceful resolution.
Clarifying his own earlier remarks, he said his reference to suing was sarcastic, not a call to fuel legal battles. His central message was clear. Truth cannot be defended selectively, and power should tread carefully when pointing fingers.
