A routine public health campaign turned into a political flashpoint after social media users claimed the visual resembled Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa, forcing the Health Ministry to quietly remove the advertisement.
A campaign advertisement published by the Ministry of Health has ignited a heated debate across social media platforms, transforming what was meant to be a simple contraceptive awareness drive into a politically charged controversy.
The advertisement, designed to promote condom use and responsible sexual health practices, featured a visual of a person carefully walking across a narrow stick with a bridge positioned nearby. According to critics online, the posture and imagery bore a striking resemblance to a past public moment involving Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa, where he was seen crossing a similar narrow support in a widely circulated image.
As screenshots of the advertisement spread rapidly, accusations followed. Commentators alleged that the Ministry’s awareness campaign subtly mirrored Sajith Premadasa’s actions, suggesting either an unintended coincidence or a politically insensitive creative choice. The debate intensified as supporters and opponents weighed in, turning a public health communication into a trending political topic.
Following the backlash and mounting criticism, the Ministry of Health removed the advertisement from its official social media account. No formal clarification has yet been issued regarding the intent behind the visual concept.
The episode highlights how even health ministry campaigns can quickly intersect with political narratives in Sri Lanka’s highly polarized digital environment, where imagery, symbolism, and timing are closely scrutinized.
