A high-stakes legal showdown unfolds as former Governor Keerthi Tennakoon seeks massive compensation, alleging false claims, reputational damage, and media amplification in a case that could set a precedent for political accountability in Sri Lanka.
A significant defamation lawsuit has been scheduled for hearing at the Colombo High Court on March 20, placing Minister Samantha Vidyaratne and the Independent Television Service under intense legal scrutiny. The case has been filed by former Governor Keerthi Tennakoon, who is seeking compensation totaling Rs. 200 million over statements he claims were false and damaging. The petition, registered under case number DMR/1467/25, stems from remarks made during a media briefing on January 9, 2025.
At the center of the dispute is a statement made by the Minister while presenting images and video footage of a private cultivation property owned by Tennakoon in the Thanamalwila area. According to the Minister, the land in question was part of a protected reserve located within the Haldummulla Divisional Secretariat Division. Tennakoon strongly denies this claim, asserting that the statement was not only inaccurate but also made with malicious intent, causing serious harm to his reputation.
The controversy intensified when the statement was broadcast through the Independent Television Service, including its news segments and the program Pattharen Eha. Tennakoon argues that the wide dissemination of these claims significantly amplified the damage to his public image. As a result, he is seeking Rs. 100 million each from the Minister and the television station, along with legal interest from the date the case was filed.
