The Free Media Movement (FMM) of Sri Lanka says it is deeply concerned about the government’s withdrawal of the broadcasting licence of the ABC radio network*. In its communiqué to the ABC network, the Ministry has said that this action was being taken because the news item broadcast by the network had caused panic in the area. The communiqué accuses the network of spreading false information that could have led to inter-ethnic disturbances.
According to FMM, a number of other channels have broadcast similar news items, but the government has singled out the ABC network for punishment. FMM notes the radio stations run by the ABC network have a reputation for broadcasting news that is critical of the existing situation.
FMM says it is extremely concerned about the arbitrary nature of the cancellation of the ABC network’s licence to broadcast in Sri Lanka. The organisation is afraid that such arbitrary action on the part of the government could set a dangerous precedent for undermining the freedom of expression in Sri Lanka. It condemns the behaviour of the authorities in this regard, and calls for an immediate restitution of the licences of ABC radio.
(Source: Free Media Movement)
* Asia Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) network’s application to the Court of Appeal against the suspension of broadcasts of five of its radio stations will be taken up tomorrow (Sunday Times Online).
