International Federation of Journalists condemns mob attack on MTV/ MBC head office

COLOMBO (News 1st) - The International Federation of Journalists (IFL) issuing a release condemned the act of intimidation by a mob opposite the MTV/ MBC head office. The Free Media Movement (FMM) is an affiliate of the IFL. The IFL calls for an immediate inquiry into the incident in order to take action against those responsible. C. Dodawatta, FMM convener, said in the release: “While it is true that media is often criticized for the manner in which they conduct their reporting, it does not mean that those who are critical of those methods of reporting can take the law into their own hands and act in an intimidating manner.” The FMM further added: “Any concerns about the manner of reporting should be resolved within the framework of media ethics. Actions such as those carried out against Sirasa will not stop there. Past events have shown us how criminal acts and mob behavior have broken down the framework of democracy.” The IFJ said: “The IFJ condemns the attempts to intimidate Sirasa TV for its coverage. For democracy to flourish, there should be space in the public sphere for different views and opinions on important issues, acts of intimidation not only shrink the space but also threaten the independence of the media. The IFJ urges the Sri Lankan authorities to investigate the issue, and ensure appropriate legal action against those responsible.” IFJ's media release on mob attempts to intimidate Sirasa TV in Sri Lanka