BASL condemns attacks on journalists, & calls for action against police officers for attacks

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Bar Association of Sri Lanka convening a special press conference on Sunday (10) afternoon has condemned the violence that broke out on Saturday (9) during the mass protest against the President, Prime Minister, and the Government.

BASL President Saliya Pieris, PC told reporters that the Bar Association of Sri Lanka condemned the shooting at protestors on Saturday (9) morning, the attacks on News 1st journalists later in the day, and the torching of the Prime Minister's residence on Saturday (9) night. The Bar Association President pointed out that disciplinary action must be taken against all police officers who attacked journalists following an impartial, and immediate investigation.

"All acts of violence are condemned the should be investigated," he told reporters adding that it is important to protect the rights of journalists to report on the news.

The President of the Bar Association of Sri Lanka urged Sri Lankans who are occupying the President's House and the President's Office to refrain from causing any damage to the property, especially those items of historical importance.

"We must all understand that all acts of violence by any party in any form will destabilize, worsen the country's economy, and will worsen the plight of the people," he said.

For this reason all Sri Lankans must step back from violence and understand that violence does not benefit anyone.