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Free Media Movement calls for integrity in Easter Attack investigation as concerns mount for journalist Tharindu Jayawardena
The Free Media Movement (FMM) has called on the police, particularly the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), to ensure that the investigation into the Easter attack remains focused and methodical, urging them to avoid any deviations or hasty decisions that could compromise justice for the victims.
The FMM, in a statement issued to the media on Thursday, highlighted that the police appear to be targeting investigative journalist Tharindu Jayawardena—who is uncovering unsettling truths about the Easter Sunday terror attacks—rather than addressing the genuine public outcry for justice.
The statement, signed by FMM Convener Hana Ibrahim and Secretary Lasantha de Silva, said that in a letter to Acting Inspector General of Police Priyantha Weerasuriya, Jayawardena expressed concerns about a potential plan for his arrest. The FMM emphasized that if he is detained in any capacity, they will not hesitate to take strong action. Known for his extensive reporting on the 2019 Easter attack and related incidents across various media outlets, Jayawardena has garnered significant attention from members of the Sri Lanka Parliament.
Meanwhile, reports indicate that Police Inspector Induka Silva, head of the CID’s Murder Investigation Division, has requested the court to issue appropriate orders against Jayawardena, alleging that his activities have influenced ongoing investigations. These developments have drawn criticism toward the court, particularly regarding Silva, who was previously removed from the CID due to allegations against him. In his letter, Jayawardena identifies Silva as an officer involved in a conspiracy against Police Officer Shani Abeysekara, who was re-summoned by the Gotabaya Rajapaksa administration in 2019.
The FMM emphasized that ensuring justice for the victims of the Easter attack is currently the most pressing challenge facing the police. They have urged the police, including the CID, not to allow the investigation to deviate from its course or to make hasty decisions. Furthermore, they warn that if Tharindu Jayawardena is arrested, they will take all necessary measures to vigorously defend his safety and rights.
As part of the official visit to London for the 43rd Commonwealth of Learning (COL) Board of Governors Meeting 2026, the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, held discussions with academic experts from the British Council on Wednesday [20 May 2026].
The discussions focused on strengthening cooperation in education, particularly in the areas of teacher training, English language programmes, education frameworks, and language acquisition skills.
The British Council shared international experience and highlighted its ongoing engagement in Sri Lanka, while expressing readiness to support the country through technical assistance, teacher development initiatives, and policy collaboration.
Discussions also included views on improving quality assurance, expanding research collaboration, and enhancing learning opportunities.
The Prime Minister appreciated the British Council’s continued engagement in Sri Lanka and reiterated the importance of deepening partnerships.
[Prime Minister’s Media Division’
Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, who is currently on an official visit to the United Kingdom, met with members of the Sri Lankan community living in London on Wednesday [20th] and engaged in cordial discussions.
Despite the event being held on a weekday, it was notable that nearly one thousand Sri Lankans representing the Sinhala, Tamil, and Muslim communities attended with great enthusiasm.
Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya stated that despite natural disasters and international crises, the present government has succeeded in stabilizing the country’s economy while providing relief to the people. She further noted that Sri Lanka’s political culture has now undergone a positive transformation that is irreversible.
Minister of Women and Child Affairs Saroja Paulraj, addressing the event, stated that a governance system has now been established in the country where all communities are treated equally and the benefits of economic development are shared fairly among all citizens.
Moving away from the traditional method of political gatherings, the event also provided an open platform for members of the Sri Lankan community to directly raise questions and express their views to the Prime Minister and the Minister.
Commenting on the organization of the event, the organizing committee stated that all expenses, including dinner, were borne by the participants themselves. The organizers further remarked that it is unsurprising that opposition groups, accustomed to organizing such events through the misuse of public funds, appear unsettled by this transparent process.
The occasion was attended by the Minister of Women and Child Affairs Saroja Paulraj and Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Nimal Senadheera.
[Prime Minister’s Media Division]
Prime Minister Dr Harini Amarasuriya currently undertaking an official visit to London, United Kingdom, to participate in the 43rd Commonwealth of Learning (COL) Board of Governors Meeting 2026 held a bilateral meeting with the Yvette Cooper MP, Foreign Secretary of the United Kingdom ON Wednesday [20]. The Prime Minister was accompanied by Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Nimal Senadheera, along with officials from the Sri Lankan High Commission.
During the meeting, the Prime Minister conveyed Sri Lanka’s appreciation to the United Kingdom for the support extended in the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwa, including ongoing rebuilding and recovery assistance. The Prime Minister also commended the United Kingdom’s support in facilitating increased bilateral trade and exports for Sri Lanka.
The Prime Minister briefed the UK delegation on Sri Lanka’s recent economic developments and policy priorities, the Government’s commitment to advancing human rights and reconciliation, as well as Sri Lanka’s positive growth trajectory.
The two sides also exchanged views on current global geopolitical developments, challenges in the energy sector, and the importance of enhancing regional connectivity and long-term energy security.
Both sides also emphasised the importance of strengthening structured academic mobility frameworks while ensuring fairness, clarity, and integrity within migration systems.
They also reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening bilateral cooperation between the two countries in areas of mutual interest.
[Prime Minister’s Media Division]
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