In response to allegations that the Government is attempting to sell State-owned media channels in the prevailing economic situation, the Ministry of Mass Media stated that there is no such preparation.

Opposition and Samagi Jana Balawegaya Leader Sajith Premadasa recently claimed that the Government is planning to sell State-owned media channels, as it finds it difficult to bear the expenditure on them in the prevailing economic crisis. Although there is a need for solutions to be found to overcome the economic crisis, he said that selling State-owned properties would not be of help in doing so.

“They are going to sell a State-owned television channel. We heard that it has already been leased. Solutions are needed for this country’s financial problems, but, when involving new investors with State media channels, there must be some order,” said Premadasa.

When contacted by The Daily Morning to inquire about the allegation, the Secretary to the Ministry, Anusha Pelpita denied the allegation, and said that there is no such preparation. 

“If there is any preparation to sell or lease a State-owned media channel, a proposal should be submitted to the Cabinet of Ministers and its approval should be received. However, the Ministry has not done so. There is no preparation to sell or lease any channel.”

The Government has indicated on many occasions that it is difficult to maintain several State institutions including the State-owned media channels in the current economic crisis as they have been making losses for a long time. There are reports from time to time that there are plans to transfer the ownership of State media channels to interested parties in the backdrop of plans for the restructuring of several State institutions. Among the State-owned media institutions are the Rupavahini Corporation, the Independent Television Network, the Broadcasting Corporation, and the Associated Newspapers of Ceylon Limited (Lake House).