Transparency International Sri Lanka (TISL) expresses its deep concern on the decision by the Government to insist that media personnel should declare their assets by the end of April. It questions the rationale of this decision at this point in time.
According to the law, senior public officials, politicians including elected Members of the Parliament, and several other categories of officials are required to declare their assets. However, TISL finds it rather strange that the Government has decided to enforce the law only on media.
TISL is concerned that declaration of assets may be abused by the executive, and certain selected media personnel may be subject to a witch-hunt. It maybe a form of harassment to such individuals, TISL points out. TISL strongly believes that this action is not consistent with the assets and liabilities law that is operative.
In a letter sent to newspaper proprietors, editors and editorial staff by the Secretary to the Ministry of Mass Media and Information, they have been asked to declare their assets and liabilities by 30 April 2010.
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