The Sri Lanka Working Journalists Association (SLWJA) has condemned the recent actions of the Nepalese government, accusing it of using media suppression to cover up failed governance.
In a statement, the SLWJA said what is unfolding in Nepal reflects a growing global trend of dismantling democracy through restrictions on media freedom and the curtailing of free speech—both of which are fundamental human rights.
The Association noted that governments often misuse repressive laws and impose restricted zones under the guise of protecting citizens’ rights, thereby misleading the public. “The latest such operation has begun in Nepal, where the government has intervened to control social media, citing the false objective of safeguarding civil rights,” the statement said.
According to media reports, over 19 lives have been lost in Nepal due to conflicts linked to the recent social media bans. The SLWJA described this as a tragic consequence of suppressing social media, which it called a “powerful global communication tool.”
Drawing parallels with Sri Lanka, the Association recalled attempts by both past and present governments to introduce restrictive controls through measures such as the Online Safety Act. It warned that Nepal’s violent turn of events should serve as a serious reminder of the dangers of such policies.
The SLWJA strongly condemned not only Nepal but “all governments that attempt to subjugate, suppress, or ban both social and traditional media to consolidate their control.”
The statement urged governments worldwide to refrain from infringing on freedom of speech and expression and instead create conditions for journalists to work freely and independently. It added that states must take accountability for governance failures rather than silencing dissent.
