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Mr. Prasad Purnamal a provincial journalist working for MTV TV net work and ANCL newspapers was assaulted, his TV camera worth Rs. 100,000 smashed and still camera worth Rs.30,000 taken away by supporters of ruling political party on 16th February 2006 at Puttlam, a town on Western coast. Mr. Prasad was covering a clash among two groups of ruling party supporters after handing over nominations for the local government elections, scheduled for 30th March 2006. Mr. Prasad incurred minor injuries and has made a complaint to the police. FMM categorically condemns this incident and requests that culprits are immediately apprehended. The FMM also requests necessary arrangements are made to pay compensation for the losses he suffered. The freedom of the press is a necessary pre-condition for a free and fair election. Supporters of political party have to be disciplined by their leaders to accept the freedom of expression and opposing views. FMM holds the members of the ruling party in the Puttlam district responsible for this ugly incident and requests that government leaders look into this matter urgently. At the same time FMM urges all political parties to uphold the right to information and take steps to ensure the freedom of expression in the run up to the local government elections. |