The Foreign Correspondents Association of Sri Lanka on Tuesday condemned the intimidation of New York Times local journalists by Sri Lankan lawmakers following an investigation by the paper into China's involvement in Hambantota port.
"The Foreign Correspondents' Association of Sri Lanka (FCA) is deeply concerned about a campaign of intimidation directed against foreign journalists who contributed to a recent New York Times report on corruption in the island," the FCA said in a statement on social media.
"We are disturbed that several members of parliament have publicly vilified the authors of the report without utilising established channels to redress any grievances arising from the impugned report."
"The FCA, a professional body representing Colombo-based foreign media, appeals to all parties to take up any issue resulting from the publication of the report with the editors concerned as is the norm. We also urge the government of Sri Lanka to ensure the safety and security of all journalists in Sri Lanka, including colleagues visiting the island on reporting assignments," FCA said.
In a statement the editor of the New York Times, Michael Slackman condemned the intimidation.
“It is unacceptable for journalists to be intimidated in this way. This action appears intended to silence critics and curb press freedoms, and ultimately deprive Sri Lankans of information in the public interest.”
"The Times expects the Sri Lankan authorities to ensure the safety of journalists working for our — or any — news organization."
"If Mr Rajapaksa takes issue with Times reporting, we have encouraged him to contact senior editors at The New York Times rather than intimidating Sri Lankan journalists."
