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Fonseka ready to abolish the Press Council Act |
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Presidential candidate Retd. General Sarath Fonseka, speaking in Kandy today, promised that he will abolish the Press Council Act if he is elected to power at the next Presidential election. Further he said that he will strengthen freedom of expression.
The General said “Free media and the right to information is a necessity for a democratic nation. I will ensure that the laws needed for this freedom are put in place and the Press Council Act will be abolished to create a free and fair media culture in the country,” Earlier in the day General Fonseka visited the Kandy Dalada Maligawa and met the clergy and spoke about his plans for the country if he wins the polls. He also declared his assets and liabilities to the clergy. The General starting his Presidential campaign in Kandy Today stated “In order to re-establish democracy, which has been undermined by the present dictatorial regime I will appoint an independent Elections Commission, an independent Police Commission, an independent Legal Commission and an independent Public Service Commission,” he said. He went on to say “Within one month of coming to power I will present the Amendment to abolish the Executive Presidency to the interim Ministers for approval and thereby abolish the Executive Presidency within 6 months,” He further promised to release the IDP’s and facilitate their safe return and resettlement. Additionally he would expedite legal proceedings against those accused of being terrorists and provide rehabilitation for them. |