LEN - www.lankaenews.com | The Thieves’ Dream and the Media’s Delusion

The Thieves’ Dream and the Media’s Delusion

-Written by the Circle of Investigative Journalists

(Lanka-e-News -10.Dec.2024, 11.20 PM) Although it has been less than a month since the National People’s Power (NPP) government came to power, they are already facing a barrage of criticism and accusations. Both social media and certain mainstream media outlets are actively working, day and night, to stir public dissent against the government. A particular faction seems to dream of reviving the protests that ousted Nandasena Rajapaksa, the country’s most unsuccessful leader, in hopes of overthrowing the NPP government and regaining power for themselves. To these individuals, we simply say: “How unfortunate for you.”

The Loss of “Blessed” Lives

This group comprises those who have lost the privileged lives they once enjoyed. Former ministers, deputy ministers, MPs, personal staff, officials, and supporters—all have now fallen into a state of “refuge.” They once thrived on luxury vehicles, grand mansions, commissions, bribes (financial and otherwise), and the abuse of political power. The core leaders of this group, who previously clung to their benefactors, shouting “Yes, Sir!” at every turn, are now struggling to sustain their lavish lifestyles, even resorting to menial tasks to survive.

A Media Sector in Disgrace

Regrettably, a portion of the media industry, which should serve the public, has aligned itself with this faction. Some media professionals have abandoned ethical journalism, instead seeking to amass wealth through unscrupulous methods and notoriety within the industry. Adding to this are media moguls fighting legal battles to save their younger siblings from the consequences of minor offenses like unpaid fines, as well as ambitious tycoons dreaming of becoming the next president. These individuals have thrown their full support behind this campaign.

Your Time for Dreaming Is Running Out

Their efforts include persuading the public, via their media channels, that the government should solve the rice and coconut crises in mere months and encouraging farmers to demand millions in compensation for crop damage. Additionally, they stir division by showcasing old separatist narratives and insinuating that northern war memorial events could lead to renewed tensions.

While pretending to stand for the public, what they truly express is their anger over losing privileges and their hatred of the NPP government, which rejected their corrupt practices. Moreover, they exploit national broadcasting licenses and frequencies—public assets—for their own agenda.

A Call for Responsible Media

It is important to note that criticizing or questioning the government on political or economic grounds is always valid. However, disseminating false information that threatens national security or causes public distress must be avoided. This may explain why, during a recent discussion, the President openly urged media heads to refrain from reporting falsehoods that could harm the nation.

Regardless of what certain media channels say, show, or amplify, one truth remains clear: a significant portion of the public still trusts this government. Many believe in the possibility of progress and are willing to give the administration a fair amount of time before passing judgment.

To those dreaming of overthrowing the government, we end with this: Your time to dream is running out.