Today marks 16 years since the assassination of Lasantha Wickramatunga, a senior journalist who dedicated his life to fearless and investigative journalism. Known for wielding his pen for the truth, Lasantha exposed corruption and injustice, often putting his own life at risk.
As the Editor of The Sunday Leader, he fearlessly revealed fraud and corruption that others dared not touch, bringing hidden truths to light. For this, he faced multiple threats to his life, culminating in his tragic murder on January 8, 2009.
A Tragic End to a Courageous Journey
On that fateful morning, Lasantha was ambushed by armed assailants on Attidiya Road while on his way to work. He was carrying only a pen and a notebook—symbols of his commitment to journalism.
Despite receiving international recognition, including the prestigious IPI World Press Freedom Hero Award, justice for Lasantha remains elusive. Investigations into his assassination have seen little progress, and the perpetrators continue to evade accountability.
Exposing Corruption Amidst Threats
Lasantha’s fearless reporting often brought him into conflict with powerful figures. Notably, his newspaper repeatedly uncovered details about the controversial MiG aircraft deal, implicating prominent individuals, including Gotabhaya Rajapaksa.
- July-August 2007: The Sunday Leader publishes a series of exposés on the MiG deal.
- November 9, 2008: Despite a defamation case filed by Gotabhaya Rajapaksa, more evidence is revealed, including a photograph implicating him.
- December 5, 2008: The court issues an injunction preventing further reporting on the MiG deal.
Despite mounting legal pressure and threats, Lasantha persisted in his mission to uncover the truth until his untimely death.
Justice Delayed, But Not Forgotten
In the years following his assassination, governments have changed, and investigations have been launched. However, the process has remained stagnant, with no significant arrests or convictions. Even the exhumation of Lasantha’s body in 2016 failed to advance the case meaningfully.
Journalist Shalika Wimalasena recently commemorated Lasantha’s legacy on social media, highlighting the continued lack of accountability and calling for justice:
“Despite all efforts to cover up the murder, and with the information about it being revealed to the fullest extent, justice must be served even after 16 years of the murder of Lasantha Wickramatunga. The impunity enjoyed by the criminals must be abolished!”
A Call for Justice
Lasantha Wickramatunga’s assassination remains a chilling reminder of the dangers faced by journalists who dare to challenge the powerful. Sixteen years later, his legacy endures as a symbol of the fight for press freedom and justice. The call for accountability grows louder, urging authorities to finally deliver the justice Lasantha deserves.
Lasantha Wickramatunga (1958 – 2009): A life dedicated to truth, silenced but never forgotten.
