Main opposition of Sri Lanka accuses a private media institution of trying to divide the party

The main opposition party in Sri Lanka, United National Party (UNP) today accused a private media institution of trying to divide the party by undertaking a government contract.

UNP Communications Division Head and parliamentarian Mangala Samaraweera told a press conference in Matara that owner of MTV/MBC Networks, Kili Maharaja and his secret dealings would be exposed soon.

He has said that Sirasa channel was fulfilling a contract by the President and the Defence Secretary while wearing an anti-government mask to divide the main opposition party.

He has added that the country was witnessing the nudity of Maharaja's media institution MTV/Sirasa NetWork.

Samaraweera has observed that country was facing a severe form of media repression and many journalists have fled the country to protect their lives while the others are exercising a self-censorship and publishing news supportive only of the government.

The opposition party leader Ranil Wickremasinghe last week said the Sirasa network is continuously attacking him and the UNP.

He said after the parliamentary elections held in April 2010, the Maharaja Organization requested for two National List parliamentary seats and the nomination board of the party refused the request.

"Since then the Maharaja Organization has not been in good terms with me," Wickremasinghe said.

The opposition leader said he will not leave room for Maharaja organization to purchase the UNP.