The United National Party has requested the government to hold an immediate inquiry into the allegations that a journalist from ITN, who has tested positive for COVID-19, had attended several press conferences while awaiting the results of his PCR test.
“It has come to the attention of the party that this particular journalist, along with several of his colleagues, were administered PCR tests on Monday (12). While awaiting the results of these tests, this journalist and others were sent on coverage by the state-run television service to several press conferences including the UNP press conference on Wednesday (14) and the Cabinet briefing” the release from the party said.
Noting that Sri Lanka is facing a second wave of COVID-19, the UNP said the actions by state officials to permit a government employee to travel amongst the public while awaiting the results of a PCR test is highly irresponsible. “We urge the relevant authorities to take necessary disciplinary action against those responsible for this lapse.It is the duty of the government to ensure the health and safety of the public” it added.
