Daily publication of Mawbima and Ceylon Today suspended

2026-03-04 - 15:58

Steps have been taken to suspend the daily print editions of Mawbima and its English-language sister newspaper Ceylon Today, both published by a prominent media institution owned by former Minister Tiran Alles. In a notice published on the front pages of the respective newspapers today (04), the management stated that, hereafter, news coverage would be carried out exclusively through digital platforms. However, although the daily print editions have been discontinued, it is reported that the weekend editions of Mawbima and Ceylon Today will continue to be published in print and released to the market. As a result of this decision by the management, employees of the institution are reportedly facing severe difficulties. Staff members have levelled several serious allegations against the management, claiming that outstanding salary arrears due to journalists have not yet been settled and that Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) contributions have not been properly credited for several years. Cabinet Spokesman and Minister Nalinda Jayatissa stated that if any institution is to be closed, it must be done in accordance with the Termination of Employment of Workmen (Special Provisions) Act, No. 45 of 1971. Responding to a question raised by a journalist at today’s (04) Cabinet decisions media briefing regarding the situation faced by employees of Mawbima and Ceylon Today, he stated that the agreements entered into between the journalists and the institution should be examined, and that the management is obliged to pay salaries for the services rendered. He further noted that the Government’s Director General of Information is currently engaged in discussions with the Department of Labour on the matter.