Cabinet Spokesperson and Minister Nalinda Jayatissa has strongly criticised the opposition and sections of the media, accusing them of creating public fear and confusion over the government’s proposed education reforms.
Responding to questions from journalists on whether the reforms could be implemented this year, Jayatissa claimed that certain television channels disproportionately promoted the views of opposition politicians — including Dilith Jayaweera, Sajith Premadasa, Namal Rajapaksa and Wimal Weerawansa — to portray the reforms as harmful to children.
He said the coverage lacked balance, alleging that some channels amplified claims of errors and technical issues in the reforms to influence public perception. Jayatissa noted that opposition figures had highlighted alleged mistakes and suitability concerns while continuing to mobilise protests against the proposals.
The minister urged media institutions to reflect on whether their reporting accurately represented public opinion at the time, stressing the responsibility of journalists in shaping informed debate.
Jayatissa said the government could not proceed with Grade 6 reforms in an environment where demonstrations were being magnified beyond their actual scale. However, he confirmed that reforms for Grade 1 students would go ahead as scheduled on January 29, reiterating the government’s commitment to the overall reform agenda.
He added that those now calling for implementation after previously opposing the reforms must provide clear justification for their change in position, suggesting that a no-confidence motion would offer a decisive resolution to the dispute.
The minister also called on the opposition leader and MPs to adopt consistent and responsible positions on education policy, describing the subject as highly sensitive.
Acknowledging parental concerns, Jayatissa said they were valid and deserved attention, but emphasised that reforms could only be introduced when there is sufficient clarity, confidence, and public understanding of the process.
