Proposals for the draft legislation for safeguarding freedom of speech and expression and protection of creative rights was recently handed over to President’s Secretary Saman Ekanayake, at the Presidential Secretariat, by the committee appointed by President Ranil Wickremesinghe.

 Former Chairman of the Board of Directors of Public Performance Board Saman Athaudahetti chaired the committee tasked with drafting proposals for the new legislation
Committee members involved in this endeavour included cinematographer Ashoka Handagama, dramatist Rajitha Dissanayake, designer Anoma Rajakaruna and President’s Counsel Jagath Wickramanayake. The draft proposals align with contemporary international trends and standards, developed through consultations with stakeholders in film, theatre and the performing arts. The Draft Bill will adhere to the currently enforced Public Exhibition Control Ordinance passed in 1912. Committee Chairman Athaudahetti affirmed that the draft proposals offer solutions to various issues related to the creative arts. He emphasized that the implementation of this legislation will ensure the comprehensive protection of creative freedom.