Altered Photo Falsely Implying That Prof. Meththika Withanage Supports Sajith

A claim has been circulating on social media alleging that Professor Meththika Withanage of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura (Japura) has decided to support opposition leader Sajith Premadasa in the upcoming presidential election. The post, accompanied by a photograph, criticizes the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) for associating with her, referencing her opposition to forced cremations during the COVID-19 period. Let’s examine the facts surrounding this claim.

Social Media Posts

The social media posts suggest that Prof. Meththika Withanage has joined Sajith Premadasa's political camp based on an image allegedly showing her shaking hands with him. This claim aims to cast doubt on the SJB's choice, pointing out her past stance against forced cremations, which was a controversial issue during the COVID19 pandemic.

FB | Archived

1. Origin of the Photo

The photograph was originally taken in March 2024 at the National Institute of Fundamental Studies (NIFS) during its annual research review event. The NIFS shared this image on its official Facebook pages, confirming that it was captured at the event. However, the image has been manipulated and edited to create a false narrative.

The original image published by NIFS can be reached here. The image published by Professor Meththika can be reached here

Image comparison is below.

2. Professor Meththika Withanage’s Response

We contacted Prof. Meththika Withanage regarding the claim. She firmly denied ever meeting Sajith Premadasa and confirmed that the photo circulating on social media had been edited.

3. SJB’s Response

The Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) media unit also clarified that Prof. Withanage has neither joined their party nor met Sajith Premadasa. They confirmed that the photo had been digitally altered and the claim was baseless.

Conclusion

The viral claim based on an image of Prof. Meththika Withanage meeting opposition leader Sajith and pledging her support to him is fabricated. The photo being shared has been edited to create a misleading impression. Both Prof. Withanage and the SJB media unit have denied any such association.