Tiran tries to force ‘Mawbima’ on Rayynor!

Friday, 15 May 2015 

An attempt is being reported to force Tiran Alles’ ‘Mawbima’ and ‘Ceylon Today’ newspapers, which are facing closure, on Hiru Media Network owner Rayynor Silva, say sources at ‘Mawbima’. A discussion to reach agreement in this regard was held on May 13, attended by Tiran, his son, Thushara Gunaratne, Upul Joseph Fernando and Rayynor’s representative Sudewa. At the talks, Tiran said he would sell ‘Mawbima’ to any offer by Rayynor.

After the meeting, ‘Mawbima’ managing editor Thushara Gunaratne telephoned Rayynor yesterday morning and asked if they could discuss a little matter over lunch. Rayynor said he was very busy and had no time to meet him, and asked him to tell him the matter over the phone. Thushara’s response was, “Don’t be mad. Do not accept ‘Mawbima’ even if it is given free. Tiran does not understand a thing about media. Doing media is not possible with dealers. Tiran ruined the newspaper which Upul and I developed. ‘Mawbima’ has no assets. It owes millions to EPF and ETF. Everything is being covered up by giving bribes. Do not buy ‘Mawbima’ even by mistaken. Upul and I will join the newspaper you are going to start. We will work without pay for six months. After the newspaper develops, look after us.”

According to Hiru media network sources, Rayynor is yet to take a decision with regard to Thushara and Upul. But, he has followed the advice of Thushara and decided not to buy ‘Mawbima.’ He is yet to decide on a name for the Sinhala newspaper he is going to start, but the English newspaper has already been named ‘Independent.’ Many journalists and marketing personnel from several media institutions have expressed a desire to join him.