News

The Speaker of the Parliament Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena announced to the House this evening (06) that the third reading of the ‘Sri Lanka Electricity Bill’ was passed in the Parliament with amendments.

Meanwhile, the second reading of the draft bill was also passed in the Parliament with a majority of 44 votes.

The ‘Sri Lanka Electricity Bill’, which incorporates the proposed reforms for the electricity sector, was presented to the parliament by Power and Energy Minister Kanchana Wijesekera on April 25. It was published in the government gazette on 17 April.

The Bill seeks to provide for the establishment of the National Electricity Advisory Council and make the Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL) the regulator for the electricity industry in terms of the proposed legislation.

Further, it seeks to provide legislative measures applicable to the incorporation of corporate entities, in which all activities connected to the generation, transmission, distribution, trade, supply and procurement of electricity are vested.

In addition, the Bill also provides for the repealing of the Ceylon Electricity Board Act, No.17 of 1969 and the Sri Lanka Electricity Act, No.20 of 2009.

However, several parties challenged the proposed bill before the Supreme Court, following which the court informed the Parliament that several clauses of the proposed ‘Sri Lanka Electricity Bill’ are inconsistent with the Constitution of Sri Lanka.

The Supreme Court determination stated that these clauses shall only be passed by a special majority of Parliament, and that one clause requires approval through a referendum, the Speaker informed the House. However, the country’s apex court has stated that these clauses could be passed with a simple majority if amended as specified in the Supreme Court’s determination.

On Wednesday (05), the government agreed to accept all the amendments proposed by the Supreme Court to the relevant draft bill.

The mother of consultant coach to the national cricket team, Sanath Jayasuriya, has passed away.

Breeda Jayasuriya died at a private hospital in Matara, aged 80.

Jayasuriya, presently with the team in USA for the T20 World Cup, is due to return home.

The funeral will take place in Matara on Wednesday.

In recognition of veteran actor Ravindra Randeniya’s outstanding contributions to Sri Lankan cinema over five decades, the ceremony, “Ravi – Self-Reflection on Half-Century in Cinema” took place yesterday (05) at the Bandaranaike International Conference Hall in Colombo, presided over by President Ranil Wickremesinghe.

Ravindra Randeniya, who entered the film industry with the 1974 movie ‘Taranga,’ has been celebrated for his exceptional acting skills, consistently delivering memorable performances that have left an indelible mark on Sri Lankan cinema audiences. Over the past five decades, he has starred in more than 100 films, including notable titles like Duhulu Malak, Podi Malli, Weerapuran Appu, Santhaya, Maya, Aradhana, Dadayama, Wedding Gift, Sagaraya, Selamuthu Pina, Sirimadura, Anantha Rathriya, and Kaludiya Dahara.

Randeniya has significantly contributed to elevating the local film industry and has been recognized with numerous accolades. These include the Swarna Sankha O.C.I.C. Best Actor award, which he has won more than fifteen times, seven Lifetime Achievement Awards, and various other honours. He also received the prestigious Darshan Suri Award from the University of Fine Arts for his services to cinema. His talents have extended to international films, with key roles in productions such as Street Child, Mother Teresa, Jungle Heat, Sandokan, and the upcoming Distant Teardrop.

During the event, two biographies of Ravindra Randeniya were launched: one in Sinhala by film critic Gamini Weragoda and another in English by Uditha Devapriya. Randeniya presented the first copies of these books to President Ranil Wickremesinghe.

President Wickremesinghe, in his remarks, praised Randeniya as a versatile actor with the ability to contribute to many fields. He also fondly remembered Randeniya’s close collaboration and support in his political endeavours.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe further said;

“I first saw Ravindra in the 1975 movie Kaludiya Dahara. I came to Kelaniya as the United National Party organizer in the same year. There I got to know Ravindra’s family from Dalugama. They were constantly giving support to our party. Accordingly, I did political work with him.

Also, with the open economy, there was a great development in the film industry in this country. We saw Mr. Ravindra Randeniya coming forward with it. He acted in many major films of that period. At the same time, he joined politics. He supported my political activities and finally, on my request, he was appointed as a Member of Parliament in 2001.

But his desire was not for politics, but for the field of art. He is a talented actor. We wish him long life. It should also be mentioned that he has the ability to contribute to many other fields.”

Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, former President Maithripala Sirisena, Minister Bandula Gunawardena, State Minister Geetha Kumarasinghe, former Speaker Karu Jayasuriya, his contemporaries and many distinguished guests representing all sectors related to the film industry attended the event.

The Ministry of Education has decided that all schools across the island will remain closed tomorrow, according to State Minister of Education Aravind Kumar.

He said the decision has been reached in consideration of the prevailing adverse weather conditions across Sri Lanka.

It was previously announced that the Provincial Education Secretaries and Directors have been authorised to make a decision on whether or not to hold schools tomorrow (June 03).

However, it has now been decided to close all government schools islandwide due to the prevailing inclement weather conditions.

Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe received the credentials of five newly appointed High Commissioners and nine Ambassadors to Sri Lanka at the Colombo Fort President’s House this morning (05).

The High Commissioners representing New Zealand, the Republic of Cyprus, the Maldives, the Republic of Sierra Leone, and the Republic of Mauritius were present. Additionally, Ambassadors from the Republic of Guatemala, the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria, the Republic of Estonia, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, the Republic of Colombia, the Republic of Turkey, Ireland, the Hellenic Republic (Greece), and the Republic of Bulgaria also handed over their credentials.

A brief ceremony was organized at the Colombo Fort Presidential Palace to officially welcome the new High Commissioners and Ambassadors.

Below is the list of the new High Commissioners and Ambassadors who presented their credentials to President Wickremesinghe today:

1. Mr. Omar Castañeda Solares – Ambassador of the Republic of Guatemala based in New Delhi.

2. Mr. Ali Achoui – Ambassador of the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria in New Delhi.

3. Ms. Marje Luup – Ambassador of the Republic of Estonia in New Delhi.

4. Mr. Bounmy Vanmany – Ambassador of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic based in New Delhi.

5. Mr. Victor Hugo Echeverri – Ambassador of the Republic of Colombia based in New Delhi.

6. Mr. David Gregory Pine – High Commissioner of the New Zealand based in Colombo.

7. Mr. Semih Lütfü Turgut – Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye based in Colombo.

8. Mr. Evagoras Vryonides – High Commissioner of the Republic of Cyprus based in New Delhi.

9. Mr. Kevin Kelly – Ambassador of Ireland based in New Delhi.

10. Mr. Masood Imad – High Commissioner of the Republic of Maldives based in Colombo.

11. Ms. Aliki Koutsomitopoulou – Ambassador of the Hellenic Republic based in New Delhi.

12. Mr. Abu Bakarr Karim – High Commissioner of the Republic of Sierra Leone based in Beijing.

13. Dr. Nikolay Yankov – Ambassador of the Republic of Bulgaria based in New Delhi.

14. Mr. Haymandoyal Dillum – High Commissioner of the Republic of Mauritius based in New Delhi.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Ali Sabri PC, along with President’s Secretary Saman Ekanayake, were also present at the occasion.

Following the acceptance of credentials, President Ranil Wickremesinghe engaged in friendly discussion with the new High Commissioners and Ambassadors.

Senior Advisor to the President on National Security and Chief of Staff to the President Sagala Ratnayaka, Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Aruni Wijewardena, and other officials also attended the event.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe has proposed a 6-month extension of service for Attorney General Sanjay Rajaratnam, according to Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena.

The recommendation has been directed to the Constitutional Council for their approval.

Speaker Abeywardena said that the Constitutional Council will convene next Tuesday to discuss the recommendation.

Further actions will be determined following the Council's decision.

Sanjay Rajaratnam PC was sworn in as the 48th Attorney General on May 26, 2021.

The prices of several food items have been reduced in line with the recent reduction in gas prices.

According to the All Ceylon Canteen Owners Association, the prices of Koththu, fried rice, and rice packets have been revised.

The revised prices of some food items are as follows;

Rice packet – reduced by Rs. 25

Shorts eats – reduced by Rs. 10

Plain tea – reduced by between Rs. 5 to Rs. 10.

Former Central Bank Governor Ajith Nivard Cabraal has been released from the case related to the purchase of Treasury Bonds issued by the Government of Greece in 2012.

The Colombo High Court today released former Central Bank Governor Ajith Nivard Cabraal and three others from the case.

The case was filed against the accused alleging they had caused a loss of Rs.1.84 billion to the Government of Sri Lanka through the Greek Bond investments.

The Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) initiated legal action against the five individuals based on a complaint filed by former MP Sujeewa Senasinghe.

In his complaint, Senasinghe claimed that the Central Bank had purchased Treasury Bonds issued by the Government of Greece in 2012 when the southeastern European country was experiencing a severe financial crisis.

Alleging that the Central Bank had made the purchase despite knowledge of the financial crisis faced by Greece, Senasinghe added that it had resulted in a loss of more than Rs. 1.84 billion to the Government of Sri Lanka.

Following investigations into the complaint, the Bribery Commission has filed a case before the Colombo High Court against the five individuals.

Legal action was initiated against Ajith Nivard Cabraal, Kankanamge Gamage Don Dharmasena Deerasinghe, Bendarage Don Wasantha Ananda Silva, Chandrasiri Jayasinghe Panditha Siriwardena and Harankaha Arachchilage Karunaratne.

Sri Lanka’s Director General of the Department of Animal Production and Health, Dr. Hemali Kothalawala, has been appointed as the Vice President of the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) Regional Commission for Asia and the Pacific.

She recently represented Sri Lanka in the 90th Annual General Session of the World Assembly of Delegates of the WOAH which recently took place in Paris, France.

A delegation led by Sri Lanka’s Minister of Agriculture and Plantation Industries, Mahinda Amaraweera participated in the conference, during which the minister also delivered a speech at the general session on the work implemented related to animal products and health promotion in Sri Lanka.

The Department of Animal Production and Health comes under the purview of the Ministry of Agriculture and Plantation Industries.

Dr. Kothalawala is a graduate of Veterinary Science at the University of Kelaniya and she has also obtained her bachelor’s degree from the Indian Veterinary Research Institute and her PhD from Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine in Japan.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe stated that he is actively working to address wage disparities across all sectors of the public sector.

Highlighting the country’s economic recovery, the President acknowledged that while Sri Lanka is beginning to regain its footing, there remains a significant journey ahead. He emphasized the need for the trade union movement to adapt to current changes and contribute to the nation’s progress.

President Wickremesinghe made these remarks during the “Leslie Devendra Sinhavalokanaya” ceremony, held yesterday (29th) at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall in Colombo, to commemorate the 60th anniversary of Deshbandu Leslie Devendra’s career.

During his speech, the President announced the establishment of an “Employee Centre” to facilitate discussions among professionals on advancing the country and preparing a workforce for the future. He committed to allocating government funds annually for this initiative.

Additionally, President Wickremesinghe outlined the government’s plans to bolster the country’s financial institutions, including the banking sector. He noted that to ensure financial stability, the government has been able to defer foreign debt payments until 2027. The President announced that new laws will be introduced to prevent political appointments to the boards of directors of government institutions. He emphasized that the country’s future depends on developing the economy through a proper plan.

The President commended Deshbandu Leslie Devendra for his significant contributions to the trade union movement, noting that he consistently recognized social realities and embraced modernization.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe also presented Deshbandu Leslie Devendra with a commemorative gift in honour of his achievements.

In his address at this event, President Wickremesinghe further noted,

“Mr. Leslie Devendra joined the trade union movement in 1964, a pivotal time when leftist parties united to form the United Left Front. Notable leaders such as N.M. Perera, Philip Gunawardena, S.A. Wickramasinghe, Peter Keuneman, and Colvin R. de Silva participated together in the May Day rally on Galle Road, marking a historic moment with their large, slogan-chanting crowd.

May Day 1964,as a nation was unforgettable. However, just a few months later, another significant incident occurred. The Lanka Sama Samaja Party (LSSP) joined the government with the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP), leading to the collapse of the Left Trade Union Movement. This marked the end of their collaboration with major trade unions.

During the economic difficulties of 1970-1974, related trade unions also lost membership. A new era began in 1977, marking the peak of government economic control, which lasted until then. Subsequently, a new phase of an open economy emerged, systematically transforming the trade union movement. The Jathika Sevaka Sangamaya became a leading trade union.

In 1972, I had the opportunity to serve as the legal advisor for the Jathika Sevaka Sangamaya. Since then, many changes have occurred. Global politics shifted from a competition between socialist and capitalist countries to globalization starting in 1989. The open economy brought various changes, and we adapted to those experiences.

Today, there is little distinction between workers, contractors, and owners, with remote work becoming common, especially during COVID-19. The system has drastically changed in Sri Lanka and globally, and trade unions must evolve accordingly.

Mr. Leslie Devendra recognized this reality and embraced modernization. Business practices have transformed, reflecting the broader changes in the world and our country. Today, we operate within an open economy.

It is imperative that we determine how to navigate our relationships with the evolving global landscape. The approaches and rhetoric of 1964 are no longer applicable to our current context. Therefore, it is incumbent upon all of us to acknowledge reality and prepare for the future. Specifically, we must prioritize advancing both the market economy and social justice in tandem.

Different nations employ various strategies. The Scandinavian model, as seen in countries like Germany, the Netherlands, and Japan, is one example. China also adopts similar economic principles. As a nation, we have reached a similar juncture.

Presently, our country is emerging from a challenging period. Our economy faced collapse. While observing how our people celebrate events like the Sinhala New Year and Vesak festival, it is evident that the country is gradually returning to normalcy. However, this progress is not sufficient. We are merely beginning to recover and progress. There is still a considerable distance to cover, and it is crucial to keep this in mind.

We have made the strategic decision to defer debt payments until 2027, focusing on renegotiating repayment terms to extend until 2042. Our aim is to safeguard the country’s economy from collapse under the weight of debt burdens. However, reliance on imports may necessitate further borrowing, prompting us to prioritize strategies for repayment.

Moreover, we have opted to restrict domestic borrowing, affecting the availability of funds from institutions like the Employee Provident Fund. This prompts considerations on whether to invest domestically or internationally, sparking discussions within the trade union movement.

Recognizing the pivotal role of the financial sector in economic progress, we are committed to fortifying key institutions such as the People’s Bank, the Bank of Ceylon, and the National Savings Bank while maintaining government ownership. Additionally, we aim to secure government influence in limited and private banks to bolster the financial sector and propel economic growth.

Furthermore, we intend to introduce legislation to depoliticize board appointments across government institutions, fostering a conducive environment for national development. It is imperative to re-evaluate our developmental trajectory, as the future of Sri Lanka hinges on economic advancement.

Acknowledging the plight of our citizens, we are mindful of the escalating poverty rate, which has surged from 15% in 2019 to 26% presently. Addressing this challenge requires concerted efforts to provide livelihood opportunities and enhance access to education for all segments of society.

Accordingly, we have agreed to reduce it to 10% by 2032, as stipulated in the loan conditions set by the International Monetary Fund. Therefore, we must persist with this program.

To address widespread poverty, we implemented initiatives such as granting inheritance rights and providing land ownership. Additionally, we are working to transfer ownership of Colombo flats to their current residents, ensuring asset provision for those without. We must adopt new thinking in this regard.

Economically, we have just begun to recover and must now progress further. This year, we have arranged a stipend of Rs.10,000 for government employees and made efforts to increase wages in the private sector.

Although our economic capacity to provide additional concessions this year is limited, we have decided to appoint a committee to address wage disparities across all public sector areas. This committee aims to offer some concessions to public servants next year. We are currently in the process of appointing suitable members to this committee.

This journey is challenging. The common people have borne the brunt of the recent economic crisis, and we must undertake this journey together.

Specifically, we will establish an employee centre to focus on the formation of new trade unions, securing employee rights, and determining effective methods. To sustain this work, the government will allocate an annual budget. We will continue to discuss these matters in greater detail.

It is about moving the trade union movement forward and the relationship between politics and the trade union movement and working independently in the future. Today our country has reached an important milestone. Expressing my gratitude to Mr. Leslie Devendra for his service during this period, stating that we are ready to create an employee centre to present everyone’s views and reach an agreement, and to provide money from the government for that purpose.”

Minister of Labour and Foreign Employment Manusha Nanayakkara,

“Mr. Leslie Devendra liberated workers from the perpetual struggle of ‘want’ and introduced the concept of “a prosperous organization and a satisfied workforce” to the trade unions. Instead of leading unions to spend countless hours protesting in the streets, he sought to resolve professional issues at the negotiating table. His efforts to elevate trade unions to a new dimension and foster a satisfied employee community are highly commendable.

Mr. Devendra can be described as a forward-thinking union leader. With a modernist mindset, he guided workers in a manner that benefited the country’s economy. His work in protecting institutions and the economy stands in stark contrast to some union leaders who advocate for closing factories and disrupting the economy. We should all commend Mr. Leslie Devendra for his significant contributions.”

Deshabandu Leslie Devendra

“My journey into becoming a trade union leader began unexpectedly. However, after about six months, I found a deep sense of fulfilment in assisting others, prompting me to step forward willingly. The joy derived from helping people is invaluable and cannot be quantified monetarily.

When I initially ventured into trade unions, many advocated for the destruction of the capitalist class. However, I disagreed with this approach. Observing how socialist regimes, upon assuming power, furthered the capitalist economic system, I recognized the necessity of positioning workers within a capitalist framework. Thus, I diverged from the rhetoric of dismantling capitalism and instead championed the idea that “a prosperous company is a satisfied group of employees.”

This shift enabled us to secure rights for employees and foster productive institutions, contributing positively to the country’s economy.”

The event was attended by Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena, Leader of the Opposition Sajith Premadasa, Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva, State Minister Lasantha Alagiyawanna, Members of Parliament Gamini Lokuge, Dullas Alahapperuma, Dayasiri Jayasekara, Presidential Trade Union Director General Saman Rathnapriya, and other political representatives, trade union leaders, and distinguished guests.

National Security Advisor Sagala Ratnayaka emphasized the necessity of implementing a specialized program to safeguard the homes and property of individuals residing in shelters during the disaster.

During a discussion held at the Kolonnawa Divisional Secretary’s Office on Monday (03), Ratnayaka also highlighted the potential for implementing mobile patrols with the involvement of community police.

He advised the army to adhere to strict hygiene protocols while providing food to people in the disaster-stricken areas and instructed officers to ensure the provision of clean drinking water to the affected individuals.

He also directed the establishment of a temporary relief centre operated by the Tri-force officers to provide essential relief to the people until the disaster situation ends.

NSA Ratnayaka underscored the importance of initiating a special program immediately to control epidemic diseases such as dengue, rat fever (Leptospirosis) and diarrhoea that may arise after the flood situation recedes.

He added that the President has instructed to rebuild all the houses that were completely damaged due to the disaster situation, with government assistance and the involvement of the armed forces.

The United National Party's (UNP) stand is different to the call by its general secretary Palitha Range Bandara that both the president and the current parliament should get their terms extended by two years, said UNP leader for Colombo Ravi Karunanayake.

The presidential polls will take place as scheduled and incumbent Ranil Wickremesinghe is certain to contest as a nonpartisan candidate, Karunanayake insisted.

He is responding to a call by Range Bandara yesterday (28) to hold a referendum to extend the terms “to save the nation.”

That is essential to realize the economic reforms pacts signed by the government with the IMF, World Bank and other creditors, he said.