News Archive

Dilith calls for creation of economically independent state in his Independence Day message

Our overarching purpose must be to create an economically independent state replete with evolved people, stated the leader of the Sarvajana Balaya, Member of Parliament Dilith Jayaweera. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 4, 2026  7:12 am

Sri Lanka celebrates 78th Independence Day today

The 78th National Independence Day - themed “Rebuilding Sri Lanka” - is to be celebrated ceremoniously today at the Independence Square in Colombo. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 4, 2026  5:14 am

President arrives at Independence Square for Independence Day celebrations

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has arrived at the Independence Square in Colombo to participate in the Independence Day celebrations. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 4, 2026  8:02 am

Let’s use our human resource and build a new economically strong Sri Lanka: President

We have to build a new economically strong Sri Lanka by making use of the country’s human resource while setting aside differences, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake stated. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 4, 2026  8:41 am

Several spells of showers expected in parts of the island today

Several spells of showers will occur in the Northern, North-central, Eastern and Uva provinces and in the Nuwara-Eliya and Matale districts today (04), the Department of Meteorology stated. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 4, 2026  6:05 am

Watch Live: Independence Day celebrations begin

Sri Lanka’s 78th National Independence Day celebrations have kicked off at the Independence Square in Colombo. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 4, 2026  7:31 am

King Charles reaffirms UK–Sri Lanka partnership in Independence Day message

His Majesty King Charles III has sent a special message of felicitation to the President and the people of Sri Lanka as the nation celebrates its 78th Independence Day today (04). MORE..

(0)Comments | February 4, 2026  9:08 am

President calls for unity and determination to rebuild Sri Lanka in his Independence Day message

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has called on all citizens to join hands in unity, determination and brotherhood to rebuild Sri Lanka. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 4, 2026  5:38 am

Exposition of sacred Devnimori Relics of Lord Buddha to begin at Gangaramaya

The exposition of the sacred Devnimori Relics is scheduled to begin at the Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo today (04). MORE..

(0)Comments | February 4, 2026  9:57 am

China unveils world’s fastest full-size humanoid robot ‘Bolt’

Zhejiang University and Shanghai robotics company JingShi Technology announced the launch of Bolt, a full-size humanoid robot that reached a peak running speed of 10 meters per second, which they said is the fastest full-size running robot in the world. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 4, 2026  11:55 am

Special presidential pardons to 49 prisoners in view of Independence Day

A total 49 prisoners are scheduled to receive special presidential pardons today in view of the 78th National Independence Day celebrations. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 4, 2026  6:44 am

Donald Trump signs bill to end partial US government shutdown

President Donald Trump signed a roughly $1.2 trillion government funding bill Tuesday that ends the partial federal shutdown that began over the weekend and sets the stage for an intense debate in Congress over Homeland Security funding. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 4, 2026  11:08 am

Lord Buddha’s sacred relics from Gujarat to arrive in Sri Lanka today

The holy relics of Lord Buddha, preserved at the Department of Archaeology of Maharaja Sayajirao University (MSU) in Vadodara, began their journey to Colombo on Tuesday, with chief minister Bhupendra Patel attending a ceremony to mark their departure. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 4, 2026  8:24 am

Two including Thai national arrested with 3kg of heroin

An individual has been arrested for the possession of 3 kilograms and 18 grams of heroin last evening (03) in Kiribathgoda, police stated. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 4, 2026  8:26 am

Over 45,000 drivers pay traffic fines using ‘GovPay’ App in 2025: Police

More than 40,000 drivers have made payments in 2025 using the ‘GovPay’ application introduced to pay fines for traffic violations, the Police Media Division has confirmed. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 4, 2026  12:00 pm

Rubio hails US–Sri Lanka ties on National Day

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio congratulated the people of Sri Lanka on their National Day, highlighting what he described as a growing partnership rooted in shared interests in the Indo-Pacific. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 4, 2026  8:55 am

“Let’s reflect on our history while firmly focusing on future”: Sajith

As we mark 78 years since gaining independence, it is vital to reflect on the country’s history while firmly focusing on the future, stated the Leader of the Opposition Sajith Premadasa in his Independence Day message. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 4, 2026  6:58 am

Horana-Colombo private bus strike enters Day Three

The strike launched by private buses operating along the Horana–Colombo ‘120 route’ has entered day three. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 4, 2026  10:53 am

Saif al-Islam Gaddafi, son of ex-Libyan leader, reportedly shot dead

Saif al-Islam Gaddafi, son of Libya’s former leader Col Muammar Gaddafi, has reportedly been shot dead. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 4, 2026  9:35 am

Special traffic plan in Colombo in view of Independence Day celebrations

A special traffic plan will be implemented in Colombo today in view of 78th National Independence Day celebrations. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 4, 2026  5:37 am

Sabina Yousaf returns to Sri Lanka after securing third place at Mrs. World 2025

Sabina Yousaf, who represented Sri Lanka at the 41st Mrs. World Pageant held in the United States, returned to the island early this morning (04). MORE..

(0)Comments | February 4, 2026  10:01 am

Set aside narrow political interests in pursuit of national progress – PM Harini

The time is apt for all Sri Lankans to work together, setting aside narrow political interests in the pursuit of national progress, Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya stated in her Independence Day message. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 4, 2026  6:36 am

9,158 Army personnel promoted in view of 78th Independence Day

A total of 9,158 Sri Lanka Army personnel have been promoted in view of the 78th Independence Day celebrations. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 4, 2026  6:20 am

Appeals Court dismisses petitions challenging remand of Kassapa Thero and another

The Court of Appeal has dismissed petitions seeking to quash the order issued by the Trincomalee Magistrate’s Court to place in remand custody Venerable Balangoda Kassapa Thero and Venerable Trincomalee Kalyanawansa Tissa Thero in connection with the Trincomalee Buddha statue incident. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 3, 2026  10:45 am

Horana-Colombo private bus strike enters second day

The strike launched by luxury and general service bus operators along the Horana-Colombo (120) route, which began yesterday (02) is continuing for the second consecutive day today (03). MORE..

(0)Comments | February 3, 2026  9:43 am

Shiranthi Rajapaksa summoned to FCID today; CID summons Namal

Shiranthi Rajapaksa, the wife of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, has been summoned to appear before the Financial Crimes Investigation Division (FCID) today (03). MORE..

(0)Comments | February 3, 2026  8:01 am

Person arrested with 57kg of turtle meat and 450 turtle eggs

Sri Lanka Coast Guard personnel arrested a suspect in possession of more than 57 kilograms of turtle meat, 450 turtle eggs along with a dinghy boat during a special search operation carried out in the Katuneriya beach area yesterday (02). MORE..

(0)Comments | February 3, 2026  3:12 pm

Govt committed to economic stability, sustainable growth and social protection – PM

The Prime Minister, Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to economic stability, sustainable growth, and social protection while participating in the South Asia Regional Conference of the World Federation of Consuls (FICAC) 2026. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 3, 2026  9:28 am

CEB recovers over Rs. 90 mln in losses from illegal electricity connections in 2025

The Special Investigations Unit of the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) has successfully recovered over Rs. 90 million in losses from parties involved in illegal electricity consumption during the year 2025. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 3, 2026  12:32 pm

MP Namal Rajapaksa leaves CID after recording statement

SLPP National Organiser and MP Namal Rajapaksa has left the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) a short while ago after recording a statement for over four hours. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 3, 2026  2:24 pm

Writ order annuls summons on ex-President Maithripala over Easter attacks plaint

The Court of Appeal today issued a writ order annulling the decision of the Colombo Fort Magistrate’s Court to issue summons directing former President Maithripala Sirisena to appear before the court in relation to a private complaint filed regarding criminal negligence for failing to prevent the Easter Sunday terrorist attacks. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 3, 2026  3:00 pm

Beijing criticises Dalai Lama Grammy win as ‘manipulation’

China has reacted angrily to an unlikely winner at the Grammys - the Dalai Lama - saying it opposes art awards being used for “anti-China political manipulation”. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 3, 2026  8:58 am

School dev. officers end hunger strike after meeting President

A group of School Development Officers, who were engaged in a fast-unto-death protest near the Presidential Secretariat, ended their protest campaign following the meeting with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 3, 2026  2:24 pm

Lasith Malinga appointed Sri Lanka consultant coach for T20 World Cup

Sri Lanka’s legendary fast bowler Lasith Malinga is set to serve as the Fast Bowling Consultant Coach for the Sri Lankan national team during their four preliminary round matches of the T20 World Cup 2026. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 3, 2026  11:04 am

Ex-minister Keheliya Rambukwella’s cousin arrested in money laundering probe

U.D.M. Seneviratne Bandara Rambukwella, a cousin of former Minister Keheliya Rambukwella, has been arrested on allegations of money laundering by the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC). MORE..

(0)Comments | February 3, 2026  7:43 am

Shiranthi Rajapaksa leaves FCID after recording statement

Former First Lady Shiranthi Rajapaksa, wife of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, has left the Financial Crimes Investigation Division (FCID) a short while ago after recording a statement for over four hours. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 3, 2026  2:08 pm

School dev. officers on hunger strike meet President for talks

A group of School Development Officers, currently engaged in a fast unto death protest campaign near the Presidential Secretariat, has met with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake this morning (03) to seek a definitive solution to their grievances. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 3, 2026  11:59 am

India’s Supreme Court slams WhatsApp, Meta over privacy policy

The Supreme Court on Tuesday came down heavily on Meta Platforms Inc and WhatsApp while hearing their appeals against a Competition Commission of India order imposing a penalty of about INR 2131.4 million over the privacy policy, saying tech giants cannot “play with the right to privacy of citizens in the name of data sharing”. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 3, 2026  12:54 pm

Bill and Hillary Clinton agree to testify in House Epstein probe ahead of contempt vote

Former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton have agreed to testify in a House investigation into Jeffrey Epstein. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 3, 2026  8:52 am

Grade 6 education reforms to be implemented in 2027 - PM Harini

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya stated that none of the modules introduced for Grade 6 under the new education reforms have been withdrawn. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 3, 2026  2:09 pm

Sri Lankans in India invited to join Independence Day flag hoisting ceremony in New Delhi

The High Commission of Sri Lanka in India has invited Sri Lankan nationals residing in India to join the Flag Hoisting Ceremony commemorating the 78th Anniversary of Sri Lanka’s Independence. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 3, 2026  10:10 am

Crown Princess’s son arrested for alleged assault before rape trial in Norway

The son of Norway’s Crown Princess Mette-Marit has been arrested by police on suspicion of assault, before he goes on trial in Oslo on Tuesday on 38 charges, including the rape of four women. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 3, 2026  6:43 am

CEB restructuring enters final stage, liquidation to be announced by February

The Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) restructuring programme has reached its final stage. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 3, 2026  7:14 am

Advisory issued for severe lightning

An ‘Amber’ advisory has been issued by the Department of Meteorology for severe lightning in the Sabaragamuwa Province and in Kaluthara, Galle and Matara districts. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 3, 2026  2:33 pm

Constitutional Council to decide on AG appointment today

The Constitutional Council is scheduled to meet today (03) at 12.00 noon at the Parliament Complex, under the patronage of its Chairman, Speaker Jagath Wickramaratne. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 3, 2026  6:59 am

MP Namal Rajapaksa arrives at CID

SLPP National Organiser and MP Namal Rajapaksa has arrived at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) a short while ago following a summons to provide a statement regarding alleged connections with underworld kingpin “Kehelbaddara Padme”. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 3, 2026  10:32 am

Fairly heavy rainfall expected in parts of the island today

Several spells of shower will occur in Northern, North-central, Eastern and Uva provinces and in Nuwara-Eliya and Matale districts, today (03), the Department of Meteorology said. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 3, 2026  6:32 am

Shiranthi Rajapaksa arrives at FCID

Former First Lady, Shiranthi Rajapaksa, the wife of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, has arrived at the Financial Crimes Investigation Division (FCID), a short while ago. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 3, 2026  9:50 am

SpaceX acquires xAI in record-setting deal as Musk looks to unify AI and space ambitions

Elon Musk said on Monday that SpaceX has acquired his artificial-intelligence startup xAI in a record-setting deal that unifies Musk’s AI and space ambitions by combining the rocket-and-satellite company with the maker of the Grok chatbot. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 3, 2026  7:29 am

‘Michael’ Trailer: Michael Jackson biopic chronicles rise from child star to King of Pop

Lionsgate has released a new trailer for “Michael,” its highly anticipated biopic tracing Michael Jackson’s journey from his early days with the Jackson 5 to his ascent as a global superstar. MORE..

(0)Comments | February 3, 2026  1:04 pm