November 22, 2024 1:34 pm
Results: 264
Siva Senai in Sri Lanka gets Shiva Sena Support, Colombo Worried
Shiv Sena in Mumbai has extended its support to a new Sri Lankan Tamil outfit called Siva Senai, triggering concerns among the mainstream politicians of the island nation that sectarian outfits will reopen wounds of a 20-year-old civil war that ended only in 2009. MORE...
Former Minister Basil Rajapaksa, who was arrested by the FCID this morning, has been released on bail after being produced at the Matara Magistrate’s Court. MORE..
Sri Lanka will not be flooded by Indians - Harsha
Officials in Sri Lanka have described as “premature” the controversy currently raging in the island over the Lankan government’s intention to sign an Economic and Technical Cooperation Agreement (ETCA) with India. MORE...
Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa today arrived at the special Presidential Commission of Inquiry investigating into large scale corruption and fraud to give a statement. MORE..
Port City will be eco-friendly - CHEC
The China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) says that according to the recently released Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (SEIA) report, the Colombo Port City (CPC), upon completion of reclamation works, will incorporate solutions for integrated management of energy, water and waste for long‐term environmental sustainability... MORE.
Information bank for economic diplomacy to be established soon - Harsha
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Harsha de Silva says that a ‘Knowledge Platform’, an online internet information bank is being set up by the ministry to promote economic diplomacy and that it would be launched by the end of the first quarter of 2016. MORE..
Port City can resume tomorrow if Chinese firm agrees to leasehold - Ravi
Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake says that the Sri Lankan government is prepared give the go-ahead for the Colombo Port City project to resume even tomorrow, if the Chinese company agrees to begin the US$1.4 billion project on a 99-year lease. MORE.
LG polls before Sinhala & Tamil New Year - PM
Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe says that the government expects to hold the Local Government election before the next Sinhala and Tamil New Year. MORE..
LG polls unlikely to be held in March - Lakshman Yapa
State Minister of Finance Lakshman Yapa Abeywardena says that it is unlikely the Local Government election will be held in March next year as scheduled. MORE..
Nalaka Godahewa postpones FCID visit
Former Chairman of the Securities Exchange Commission of Sri Lanka (SEC), Dr Nalaka Godahewa, has requested the Police Financial Crimes Investigations Division (FCID) for a different date to record a statement as he is unable to appear today. MORE..
FCID summons ex-SEC chairman Nalaka Godahewa
The former Chairman of the Securities Exchange Commission of Sri Lanka (SEC), Dr Nalaka Godahewa, has been summoned to appear before the Police Financial Crimes Investigations Division (FCID). MORE..
Two arrested over financial irregularity at SEC
Two individuals including a former top SEC official have been arrested over an alleged financial irregularity at the Securities and Exchange Commission of Sri Lanka (SEC) in 2013, police spokesman ASP Ruwan Gunasekara said. MORE..
Ex-President arrives at PRECIFAC
Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa arrived at the Special Presidential Commission to probe large scale corruption to give a statement a short while ago. MORE..
NASA chief: Time to clean up all that space junk
NASA Administrator Charles Bolden warns that too little is being done to remove debris from space, an issue that has drawn plenty of attention this week after an unknown object made a fiery entry into Earth’s atmosphere. MORE...
Actress and former MP Upeksha Swarnamali arrived at the Presidential Commission of Inquiry to Investigate and Inquire into Serious Acts of Fraud, Corruption and Abuse of Power, State Resources and Privileges (PRECIFAC), a short while ago on Thursday (29) morning. MORE...
UN will continue to press for accountability in Sri Lanka: Farhan
Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesman for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon says that the United Nations (UN) will continue to press for accountability in Sri Lanka over incidents related to the alleged war crimes. MORE...
Rohan Weliwita questioned by Homagama police
Media Secretary to the former President, Rohan Weliwita, has been summoned to the Homagama Police station to record a statement this morning (20), a police source says. MORE...
Gary Anandasangaree wins Scarborough-Rouge Park for Liberals
Gary Anandasangaree has won the new riding of Scarborough-Rouge Park for the Liberal party in Canada, beating the Conservatives after the party dropped candidate Jerry Bance late in the campaign. MORE..
Term of 23 LG bodies extended till Dec 31
The term of 21 Local Government bodies which was set to end tomorrow and two LG bodies to end term on October 31 have been extended till December 31, Minister of Provincial Councils and Local Government Faiszer Musthapha said. MORE..
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The Presidential Commission of Inquiry this morning again summoned former Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa for questioning regarding the alleged use of personnel attached to the Civil Security Department for campaigning activities during the last Presidential Election. MORE...
The Colombo High Court today (07) granted bail to Lalith Weeratunga, Secretary to the former President and Anusha Palpita, former Chairman of the Telecommunications Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka (TRC). MORE...
Reforms to include 25% females to LG bodies - PM
Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe says that reforms will be introduced by the government to include 25 per cent females into local government authorities before the next LG election. MORE..
No reason to postpone LG polls - PM
Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe today said that there is no reason to postpone the Local Government election which is scheduled to be held in March next year. MORE..
Investigations under domestic mechanism victory for Lanka: Tennakoon
Campaign for Free and Fair Elections (CaFFE) and Centre for Human Rights and Research (CHR) are extremely encouraged by the resolution on Sri Lanka presented to UNHRC, which allows a for more domesticated mechanism to investigate alleged human rights violations. MORE...
Police seize unclaimed vehicle in Hanwella
A vehicle reportedly belonged to the President Secretary Office has been found while it was left abandoned near a factory in Jaltara area in Hanwella, the police say. MORE...
Anura wants answers on Avant Garde issue
JVP Leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake raised concerns about the legality of the decision by the former Defence Secretary to transfer the powers to the Avant Garde Maritime Services (Pvt) Ltd to maintain a commercial floating armoury. MORE...
India will expect a larger reward: Gammanpila
Pivithuru Hela Urumaya General Secretary and Parliamentarian Udaya Gammanpila opposed the new proposal to build a $5.19 billion road project to connect India and Sri Lanka through a sea-bridge. MORE...
TULF recommends both domestic and hybrid special courts
Secretary General of the Tamil United Liberation Front, V. Anandasangaree, says that his party recommends probing of war crimes by both Domestic and Hybrid special courts in parts. MORE...
Democratic Party founder and former SLA Commander Sarath Fonseka, offered himself to face a domestic court of law on allegations against military operations during the Eelam War. MORE...
Sri Lanka has given approval for SAARC satellite project
Sri Lanka has given its approval for SAARC satellite project, one of the mandatory requirements for ITU registration before the launch even as the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) waits for nod from other countries. MORE..
Govt at risk of claims by Chinese port city project - document
Sri Lanka would be exposed to the risk of claims from the firm managing a suspended Chinese-backed real estate project if the government fails to obtain approvals needed by the project within 60 days, a government document showed on Thursday. MORE..
Sri Lanka’s domestic mechanism to be finalised by January
Foreign Minister Mangala Samaraweera says that the setting up of a four-tier domestic mechanism to investigate allegations of human rights violations will be finalised by January 2016 and implemented within 18 months. MORE..
NZ welcomes reconciliation moves in Sri Lanka
New Zealand Foreign Minister Murray McCully has welcomed the Sri Lankan Government’s announcement it will establish a Truth & Reconciliation Commission to help the country recover from its decades-long civil war. MORE...
No evidence of IS operations in Sri Lanka: defense secretary
The government says that there was no evidence to back claims that the Islamic State (IS) terrorist group was operating in the island nation. Defense Secretary Karunasena Hettiarachchi said while there were reports of a Sri Lankan man joining the IS, there was no concrete evidence to suggest the group was operating in Sri Lanka. MORE...
Harsha focusing on economic diplomacy
Deputy Foreign Minister Dr Harsha de Silva today said that the main economic issue in Sri Lanka is the weaknesses in the country’s economic relations with other countries. MORE..
Tax on imported sugar, potatoes revised
The special commodity levy imposed on imported sugar has been increased by Rs 12 per kilogram while the levy on potatoes has been increased by Rs 10 per kilogram, the Finance Ministry said. MORE..
44 Ministerial Secretaries appointed
The appointing of 44 Secretaries for the new Ministries took place today at the Presidential Secretariat with the participation of Secretary to the President P.B. Abeykoon. MORE..
Magisterial inquiry into floating armory case terminated
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The Magisterial inquiry with respect to the floating armory of the Avant Garde Maritime Services (Pvt) Ltd has been terminated after the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) apprised the Court that it would not proceed with the case under AG’s advice. MORE...
(UPDATED) The swearing in ceremony of the new Cabinet of the National Government commenced at the Presidential Secretariat in Colombo, a short while ago. MORE..
EU ready to partner with Sri Lanka to face challenges
The European Union (EU) today stressed that it truly remains committed to supporting a healthy democracy and looks forward to partnering with the Sri Lankan government to address some of the “challenges” it faces. MORE..
Gotabaya to appear before CoI tomorrow again
Former Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa has been asked to appear before the Special Presidential Commission of Inquiry into Large Scale Corruption and Fraud on Friday (03) as well. MORE...
Gotabaya arrives at CoI to give statement for the second time
Former Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa a short while ago arrived at the BMICH to give a statement before the Special Presidential Commission of Inquiry into Large Scale Corruption and Fraud. MORE...
Court lifts travel ban on Gotabaya Rajapaksa
The Galle Magistrate on Thursday (27) lifted the foreign travel ban imposed on former Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa over allegations he used a commercial floating armoury. MORE...
Welgama ready to accept the opposition leader post
Former Minister Kumara Welgama says that he is ready to accept the opposition leader post. Welgama told Ada Derana that he is of the view that he is the most appropriate for the post under the current political situation of the country. MORE... (Audio)
Vacated PC seats to be filled after MPs take oath
The appointing of new Provincial Councillors to fill the seats left vacant by more than 50 Provincial Council members including 3 Chief Ministers who contested and won at the recent parliamentary elections, is scheduled to take place after the new Parliament is sworn in. MORE..
Gotabaya arrives at CoI to give statement
Former Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa arrived at the BMICH a short while ago to give a statement before the Special Presidential Commission of Inquiry into Large Scale Corruption and Fraud. MORE...
No legal basis for international investigation within Sri Lanka; it has to be domestic - PM
There is no legal basis for international investigation within Sri Lanka; it has to be domestic, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe said in an interview to the Hindu. The reason some of the people have been calling for international investigation is the loss of confidence in the judiciary, he added. MORE...
President Sirisena requested to seek a second term
People of Kinniya have appealed to Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena to seek a second term to fulfill the expectations of the people. The people have made this request when the President visited Kinniya and met the people there, the President’s Media Unit reported. MORE...
T.B. Ekanayake too sacked from UPFA ExCo
MP-elect T.B. Ekanayake says that he been removed from the UPFA Executive Committee and that he has received respective letter. MORE...
Australia will continue to support Sri Lanka - Bishop
Australia’s Foreign Affairs Minister Julie Bishop today congratulated Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on his re-election, following the “peaceful and orderly” parliamentary elections on 17 August 2015. MORE..
The United National Party (UNP) today named the MPs who will enter Parliament through its National List to fill the 13 bonus seats won by the party at the recent general election. MORE..
EU lauds Sri Lanka’s genuine election
The European Union says the parliamentary elections held in Sri Lanka on August 17 were genuine, well administered and peaceful overall. MORE..
iPhone users can now finally use WhatsApp on a desktop
More than six months after WhatsApp allowed Android, BlackBerry 10 and Windows Phone users to use the instant messenger in a browser, the Facebook-owned company has now made the feature available to iPhone users. MORE..
Newly elected UPFA MPs oppose National Govt - Vasu
A group of newly elected Parliamentarians of the United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) held a discussion in Colombo today with the participation of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, former UPFA MP and Left Democratic Front leader Vasudeva Nanayakkara said. MORE..
Sri Lanka seeks to emulate Singapore as war legacy fades - Harsha
Sri Lanka is moving past its history of ethnic strife and seeking to emulate Singapore, Hong Kong and Dubai as one of the region’s premier trading and financial hubs, Harsha De Silva told Bloomberg. MORE...
I do not expect Opposition Leader post; should go to a senior - Mahinda
Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa speaking to Ada Derana said that he does not expect the Opposition Leader post and will remain as a Member of Parliament. He added that the opposition leader post should be decided by the UPFA Parliamentary group and should go to a senior of the party. MORE...
Most peaceful election in the recent history: election monitors
The general election that took place yesterday was the most peaceful and fair in the recent history of the country, election monitors say. MORE...
EU monitors say poll well-administered and genuine
The 17 August Parliamentary Elections in Sri Lanka were ―well administered and offered voters a genuine choice from among a broad range of political alternatives, although campaign rules were restrictive‖, said Cristian Preda, Chief Observer of the European Union Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) and Member of the European Parliament.
US commends commitment to democracy
The United States has commended Sri Lanka’s commitment to democracy and rule of law as displayed by the peaceful parliamentary elections. MORE...
Preferential votes- General Election 2015
(UPDATE) Preferential votes- General Election 2015. View Preferential votes full list here. MORE...
UNP wins Galle, UPFA tops postal votes
The United National Party (UNP) has received the highest votes in the Galle Polling Division in the Galle Electoral District. MORE..
Ratnapura postal vote results released
The first postal vote result of the 2015 General Election was released a short while ago by the Department of Elections. MORE..
President hails most peaceful election in Sri Lanka’s history
Hailing today’s General Election as the most peaceful in the country’s history, President Maithripala Sirisena urged the public to enjoy the results in a calm manner. MORE..
No major incidents reported during polling – Elections Chief
Commissioner of Elections Mahinda Deshapriya says that no major incidents have been reported during voting at the 2015 General Election today and that he expects votes would not have to declare null at any polling station. MORE..
First postal vote result after 11 P.M.
Deputy Elections Commissioner M.M. Mohammed said the Secretariat would be able to announce the first postal vote result between 11.00 p.m. to midnight today and the final result could be issued by noon tomorrow. MORE...
Voting for general election continues, no major violence reported
Polling booths opened across the island at 7:00 am, with voting set to continue for nine hours under tight security provided by 74,000 police and paramilitary forces, officials said. MORE...
HRW asks Sri Lanka to ‘protect’ voters and ensure safe elections
Sri Lankan authorities must ensure that voters can travel safely and securely to polling booths and back during the parliamentary elections on Monday, Human Rights Watch said on Saturday after reports of campaign anomalies. MORE..
Police deploys thousands of officers on election eve
Sri Lanka deployed thousands of police Sunday (Aug 16) in stepped up security on the eve of a general election after the campaign was hit by sporadic violence that claimed four lives. MORE..
Three held with over 1,300 model ballot papers
Thalathuoya Police today arrested three suspects and seized 1,324 model ballot papers being transported in a three-wheeler from Kandahandiya to Galaha. MORE..
Elections Chief expects first result after midnight on Monday
Election Commissioner Mahinda Deshapriya says that it is highly unlikely that the first result of the 2015 General Election will be released before midnight on August 17. MORE..
Information desk for MPs after election
An Information Desk to facilitate the arrangements for the first meeting of the first session of the eighth Parliament that will be elected on Monday will be operative in the House from 9.30 a.m. to 3.30 p.m. on August 23, 24 and 25 for the convenience of MPs, the Secretary General of Parliament said. MORE..
Conspiracies in play to prevent UPFA victory - Dilan
Former MP Dilan Perera says that various conspiracies are in play to prevent the United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) from winning the upcoming General Election. MORE..
Tamils won’t benefit from discussions about past - CFD
The Crusaders for Democracy (CFD), the new political group formed by ex-Tamil Tigers, says that despite the scars and lingering legacy of the three-decade-long conflict, the war was a closed chapter in the country’s history that should not be brought up again. MORE..
Rajapaksa sends reply to President Sirisena
Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa today responded to the letter from President Maithripala Sirisena, with a letter of his own. MORE..
Election campaigning ends at midnight
Campaigning for the General Election will draw to a close at 12.00 midnight today (Aug 14), 48 hours before the election. MORE..
President Sirisena sends urgent letter to Rajapaksa
President Maithripala Sirisena has sent an urgent letter to former President and UPFA Kurunegala District candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa today (Aug 13), the Presidential Media Unit said. MORE..
1532 election violence incidents as of today: CaFFE
The Campaign for Free & Fair Election (CaFFE) says that a total of 1532 incidents of election-related violence have been reported as of today (13). MORE...
Ranil hails most peaceful election in a long time
Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe today said the 2015 parliamentary poll has been the most peaceful, free and fair election in a long time and that the younger people have not witnessed such an election during their lifetime. MORE..
Sri Lanka softens stance on China-backed port project
Sri Lanka is offering a compromise that could allow a major Chinese-backed real estate project to restart after months of delays, Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake told Reuters on Monday. MORE...
SC wants intelligence report on Mahinda’s security
The Supreme Court on Monday (10) directed the Attorney General’s Department to obtain an intelligence report to reveal on which basis security has been provided to former President Mahinda Rajapaksa. MORE...
President Sirisena revamps his security ahead of polls
Maithripala Sirisena has disbanded a part of the Presidential Security Division, and replaced the elite Sri Lankan unit with a highly-trained team of commandos, it was reported. MORE...
Second chance for those who missed postal voting
Those who missed postal voting could vote on August 11, says the Elections Department. MORE...
Gym instructor arrested over Bloemendhal shooting
Police today arrested a suspect in connection with last week’s tragic shooting incident at Bloemendhal Road in Colombo, which claimed the life of two persons and wounded a dozen more. MORE..
US citizens in Sri Lanka cautioned ahead of polls
The United States has issued a security message to its citizens living or traveling in Sri Lanka, in view of the forthcoming parliamentary polls in the island. MORE..
President asks voters to elect only suitable people to Parliament
All voters of the country have a great responsibility to elect only suitable persons to the Parliament in forthcoming General Election, says President Maithripala Sirisena. MORE..
Economy has flourished every time UNP was in power - Karu
Minister Karu Jayasuriya says that the decision of the voters at the coming parliamentary election will determine the destiny of the country and future of the people, and therefore urged voters to act prudently and identify the need of the hour. MORE..
Lakshman Wasantha Perera released on bail
Former UPFA Parliamentarian Lakshman Wasantha Perera, who was arrested and remanded in connection with an assault incident, has been released on bail by the Matale Magistrate’s Court. MORE..
Government to continue mega reservoir project
President Maithripala Sirisena has assured that he will continue a multi-million-dollar mega dam project in the central part of the island nation and stressed that he would not allow its discontinuation, an official said. MORE...
Unsuccessful financial administration harming country – fmr. SEC chairman
Former Chairman of the Securities Exchange Commission of Sri Lanka (SEC) Dr Nalaka Godahewa says that the country is heading towards a grave danger due to unsuccessful financial administration. MORE..
Vasan plans stir for release of fishermen from Sri Lankan jail
India’s Tamil Maanila Congress (TMC) will stage State-wide agitation if the 14 Rameswaram fishermen arrested by the Sri Lankan navy on a charge of poaching on June 2 were not released at the end of their judicial remand on August 13, party president G.K. Vasan has said. MORE..
Here is the TNA’s election manifesto
“We, the Tamil People of Sri Lanka are a distinct People in terms of relevant International Conventions and Covenants. We as a People want to continue to live in our country in peaceful co-existence with others. MORE...
Deshapriya directs MPs to handover state owned vehicles
Elections Commissioner Mahinda Deshapriya has ordered the former Parliamentarians to handover all state owned vehicles with immediate effect. MORE...
Postal voting for parliamentary elections tomorrow
Police officers and teachers of state schools will be allowed to cast their postal ballot on August 3, the Election Department said. MORE...
UNP condemns ‘cowardly attack’ on supporters
The United National Party (UNP) today condemned the attack on a group of people engaged in Minister Ravi Karunanayake’s election campaign at Bloemendhal Road, Colombo. MORE..
Shots fired at Ravi’s supporters; 1 dead and 11 injured
(UPDATE) One person has been confirmed dead while at least 13 supporters of UNP Colombo District candidate Ravi Karunanayake have been hospitalised with injuries following a shooting incident at Bloemendhal Road, Colombo. MORE..
Rajapaksa promises new constitution within 6 months
Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa today reiterated that that the United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) has not divided into two factions. Only one faction exists and that is the anti-UNP faction, he said. MORE..
UPFA election manifesto presented to Maithripala
The election manifesto of the United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA), for the 2015 General Election, was presented to President Maithripala Sirisena this morning by a group of party leaders. MORE..
UPFA confident of election victory, says Dilan
The United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) will secure victory in 14 districts at the forthcoming General Election, former Minister Dilan Perera asserted. MORE...
TNA reiterates self determination, North-East re-merger
The Tamil National Alliance (TNA), a coalition of four parties in Sri Lanka, on Saturday reiterated its adherence to the right to self determination for Tamils and the re-merger of the Northern and Eastern Provinces under federal structure. MORE..
Jayasuriya briefed on Pakistan’s telecom sector
Deputy Minister Provisional Councils and Regional Development Sanath Jayasuriya visited Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) Headquarters in Islamabad. MORE..
Election posters inside cab with fake army plates, 2 arrested
Police today arrested two persons and seized a vehicle with two difference number plates, including an army number plate, along with a stack of more than 4,500 election posters of a UPFA candidate in Kebithigollewa. MORE..
Chinese company rejects reports of funding Sri Lankan politicians
The China Harbour Engineering Co Ltd (CHEC) on Thursday rejected reports that it had offered financial assistance to any politician during Sri Lanka’s January presidential elections. MORE...
2015 General Election: 566,823 eligible for postal voting
A total of 566,823 voters are eligible to cast postal votes at the forthcoming General Election. Additional Elections Commissioner M.M. Mohamed stated that 628,925 persons had applied for postal voting and that 62,102 applications were rejected. MORE..
UPFA is not divided at all - Mahinda
Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa today denied that the United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) is divided and said that the reason he did not form his own party to contest the election is because he was not ready to abandon the SLFP for his personal gain. MORE..
No pressure from India on Port City project - govt
The Sri Lankan government has denied reports that the Indian government is exerting pressure on it to stall the $1.4 billion Colombo Port City Project. MORE..
Over 70 incidents of election violence within a week
The Center for Monitoring Election Violence (CMEV) says that a total of 71 incidents of election-related violence have been reported within the past week, from July 13 to 21. MORE..
EU election observers commence their activities
“It is a great pleasure to be here in Sri Lenka and lead the European Union Election Observation Mission to this country,” Cristian Preda, a Romanian member of the European Parliament said today (21). MORE...
Over 200 election violations reported: PAFFREL
Over 200 cases of election violations have been reported from several parts of Sri Lanka and over 60 people have been arrested in such violations, local election observers said. MORE...
MR vows Rs. 25,000 minimum wage for government sector
Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa said that under a new government they will intend to legislate a minimum monthly wage of Rs.25,000 for the government sector employees. MORE...
India wanted Sri Lanka to stop Colombo Port City – Gotabaya
Former Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa says that India’s National Security Advisor had requested the former Sri Lankan government to stop the Chinese-funded Colombo Port City project as it would pose a threat to that country’s security. MORE..
FCID cannot summon UPFA candidates before polls – Susil
The United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) today briefed the Election Commissioner regarding the various problems allegedly faced by the party, such as the lack of security ex-MPs and the summoning of candidates before the FCID, ahead of the General Election. MORE..
UPFA leaders set to meet Elections Chief today
Leaders of the United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) have decided to meet with the Commissioner of Elections Mahinda Deshapriya today. MORE..
EU observers confirmed for General Election
Following an invitation from the Sri Lanka authorities, the European Union has today started the deployment of an Election Observation Mission (EOM) to Sri Lanka to observe the Parliamentary Elections scheduled for 17 August 2015. MORE...
Champika and Rathana Thero have betrayed national interests - CNO
Patali Champika Ranawaka and Athuraliye Rathana Thero have betrayed the national movement and national interests of the country, charged the Collection of National Organisations. MORE..
Postal voting applications: deadline falls at midnight
The time period allocated for accepting applications from individuals eligible to cast postal votes at the parliamentary election, is scheduled to end at midnight today (14). MORE..
China and Sri Lanka conclude joint Army exercise
Sri Lanka and China on Monday (13) concluded a joint army exercise at the Special Forces (SF) Training School at Maduruoya. MORE...
Filing of nominations concludes today
Accepting of nominations for the General Election will be concluded today (06) at 12. 00 p.m. the Elections Department said. MORE...
Special traffic plan in Rajagiriya tomorrow
A special traffic plan will be implemented tomorrow (13) in and around Rajagiriya 7.00 a.m. to 3.00 p.m. while nominations for the forthcoming General Election are accepted, the Department of Police said. MORE...
Paranavitana resign as Media Ministry Secretary
Karunaratne Paranavitana has resigned from his position as the Secretary to the Ministry of Mass Media and Information, with effect from Friday (10). MORE..
UNP forms new alliance to contest against UPFA
A new political alliance headed by the UNP, under the name of “United National Front for Good Governance,” is to contest the parliamentary election on August 17 with sections of the SLFP and JHU, sources told Ada Derana. MORE..
I will quit politics if Mahinda gets a vote more than me – Sujeewa
Former Deputy Minister of Justice Sujeewa Senasinghe today vowed to leave politics forever, if former President Mahinda Rajapaksa obtains even a single vote more than him at the forthcoming General Election. MORE..
Paranavitana turns down UPFA nominations
Karunaratne Paranavitana has turned down nominations extended to him from the United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) to contest the forthcoming General Election from the Ratnapura District. MORE..
Minister’s coordinating secretary remanded over PHI attack
The Coordinating Secretary of a Minister, who was arrested in connection with the assault on a Public Health Inspector (PHI) in the Eppawala area, has been remanded until July 13 by the Thambuttegama Magistrate’s Court. MORE..
Court summons Prasanna Ranatunga
The Chief Minister of the Western Province Prasanna Ranatunga has been summoned to appear before the Colombo Fort Magistrate’s Court on July 14, in connection with a case filed against him, police said. MORE..
Ex-LTTE cadres to contest as independent group
Former cadres of LTTE have decided to contest the Sri Lankan parliament elections as an independent group after the main Tamil party TNA refused to field them in the August 17 polls. MORE..
Chilaw Mayor Fernando extends support to UNP
The Chilaw Mayor, Hilary Prasanna Fernando, on Thursday (09) said that he will extend his support to the United National Party at the forthcoming General Election. MORE...
Election deposits made by 85 independent groups, 2 parties
A total of 85 independent groups and 2 political parties have made their deposits for the General Election as of last evening. MORE..
Postal voting on August 5-6, Teachers could vote on Aug 3
Postal voting for the upcoming General Election to be held on August 17 will take place on August 5-6, Assistant Elections Commissioner told Ada Derana. He added that Teachers could cast their postal votes on August 3. MORE..
If UPFA nomination foils; Mahinda prepared to contest through ‘budding flower’
In case former President Mahinda Rajapaksa is unable to contest the upcoming General Election under the UPFA due to a breakdown in the Mahinda-Maithri collaboration, Rajapaksa is scheduled to contest under the Our Sri Lanka Freedom Front (Ape Sri Lanka Nidahas Peramuna) with the symbol of a budding flower. MORE...
Gayantha says UNP confident in election win
As the United National Party (UNP) is about to contest separately at the General Election, it does not matter to whom the United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) grant nominations to, Minister Gayantha Karunathilaka asserted. MORE...
Acceptance of nominations for election from tomorrow
The Elections Department says that nominations for the 2015 General Election will be accepted from July 06 to 15. The Department is making preparations to hold the General Elections on August 17. MORE...
Casio to develop its own ‘smartwatch’
Casio is set to go head to head with Apple by launching its own smartwatch. MORE..
SLMC still undecided on contesting with UNP
The Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) says that it has still not taken a final decision regarding contesting the forthcoming election with the United National Party (UNP). MORE..
Former LTTE militants to contest polls as ‘Crusaders For Democracy’
Former militants of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) and their supporters have decided to form a political party named “Crusaders for Democracy” and seek tickets from the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) to contest the August 17 Sri Lankan parliamentary elections. MORE..
UPFA decides to give nomination to Mahinda Rajapaksa
The United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) has decided to give nominations to former President Mahinda Rajapaksa to contest at the upcoming General Election on August 17 under the UPFA ticket. MORE..
Maithripala refuses to give nomination to Mahinda - sources
President Maithripala Sirisena has refused to give nominations to former President Mahinda Rajapaksa to contest the upcoming General Election under the UPFA ticket, political sources told Ada Derana. MORE..
School term and holiday dates revised
The Ministry of Education today announced that the dates of the school term holiday have been amended due to the General Election and the revision of the timetable of the 2015 G.C.E. Advanced Level examination. MORE..
Sri Lanka initiates collaboration with CERN
Sri Lanka and the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) have entered into an agreement to begin cooperation between CERN and the scientific community in Sri Lanka. MORE..
I invite the former President to contest for the prime ministerial post at the forth coming general election in next August, Prime Minister Ranil Wickramasinghe said. MORE...
Sri Lanka to invite foreign observers for parliamentary polls
Sri Lanka will invite foreign observers for the parliamentary elections due to take place on August 17, election monitors said on Saturday. MORE..
The Department of Examinations today announced that the dates for the 2015 G.C.E. Advanced Level examination have been revised due to the General Election being held on August 17. Click to View Timetable..
Dates announced for submitting postal voting applications
The Commissioner of Elections Mahinda Deshapriya says that applications for postal voting at the upcoming General Election will be received from July 03 to 14, 2015.
Election likely to affect A/L exam dates
With the announcing of the General Election to be held on August 17, it has been reported that certain changes are likely to be made to the timetable of the 2015 G.C.E. Advanced Level examination, which was scheduled to be held in the same month. MORE..
2015 General Election to be held on August 17
The Government Printer says that the General Election for a new Parliament is to be held on August 17, 2015. MORE..
Parliament dissolved - sources
The Parliament of Sri Lanka has been dissolved with effect from midnight today (June 26) by President Maithripala Sirisena, Government sources told Ada Derana. MORE..
Elections Commissioner ready to retire, but has to wait
Elections Commissioner Mahinda Deshapriya, who has reached the age of retirement, says that he will continue to function in his post until the Elections Commission is established in line with the 19th Amendment to the Constitution. MORE..
Enjoining order issued against GMOA election
The Mount Lavinia District Court today issued an enjoining order restraining holding the election of the Government Medical Officers’ Association, which was slated to take place on Saturday (June 27). MORE..
Google’s self-driving cars hit the roads
A few of Google’s cartoon-like self-driving cars began sharing the road with regular vehicles today around the company’s Mountain View, California headquarters. MORE..
Microsoft rolls out Office for Android phones
Microsoft has announced the official launch of Office for Android phones. MORE..
SLFP will suffer absolute defeat if Mahinda contests - SB
Minister of Rural Economic Affairs S.B. Dissanayake says that the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) would suffer an absolute defeat if former President Mahinda Rajapaksa contests the upcoming General Election. MORE..
Google is making it easier to steer clear of the trouble that can be caused by a misdirected or inappropriate email. MORE..
Cop dead, 9 injured as van falls into precipice
A police constable was killed and another 09 officers were injured after the van they were traveling in fell into a precipice in Passara this morning. MORE..
UNP to contest General Election alone
The Working Committee of the United National Party (UNP) has decided that the party will contest the upcoming General Election alone and to give party leader PM Ranil Wickremesinghe powers to make appointments to the nominations board. MORE..
Sri Lanka economy to grow 7.2 pct in 2015 - Ravi
The Sri Lankan economy is expected to expand 7.2 percent this year despite a sluggish increase in the first three months of 2015, on higher growth in tourism, banking and garment manufacturing, Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake said on Wednesday. MORE...
Special commodity levy on Dhal reduced, oils increased
The special commodity levy on imported Dhal has been reduced from Rs 5 to 25 cents per Kg while levy on oils - except coconut oil - has been increased from Rs 90 to 110 per kg from today.
Sri Lanka to treat migrants as ‘victims’ of smugglers
The Government is taking action against human traffickers under due processes while treating migrants as victims of smugglers, Sri Lanka’s envoy to the United Nations Ravinatha Aryasinha said. MORE..
Sri Lankan assaulted in Tiruchi special camp
A Sri Lankan Tamil, Y. Srijeyan (39), housed in a special camp in Tiruchi, sustained a head injury after he was allegedly assaulted by two other inmates on Sunday night. MORE..
Lankan among 3 injured in ferry accident off Montenegro
Doctors in Montenegro say one sailor has died and three more including a Sri Lankan had to be hospitalized after an accident on a Greek ferry near the country’s Adriatic coast. MORE...
Special commodity levy on potatoes, big onions slashed
The Ministry of Finance announced that the special commodity levy imposed on imported Potatoes and Big onions has been reduced with effect from midnight today (05). MORE..
Police Inspector arrested for assaulting woman
A Police Inspector attached to the Medirigiriya Police Station has been arrested for assaulting a woman in Palugasdhamana, Polonnaruwa. MORE..
Special facilities for the disabled voters
The Government has taken steps to introduce a system which will ensure that all differently abled citizens can cast their vote at elections, Elections Commissioner Mahinda Deshapriya said. MORE..
South African delegation meets Sri Lankan Tamil Diaspora in UK
A South African delegation has met with Sri Lankan Tamil diaspora organisations with a view to bringing a sense of normalcy to the North-East part of the island and exchange views on how they could contribute towards the peace and reconciliation process. MORE..
We don’t know who to believe now – Rajapaksa
Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa says that certain members of the government who had accused him of corruption in the constructing of the Colombo Port City project, during the Presidential Election, are now saying no such thing has taken place. MORE..
Mahinda Rajapaksa to contest in parliamentary polls - report
Former Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa had informed his close aides that he will contest in the parliamentary elections which are expected to be held in the country in July, a senior opposition member said on Monday. MORE..
JVP to boycott National Executive Council
The Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) says that it would no longer participate in the National Executive Council. MORE..
Government recognizes the importance of engaging with the diaspora: Mangala
The Government recognizes the importance of engaging with the diaspora, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs intends to take the lead in organizing a diapora festival where persons of Sri Lankan origin from around the world in all possible fields...MORE
LG launches smartwatch at Rs 30,000 in India
LG Electronics Tuesday launched LG Watch Urbane at Rs 30,000 in India powered by the Android Wear which works seamlessly with smartphones running Android 4.3 and above. MORE..
Tense situation during protest near Hambantota Port
A tense situation was reported during a protest near the Hambantota Port this morning, when a police jeep collided with one of the protesters. MORE..
SC stays return of lands to Sampur Tamils
The Supreme Court has stayed a bid by the Sirisena government to return 818 acres of land at Sampur in the Eastern Province to Tamils from whom the lands were seized during Eelam War IV.MORE..
Speaker signs 19th amendment to constitution
Speaker Chamal Rajapaksa has put his signature validating the 19th Amendment to the Constitution which was passed in Parliament with an overwhelming majority on April 28. MORE..
Gammanpila files complaint against President, PM
Leader of the Pivithuru Hela Urumaya WPC member Udaya Gammanpila today lodged a complaint with the Bribery Commission against President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe. MORE..
SLC election in January 2016 - Sports Minister
The elections for the Sri Lanka Cricket Board will be held prior to January 2016, says Sports Minister Navin Dissanayake. MORE..
General Election before LG polls; LG bodies to come under special commissioner
Local Government bodies will come under the supervision of a special commissioner after their automatic dissolution on May 15, President Maithripala Sirisena said. He added that he intends to hold the General Election prior to the Local Government Polls. MORE..
FCID questions Avant-Garde chairman
The Financial Crimes Investigation Division (FCID) today recorded a statement from the Chairman of Avant-Garde Security Services, Major (rtd) Nissanka Senadhipathi. MORE..
Court issues warrant for arrest of Ven. Gnanasara Thera
A warrant has been issued for the arrest of Bodu Bala Sena General Secretary Ven. Galaboda Aththe Gnanasara Thera after he failed to appear before the court on a case regarding his alleged participation at an unlawful assembly in front of the Bribery Commission. MORE...
FCID postpones; Gotabaya at Bribery Commission
Former Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa who was initially informed to be present at the FCID today has been asked to appear on May 20, his attorney told Ada Derana. He is currently at the Bribery Commission to give a statement. MORE...
Ex-COO of RADA arrested for tsunami fund fraud
The former Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the Sri Lanka Reconstruction and Development Agency (RADA), Saliya Wickramasuriya, has been arrested over alleged fraud in tsunami housing funds. MORE..
Cameron claims absolute majority in UK Parliament
Prime Minister David Cameron’s Conservative Party swept Friday to an unexpectedly strong election victory, making big gains at the expense of rivals in a vote that reshapes the political landscape. MORE..
Sri Lanka ranked 63rd in Tourism Index
According to the World Economic Forum’s index of most tourist-friendly countries Sri Lanka has been ranked 63rd out of 141 countries. Ahead of the Sri Lanka on the index were Malaysia(25)m Indonesia (50) and India (52). MORE...
Ada Derana reliably learns that former Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa has been summoned to appear at the Police Financial Crimes Investigation Division (FCID) on May 1. MORE..
SC decides expulsion of Attanayake from parliamentary seat is invalid
The Supreme Court in a historic judgment on Tuesday (5) ruled that expulsion of former United National Party (UNP) General Secretary, Tissa Attanayake, from parliamentary seat is invalid as due process was not followed. MORE...
Sri Lankan jailed for reckless driving in Qatar
A Criminal Court in Doha has awarded a six-month jail sentence to a Sri Lankan expatriate motorist for his reckless driving, which caused the death of a GCC citizen and injury to some others, local Arabic daily Arrayah reported yesterday. MORE..
To restore democracy, the US will always stand with SL- Kerry
In order to restore democracy, the American people will stand with Sri Lanka, thus, the US will establish an annual partnership dialogue with the island nation, US Secretary of State John Kerry said.
Even the best constitution can be wrongly implemented - GL
Former External Affairs Minister Professor G.L. Peiris says that the passage of the 19th amendment is not the “massive constitutional revolution” believed by certain sections of the public. MORE..
Dual citizens cannot contest Parliamentary Polls – govt
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ajith P. Perera says that according to provisions included in the 19th amendment to the constitution, Sri Lankan nationals who possess dual citizenships are not permitted to contest in the General Election. MORE..
US welcomes passage of 19th Amendment
The United States had welcomed the passage of Sri Lanka’s landmark 19th Constitutional Amendment Bill (19A), which was adopted Tuesday with an overwhelming majority in Parliament. MORE..
Sri Lanka economy grows 7.4% in 2014: CB Report
Sri Lanka’s economy grew by 7.4% (Agriculture 0.3%, Industry 11.4%, service 6.5%) last year, according to the Annual Report of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka for the year 2014 which was launched today. MORE..
Kerry hopes to reset US relations with Sri Lanka
A senior U.S. State Department official said Wednesday that Secretary of State John Kerry was traveling to Sri Lanka to show that the U.S. “applauds the vision” of that country’s new government. MORE...
EXCLUSIVE: Positive proposals from opposition not discarded – Wijedasa
Minister of Justice Wijedasa Rajapaksa says that not a single positive proposal brought forward by opposition parliamentary groups with regard to the 19th amendment were discarded by the government, despite the raising of baseless and childish arguments at various points. MORE..
19th Amendment to come into force from April 30
The 19th Amendment to the Constitution will come into force from April 30, except for 4 articles which will come into force in the next Parliament, Justice Minister Wijedasa Rajapaksa told Ada Derana. MORE..
19th amendment hits another roadblock?
(UPDATE): The Parliamentary session was extended by one hour due to the discussion between Party Leaders with the participation of President Maithripala Sirisena, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and Speaker Chamal Rajapaksa. MORE..
US Secretary of State Kerry to arrive on Saturday
U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry will travel to Sri Lanka on Saturday to meet with its new president, Maithripala Sirisena, the State Department said, following years of strained relations between Washington and the country’s previous government. MORE...
Historic moment where modern-day slavery will be abolished - Wijedasa
The next two days will be a historic moment for all Sri Lankans, Justice Minister Wijedasa Rajapaksa said in parliament today. He added that with the 19th amendment to the constitution Sri Lankans will finally be rid of modern-day slavery. MORE...
President appeals to parties to help adopt 19th Amendment
President Maithripala Sirisena today appealed to all political parties to assist in passing the 19th Amendment to the Constitution in order to firmly establishing freedom and democracy in the country. MORE..
SLFP decides to vote in favour of 19A
The SLFP Central Committee has unanimously decided to vote in favour of the 19th amendment to the Constitution a short while ago, Minister Rajitha Senaratne told Ada Derana. MORE..
Minorities feel hard done by electoral reform
A proposed move to reform Sri Lanka’s electoral system has not found favour with the country’s minority Tamil and Muslim political parties, who say the current proportional representation system is best suited for their interests. MORE...
CCCSL maintains Southern Railway project built on low costs
The Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Sri Lanka (CCCSL) on Friday rejected the accusation by the new government that the Southern Railway project in the island nation was constructed on a higher cost than the Northern Railway project. MORE..
World’s first self-powered video camera developed
The world’s first self-powered video camera that runs without a battery and can produce an image each second has been developed by researchers led by an Indian-origin scientist. MORE..
Bishops Conference condoles passing of Asgiriya Chief Prelate
The Catholic Bishops Conference has referred to the great service rendered by the Most Ven. Udugama Sri Buddharakkitha Thero, the Chief Prelate of the Asgiriya Chapter of the Siam Nikāya (sect) who passed away last Wednesday. MORE..
Vajira Wijegunawardene appointed SEC Director General
Vajira Wijegunawardene has been appointed as the Director General of Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) of Sri Lanka with immediate effect. MORE..
“The UN system and UNDP in particular is pleased to continue to provide support to the 100 days programme, at the request of the Government,” UN Assistant Secretary-General and UNDP’s Asia-Pacific Regional Director Haoliang Xu has said. MORE...
The police Special Investigation Unit on Thursday (9) recorded a statement from MP Tiran Alles over an alleged financial fraud, the police Spokesperson said. MORE...
19A to be presented on April 20; Parliament dissolved after
President Maithripala Sirisena says that the 19th Amendment to the Constitution will be presented to Parliament on the 20th of April and that Parliament will be dissolved once the 19th Amendment is passed. MORE..
SC determines 19th Amendment consistent with Constitution
The Supreme Court has determined that the 19th Amendment is consistent with the constitution and that, however, certain sections require a referendum, Speaker Chamal Rajapaksa informed Parliament today. MORE..
Police Inspector arrested for accepting bribe
An Inspector attached to the Ahungalla Police Station has been arrested on charges of soliciting a bribe. MORE..
Senior UN official visits war-ravaged north
A senior UN official, who is on a six-day tour to Sri Lanka, has visited the war ravaged north to assess the development needs in the area and hold discussions with government officials, the UN office in Colombo said. MORE...
Day of mourning declared for Chief Prelate of Asgiriya Chapter
A decision has been taken to declare the 12th of April, 2015 as a national day of mourning for the Most Ven. Udugama Sri Buddharakkitha Thero, the Chief Prelate of the Asgiriya Chapter of the Siam Nikāya (sect). MORE..
Chief Prelate of Asgiriya Chapter passes away
The Chief Prelate of the Asgiriya Chapter of the Siam Nikāya (sect), Most Ven. Aggamahapanditha Udugama Sri Buddharakkitha Rathanapala Mahanayake Thero, has passed away. MORE..
UN Assistant Secretary-General meets Harsha de Silva
The Visiting UN Assistant Secretary-General and UNDP’s Regional Director Haoliang Xu, had discussions with the Deputy Minister of Policy Planning and Economic Affairs, Dr. Harsha de Silva on Monday (6). MORE...
Electrically powered elevator for Sigiriya
An electrically powered elevator will be installed in Sigiriya without harming its attractiveness and cultural values, the Government Information Department (GID) said. MORE...
Former President dismisses infrastructure project allegation
The Media Coordinating Secretary of Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa on Sunday (5) dismissed allegations leveled by Minister Kabir Hashim about several infrastructure projects initiated by the ex-government. MORE...
I am always available if SLC needs me – Jayasuriya
Former captain Sanath Jayasuriya, who resigned as Sri Lanka’s chief cricket selector, said he was bowing out to give the new SLC management an opportunity to appoint a new selection panel but did not rule out a comeback. MORE..
Shortest total lunar eclipse of the century on Saturday
There will be a lunar eclipse on April 4th visible to Sri Lanka with the moon rising from the eastern horizon around 6.18 p.m. and till 7.15 p.m. MORE..
Sanath Jayasuriya resigns as Sri Lanka’s chief selector
Chairman of Sri Lanka Cricket Selection Committee, Sanath Jayasuriya says that he has resigned from his post. MORE..
Sub-Inspector arrested for molesting underage girl
A Sub-Inspector (SI) has been arrested in the Uragasmanhandiya area on charges of molesting an 11-year-old school girl at her residence, police said. MORE..
Sri Lanka to resume road development projects with China
The Sri Lankan government has decided to recommence all the main and provincial road development projects in the island nation with China, a government official said on Sunday. MORE...
Lanka’s IT literacy rate increases to 25%
Sri Lanka’s Information Technology literacy has increased to 25 per cent, the Government Information Department announced today. MORE...
Sri Lanka fires fresh salvo at Chinese firm
The Chinese company involved in the controversial US$1.4 billion Colombo Port City project has failed to furnish the necessary documents within the two-week deadline set by the new government, which is also reviewing other Chinese projects including a high-profile telecommunications tower, Sri Lanka’s finance minister said. MORE..
Sirisena meets China’s President amid new look at ties
Sri Lankan president Maithripala Sirisena has held talks with Chinese leader Xi Jinping amid efforts to recalibrate his predecessor’s strongly pro-China policies. MORE..
Govt to establish National Unity office under CBK
The government is planning to establish an office of National Unity headed by former President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga to promote national unity in the country. MORE..
President Sirisena leaves for Beijing
President Maithripala Sirisena today left for Beijing commencing a four-day state visit on the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping. MORE..
Sri Lanka call for US $ 1.4b Chinese project to continue
Ahead of Sri Lanka President Maithripala Sirisena’s first visit to China a local organisation called for China’s largest investment project to resume, an official said on Tuesday. MORE...
JVP mulls quitting National Executive Council
The Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) says that the government had taken a sudden decision to cancel the National Executive Council meeting scheduled for today. MORE..
19th Amendment tabled in Parliament
The 19th Amendment to the Constitution, which could see the amending of executive powers and restoration of independent commissions, was tabled in Parliament by Prime Minister Ranil Wickramasinghe a short while ago. MORE..
Sri Lanka has many lessons to share: UN
“The findings in the Millennium Development Goals (MDG) country report make a strong case for Sri Lanka to be a leading and credible actor in the global deliberations around the development agenda for post-2015,” UN Resident Coordinator and UNDP Resident Representative Subinay Nandy said. MORE...
No disaccord with Rajapaksa representing UPFA – Susil
UPFA General Secretary Susil Premajayantha says that if former President Mahinda Rajapaksa is to take a decision regarding active politics for the victory of the UPFA, then there is no disaccord with him representing the party. MORE..
Ex-Elections Chief Chandrananda de Silva passes away
Former Commissioner of Elections and diplomat Chandrananda de Silva has passed away this morning at the age of 78. MORE..
Will Chinese investors quit if Port City comes to a standstill?
The temporary suspension of the Port City project in Colombo has put lot of Chinese investors in uncertainty regarding the Sri Lankan investment policy. MORE..
Chinese PM to discuss suspended project with the President
Chinese Prime Minister Li Keqiang is likely to have friendly discussions with President Maithripala Sirisena who is scheduled to visit China later this month and negotiations with respect to the suspended Colombo Port City Project (CPCP) will be a high priority topic, Ada Derana learns. MORE...
FIB grills ex-Economic Development secretary
The former Secretary of the Economic Development Ministry Dr Y.D. Nihal Jayathilaka and former Director of People’s Leasing & Finance Mr P. Kudabalage are being questioned by the Fraud Investigations Bureau (FIB). MORE..
JHU okay with executive Presidency, but against arbitrary powers
The Jathika Hela Urumaya (JHU) is not against the executive Presidency, but against the arbitrary powers of the President, Minister Patali Champika Ranawaka said. MORE...
Still no response from Gotabaya on assets declaration - Ravi
Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake says that former Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa is still to respond to his challenge to declare assets, although three weeks have passed. MORE..
‘If this is good governance, then god bless Sri Lanka’
Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa says that politicians have now started to say things which should be said by the IGP or Attorney General and that politicians are the ones announcing who will be remanded, who will be arrested and within how many days. MORE..
UNP decides to go for General Election after April 23
The Working Committee of the United National Party (UNP) has decided to go for a General Election after April 23, as promised to the public during the Presidential polls campaign, the Minister of Mass Media Gayantha Karunathilaka said. MORE..
Deal with TATAs on housing project is unacceptable - Ravi
Sri Lankan Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake has said that the government is reviewing the USD 430 million TATA Housing Project because the deal entered into with the earlier Mahinda Rajapaksa government is unacceptable. MORE..
Gotabaya’s passport impounded over floating armoury case
The Galle Magistrate’s Court on Monday (9) issued a directive to the Department of Immigration and Emigration to temporarily impound the passports of four persons including ex-Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa and former Navy Commander Vice Admiral Somathilake Dissanayake. MORE...
Chinese firm confirms suspension of Colombo Port City project
China Communications Construction Company Limited (CCCC), the ultimate investor in the Colombo Port City Project, says that it will fully cooperate with the Government of Sri Lanka and continue to adhere to the procedures and conditions stipulated in the agreement entered into with the government. MORE..
Ex-ministers yet to return over 300 vehicles, says Rajitha
The authorities are yet to locate some 300 vehicles used by the ex-government’s ministers, Cabinet Spokesperson Minister Rajitha Senaratne said. MORE...
General election to be held after new electoral reforms
The Cabinet has decided to hold the next General Election only after constitutional changes take place for new electoral reforms, Cabinet Spokesperson Minister Rajitha Senaratne said. MORE...
Yoshitha questioned by CCD over light aircraft
Yoshitha Rajapaksa, son of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, has been summoned by the Colombo Crimes Division(CCD) to record a statement regarding the light aircraft found at the Economic Centre at Narahenpita in January, the CCD said. MORE...
UN supports a credible domestic probe in Sri Lanka
The United Nations supports a credible domestic process that meets international standards to investigate allegations of war crimes in Sri Lanka, UN Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs, Jeffery Feltman said. MORE..
Protest against Colombo Port City causes traffic jam
Severe traffic congestion has been reported around York Street Fort in Colombo due to a protest against the Colombo Port City Project by environmental groups, police said.
UPDATE: Mangala slams ex-government’s policy
“With the previous government choosing to operate with a sense of impunity, opportunities for reconciliation and restoration of human rights suffered,” Foreign Minister Mangala Samaraweera said. The observation was made at the 28th Regular Session of Human Rights Council in Geneva, this afternoon. MORE...
VIDEO: No intention of staying as Opposition Leader for long – Nimal
Opposition Leader Nimal Siripala De Silva says that it is not important who will be appointed as the Prime Minister and that what is important is that a Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) government is formed. MORE..
Sri Lanka says China to be consulted on any project re-think
Sri Lanka will not make any decision on Chinese projects it is reviewing until it consults China, Sri Lanka’s foreign minister said on Friday, pledging that his new government would welcome Chinese investors. MORE..
Executive powers to be slashed under new constitutional reforms?
According to the proposed constitutional reforms currently under discussion, the President will always act on the advice of the Prime Minister, however may request the Prime Minister to reconsider advice given to him and request Parliament to reconsider a Bill presented to him for assent, sources said. MORE..
SC issues stay order on Pudukuduirippu, Maritimepattu polls
The Supreme Court today issued a stay order preventing the holding of elections for Maritimepattu and Pudukuduirippu Pradeshiya Sabhas in the Mullaittivu District until March 27. MORE..
Fonseka files petition to get back lost seat
Democratic Party (DP) leader General Sarath Fonseka on Wednesday (25) filed a petition at the Court of Appeal seeking an order to reclaim his lost Parliamentary seat and revoke the appointment of Parliamentarian Jayantha Ketagoda. MORE...
Ex-Transport Director released on bail
Former Transport Director of the Presidential Secretariat Office (PSO), Keerthi Samarasinghe, who was remanded over three missing vehicles attached to the PSO, has been released on bail by the Fort Magistrate, this morning (25). MORE...
Jeffrey Feltman to visit Sri Lanka this week
One week after the UN Human Rights Council agreed to withhold the already delayed report on war crimes in Sri Lanka, the UN announced that Secretary General Ban Ki-moon’s highest political official Jeffrey Feltman will visit the country this week. MORE...
Ravi Wettasinghe arrested at BIA
Controversial Sri Lankan businessman, Ravi Wettasinghe, has been arrested by immigration officials at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in connection with a pending case, police spokesman SSP Ajith Rohana said.
UN to ‘keep a close eye’ on domestic mechanism
Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesman for the United Nations Secretary-General Ban ki-moon, said the UN will be carefully assessing developments with respect to the domestic accountability mechanism in Sri Lanka. MORE...
Ten high-ranking army officers reinstated
Ten high-ranking army officers including a Major General, who were sent on compulsory leave following the 2010 Presidential Election, have been reinstated, a spokesman said. MORE..
India must push Sri Lanka on 13A - Sampanthan
The Indian government must continue pushing the Sri Lankan government towards the implementation of the 13th Amendment, Leader of the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) R. Sampanthan said. MORE..
CID records statement from Gotabaya
The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) has recorded a statement from former Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa in connection with the investigations into the armories of the Avant Garde and Rakna Lanka companies. MORE..
China official says Colombo Port City project going ahead
The China-funded port city project in Colombo was going ahead, a top Chinese official from the company executing it said Wednesday, days after the new Sri Lankan government claimed the deal was still being assessed. MORE..
ex-President rejects allegations against him
Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa says that false and misleading statements continue to be made about him by members of the present government. MORE...
Pictures: Police seize unclaimed luxury vehicle
An abandoned Prado reportedly belongs to the President’s Secretariat Office has been found from a garage in Havelock Road, Galle, the police said. MORE...
Former BBC producer to make film promoting reconciliation in Sri Lanka
A former BBC television producer is raising money to fund a film promoting reconciliation in Sri Lanka after decades of civil war. MORE...
Sri Lanka to go ahead with China-backed Port City Project
The Cabinet has decided to continue with the Chinese-assisted Colombo Port City Project, cabinet spokesman Dr. Rajitha Senaratna said today. MORE..
Gazette notice on Pudukuduirippu and Maritimepattu polls today
The Government will issue a gazette notification with respect to the polls for Maritimepattu and Pudukuduirippu Pradeshiya Sabhas in the Mullaittivu District, today. MORE...
Transfer of 10,000 police officers postponed to May
The transfer of nearly 10,000 police officers scheduled for February 01 has been postponed to May 01. Police Headquarters, in a communiqué, said that the transfer orders will come into effect from May 01, 2015. MORE..
Jayasinghe Bandara, who received the 5th highest number of preference votes for the UPFA from the Polonnaruwa District at the 2010 General Election, was sworn in as a Parliamentarian filling the Parliamentary seat vacated by President Maithripala Sirisena. MORE...
Former President denies military coup attempt allegations
Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa has denied allegations leveled at him that he had attempted to stage a military coup in the early hours of the 9 January to remain in power even after the Presidential elections. MORE...