May 2, 2024 10:09 am
Results: 603
Mawbima owner Tiran Alles and two others remanded over RADA case
Three persons including owner of the Mawbima newspaper Tiran Alles have been remanded till November 10 by the Colombo High Court, on charges of misappropriating public funds through the Reconstruction and Development Agency (RADA) in 2006. MORE...
Jaffna incident: IGP admits shortcomings
We should admit the fact that there may have been shortcomings on the part of the police with respect of the incident in Jaffna which resulted in the deaths of two university students, IGP Pujith Jayasundara says. MORE...
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...
Jaffna University Conflict: Non-Fictional Clash of Clans?
(FEATURE) The violent argument that occurred in the University of Jaffna earlier this month has possibly left considerable doubt in the minds of Lankans: Are we falling prey to racism? Is peace an intricate luxury that we seemingly cannot afford? MORE.....
UN Watch welcomes progress made by Sri Lanka
UN Watch welcomes the progress made by the Sri Lankan government since resolution 30/1 was adopted in October 2015, a Statement by UN Watch made during the 32nd Session of the UNHRC says.MORE...
Sri Lanka could accept international actors in war crimes probe
Sri Lanka’s foreign minister said on Thursday he is willing to consider international participation in investigating possible war crimes during the 26-year Tamil insurgency. MORE...
Yoshitha, Nishantha and Rohan Weliwita remanded
Yoshitha Rajapaksa, Rohan Weliwita, Nishantha Ranatunga and 2 others have been remanded till February 11th by the Kaduwela Magistrates Court. MORE..
The Attorney General has instructed the Police to arrest Colombo District MP Hirunika Premachandra in connection with the abduction incident in Dematagoda. MORE..
We will not act in haste on war crimes special court - President
The Sri Lankan government would not act “in haste” on the issue of setting up a special court on allegations of violations of human rights in the last stages of the civil war, President Maithiripala Sirisena said on Sunday. MORE...
No dire need of emergency funding in Lanka - Mahendran
Sri Lanka is in no dire need of emergency funding as the country’s economy fared well in 2015 with reserves on a sound footing, Central Bank Governor Arjuna Mahendran said today. MORE...
TN parties stoke sentiments on Sri Lanka, LTTE ahead of polls
Ahead of the 2016 assembly polls in Tamil Nadu, the ruling AIADMK and other political parties are attempting to stoke public sentiments on emotive issues like Sri Lankan Tamils’ sufferings and LTTE, although they have not translated into electoral gains in the past. MORE...
Namal was planning on becoming country’s leader - Dilan
Namal Rajapaksa was planning on becoming the country’s next leader if his father was in power for another 15 years, claims State Minister Dilan Perera. 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.
SL to sign convention of protection from enforced disappearances
Today Sri Lanka will sign the International Convention for the protection of all persons from enforced disappearances, Foreign Minister Mangala Samaraweera said. 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..
Siyam’s father says Vass Gunawardena didn’t kill his son
In a surprising twist, the father of slain businessman Mohamed Siyam says that his son was not murdered by former DIG of Police Vass Gunawardena, who was sentenced to death after being found guilty over the killing. MORE..
Siyam murder: Vass Gunawardena, son and 4 others found guilty
Six suspects including former DIG Vass Gunawardena and his son Ravindu have been sentenced to death after being found guilty for the abduction and murder of businessman Mohamed Siyam by the Colombo High Court Trial-at-Bar. MORE..
Kumar Gunaratnam further remanded
Frontline Socialists Party (FSP) political committee member Premakumar Gunaratnam, who was arrested and remanded for visa violations, has been further remanded till December 11 by the Kegalle Magistrate’s Court. MORE..
Sunil Handunnetti named new COPE Chairman
JVP MP Sunil Handunnetti has been appointed as the Chairman of the Committee on Public Enterprises (COPE) in Parliament, Deputy Minister Ajith P. Perera said. MORE..
Rajitha, Champika and Arjuna ask IGP to probe bribery claims
Ministers Champika Ranawaka, Dr Rajitha Seenaratne and Arjuna Ranatunga today requested the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to investigate the allegations made against them by the Chairman of Avant Garde Private Limited, Nissanka Senadhipathi. MORE..
The new government’s first full-year budget, for the fiscal year of 2016, is being presented to the Parliament of Sri Lanka by Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake. MORE..
Sri Lanka to usher in a capital oriented budget: Ravi
Minister of Finance Ravi Karunanayake said that the Yahapalana Government’s new budget on November 20 will be capital oriented while aiming at higher revenue than recurrent expenditure. MORE...
Tamil prisoners recommence hunger strike
Over 200 Tamil prisoners have yet again commenced their hunger strike in several prisons across the country to protest against being jailed for years without trial. Earlier, they ended the fast following an assurance from President Maithripala Sirisena that their grievances would be addressed. MORE...
Estate workers to get loans for Deepavali
The government will provide a loan of Rs 3,500 for estate workers for the Deepavali festival in addition to the Rs 6,500 salary advance, Minister of Plantation Industries Navin Dissanayake says. MORE..
Sri Lanka’s anti-corruption efforts not rhetorical – Harsha
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Harsha de Silva says that at the international level Sri Lanka’s commitment to contributing to efforts to combat corruption remains strengthened as never before specially following the democratic changes in country this year. MORE..
Anura hospitalised following a brief illness
Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake has been admitted to the Sri Jayawardenapura Hospital following a brief illness, the hospital Director said. MORE...
Falling space junk to create fireball in the sky: experts
A piece of space junk will fall back to Earth next month, giving researchers a chance to study how incoming objects behave when they hit the planet’s atmosphere. MORE...
Karuna Amman resigns from SLFP
Vinayagamoorthy Muralitharan alias Karuna Amman says he has decided to to resign from the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) to join the Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF) led by V. Anandasangaree. MORE...
Accountability process would be purely domestic: FM
The process to fix accountability as mandated by the latest UNHRC resolution for the alleged rights abuses during the conflict with the LTTE will be completely domestic, Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Mangala Samaraweera has said rejecting claims that it was a hybrid mechanism. MORE...
UNP Provincial Councilor Tissa Bandara arrested
UNP Central Provincial Councilor Tissa Bandara has been arrested for allegedly assaulting an individual at the Dambulla Economic Centre, the police say. MORE...
Paranagama report far worse than UN report – Rajitha
The government today said that the resolution adopted at the UN Human Rights Council on Sri Lanka would have been much more severe if the Paranagama report had been released before the session in Geneva. MORE..
Parliamentary programme for the Budget 2016 amended
The parliamentary programme for the Budget 2016 which was approved at the Cabinet of Ministers has been amended according to a proposal made by Ravi Karunanayake, Minister of Finance. MORE...
Dilan admires JVP for its stance on US-sponsored resolution
State Minister Dilan Perera on Thursday (22) admired Sri Lanka’s leftist party Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) for maintaining a clear stance on the US-sponsored resolution that was adopted at the recently concluded UN Human Rights Council Sessions in Geneva. 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...
UN Assistant Secretary-General to visit Sri Lanka
United Nations Assistant Secretary-General for Political Affairs, Mr. Miroslav Jenča, will be visiting Sri Lanka today (21) on a four-day official visit. MORE..
Vavuniya DIG case: President requests report on missing cop
President Maithripala Sirisena has issued a directive to the IGP to expedite the investigation in connection with the disappearance case of a police Sergeant who was a witness in the case in which several top cops including a DIG are suspected of allegedly involved in a treasure hunting incident in Vavuniya. MORE...
UN resolution, Udalagama & Paranagama Commission reports tabled in Parliament
The resolution adopted at the UN Human Rights Council as well as the Udalagma and Paranagama Commission Reports were tabled in Parliament by Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe a short while ago.
Sajin gets permission to go to Singapore
The Colombo Magistrate’s Court today (20) allowed former UPFA MP Sajin de Vass Gunawardena, whose passport was earlier seized, to go to Singapore for medical treatments. MORE...
Sri Lanka holds rates as Mahendran eyes next fiscal budget
Sri Lanka’s central bank kept interest rates unchanged for a sixth straight month and Governor Arjuna Mahendran said the government will focus on boosting revenue in its budget due November, the Bloomberg news agency reported today. MORE...
Tamil prisoners end hunger strike
Over 200 Tamil political prisoners, who were on hunger strike in Sri Lanka to protest against being jailed for years without trial, today ended their fast following an assurance from President Maithripala Sirisena that their grievances would be addressed. MORE...
Danuna Tilakaratne acquitted in Hicorp case
The Colombo High Court today acquitted Danuna Tilakaratne from the Hicorp fraud case. Thilakaratne, former son-in-law of ex-Army Commander Field Marshal Sarath Fonseka, had surrendered to Colombo High Court in December last year and was released on bail. MORE..
FCID probes ex-security forces’ chiefs who held diplomatic posts
The Police Financial Crimes Investigations Division (FCID) has commenced investigations regarding five former diplomats, including four ex-security forces commanders, for allegedly engaging in political activities while attached to Sri Lankan missions abroad. MORE..
Suspected underworld figure gunned down in Wellampitiya
A 47-year-old man was killed following a shooting incident which took place on Gothami Mawatha in Welewatta, Wellampitiya. MORE..
US trains Lanka Navy on underwater demining
The U.S. Navy has concluded a two-week training session in Trincomalee to equip and support Sri Lanka’s underwater demining efforts, the US embassy in Colombo announced today. MORE...
Court to announce verdict in Shyam murder trial in November
The verdict in the murder trial of Bambalapitiya businessman Mohamed Shyam, in which former DIG Vass Gunawardena is accused, will be announced on 27 November. MORE...
Police seek public help in Lasantha’s case
The police headquarters today (08) announced it seek public help to identify the suspects involved in the controversial murder of journalist Lasantha Wickrematunge. MORE...
Dr. Herath calls on Seychelles President
The new resident High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to Seychelles, Dr. Tikiri Herath Gunathilake, has presented his credentials to Seychelles President James Michel at State House. 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...
Ex-DIG, Chief Inspector further remanded
Former Vavuniya DIG U.K. Dissanayake and a Chief Inspector who were arrested in connection with an incident of illegal excavations carried out in the Kudakachchakodiya area have been further remanded until October 21 by the Vavuniya Magistrate’s Court today (07). MORE...
CaFFE and CHR welcome release of commission reports
The Campaign for Free and Fair Elections (CaFFE) and the Center for Human Rights and Research (CHR) today welcomed the decision to release the reports of the Udalagama and Paranagama Commissions on alleged human rights violations in Sri Lanka. MORE..
Indian govt. urged to move resolution against Lanka
India’s Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam leader and former Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi has urged the Union government to move a private member resolution in the United Nations Human Rights Commission (UNHRC) seeking an international inquiry into the alleged war crimes committed by the Sri Lankan Army in the last phase of the civil war. MORE...
Finance Minister leaves for Peru to attend IMF annual meeting
Minister of Finance Ravi Karunanayake left the Island to attend the 2015 Annual Meetings of the World Bank Group and the International Monetary Fund which will take place in Lima, Peru, from October 9-11. MORE...
Kundasale PS chairman arrested over assault on principal
Chairman of the Kundasale Pradeshiya Sabha, Asela Ekanayake, has been arrested for allegedly assaulting a school principal, the Police said. MORE...
Place your money in Sri Lanka - Ravi
Sri Lanka’s Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake has invited Sri Lankans and Indians who had to take back their deposits from banks in Switzerland to place their funds in Sri Lanka. MORE...
Jayalalithaa, Karunanidhi slam UN resolution on Sri Lanka
Coming out strongly against a UN resolution that endorsed a domestic probe in Sri Lanka over alleged war crimes, Chief Minister Jayalalithaa expressed deep disappointment and anguish while DMK chief Karunanidhi termed it shocking. MORE..
All-party conference to discuss solutions to rights issue - President
President Maithripala Sirisena today said that the country had achieved a great victory at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) as the international community expressed high appreciation of the steps taken by the government since January. MORE..
President arrives after concluding US visit
President Maithripala Sirisena arrived in the country a short while ago after concluding his visit the United States to attend the UN General Assembly in New York. MORE..
Drug kingpin Mohammed Siddique further remanded
Drug kingpin Mohammed Siddique, had was arrested in Pakistan and later brought to Sri Lanka, was further remanded until October 16 by the Colombo Magistrate’s Court. MORE..
SL is pleased to join as co-sponsor of the resolution: Ambassador Ravinatha
We see the resolution on the island nation as a measure of encouraging and inspiring the government of Sri Lanka, delivering his remarks during the general debate on the report of the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights on Sri Lanka, Ambassador Ravinatha Aryasinha said. MORE...
Resolution on Sri Lanka adopted at UNHRC
The US-sponsored resolution on Sri Lanka was adopted without a vote by consensus at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, a short while ago. MORE..
Chairman of Missing Persons’ Panel rebuts Zeid
Responding to the UN Human Rights High Commissioner Prince Zeid’s call to disband the Sri Lankan Missing Persons’ Commission and assign its work to a more credible body, the chairman of the panel, Justice Maxwell Paranagama, contended that nobody else can do the job better. MORE..
President congratulates Nepal on new constitution
Nepal’s Deputy Prime Minster Prakash Man Singh and Sri Lankan President Maitripala Sirisena held a meeting in New York on Wednesday on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. MORE..
New plan of action to advance human rights: President Sirisena
We intend to implement a new programme and plan of action in Sri Lanka to advance human rights, President Maithripala Sirisena said at the General Assembly of the United Nations during the 70th Session of the UN General Assembly Meeting held at the UN Headquarters. MORE...
Ex-Vavuniya DIG further remanded
Former Vavuniya DIG U.K. Dissanayake, who was arrested in connection with an incident of illegal excavations carried out in the Kudakachchakodiya area, has been further remanded until October 07 by the Vavuniya Magistrate’s Court. MORE..
U.S. supports a credible domestic process in Sri Lanka - Kerry
The U.S. has said it will support a domestic investigation by Sri Lanka to address allegations of human rights abuses during the final phase of the country’s civil war. MORE..
Everyone agrees that we should find out the truth – Ranil
Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe says that the only issue that cropped up during discussions on the UN resolution was whether Sri Lanka’s judiciary is sufficiently strong enough for a domestic mechanism and not about the country’s armed forces. 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..
UN resolution could advance justice in Sri Lanka - HRW
The United Nations Human Rights Council should adopt a resolution ensuring a robust international role in Sri Lanka’s justice mechanism for abuses during the country’s brutal civil war, Human Rights Watch said today. MORE..
Vaiko detained during protest against draft US resolution
MDMK general secretary Vaiko and representatives from 32 organisations were detained on Monday morning after they threatened to lay siege to the U.S. Consulate in Chennai following a rally condemning the draft U.S. resolution for a domestic investigation into the alleged war crimes in Sri Lanka. MORE..
President assures sustainable development by 2030
President Maithripala Sirisena speaking at the UN Sustainable Development Summit 2015 assured that the Government of Sri Lanka anticipates achieving sustainable development by 2030. MORE...
Aust co-sponsors Sri Lanka resolution
Australia has co-sponsored a reconciliation resolution to the United Nations with the Sri Lankan government. MORE...
Sri Lanka trying to water down UNHRC resolution: HRW
Sri Lanka should not be allowed to water down a UNHRC resolution on its alleged rights violations during its civil war with the LTTE, according to a prominent rights group which said that the current draft was “counterproductive” to the reconciliation efforts of the government. MORE..
Human trafficking racket busted in Kerala; 9 Sri Lankans arrested
Kerala police on Thursday busted a racket of trafficking Sri Lankan refugees from Tamil Nadu to Australia. MORE..
TNA commends govt’s willingness to co-sponsor resolution
The Tamil National Alliances (TNA) today welcomed the draft text of a resolution on Sri Lanka tabled by the co-sponsors of the resolution at the UN Human Rights Council. MORE..
Resolution on Sri Lanka tabled at UN Human Rights Council
A resolution calling for a “credible justice process” with “Commonwealth and other foreign judges” in order to prosecute for mass atrocities committed during the final stages of the island’s armed conflict has been tabled at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva. MORE...
Wigneswaran welcomes UN proposal to set up hybrid court
The Chief Minister of Sri Lanka’s Tamil-dominated Northern Province has welcomed the UNHRC’s proposal to set up a hybrid court to probe the alleged war crimes during the last phase of the conflict with the LTTE, saying it is a dramatic step towards achieving reconciliation. MORE...
UN war crimes report soft pedals LTTE’s using human shield: G.L.
Former Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Prof.G.L.Peiris has said that the report of the UN High Commissioner of Human Rights on “war crimes” in Lanka has soft pedaled the LTTE’s using civilians as a human shield, when it is a war crime under international humanitarian law. MORE...
President orders Avant Garde case to continue
President Maithripala Sirisena has instructed relevant authorities to continue with legal proceeding regarding the controversial Avant Garde issue, Cabinet Spokesman and Minister Rajitha Senaratne said. MORE..
High Court grants bail to Sajin Vass
The Colombo High Court on Wednesday granted bail to former UPFA MP Sajin de Vass Gunawardena who is in custody for allegedly misusing vehicles belonging to the President Secretariat Office. MORE...
Former UPFA Parliamentarian Sajin de Vass Gunawardena, who was arrested for allegedly misusing vehicles belonging to the President Secretariat Office, has been further remanded until October 6 by the Fort Magistrate’s Court, today (08). MORE...
Three more politicians from the UNP, UPFA and JVP sworn-in as Parliamentarians before the Speaker this morning (22). MORE...
Ambassador Aryasinha responds to draft resolution on Sri Lanka
I am sure that all of you, who have watched the country closely, are aware of all the changes Sri Lanka had after the January 8 election victory, Intervention by Ambassador Ravinatha Aryasinha, Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka to the UN in Geneva said. MORE...
Four more Provincial Councilors sworn-in
Filling the seats left vacant after the August general election, four more UPFA members of the Uva and Sabaragamuwa Provincial Councils took oath as Councilors this morning (21). MORE...
Karunanidhi slammed over Lankan Tamil issue
Former Indian MP and MDMK general secretary Vaiko has slammed DMK president M. Karunanidhi on the Sri Lankan Tamils issue, The Hindu newspaper reported. 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...
UN group on missing to visit Sri Lanka in November
The United Nations Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances will visit Sri Lanka from from November 9 to 18. The announcement was made at the UN Human Rights Council which is meeting for its 30th session in Geneva. MORE...
Capital punishment if Parliament approves - President
President Maithripala Sirisena says that he expects to implement capital punishment in Sri Lanka next year, if the Parliament gives consent. 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..
UN members should back hybrid court in Sri Lanka - HRW
The call by the United Nations’ top human rights officer for a domestic-international hybrid court to address allegations of war crimes and crimes against humanity in Sri Lanka should receive strong endorsement by members of the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) in Geneva, Human Rights Watch said today. MORE..
MP Udayashantha Gunasekara hospitalised
UPFA MP Padma Udayashantha Gunasekara has been hospitalized due to a sudden illness while participating in a protest in the Monaragala area today. MORE..
Cop dies from heart attack during Divulapitiya protest
A police officer attached to the intelligence unit has passed away after he suffered a heart attack during a protest held in Divulapitiya this morning demanding the arrest of suspects in the recent murder of 5-year-old girl Seya Sadewmi. MORE..
TNA wants UN probe recommendations in next resolution
The Tamil National Alliance (TNA) today said that it welcomes the report of the investigation conducted by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OISL) and its recommendations. MORE..
Govt assures due attention to UN report
The Sri Lankan Government today said it will ensure that the content and recommendations of the UNHRC report receive due attention of the relevant authorities including the new mechanisms that are envisaged to be set up. MORE..
Keheliya, PB and Lalith grilled at Presidential CoI
Former Minister Keheliya Rambukwella, former Finance Secretary Dr. P.B. Jayasundera and former Secretary to the President Lalith Weerathunga have been questioned today regarding Rs 200 million in losses incurred by a state media institution during the Presidential Election. MORE..
Sri Lanka promises justice after UN war crimes report
Sri Lanka promised to deliver justice after a United Nations human rights report called on Wednesday for a special court to be set up to prosecute war crimes committed during the nation’s 26-year civil conflict. MORE..
Full Report of OHCHR Investigation on Sri Lanka
The long-anticipated report of the United Nations investigation into allegations of human rights violations during the war in Sri Lanka was released a short while ago. Click for Full Report..
TN assembly for international probe on Sri Lanka
A day after India and Sri Lanka decided to renew efforts to address the vexed ethnic issue in the island nation, Tamil Nadu today stepped up pressure on the Modi government for an international probe against alleged human rights violations and war crimes committed in 2009 in Northern Sri Lanka. MORE..
Zeid urges creation of hybrid special court in Sri Lanka
A UN report published today has identified patterns of grave violations in Sri Lanka between 2002 and 2011, strongly indicating that war crimes and crimes against humanity were most likely committed by both sides to the conflict. MORE..
MP Chathura Senaratne issued notice
The Negombo Magistrate’s Court has issued notice on UNP Gampaha District MP Chathura Senaratne for allegedly threatening a group of individuals in custody at the Ragama Police Station. MORE..
UN report contains legal analysis and recommendations
UN report on Sri Lanka will focus on human rights violations from 2002 to 2011, and it will contain legal analysis and recommendations, it was reported. MORE...
Tamils reject govt’s wartime truth commission, demand international inquiry?
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Sri Lanka’s minority Tamils has rejected government plans for a truth commission to promote reconciliation after decades of ethnic war, insisting on an international inquiry, the AFP news agency reported. MORE...
Government holds a double standard: Gammanpila
The government holds a double standard in dealing with the international community and the public with respect to the probe on alleged war crimes investigation, leader of the Pivithuru Hela Urumaya Udaya Gammanpila says. MORE...
Brigadier who ordered Weliweriya shooting arrives amidst protest
The Sri Lankan military officer who allegedly ordered troops to open fire on protesters demanding clean water in the Rathupaswala area in Weliweriya two years back, was escorted out of the airport premises under tight security after he arrived in the island today. MORE..
Swire extends UK support to Sri Lanka
The United Kingdom stands ready to help Sri Lanka in any way possible to deliver the credible processes and mechanisms it has promised, British Minister of State at the Foreign and Commonwealth office, Hugo Swire, said today (14). MORE...
New constitution, amendments to penal code; steps to create a new Sri Lanka: Mangala
“The best guarantee for non-recurrence is of course a political settlement that addresses the grievances of the Tamil people. We hope that we can achieve this through the adoption of a new Constitution,” Foreign Minister Mangala Samaraweera said. MORE...
Mangala holds talks with UN rights chief
Foreign Minister Mangala Samaraweera and Justice Minister Wijedasa Rajapakse have held discussions with UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein. MORE...
UN should probe war crimes in Sri Lanka: Ramasamy
United Nations should probe the alleged war crimes in Sri Lanka, Indian Second Deputy Chief Minister, Penang, Malaysia, P. Ramasamy, has said in Coimbatore. MORE...
Sri Lanka set to announce reconciliation plans
Foreign Minister Mangala Samaraweera would make a statement in Geneva on Monday, the inaugural day of the the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC)’s three-week-long session. MORE...
UN probe report handed over to govt
The UN probe report on alleged war crimes committed during the final phase of Sri Lankan military’s battle against the LTTE has been handed over to the government. 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..
CBK ran one of the most repressive governments - Rajapaksa
Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa today accused fellow SLFP Patron Chandrika Kumaratunga of running one of the most “repressive” governments in living memory and charged that her recent comments amount to an admission that she too presided over a party full of “murderers and rogues.” MORE..
AG claims witness intimidation in Thajudeen case
The Attorney General today informed the Colombo Fort Magistrate regarding the alleged intimidation of witnesses in the murder case of former Sri Lankan Rugby player Wasim Thajudeen. MORE..
Sri Lankan man jailed for killing disabled friend
A Sri Lankan man has been jailed by a British court for killing his housebound friend by punching him in the head when he was in bed. MORE..
President, PM appoint their nominees to the CC
The Prime Minister and the President on Wednesday (09) appointed their nominees to the Constitutional Council. Accordingly, Minister Patali Champika Ranawaka and Wijedasa Rajapakse have been appointed to the CC respectively. MORE...
Three new Cabinet Ministers sworn in
Three new Cabinet Ministers were sworn in before President Maithripala Sirisena short while ago, the Presidential Media Division said. MORE..
Sarana Gunawardena released on bail
Former Deputy Minister Sarana Gunawardena, who was in custody for allegedly assaulting a person, has been released on bail by the Gampaha Magistrate on Wednesday (09) morning. MORE...
DMK opposes US move to bring in revised resolution
DMK today opposed any move by the US to bring in a revised resolution in a UN rights body on a probe into alleged rights violations in Sri Lanka, as reported in the media, and said India should not support it. MORE..
UPFA Parliamentarian Sajin de Vass Gunawardena, who was arrested for allegedly misusing vehicles belonging to the President Secretariat Office, has been further remanded until September 22 by the Fort Magistrate’s Court, today (08). MORE...
HRC’s sitting on Sri Lanka fixed on Sept 30
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A report on alleged human rights violations in Sri Lanka during the Eelam War is likely to be presented on September 30 during the 30th session of the United Human Rights Council. MORE...
No decision to dissolve Bribery Commission: PMU
A decision has not been taken to dissolve the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption, the President’s Media Unit says. MORE...
Ex-DIG admitted to Colombo National hospital
Former DIG Vass Gunawardena, who is in custody following the murder case of Bambalapitiya businessman Mohamed Shyam, has been admitted to the Colombo National hospital following a sudden illness, Ada Derana Court reporter said. MORE...
‘Viber, not India, helped in unseating Rajapaksa’: CBK
Former Sri Lankan president Chandrika Bandarnaike Kumaratunga is in India for her first visit since the surprise defeat of her successor Mahinda Rajapaksa, a man who was once a close associate and now a political enemy whose regime she was instrumental in overturning. MORE...
Massive killings if Mahinda returned to power - CBK
Mahinda Rajapaksa during his tenure as the President of Sri Lanka ran a police state and if he was successful in returning to power as Prime Minister in recent parliamentary polls the country would have experienced massive killings of innocents, according to former President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga. MORE..
Sampanthan as Opposition Leader gives hope - DMK
DMK President M Karunanidhi today welcomed the appointment of Tamil National Alliance leader R Sampanthan as the Leader of Opposition in Sri Lankan Parliament, saying it has given hope for the Tamils in the island nation. MORE..
India attaches highest importance to ties with Sri Lanka: Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi today said India attaches the highest importance to its relations with Sri Lanka and looks forward to taking the ties to new heights as he received former President Chandrika Kumaratunga in New Delhi. MORE..
JVP nominates Bimal Ratnayake as NL MP
(Audio) The JVP has nominated Bimal Ratnayake as a National List MP for the seat vacated due to the resignation of S. Mayadunne, JVP Secretary Tilvin Silva told Ada Derana. MORE..
Mayadunne resigns from parliamentary seat
JVP National List MP and former Auditor General S. Mayadunne says he will resign from his parliamentary seat after making a special statement in Parliament today. MORE..
Petition seeks revocation of UPFA National List MPs appointments
A petition has been filed at the Supreme Court requesting to revoke the appointments of the UPFA MPs who got elected to the Parliament through the National List, Ada Derana Court reporter says. MORE...
Sajin’s assets case postponed to December 10
The Colombo Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday (1) set the trial for former UPFA MP Sajin de Vass Gunawardena in connection with the case filed against him by the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption. The case will be taken up for hearing on December 10. MORE...
Dr. Thenuwara appointed new President of FUTA
Dr. Chandragupta Thenuwara, of University of Peradeniya has been appointed as the new President of the Federation of University Teachers’ Associations (FUTA). MORE...
Prabhakaran killed himself, says Karuna Amman
Ex LTTE eastern commander and Deputy Minister Vinayagamoorthi Muralitharan alias Karuna Amman claims that the leader of the defeated Tamil tigers, Velupillai Prabhakaran, committed suicide by shooting himself with a firearm. MORE...
UPFA coalition partners to form new alliance?
Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa’s allies are planning to form a new opposition alliance, breaking away from President Maithripala Sirisena’s United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) coalition, senior leftist leaders said on Saturday. MORE..
ITAK wants Opposition Leader post
The Ilankai Thamil Arasu Kadchi (ITAK) today said that the party’s Parliamentary Group Leader must thus be recognized as the Leader of the Opposition in accordance with Parliamentary practice and convention as they have now emerged as the largest political party in Opposition in Sri Lanka’s Parliament. MORE..
Former govt spent $6.5m to influence US
The former Sri Lankan government allegedly paid around US$6.5 million to a private equity fund manager over a five-month period in 2014 for consulting services which included influencing the U.S. government, according to documents obtained by Foreign Policy Magazine. MORE..
Karunanidhi condemns US support to Sri Lankan domestic probe
DMK chief Karunanidhi today condemned the US government’s reported proposal for support to a domestic probe by Sri Lanka into alleged war crimes rather than going in for an international investigation. MORE..
Police launch probe into fake postage stamps
Police today said that a special investigation has been launched regarding the counterfeit postage stamps found in more than 500 envelops at the Nittambuwa post office. MORE..
PB Jayasundara questioned at SIU
Sri Lanka’s former Finance Ministry and Treasury Secretary Dr. P.B. Jayasundara is currently being questioned by the Police Special Investigation Unit (SIU), the police spokesman said. MORE..
Samarasinghe admits failure to implement 2009 resolution
President Maithripala Sirisena took the initiative to revive Sri Lanka’s connections with countries that had distanced itself from the island nation and he managed to win the trust of the world’s most powerful countries within a short span, says Mahinda Samarasinghe. MORE..
Petitions against Rajapaksa, Mahendran and Cabraal withdrawn
The petitions filed with the Colombo Magistrate’s Court against former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, Governor of the Central Bank Arjuna Mahendran and former CB Governor Ajith Nivard Cabraal have been withdrawn.
US backs Sri Lanka’s domestic probe
The United States said Wednesday that it wants to sponsor a resolution at next month’s U.N. human rights session that is supportive of Sri Lanka’s government, which wants to conduct its own investigation into alleged war crimes. MORE..
New cabinet to be sworn in on Sep 02
The Cabinet of Ministers of the new government will be sworn in next Wednesday (September 02), UNP Chairman Malik Samarawickrama told Ada Derana. MORE..
SLFP, UNP will form the National Government: Malik
The United National Party (UNP) and the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) have reached a final consensus over forming a National Government, UNP Chairman Malik Samarawickrama said in a statement today (26).
FR petition filed challenging UFPA National List
A Fundamental Rights (FR) petition has been filed today by a member of the Mahajana Eksath Peramuna (MEP) challenging the UFPA National List, which includes several candidates who were defeated at the general election. MORE..
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..
Sarana Gunawardena further remanded
The Gampaha Magistrate on Wednesday (26) further remanded former Deputy Minister Sarana Gunawardena who was in custody for allegedly assaulting a person. MORE...
UPFA Parliamentarian Sajin de Vass Gunawardena, who was arrested for allegedly misusing vehicles belonging to the President Secretariat Office, has been further remanded until September 8 by the Fort Magistrate’s Court, today (11). MORE...
Biswal’s visit hastens swearing-in of three key Ministers
The visit of Nisha Biswal, US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia on Tuesday to discuss the UN Human Rights Commissioner’s report on war crimes in Sri Lanka, has hastened the swearing-in of Mangala Samaraweera as Foreign Minister; Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe as Justice Minister; and D.M.Swaminathan as Resettlement Minister. MORE...
Sarana remanded for assaulting a person
Former Deputy Minister Sarana Gunawardena and three others have been arrested and remanded till 26 August for alleged assault on a person during the General Election 2015. 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...
Rishad’s ACMC removes General Secretary
The General Secretary of the All Ceylon Muslim Congress (ACMC), Y.L.S. Hameed, has been removed from his position while his party membership has also been temporarily cancelled. MORE..
President’s Coordinating Secretary appointed as Municipal Councillor
President’s Coordinating Secretary, Attorney at Law Rajika kodithuwakku sworn in as a member of Municipal Council, Sri Jayawardenapura Kotte, before President Maithripala Sirisena today (Aug. 22). MORE...
UN chief urges Ranil to seize opportunity
The Secretary-General of the United Nations, Ban Ki-moon, has congratulated Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on his election and commended his message of good governance and national unity. MORE..
Singapore leaders congratulate Ranil
Leaders of Singapore on Friday (Aug 21) sent congratulatory letters to Sri Lanka’s Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, who has been re-elected for another term. MORE..
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi today congratulated Ranil Wickremesinghe on being sworn-in as Sri Lanka’s Prime Minister. MORE..
Sri Lankan refugees guarded in reaction to Sri Lankan poll results
The Sri Lankan Tamils at the Mandapam camp reacted to the election of United National Party (UNP) leader Ranil Wickremesinghe as Prime Minister with cautious optimism. 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..
Senior UNP leader Karu Jayasuriya has been proposed as a suitable candidate for the post of Speaker of the next Parliament, according to political sources. MORE..
SLFP for National Govt; CBK to head MOU committee
(Audio) The Central Committee of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) has appointed a committee to formulate a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), for the forming of a National Government with the United National Party (UNP). MORE..
Handunetti, Mayadunne named as JVP National List MPs
Former MP Sunil Handunetti and former Auditor General Sarathchandra Mayadunne have been named as National List MPs from JVP. MORE..
DMK hopes for permanent solution to Tamils’ issues
DMK President M Karunanidhi today congratulated Ranil Wickremesinghe for his victory in the Sri Lanka parliamentary elections and hoped the Tamil National Alliance win in North and East provinces would give rise to a situation for a permanent solution to travails of Tamils. MORE..
China stands ready to work with new Government
China stands ready to work with Sri Lanka to consolidate the traditional friendship, strengthen mutually-beneficial cooperation, and elevate China-Sri Lanka strategic cooperation partnership to a new level, said Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hua Chunying. MORE...
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...
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..
Court orders handed over to Yapa and Premajayantha
The Colombo High Court today (17) ordered to handover a notice and an order, with respect to the court’s ruling to prevent Anura Priyadharshana Yapa and Susil Premajayantha from acting and discharging duties as the General Secretaries of the SLFP and UPFA respectively, to their houses. MORE...
UPDATE: President sacks 13 SLFP CC members
President Maithripala Sirisena has sacked 13 members from the SLFP Central Committee. The President in his capacity as the Chairman of the SLFP has sent a letter to the Elections Commissioner informing him of the removal and a list of the new 25 members of the Central Committee, a source from the Presidential Secretariat said. MORE...
Two dead, 5 injured after van crashes into wall in Jaffna
Two persons were killed and another 5 wounded after a van crashed into a wall in the Kodikamam area in Jaffna today (16). MORE..
Hand grenade found outside candidate’s house
A hand grenade has been discovered in front of the residence of a political candidate contesting the General Election from the Kurunegala District. MORE..
Six suspected LTTE operatives arrested in Kolkata
The arrest of 6 men allegedly belonging to the LTTE has left security officials in West Bengal in a spot of bother. They are verifying why these six men had come to Kolkata from Chennai. 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..
UPFA will modernise the FCID: Susil
Measures will be taken to modernise the Financial Crime Investigation Division (FCID), if the United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) wins the forthcoming election, former Minister Susil Premajayantha asserted. 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..
MR contesting polls to avoid consequences for past actions - UNP
The United National Party (UNP) claims that former President Mahinda Rajapaksa is contesting the parliamentary election in an attempt to avoid “serious consequences” for his past actions and that he is seeking protection from ongoing investigations. MORE..
Rajapaksa’s racist brand of politics should be defeated - UNP
Minister Joseph Michael Perera says that it is very necessary to continue with the newly established atmosphere of communal and religious harmony in the country. MORE..
Sarath Kumara’s bail plea turned down for 7th time
The Anuradhapura Magistrate’s Court today rejected for the seventh time the bail plea put forward by the House Leader of the North Central Provincial Council, Ananda Sarath Kumara. MORE..
EXCLUSIVE: UNP leadership not my personal property - Ranil
Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe says that accusations of dividing the country and imposing taxes on water are last-ditch efforts by the United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) to sling mud at the UNP and assured that the people will not be deceived by them. MORE...
Sajin de Vass Gunawardena further remanded
UPFA Parliamentarian Sajin de Vass Gunawardena, who was arrested for allegedly misusing vehicles belonging to the President Secretariat Office, has been further remanded until August 25 by the Fort Magistrate’s Court, today (11 MORE...
Government to make several SOEs self financed: Ravi
The new government’s plan to restructure the loss making State Owned Enterprises (SOEs) to be self financed without depending on the General treasury will be a reality soon, Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake said. MORE...
Sundar Pichai appointed the new CEO of Google
India-born Sundar Pichai has been named CEO of Google as part of a surprise corporate overhaul that saw the search giant forming a new parent company called Alphabet Inc. 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...
Sajin’s bail application rejected
A bail application, which was filed by a Counsel on behalf of former UPFA MP Sajin de Vass Gunawardena, was dismissed by the Colombo High Court. 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...
UNP vows to combat violence against women
Under a new government, the United National Party (UNP) will appoint two commissions to combat violence against women, the Prime Minister said. MORE...
Shivajilingam writes to UN human rights chief
M K Shivajilingam, who is contesting in the upcoming parliamentary polls as an independent candidate, has asked the UNHCR for an international probe into the alleged war crimes during the conflict with the LTTE. 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..
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..
Student commits suicide over A/L admission, principal suspended
The principal of a school in the Pandarikulam area in Vavuniya has been suspended after female student of the school committed suicide due to not receiving an admission form to sit for the G.C.E. Advanced Level examination. MORE..
Good governance has become underworld governance - Susil
The UPFA today charged that with the escalating crime wave in the country and the increasing election-related violence being unleashed by UNP candidates, good governance has turned into “underworld governance”. MORE..
Hirunika, Nishantha among 6 sacked from UPFA
The United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) has terminated the membership of 6 Provincial Council members representing the party. MORE..
Enjoining order preventing SLFP’s CC meeting extended till Aug 24
The enjoining order preventing the Central Committee of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) from convening without the consent of the party’s Chairman, has been extended until August 24 by the Colombo District Court. MORE..
Elections Chief to brief top police officers
The Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL) is scheduled to conduct a programme to brief the high-ranking police officers in Kurunegala and Puttalam districts with regard to the forthcoming General Election. MORE..
Rajapaksa wants govt to probe Lasantha, Eknaligoda cases
Sri Lanka’s former president Mahinda Rajapaksa has vowed to win an outright majority in parliamentary elections due on 17 August. MORE..
CID pursuing top military officers - Nalaka Thero
Ven. Bengamuwe Nalaka Thero says that presently the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) is chasing after high-ranking military officers who helped save the country and that the Defence Secretary is aware of it. MORE..
Funeral of free health service not far – Bandula
Former UPFA Parliamentarian Bandula Gunawardena says that the “funeral” of Sri Lanka’s world-renowned free health service is not very far. MORE..
Ex-PC member and UC chairman arrested
Former Eastern Provincial Council member Kalanthar Lebbe Mohamed Fareed and the former Chairman of the Kattankudy Urban Council Sahul Hameed Mohamed Asfer have been arrested by police. MORE..
Dilan Perera should tender public apology - P. Harrison
Minister P. Harrison says that former UPFA Parliamentarian Dilan Perera should tender a public apology to the entire body of Maha Sangha for insulting and treating them with contempt. MORE..
Deputy Justice Minister Sujeewa Senasinghe says that it is wrong to ask a person to consume poison and that it is also wrong to attempt to make someone drink poison. MORE..
Printing press raided over ‘defamatory’ book on Mahinda
Police today raided a printing press which had allegedly been printing a slanderous book targeting former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, who is contesting the forthcoming General Election. MORE..
Mahinda is suffering from Amnesia – Ajith P. Perera
Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa’s only political slogan is based on racism, communalism and religious extremism, says the United National Party (UNP). MORE..
Litro sends letter of demand to Bandula
The Litro Gas Lanka Ltd sent a letter of demand to former Minister Bandula Gunawardena demanding Rs. 1 billion in damage over several remarks made against it. MORE...
UPFA Parliamentarian Sajin de Vass Gunawardena, who was arrested for allegedly misusing vehicles belonging to the President Secretariat Office, has been further remanded until August 11 by the Fort Magistrate’s Court. MORE...
Will not allow anyone to tear the country into pieces, says Mahinda
It is yet a secret that what types of pacts have been signed between the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) and the United National Party (UNP), former President Mahinda Rajapaksa claims. MORE...
Bloemendal shooting: Another succumbs to injuries
Another person injured during the shooting incident at Bloemendal Road last Friday has succumbed to his injuries. The injured person was receiving treatment at the National hospital at the time of his demise. MORE...
Fraud and corruption led to economic downturn, says Ravi
Finance minister Ravi karunanayke said that the wrong economic policies by the previous government embedded with corruption and frauds resulted in the continuous deterioration of the government revenue and the agro based economy as well. MORE...
I’m ready to sacrifice my life to save Ranil, says Sajith
“I’m even ready to sacrifice my life in a bid to save the Prime Minister in any situation,” Deputy Leader of the United National Party (UNP), Sajith Premadasa, said. MORE...
Ravi has unleashed terror in Colombo - Thilanga
Deputy Minister Thilanga Sumathipala says that although the Elections Commissioner had promised to conduct a free and fare election, Finance Minister Raci Karunanayake has been able to unleash terror in the city of Colombo. MORE..
UPDATE: One dead, 4 injured after van runs over Duminda’s supporters
One person died while another 4 were wounded, 2 critically, when a van driven by a police officer ran over a group of political party supporters in Rambewa, Anuradhapura. MORE..
UN awaits report on Sri Lanka to decide on international probe
The United Nations says that it’s exploring provision of a broad package of technical and financial assistance to Sri Lanka’s Northern Province, at the request of Chief Minister C.V Wigneswaran. MORE..
UPFA calls for immediate probe into Bloemendhal shooting
The United People’s Freedom Alliance (UFPA) today expressed shock and disbelief over the tragic shooting incident at Bloemendhal Road in Colombo, which claimed the life of a UNP supporter and wounded at least another dozen. 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..
Ravi condemns shooting at Kotahena
Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake today condemned the shooting incident, which claimed the life of a woman and left more than 10 of his supporters wounded near Bloemendhal Road in Kotahena. 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..
Drug trade flourished under Rajapaksa regime - Karu
Minister Karu Jayasuriya today charged that former President Mahinda Rajapaksa and his “set of thieves” would resort to any corrupt an unholy action, crushing all accepted moral values and human relations for the sake of power. MORE..
Bribery Commission did not probe any serious allegations – Rajitha
New commissioners will be appointed to the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption after August 18, says Cabinet Spokesman Dr Rajitha Senaratne. MORE...
Railway unions to stage strike from midnight today
Train services around the country would likely come to a standstill from midnight today following a strike called by the Joint Trade Union Alliance (JTUA) of Railway Employees. MORE...
Six arrested for abducting Sagala’s supporters
Police today arrested 6 suspects in connection with the abduction of two men, who were pasting posters of UNP Matara District candidate Sagala Ratanayake, and their three-wheeler in the Diyalape area in Akuressa. MORE..
Nalaka Thero reveals Champika’s alleged plan
In a bid to fulfill the demands of the Tamil National Alliance (TNA), a pact has been signed between the United National Party (UNP) and Venerable Maduluwawe Sobitha Thero, Convener of the National Joint Committee, Gunadasa Amarasekara said. MORE...
Litro Gas denies Bandula’s allegations
The Litro Gas Lanka Ltd on Wednesday (29) denied allegations that the government has signed a MoU with Shell Gas Ltd to purchase Gas at US D 105 per MT, contrary to international tender procedures. MORE...
FR petition filed seeking COPE report made public
A petition was filed with the Supreme Court today seeking an order for the Committee on Public Enterprises (COPE) sub-committee report on the Central Bank bond issue to be made public. MORE..
President cancels SLFP memberships of four including Rajitha, Hirunika
The President has ordered to cancel the SLFP memberships of Rajitha Senaratne, S.B. Navinna, M.K.D.S. Gunawardene, Arjuna Ranatunga and Hirunika Premachandra, the President’s Media Unit said in a statement today (28). MORE...
Ranil wants all to live as kings and no ‘royal family’
Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe says that he wants to make every citizen of the country live like kings and not just establish a ‘royal family’. 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..
Strong quake hits off Indonesia, but no tsunami warning
A strong earthquake hit off of Indonesia’s main island of Java on Sunday afternoon, causing residents to pour into the streets, but there were no immediate reports of injuries or damage, and no tsunami warning was issued. MORE...
Street sweeper stumbles upon grenade and ammunition
A live hand grenade and 20 bullets have been discovered in the roadside at Jaya Mawatha in Pallama, Puttalam. MORE..
President Sirisena to leave for Maldives on Sunday
President Maithripala Sirisena is to undertake a state visit to Maldives on Sunday to participate in the special ceremony celebrating the 50th Anniversary of Independence of the Indian Ocean archipelago to be held in Male. MORE..
Karuna denies saying Prabhakaran was captured alive
Former Deputy Minister Vinayagamurthi Muralitharan, commonly known as Karuna Amman, today completely denied reports quoting him as saying that slain LTTE supremo Velupillai Prabhakaran was arrested and tortured by Sri Lankan troops before being killed. MORE..
The Supreme Court today dismissed the Fundamental Rights (FR) petition filed by former UPFA Parliamentarian Sajin de Vass Gunawardena challenging his arrest and detention. MORE..
The United National Front for Good Governance, a coalition led by the UNP, today released its election manifesto titled “A New Country in 60 Months: Five Point Plan,” underlining the policy of the party for the next five years. Click to Read...
UNDP Sri Lanka hosts 32 young trilingual ‘Unlocked’ bloggers
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Sri Lanka conducted an interactive blogging workshop for the selected 32 young bloggers as they gear to take the Youth and Development agenda forward under the ‘Unlocked’ Project. MORE..
Enjoining Order against COPE report dissolved
The Colombo District Court today dissolved the enjoining order granted earlier preventing the publication of the Committee on Public Enterprises (COPE) sub-committee report on the Central Bank bond issue. MORE..
Govt to pay the Golden Key depositors from Friday
The government is to begin the disbursement of payment to the deposit holders of the defunct Golden Key Credit Card Company Ltd (GK) from Friday (July 24). MORE..
Indian sailor found dead on ship, police launch probe
The body of an Indian sailor has been found on a ship off the Sri Lankan coast, prompting authorities to ask the captain to dock the vessel at the Colombo Harbour and launch a probe. MORE..
Ravi to send letter of demand to MR
“A letter of demand will be sent to the former President seeking Rs 5000 million in damage over several defamatory remarks made against me to a newspaper,” Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake said. MORE...
Military Police investigates Mirihana incident: DM
The Military Police have launched an investigation in connection with the three army personnel who were arrested by the police while traveling in a white-coloured van with fake number plates in Mirihana, the Defence Ministry said in a statement today (21). 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..
UPFA Parliamentarian Sajin de Vass Gunawardena, who was arrested for allegedly misusing vehicles belonging to the President Secretariat Office, has been further remanded until August 4 by the Fort Magistrate’s Court. MORE...
Three army personnel arrested with firearm
The police on Monday (20) have arrested three armed army soldiers in civvies who were travelling in a white-coloured van with fake number plates, the police Spokesperson said. 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...
WFFP urges full implementation of UN Law of seas
The World Forum of Fisher Peoples (WFFP) has sought a permanent solution to tackle the issue of arrest and incarceration of fishermen crossing the national borders and entering the territory of neighbouring countries. MORE...
E03 expressway development stuck in a rut,says MR
The former President on Monday (20) charged that the new government has done nothing to further construct the Katunayake expressway though it obtained loans for the development of the project. MORE...
No poll ticket for Rajiv attacker: BJP
The radical Sinhalese-Buddhist party, the Bodu Jana Permuna (BJP), has refused to give an election ticket to Wijemuni Vijitha Rohana de Silva, who had hit Rajiv Gandhi with his rifle butt when the then Indian Prime Minister. MORE...
Prasanna Ranatunga, wife arrives at FCID
Western Province Chief Minister Prasanna Ranatunga and his wife arrived at the FCID a short while ago to give a statement over an alleged financial malpractice connected to a land deal. MORE...
Fuel price reduction if world oil prices drop: Ravi
The government will consider a further reduction in the fuel price if oil prices in the world drop, Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake said. “We won’t do this as an election bribe. When the gas prices dropped in the world market we reduced the price accordingly,” he added. MORE...
Petitions filed against Mahinda Rajapaksa’s security detail
A Fundamental Rights (FR) petition has been submitted to the Supreme Court seeking a directive to reduce the security provided to former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, who is contesting the forthcoming parliamentary polls. MORE..
Sri Lanka human rights improved under Sirisena: UK
The human rights situation in Sri Lanka has “improved” since Maithripala Sirisena took over presidency from Mahinda Rajapaksa, a UK government report has said. 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..
Sri Lankan woman held on charge of smuggling gold
A 33-year-old Sri Lankan woman has been arrested for allegedly smuggling gold worth 5.5 million Indian rupees, Chennai airport officials said on Thursday. MORE..
Court order against publishing COPE report
The Colombo District Court today issued an interim injunction preventing the publishing of the Committee on Public Enterprises (COPE) sub-committee report on the controversial Central Bank bond issue, until July 23. MORE..
Sri Lanka cheers end of Iran sanctions
The easing of sanctions on Iran will deliver a much needed pick-me-up to Sri Lanka`s troubled tea industry by allowing the resumption of direct exports to one of its main markets, the government said Wednesday. MORE..
Request has been made to sack five SLFPers, says Thilanga
A request has been made to the Central Committee (CC) of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) to sack five party members who defected from the SLFP and scheduled to contest under the United National Front (UNF) at the forthcoming election, SLFP Media Coordinator Thilanga Sumathipala said. 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...
I was against giving nominations to MR, says the President
I was of the view that nominations should not be given to the former President to contest under the United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) ticket at the forthcoming General Election, President Maithripala Sirisena said today (14). 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..
Court grants bail to Prasanna and wife
The Fort Magistrate on Tuesday (14) granted bail to the Chief Minister of the Western Province, Prasanna Ranatunga, and his wife in connection with a case filed against them over an irregular land deal. MORE...
Showers, thundershowers in sea areas
Sea area extending from Puttalam to Pottuvil via Colombo, Galle and Hambantota will be rough at times as the winds can strengthen up to 60 kmph at times while other sea areas around the island may be fairly rough at times, the Met Department said. MORE..
UPFA and UNP Colombo District nominations announced
The nominations lists (Colombo) of the United National Party (UNP) and the United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) have been announced for the forthcoming General Election. MORE...
No nominations for Earl from UNP
The nominations has not been given for former Parliamentarian Earl Gunasekara to contest at the August election under the United National Party (UNP) ticket, it was reported. MORE...
MoU of ‘Good Governance’ alliance signed
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the formation of the “United National Front for Good Governance,” which is to contest the upcoming General Election under the UNP’s “Elephant” symbol, was signed at the Temple Trees, today (12). MORE...
Reginald, Amunugama opt out of electoral contest; Sudarshani to go with UPFA
Former MP Dr. Sudarshani Fernandopulle says that she will not contest the forthcoming General Election from any party other than the United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA). MORE..
Hirunika to contest under ‘elephant’ symbol
UPFA Western Provincial Council member Hirunika Premachandra has reportedly signed nominations to contest the upcoming parliamentary election from the United National Front for Good Governance, the UNP-led political alliance. MORE..
MoU of ‘Good Governance’ alliance to be inked tomorrow
The singing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the formation of the “United National Front for Good Governance,” which is to contest the upcoming General Election under the UNP’s “Elephant” symbol, is to take place on Sunday (12). 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..
Rajitha confirms new alliance with UNP
Minister of Health and Indigenous Medicine Dr Rajitha Senaratna today said that they will not reverse the promise made to the public at the recent Presidential Election, to establish good governance within the country. MORE..
UNP approves United National Front for Good Governance
The United National Party (UNP) today approved the forming of the new alliance “United National Front for Good Governance” to contest the forthcoming General Election under ‘Elephant’ symbol. MORE..
India extends tsunami warning services to Sri Lanka
India has extended its tsunami early warning system services to Sri Lanka and the Seychelles. 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..
A group of Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) members including several Ministers are preparing to contest the upcoming General Election separately and not from the United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA), political sources told Ada Derana. 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..
RC Wijegunaratne appointed as new Navy Commander
Vice Admiral Ravindra C. Wijegunaratne has been appointed as the 20th Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy with effect from tomorrow (July 11), the Ministry of Defence said. 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..
Ada Derana wins at Sumathi Awards 2015
Ada Derana won the Best Television Investigative and Current Affairs news reporting awards at the annual Sumathi Awards 2015 held at Nelum Pokuna Theater in Colombo today. MORE..
Govt rebuts ex-President’s allegations on ethanol licences
The Ministry of Finance today rejected the allegation made by former President Mahinda Rajapaksa that the government in 100 days has issued 28 ethanol licences. MORE..
Wigneswaran wants Sirisena to undertake meaningful reforms
The US and the international community can play a large role in supporting the Sri Lanka’s economic development and accountability and reconciliation processes, as the country tries to move beyond its corrupt and troubled past, says Northern Province Chief Minister C.V. Wigneswaran. 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..
Provincial Councillor arrested for threatening man with gun
UPFA Western Provincial Council member Thushara Perera has been arrested for allegedly threatening a three-wheeler driver with a firearm, police said. MORE..
UPFA Parliamentarian Sajin de Vass Gunawardena, who was arrested for allegedly misusing vehicles belonging to the President Secretariat Office, has been further remanded until July 21 by the Fort Magistrate’s Court. 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...
SB Nawinna to contest from UNP
SLFP Treasurer and Minister S.B. Nawinne says that he will join the United National Party (UNP) and contest the upcoming General Election from the UNP ticket. 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..
Rights groups urge UNHRC to maintain fullest scrutiny of Sri Lanka
Several international human rights groups have urged the international community and the UN Human Rights Council to maintain the fullest scrutiny of Sri Lanka on questions of justice and accountability. MORE..
UNP ‘minority’ Govt will be defeated on Aug 17 - Dinesh
We hope to defeat the UNP minority government on August 17, MEP Leader and former UPFA MP Dinesh Gunawardena said a short while ago. 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..
Judge declines to give statement over assault complaint
A Supreme Court Judge has declined to give a statement to the police in connection with accusations of assaulting a female servant in his employment. MORE..
UN closes down humanitarian office in Sri Lanka
The United Nations is downsizing its humanitarian staff in some Asian countries where governments have stepped up with funds and manpower after a decade of massive floods, storms and earthquakes. MORE...
Network cuts Miss USA over Trump remark
A Univision network is dropping the Miss USA pageant and the company says it will cut all business ties with Donald Trump in a spiraling controversy over comments the Republican presidential candidate made recently about Mexican immigrants. MORE..
CB Governor seeks overseas loans to reduce debt costs
Sri Lankan central bank Governor Arjuna Mahendran is seeking concessional overseas loans to refinance costlier debt and reduce reliance on global bond markets. MORE..
US report highlights Sri Lankan human rights problems in 2014
There were reports that the Sri Lankan government or its agents committed arbitrary or unlawful killings in 2014, the U.S. State Department said in an annual report on Thursday. MORE..
Eight Indian men arrested with gold in rectums, waist band
Eight Indian nationals have been arrested by Sri Lankan customs officers at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Katunayake for attempting to leave the country with gold worth over Rs 4.5 million concealed in their rectal cavities and waist band. MORE..
Politicians shouldn’t waste public money for banners, cutouts: President
Politicians should not waste public money for the banners and cutouts for their election campaigns and instead should spend that money for the welfare of the people, President Maithripala Sirisena said today. MORE..
Central Bank clarifies on new Governor, currency notes issue
The Central Bank of Sri Lanka today clarified on the validity of the appointment of its present governor and controversy surrounding the currency notes issued by the Bank on February 04, in view of frivolous allegations appearing in certain media. MORE..
Saliya Wickramasuriya released on bail
Former Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the Sri Lanka Reconstruction and Development Agency (RADA), Dr Saliya Wickramasuriya, has been released on bail by the Colombo Fort Magistrate’s Court. MORE..
US wants to build lasting peace and fellowship in Sri Lanka
The United States wants to build a lasting peace and fellowship among Sri Lanka’s various religious and ethnic groups, President Barack Obama’s ambassadorial nominee for Sri Lanka told lawmakers today. MORE...
Twelve Police OICs transferred
Twelve Police officers-in-charge (OICs) have been ordered transferred with immediate effect on exigencies of service by the Inspector General of Police (IGP), police spokesman ASP Ruwan Gunasekara said. MORE..
Mahinda Rajapaksa has not asked for a helicopter – Weliwita
Reports that the government has provided a helicopter for the use of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa are completely untrue, according to latter’s Media Coordinator, Rohan Weliwita. MORE..
We have to rise above hatred and feelings of vengeance - Mangala
The Sri Lankan government pursues a policy of engagement, dialogue and cooperation with all countries and international organisations and will remain open to the ideas of others, their views and opinions, says the country’s foreign minister. MORE..
LTTE financial network operated throughout 2014: US report
Despite its military defeat at the hands of the Sri Lankan government in 2009, the LTTE’s international network of sympathizers and financial support persists, the United States says. MORE..
56 garment factory workers hospitalised
At least 56 workers at a garment factory in the Katunayake Investment Promotion Zone were hospitalised today with symptoms of food poisoning. MORE..
CID reveals transactions between Wele Suda and actress
The Colombo Magistrate’s Court today informed the CID to produce a copy of the Colombo High Court directive to freeze the bank accounts belonging to popular cinema and television actress, Udayanthi Kulatunga. 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..
Ex-PS member arrested for poaching in reserve
A former UNP member of the Ambalantota Pradeshiya Sabha has been arrested by wildlife officers for allegedly poaching within the Madunagala Reserve. 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...
Opposition Leader slams UNP’s “dual policy”
Sri Lanka’s Opposition today said that they will seek to debate the motion of no-confidence against Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe in Parliament, in the third week of July. MORE..
UPFA Parliamentarian Sajin de Vass Gunawardena, who was arrested for allegedly misusing vehicles belonging to the President Secretariat Office, has been further remanded until June 24 by the Colombo Magistrate’s. MORE..
Tissa grilled at Bribery Commission
Former UNP General Secretary Tissa Attanayake was today summoned to the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption to record a statement regarding his acceptance of a ministerial portfolio before the Presidential Election. MORE..
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..
US commends fight against corruption in Lanka
The US called on Sri Lanka to “continue on its path of ensuring accountability and reconciliation” in a statement delivered to the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva. In an opening statement delivered on Monday, the US said “we commend the people of Sri Lanka for restoring democratic institutions and combatting corruption”. MORE...
A Buddhist monk has committed suicide by self-immolation in a forest area at the Madunagala Hermitage. MORE..
Namal Rajapaksa questioned by CID
UPFA Parliamentarian Namal Rajapaksa arrived at the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) this morning to give a statement, Ada Derana Reporter said. MORE..
Sri Lanka to raise up to $2 bn in foreign borrowings
Sri Lanka’s government plans to borrow up to $2.0 billion from overseas, the finance minister said Thursday, just two weeks after raising a billion through its first international bond issue. MORE..
Air Marshal Gunatilleke appointed new CDS
Air Marshal Kolitha Gunatilleke has been appointed as the new Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) with effect from June 16, the Air Force Spokesman said. MORE..
MPs who failed A/L questioning CC nominees’ qualifications - CaFFE
A number of MPs have used the debate on the composition of the Constitution Council (CC) and the appointment of civil members to the CC to derail the progress made by the 19th amendment to the constitution, a Sri Lankan election watchdog said. MORE..
Minority parties didn’t raise their voices properly - Rajitha
Cabinet Spokesman and Health Minister Dr Rajitha Senaratna says that a final decision will be reached regarding the 20th Amendment to the Constitution, introducing electoral reforms, at the special cabinet meeting to be held on Friday (12). MORE..
Police hunt kidnappers of Vavuniya businessman’s son
Police have launched investigation into the kidnapping of a businessman’s five-year-old son in Vavuniya, seeking a ransom of Rs 3 million. MORE..
Ban’s spokesman reveals reason for statement delay
The Office of the Spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General has conceded that a failure in its ‘system’ had led to the delay in the dissemination of a statement regarding last week’s telephonic conversation between Ban Ki-Moon and President Maithripala Sirisena. MORE..
The ruling United National Party (UNP) has strongly defended the scheme of electoral reforms approved by the Cabinet a few days ago as part of the 20th constitutional amendment. MORE...
We will survive no-confidence vote - Ravi
Sri Lanka’s finance minister has defended the pace of the country’s economic recovery, as a bruising vote of no confidence in the government looms. MORE...
Missing Persons panel to submit final report in August
A Sri Lankan presidential panel probing the alleged disappearances of thousands of people, including minority Tamils, during the deadly civil war will present its final report in August, an official said today. MORE..
Opposition wants installation of majority govt, not Parliament dissolution
Sri Lanka’s opposition parties want the installation of a government which has majority support in parliament and not its dissolution and fresh elections. MORE..
Police Headquarters has transferred 06 officers-in-charge (OICs) of police stations with effect from Friday (5) on exigencies of the service, police spokesman ASP Ruwan Gunasekara said. MORE..
No-confidence Motion against PM handed over to Speaker
The motion of no-confidence against Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe has been handed over to Speaker Chamal Rajapaksa last night, UPFA Parliamentarian Bandula Gunawardena said. MORE..
UN chief commends President Sirisena
UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon has appreciated the new Government’s forward march under the leadership of President Maithripala Sirisena, to build peace and reconciliation in the country while protecting democratic rights of the People. MORE..
Politicians who sacrilege religious places are eventual losers - Gayantha
Minister of Mass Media Gayantha Karunathilaka says that individuals who commit sacrilege at religious places of worship for political purposes are the eventual losers and that political and religious extremism is a threat to the peace and harmony in Sri Lanka. MORE..
Over 100 MPs signed no-confidence motion against PM - Wimal
National Freedom Front (NFF) leader Wimal Weerawansa says that the motion of no-confidence against Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe will be submitted today. MORE..
Unfair to question CB governor’s citizenship – Ranil
Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe says that it is unfair to question the citizenship of Central Bank Governor Arjuna Mahendran. MORE..
Parliament adjourned amidst CC stand-off
The Speaker today decided to adjourn Parliament until next Tuesday (June 09), despite its failure to reach a final decision with regard to the appointing of three civil society representatives to the Constitutional Council. MORE..
President Sirisena has moved country away from divisive politics - US
President Maithripala Sirisena has moved the country away from divisive politics and crony capitalism toward a new path of reconciliation and inclusive development, the United States said today. MORE...
President Sirisena has become a prisoner of the UNP: Bandula
(Exclusive) President Maithripala Sirisena has become a prisoner of the United National Party (UNP), former Minister Bandula Gunawardena said. MORE...
Injustice against Tamils in Sri Lanka continues: DMK
Expressing concern over a report on the Sri Lankan army’s “continued occupation” of traditional Tamil homeland, DMK on Saturday said it showed that the scene has not changed despite a change of guard in the island republic. MORE..
Truth behind Rugby player’s death expected soon
Police Spokesman ASP Ruwan Gunasekara says that the truth regarding the death of rugby player Wasim Thajudeen will be uncovered very soon. MORE..
SLFP Parliamentarians Lakshman Yapa Abeywardena, Ranjith Siyambalapitiya, Chandrasiri Sooriyaarachchi, Hemal Gunasekara and Pandu Bandaranayake have received ministerial portfolios. MORE..
New SLFP Ministers to be sworn in
A group of SLFP Parliamentarians are to be sworn in as Ministers today filling the vacant portfolios following the recent resignation of several SLFP Ministers. MORE..
Johnston Fernando released on bail
Former Minister Johnston Fernando, who was arrested and remanded over charges of financial fraud, was released on bail by the Kurunegala High Court today. MORE..
PCB hopes to host Sri Lanka next year
Managing to impress the visiting Zimbabwe cricket team with its security arrangements, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is now targeting a tour by the Sri Lankan outfit sometime in April next year. MORE..
Special Parliamentary session to approve CC members
(UPDATE) A special parliamentary session to approve the civil society representatives of the Constitutional Council will be held next Wednesday (June 03), Deputy Speaker Chandima Weerakkody said. MORE..
Sarath Fonseka says he would welcome war crime investigation
Sri Lanka’s wartime army chief says his conscience is clear and he would welcome a war crimes investigation to prove his innocence. MORE..
Special court to try Jaffna rape accused - President
President Maithripala Sirisena, who is currently visiting Jaffna, pledges that the accused in the Pungudutivu gang rape and murder case will be punished even through a special court, the Presidential Media Division said. MORE...
Court issues stay order banning protests in Chunnakam
The Mallakam Court issued a stay order banning any processions or protests up to 14 days from today within the Chunnakam police area in Jaffna, police said. 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..
Post-war systemic breakdown blamed for Jaffna violence
Dr. Daya Somasundaram, Professor of Psychiatry at Jaffna University, blames the breakdown of traditional social and administrative structures for the gang rape and murder of 18 year old school girl, S. Vithya, at Pungudithivu on May 13, and the mayhem that engulfed Sri Lanka’s Northern Province subsequently. MORE..
Court bans protests in Jaffna Town
The Jaffna Magistrate Court has issued a stay order banning all types of protests in Jaffna Town, Police Spokesman ASP Ruwan Gunasekara said. MORE..
130 arrested over Jaffna violence remanded
The 130 persons arrested for unlawful protest, damaging public property and assaulting police officers near the Jaffna Magistrate’s Court have been ordered remanded. MORE..
Tense situation erupts near Jaffna Court
Police today used tear gas to disperse protesters who were behaving violently near Jaffna Court over a rape and murder of a girl in Kayts, the police said. MORE..
Hambantota Mayor released on bail
Mayor of Hambantota Eraj Fernando, who was arrested and remanded for allegedly attempting to assault a suspect in police custody, has been released on bail by the Hambantota Magistrate’s Court. MORE..
New Parliament by September - President
President Maithripala Sirisena today said that the Sri Lankan Parliament will be dissolved after appointing a constitutional council and that there will be a new Parliament by September. MORE..
The UN at 70: A 60-Year Journey with Sri Lanka
The year 2015 marks an important milestone in Sri Lanka’s relationship with the United Nations. It is the 70th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations and also the 60th anniversary of Sri Lanka’s entry into the U.N. system. MORE...
UN shows no positive progress for our issue, says Wigneswaran
Chief Minister of Northern Provincial Council Justice C.V. Wigneswaran on Monday (18) condemned the international community for its delay in handling the accountability issue in Sri Lanka and failure to bring justice to the Tamil people. MORE...
No-confidence motion filed against Ravi Karunanayake
A no confidence motion, signed by over 100 MPs, has been handed over to the Speaker against Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake, Parliamentarian Ranjith de Zoysa told Ada Derana. MORE...
Government nominates former cricketer Skandakumar as top envoy to Australia
Sri Lanka has nominated a new chief envoy to Australia – a former cricket administrator, businessman and member of country’s Tamil minority. MORE...
Sri Lankan arrested after undercover sting in Florida
A 22-year-old Sri Lankan man is facing up to 15 years in prison if found guilty on charges of attempted lewd and lascivious battery and traveling to meet a minor for a sexual encounter in Florida, US. MORE..
Trains delayed as Yal Devi collides with container truck
Trains on the main line have been delayed due to a collision involving the Anuradhapura-bound Yal Devi train and a container truck near Hunupitiya Railway Station. MORE..
Muslim Council writes to JVP over resettlement comments
The Muslim Council of Sri Lanka today wrote to the JVP to raise its concern over comments made on the resettlement of Muslim IDPs. MORE...
Three nabbed over kidnap, rape and murder of student
Police have arrested three suspects in connection with the kidnapping, rape and murder of an 18-year-old student, who was on her way to school Wednesday morning in Punkudithivu, Jaffna. MORE..
No-confidence motion against CB Governor next week- Peiris
The opposition will move a motion of no confidence against Central Bank Governor, Arjuna Mahendran, who is in the spotlight due to the controversy surrounding the treasury bond issue, former Foreign Minister G.L. Peiris said. MORE...
Heavy rain fall expected in parts of the country
The Department of Meteorology says that under the influence of Inter Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), the possibility for rain and lightning activities over the country still persists. MORE..
65 Sri Lankan refugees return from India
A batch of 65 Sri Lankan refugees, from some 32 families, returned from India today, Minister of Resettlement and Hindu Religious Affairs D.M. Swaminathan told Ada Derana. MORE..
DMK welcomes Sri Lanka’s efforts to solve fishing dispute
Welcoming Sri Lanka’s efforts to solve the fishing dispute in Palk Strait, DMK today urged the Indian government to take steps for bilateral talks involving fishermen of the island nation and India and bring about a lasting solution to the vexed issue. MORE..
Lalith Weeratunga questioned over RADA
Former Secretary to the President Lalith Weeratunga is currently giving a statement at the special investigations unit regarding alleged financial fraud at the Reconstruction and Development Agency (RADA), police said. MORE..
SC rejects FR against Arjuna Mahendran
The Supreme Court of Sri Lanka today rejected the Fundamental Rights (FR) petition seeking an independent inquiry into the controversial Central Bank Treasury bond issue and it’s Governor Arjuna Mahendran. 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..
Arrested corporal had gun, not water bottle – Police
Police Spokesman ASP Ruwan Gunasekara today denied claims that the army corporal, who was arrested following a security breach at an event attended by the President, was only holding a bottle of water in his hand and not a gun. MORE..
Heroin worth over Rs.80 million recovered from Marawila
Over 8kgs of heroin with a street value of over Rs. 80 million has been recovered from Thoduwawa in Marawila, Police said a short while ago. The heroin in believed to have been smuggled from India into the country. MORE..
19A has failed to address what it promised, says Attanayake
(Exclusive) The 19th Amendment to the Constitution, which passed with a two third majority in the parliament, has failed to address what it promised to the people back in the January polls, former General Secretary of the United National Party (UNP) and former Health Minister Tissa Attanayake said. MORE...
UN group on missing to visit Sri Lanka in August
The United Nations Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances has confirmed that it will visit Sri Lanka from August 3 – 12. MORE...
Mutual understanding the key to pass 20A: JVP
The President has vowed to dissolve Parliament, if fails to reach a final agreement on the 20th Amendment at the tomorrow’s All Party Leaders (APL) meeting, Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake said. MORE...
9 hour water cut in several areas
The National Water Supply and Drainage Board announced a 9 hour water cut from 8.00am to 5.00pm tomorrow (May 10) in several areas int he Western Province. 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..
No-confidence motion against Ravi next week – Bandula
Former Minister Bandula Gunawardena says that a motion of no confidence will be submitted in Parliament next week against Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake, who he claims is responsible for the crises that have befallen the country’s economy. MORE..
Term of LG bodies will not be extended – Rajitha
The term of the local government bodies that were extended until May 15 will not be further extended and would dissolve automatically, Cabinet Spokesman Rajitha Senaratne said. MORE..
UPFA Parliamentarian Sajin de Vass Gunawardena has been summoned to appear at the Criminal Investigations Department on Monday (May 11). MORE..
Local government bodies to be dissolved on May 15
Minister of Public Order & Christian Affairs, John Amaratunga, says that a decision has been taken to dissolve all local government institutions next Friday (May 15). MORE..
Will bring no-confidence motion against Ranil - Wimal
Former Minister Wimal Weerawansa says that a motion of no confidence will be brought against Prime Minister Ranil Wickramasinghe. MORE..
Gotabaya seeks Rs 1 billion in damages from Watagala
Former Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa has sent a letter of demand to JVP Western Provincial Councillor Attorney-at-Law Sunil Watagala, seeking Rs 1 billion in damages over alleged malicious and defamatory remarks made by the latter against him. MORE..
The Mayor of the Sri Jayawardenapura Kotte, Janaka Ranawaka, who was arrested this morning for allegedly assaulting the Opposition Leader of the Municipal Council, has been remanded until May 11 by the Hulftsdorp Magistrate court. MORE..
Kotte Opposition leader also arrested
Opposition leader of the Kotte Municipal Council Sugath Appuhami has been arrested over the alleged assault on the Mayor of the Kotte MC, police said. Earlier today the Mayor of the Sri Jayawardenapura Kotte, Janaka Ranawaka, was arrested for allegedly assaulting the Opposition Leader of the Municipal Council, police said. MORE...
High Court suspends Salman Khan’s jail sentence
The Mumbai high court suspended on Friday actor Salman Khan’s jail term in the 2002 hit-and-run case, pending appeal, giving him temporary reprieve. MORE..
Methsiri loses Galle mayorship again
The Court of Appeals today annulled the Galle High Court’s decision to invalidate the gazette notification issued to remove Methsiri de Silva as Mayor of Galle Municipal Council. MORE..
Kotte Mayor arrested over attack on Opposition Leader
The Mayor of the Sri Jayawardenapura Kotte, Janaka Ranawaka, has been arrested for allegedly assaulting the Opposition Leader of the Municipal Council, police said. MORE..
Lankan accused in hit-and-run pleads guilty
A Sri Lankan man, who is in New Zealand on a work permit, has admitted he struck a woman while driving a rental car and talking on a mobile phone, then fled the scene. MORE..
Sri Lanka sets September date for war crimes probe
Sri Lanka’s new government yesterday said an investigation into allegations of war crimes would begin by September, amid international pressure to account for atrocities committed during the island’s decades-long separatist conflict. MORE...
Sri Lanka’s Development Goals fall short on Gender Equality - report
When Rosy Senanayake, Sri Lanka’s minister of state for child affairs, addressed the U.N. Commission on Population and Development (CPD) in New York last month, she articulated both the successes and shortcomings of gender equality in a country which prided itself electing the world’s first female head of government... 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...
FUTA condemns attack on former president
Condemning the Friday’s attack on Dr Nirmal Ranjith Dewasiri and Dr Kumudu Kusum Kumara, the Federation of University Teachers’ Associations today said that the incident is a grim reminder of the political culture that people thought they had defeated on January 08. MORE..
Armed soldier at President’s event arrested
An Army Corporal who was allegedly armed with a weapon at a recent event attended by President Maithripala Sirisena in Agunukolapelessa has been arrested by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), police spokesman ASP Ruwan Gunasekara said. MORE..
Five jailed in The Hague for supporting Tamil Tigers
Five Dutch nationals of Sri Lankan origin have been jailed for between 19 months and six years three months for raising money for the Tamil Tigers, which has been on the EU’s official list of terrorist organisations since 2006. MORE..
Two uni students arrested for damaging public property
Two university students arrested on charges of causing damage to public property during a protest opposite the UGC yesterday have been remanded until May 11, police said. MORE..
Eraj Fernando further remanded until May 13
The Mayor of Hambantota, Eraj Fernando, who was arrested and remanded for allegedly attempting to assault a suspect in police custody was further remanded until May 13 by the Hambantota Magistrate’s Court. 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..
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..
Here’s a look at changes made to 19A
Sri Lanka’s parliament overwhelmingly passed reforms on Tuesday (April 28) reducing some of the president’s powers, in a move that did not go as far as President Maithripala Sirisena had promised but is nevertheless seen as a victory for the leader and his government. MORE..
I never interfered to secure the release of an impounded container: Senasinghe
Deputy Justice Minister Sujeewa Senasinghe on Tuesday (28) dismisses allegations that he interfered to customs affairs in a bid to secure the release of an impounded container of copper rods, thus, he would instigate legal action against a print media institution that published an article to sling mud at him. 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..
Death toll in Nepal may touch 10,000 - PM Koirala
The death toll in Nepal’s devastating earthquake may go up to 10,000, Prime Minister Sushil Koirala on Tuesday told the envoys of India, China and the US. MORE..
DG Kumarage elected as Kataragama Basnayake Nilame
D.G. Kumarage has been elected as the new Basnayake Nilame of the Ruhunu Kataragama Maha Devalaya. MORE..
AUDIO: Sri Lanka dispatches emergency relief assistance to Nepal, creates hotline
The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Kathmandu has established a hotline for any inquiries regarding Sri Lankan nationals residing Nepal, in wake of the powerful earthquake that shook the country and Northern India. MORE..
AUDIO: Nepal earthquake kills atleast 449, triggers avalanches
(UPFATE) The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Kathmandu says that so far there have been no reports of Sri Lankan nationals in Nepal being affected by the earthquake. MORE..
Import tax on potatoes and big onions increased
The import tax on potatoes has been increased from Rs 40 to Rs 55 per kilogram and big onions increased from Rs 10 to Rs 30 per kilogram with effect from today, Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake said.
UPFA politicians summoned on contempt charges
The Colombo Magistrate’s Court today issued notice on 27 persons including 10 UPFA Parliamentarians to appear before the court on May 8 on contempt of court charges, after they violated a court order and staged a protest opposite the bribery commission. MORE..
New govt’s policies have created positive environment: Ban Ki-moon
Welcoming the new Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has stated that a positive environment has been created by the policies of the new government in Sri Lanka for a greater collaboration with the United Nations and the international community. 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..
Arjuna Mahendran resumes duty at Central Bank - sources
Central Bank Governor Arjuna Mahendran has resumed his duties after a more than five-week voluntary leave of absence after being cleared by a panel investigating a controversial government bond auction, according to a Reuters report. MORE..
Tense situation outside Bribery Commission as Gota arrives
A tense situation reported due to a protest opposite the Bribery Commission as former Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa has been summoned to give a statement, the police said. MORE..
Court bans protests in front of Bribery Commission
The Colombo Chief Magistrate has issued an order banning protest in front of the Bribery Commission tomorrow (April 23), police spokesman ASP Ruwan Gunasekara said. MORE..
Opposition demands anti-graft chief’s sacking
Main opposition demanded on Tuesday the country’s anti-graft chief be sacked for summoning former president Mahinda Rajapaksa to answer bribery allegations amid renewed uproar in parliament. MORE...
No-confidence motion to be filed against Ravi Karunanayake
A no confidence motion to be brought against Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake, Parliamentarian Bandula Gunawardena said.
I had no secret accounts in any foreign bank, says Rajapaksa
Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa on Sunday (19) dismissed allegations of him, his wife or sons maintaining any illegal or secret offshore accounts in any foreign bank. MORE...
Sri Lankan couple, daughters land near Rameswaram
A Sri Lankan Tamil couple with their three teenage daughters landed clandestinely at Arichalmunai, off Dhanushkodi in the early hours of Friday, The Hindu reports. MORE..
PM offers worship at Guruvayur Temple
Prime Minister Ranil Wickramasinghe, who left for India this morning, offered worship at the famous Lord Krishna Temple in Guruvayoor amid heavy security. MORE..
‘Sung influenced Sri Lanka for Ban’s election’
Deceased Keangnam Enterprises Chairman Sung Woan-jong claimed that he contributed considerably to the election of Ban Ki-moon as United Nations secretary general, Sung’s associates were quoted as saying by a vernacular newspaper. MORE..
Lankan charged over hit-and-run in New Zealand
A Sri Lankan man has allegedly hit a woman in the rental car he was driving then fled the scene in New Zealand, foreign media reported. MORE..
India unsuited to play mediator due to TN factor - Dayan
India is “structurally unsuited” to be mediator or facilitator in the Sri Lankan ethnic conflict because it is subject to the “emotional and electoral power” of one of its constituent states, namely, Tamil Nadu, argues former Sri Lankan envoy at the UN in Geneva, Dr. Dayan Jayatilleka. MORE..
Ranil merely joked about shooting Indian fishermen - CBK
Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe was joking when he made the comment about shooting Indian fishermen, former President Chandrika Kumaratunga said in an interview with DNA. MORE...
Mahinda Rajapaksa prepares for political comeback - report
Former president of Sri Lanka Mahinda Rajapaksa is planning to stand in parliamentary polls to launch an attempt to return to power, aides have said. MORE..
Arjuna Mahendran questioned at Bribery Commission
The Bribery Commission has recorded a statement from the Governor of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, Arjuna Mahendran. 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..
57 MPs visit Mahinda Rajapaksa
Around fifty-seven Members of Parliament today visited former President Mahinda Rajapaksa at his Carlton House in Tangalle. MORE..
Rohitha Abeygunawardena sacked from SLFP central committee
Former Minister Rohitha Abeygunawardena has also been removed from the Central Committee of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP). MORE..
Nishantha Ranatunga questioned by FCID
The Police Financial Crimes Investigation Division (FCID) is currently questioning former SLC Secretary Nishantha Ranatunga, regarding a financial transaction of a private media organisation. MORE..
Sri Lanka must offer full support to UN probe - Cameron
British Prime Minister David Cameron says he has offered support to the steps being taken by the government to address past issues while stressing that Sri Lanka should “go further” and continue to offer full support to the ongoing UN investigation. MORE..
Over 600 arrested for drunk driving
Police have arrested 605 motorists for driving under the influence of alcohol following special operations launched in view of the festive season. MORE..
Two brothers intentionally run over after dispute
Two brothers were killed and another person critically wounded after they were intentionally run over by a lorry driver in the Kehelulla area in Padiyathalawa. MORE..
We will continue to push for independent probe - Ed Miliband
British Prime Ministerial hopeful Ed Miliband says that the Labour Party will continue to push for a full and independent, international investigation into alleged war crimes in Sri Lanka. MORE..
US diplomat discusses human rights and accountability with Sri Lanka
A senior American diplomat has held discussion with Sri Lankan government officials on human rights and strengthening democracy, transparency, and accountability during his recent visit to the island nation. MORE..
Motorists urged to not drink and drive this New Year
The Police Department today appealed to all motorists to refrain from driving while under the influence of alcohol. Special police teams have been deployed to arrest drunken drivers, police spokesman ASP Ruwan Gunasekara said.
SLFP appoints new members to Central Committee: sources
Replacing the sacked senior members, the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) sources on Monday (13) announced its bid to appoint five new members to the party’s Central Committee. MORE...
Sacking of Central Committee members not unlawful: SLFP
The removal of four members from the Central Committee of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) is not a violation of party’s constitution, a party source said. MORE...
Dissanayake to step down as SLFP Ampara organiser
Former Provincial Councilor Wimalaweera Dissanayake on Sunday (12) asserted that he will step down from his post as the Sri Lanka Freedom Party organiser for Ampara electoral district in protest over party’s conclusion to sack several members attached to its central committee. MORE...
Sri Lanka has potential to be a role model: UN
“If handled well, the case of Sri Lanka has the potential to constitute an example for the region and for the world of how a sustainable peace ought to be achieved,” says Pablo de Greiff, UN Special Rapporteur on Truth, Justice, Reparations, and Guarantees of Non-recurrence. MORE...
Several SLFP central committee members sacked
Several more UPFA Parliamentarians say they have been removed from the central committee of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP). MORE..
Bandula sacked from SLFP central committee
Former Minister Bandula Gunawardena says that he has been removed from the Central Committee of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP). The UPFA MP said he has received a letter notifying him of this decision. 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..
ITAK ‘entitled’ to post of Opposition Leader
Weighing in on the standoff over the Opposition Leader post, Sri Lanka’s main Tamil party today said that no MP elected from the UPFA or UNP can hold the position and that the ITAK is entitled to it, having the next highest number of representatives. MORE..
STF member dies from accidental shooting
A police constable serving with the Special Task Force (STF) was killed after being accidentally shot by another officer during a raid carried out in the Ridee Ella Reserve at Bakamuna, Dambulla. MORE..
Power must be distributed – President
President Maithripala Sirisena says that he plans to announce details of a domestic probe into allegations of human rights violation during Sri Lanka’s long civil war by the end of June, just as the country heads into early general elections. 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...
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...
Kapila Wijegunawardene named chairman of selectors
Former cricketer Kapila Wijegunawardene has been appointed as chairman of Sri Lanka Cricket Selection Committee, the Sports Ministry confirmed on Wednesday. MORE...
Proposal on Treasury Bill defeated in Parliament
A motion tabled by Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake to increase the threshold of Treasury Bills was defeated in Parliament with 31 voting for and 52 against. MORE...
PM, CBK take crucial decisions now: Gammanpila
Pivithuru Hela Urumaya (PHU) General Secretary and Western Provincial Councillor Udaya Gammanpila on Tuesday (7) charged that those who assisted to form the new government take crucial decisions about the island nation, but not the President. MORE...
Speaker needs more time on Opposition Leader’s post
Speaker Chamal Rajapaksa says that he needs more time to consider his decision on the Opposition Leader’s post, which subject of controversy after 26 Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) MPs joined the new Government to accept ministerial portfolios. MORE...
Dinesh to get Opposition Leader post?
A proposal signed by some 60 Parliamentarians, requesting to appoint Mahajana Eksath Peramuna leader Dinesh Gunawardena as the Opposition Leader, has been handed over to the Speaker, former Minister T.B. Ekanayake told Ada Derana. 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...
Vimukthi Kumaratunga helps to rescue five-foot boa constrictor
The amusing story is reported today of how a five-foot boa constrictor became trapped behind a steering wheel after it slithered behind the dashboard and was rescued by Vimukthi Kumaratunga son of former President Chandrika Bandaranayake Kumaratunga in Bristol, UK. MORE...
Sun directly over Sri Lanka today: Met. Department
The Sun is going to be directly over Sri Lanka from today (5) to 15 April, the Meteorology Department said. MORE...
Major parties should agree on reasonable power devolution - Kiriella
The major political parties in the country should agree on reasonable devolution of power to the North and East, says Minister of Plantation Industries Lakshman Kiriella. MORE..
BOI recommends criminal prosecution of ex-SriLankan Airlines Chairman & CEO
A Board of Inquiry has found shocking details of corruption running into billions of dollars, manipulations of service contracting, recruitment of unqualified staff and major security breaches at the SriLankan Airlines under the former government. MORE..
26/11-like attack by ISI agents based in Sri Lanka thwarted - report
A 26/11-like attack was in the making, but this time, from the east coast. That is how National Investigation Agency (NIA) Director-General Sharad Kumar sums up the agency’s exhaustive nearly two-year investigation into what it says was a massive terror plot against India by Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). MORE..
China ‘appreciates’ Sri Lanka’s stance on Dalai Lama invitation
China on Friday said it appreciated Sri Lanka’s stance on the Dalai Lama, as it seems unlikely their government would grant him a visa to visit. 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..
Embilipitiya UC chairman removed
The Chairman of the Embilipitiya Urban Council, Venerable Wevelduwe Gnanapraba Thero, has been temporarily removed from the post by Sabaragamuwa Chief Minister Maheepala Herath. MORE..
Sri Lanka vows to remedy root causes of terrorism
The Sri Lankan Government today vowed to remedy the root causes of injustice, discrimination and prejudice that have spawned hate and violence for many decades in the country. MORE..
Clash between uni students, police regrettable: PMO
The Prime Minister’s Office says the clash between protesting university students and police personnel was “regrettable” and that protesters refusing to allow their representatives to hand over the memorandum had resulted in yesterday’s unfortunate incident. MORE..
Police probe violent clashes between students and police
The police on Wednesday launched an investigation into the violent clashes which erupted between local university students and the police on Tuesday resulting in several people being injured. MORE...
UN Assistant Secretary-General to visit Sri Lanka
Mr. Haoliang Xu, United Nations Assistant Secretary-General, Chair, United Nations Development Group Asia-Pacific and UNDP Assistant Administrator & Director, Regional Bureau for Asia and the Pacific is scheduled to visit Sri Lanka from April 4-10, 2015. MORE..
“I have a clean record,” says Mevyn Silva
(EXCLUSIVE) “I’m not concerned that I wasn’t offered a ministerial portfolio from the coalition government, despite campaigning for the victory of the present President in the January polls,” former Minister Mevyn Silva said. MORE...
Mattala is like a ‘chicken-and-egg’ problem: ex-CEO
Eran Wickramaratne, the deputy minister of investment promotion, says the current government now has to figure out how sunken investments like the Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (MRIA) can be salvaged, or if they can be at all. MORE..
Police tear gas protesting university students
(UPDATE) The Galle Road has been closed from Kollupitiya Junction to Galle Face Roundabout due to the protest launched by university students, polcie spokesman ASP Ruwan Gunasekara said. MORE..
P.B. Jayasundera questioned over hedging deal
The Financial Crime Investigation Division (FCID) is currently recording a statement from former Treasury Secretary and Economic Development Ministry Secretary P.B. Jayasundera in connection with the controversial hedging deal, police spokesman ASP Ruwan Gunasekara said. MORE...
The Colombo Fort Magistrate on Tuesday (31) granted bail to MP Sajin de Vass Gunawardena on a case filed by the Bribery Commission over failure to declare his assets. MORE..
Sidath Wettimuny appointed IC Chairman
Former cricketer Sidat Wettimuny has been appointed as the Chairman for the interim committee of the Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC). MORE...
Rigorous imprisonment for Mahinda Abeykoon
Chairman of the Central Provincial Council Mahinda Abeykoon has been sentenced to two and a half years rigorous imprisonment by the Kandy High Court on Monday (30). MORE...
Sarana Gunawardena released on bail
The Attanagalla Magistrate on Monday (30) granted bail to ex-Minister Sarana Gunawardena who was arrested by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) on charges of criminal breach of trust. MORE...
SLC interim committee to be appointed tomorrow
Mired in controversies owing to allegations of corruption, Sri Lanka Cricket will now be run by an interim committee, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said on Monday. MORE...
Lanka for India’s inclusion in regional cooperation with China
Sri Lanka has backed China’s surprise initiative to make India an important component of a regional cooperation to address New Delhi’s concerns over Chinese involvement in large-scale projects in the country, a senior Sri Lankan minister has said. MORE...
Mihin Lanka flight in emergency landing at BIA
A Mihin Lanka flight bound for Bangladesh has made an emergency landing at the Katunayake airport following a technical snag on Sunday (29) morning. MORE...
Pablo de Greiff to visit Sri Lanka today
UN Special Rapporteur on Truth, Justice, Reparations, and Guarantees of Non-recurrence, Pablo de Greiff, will arrive in Sri Lanka for a six-day visit, the Foreign Affairs Ministry said on Sunday (29). MORE...
President Maithripala Sirisena’s brother dies
Priyantha Sirisena, the brother of President Maithripala Sirisena, who was treated at a private hospital in Colombo after an axe attack died this morning (28) at the age of 40. 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..
Priyantha Sirisena’s attacker remanded
The suspect who was arrested last night for attacking the President’s brother Priyantha Sirisena with an axe, has been remanded until the 8th of April by the Polonnaruwa Magistrate’s Court. MORE..
Priyantha Sirisena’s attacker reveals motive
The suspect arrested over the attack on President Maithripala Sirisena’s brother Priyantha, says he hid and waited before attacking the victim with an axe, because the latter had yelled at his parents. MORE..
Four arrested over Sri Lankan’s murder in Coventry
Four suspects have been arrested, with one appearing in court yesterday, over the murder of a Sri Lankan man in Coventry, England. MORE..
Thirteen wounded after van crashes into embankment
At least thirteen persons were injured and hospitalised after a van veered off the road and collided with a roadside embankment in the Hagiliella area in Badulla. MORE...
Suspected attacker of President’s brother surrenders
The suspect who was wanted in connection with the attack on President Maithripala Sirisena’s brother Priyantha earlier today has been arrested. MORE..
I will return to Sri Lanka soon - Basil
Former Minister of Economic Development Basil Rajapaksa, speaking to Ada Derana, said that he will return to Sri Lanka soon and assist in the investigations into allegations against him. MORE..
Over 26 SLFP MPs attend Ratnapura rally
Over 26 Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) Parliamentarians attend a public rally currently being held in Ratnapura urging Mahinda Rajapaksa to be nominated as the party’s Prime Ministerial candidate. MORE..
Man gets death penalty for heroin possession
A person found guilty for the possession of 303.5 grams of heroin was sentenced to death by the Colombo High Court today. MORE..
Won’t do anything that requires referendum – Ranil
Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe today expressed confidence that the 19th Amendment to the Constitution will be passed in Parliament with sufficient backing, despite objections voiced by certain parties including the JHU - a key partner of the government – and calls for a referendum. 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..
Lalith-Kugan case: Rambukwella and Handunnetti summoned
A Jaffna court on Wednesday (25) issued summons to former Minister Keheliya Rambukwella and Parliamentarian Sunil Handunnetti to appear before court on 30 July. MORE...
Lack of vehicles jeopardizing MR’s security - Media Coordinator
The lack of vehicles to transport the 213 security personnel assigned to Mahinda Rajapaksa has jeopardized his security, according to the former president’s Media Coordinator Mr Rohan Welivita. MORE..
Rehearsal for a new political culture - Ranil
Prime Minister Ranil Wickramasinghe says that the time has come to introduce a new political culture to the country and do away with the existing “expired” political system and culture. 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..
Police to seek court order to bring down Basil Rajapaksa
The police will seek a court order to bring down ex-President’s brother and former Minister Basil Rajapaksa in order to question him over alleged financial frauds, police spokesman Ruwan Gunasekara said. 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..
National Govt: SLFP the only loser – Gammanpila
Leader of the Pivithuru Hela Urumaya, Provincial Councilor Udaya Gammanpila, says that there is a risk of the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) being offered the position for Opposition Leader. MORE..
Sarana Gunawardena further remanded
Former Deputy Minister Sarana Gunawardena, who was arrested on charges of financial fraud and criminal breach of trust, has been further remanded until March 30 by the Attanagalla Magistrate’s Court. MORE..
New administrative procedure introduced for dual citizenship
The new administrative procedure for the granting of dual citizenship will be introduced from today, Minister of Public Order, Disaster Management and Christian Affairs John Amaratunga said. MORE..
Special commissioner for LG bodies: ex-President expresses disapproval
Ex-President Mahinda Rajapaksa on Sunday (22) expressed his disapproval with respect to the new government’s decision to place all local government bodies under a special commissioner. MORE...
Indian, Sri Lankan fishermen to meet to sort out issues
Fishermen’s associations of India and Sri Lanka will meet in Chennai next week to resolve the vexed issue of violation the maritime boundary and invading each other’s waters. MORE...
Sri Lanka’s former Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Tamara Kunanayakam, today accused Foreign Minister Mangala Samaraweera of playing on racist and chauvinist anti-Tamil sentiment and termed him as “unsuitable” to represent the country internationally. MORE..
Bribery Commission files action against Sajin
The Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption today filed action against MP Sajin de Vass Gunawardena under section 9 of the Declaration of Assets and Liabilities Law No. 1 on 1975. MORE..
Sri Lankan Muslims won’t fall prey to ISIS trap – Fonseka
Former Sri Lanka army chief General Sarath Fonseka urged India and Pakistan to speedily resolve the Kashmir issue, adding that countries of the region should start behaving like neighbours. MORE..
Former officials stashed billions abroad - Rajitha
Sri Lankan investigators have located more than $US2 billion ($2.6 billion) that was secretly transferred to accounts in Dubai by figures close to the administration of former president Mahinda Rajapaksa, the government said on Thursday. MORE...
Government grants approval to construct breakwater of Colombo Port City
Sri Lanka’s cabinet on Wednesday approved the construction of a breakwater for a Chinese funded port city project which had been suspended by the government earlier this month. MORE...