- SJB MPs Eran Wickremaratne, Harsha Silva and Kabir Hashim say the proposed tax increases is a death sentence to various groups: previously, the same MPs have severely criticised the tax decreases effected by end-2019.
- CB Governor Nandalal Weerasinghe rejects Russia’s MIR payments systems for the second time: Transport Minister Bandula Gunawardane had requested approval for this payment method to facilitate trade and tourism between the 2 countries.
- Central Bank able to accept only Rs.60.3 bn in T-Bill auction out of offer of Rs.90 bn: 91-day rate shoots up to 33.05%: 182-day rate jumps to 32.53%: government’s interest cost increase for the 6 months 1st April 2022 to 30th September 2022 records a staggering Rs.540 bn.
- Sri Lanka abstains in UN General Assembly vote to condemn Russia’s annexation of 4 regions of Ukraine: resolution supported by 143 countries: 35 states, including Sri Lanka, China, Pakistan and India, abstain.
- Analysts say IMF-driven tax hikes could hit investments into stock markets from small time investors: claim new levies wipe out a significant portion of disposable income: tax hikes show tax threshold reduced to Rs.1.2 mn from Rs.3 mn: corporate tax raised to 30% from 24%: exemptions removed.
- Sri Lanka to donate over 6 mn Pfizer vaccines valued at USD 40 mn to Myanmar: vaccines unuaed because many Sri Lankans reluctant to obtain booster doses: previously, 18 mn doses of Pfizer vaccines had been purchased for booster doses.
- Gunman who shot and injured a 3-wheeler driver in Ahungalla on Wednesday, shot dead by Police: suspect shot when he tried to shoot STF personnel with a pistol when they attempted to arrest him.
- Health Ministry says 59,317 dengue patients reported across the island so far this year: highest number reported from Colombo, Gampaha and Kalutara districts.
- Health Minister Keheliya Rambukwelle says more people are coming to the government hospitals because they can no longer afford private hospitals: also says there won’t be a lower middle class in this country anymore at this rate.
- Sri Lanka Women’s cricket team defeats Pakistan by 1 run in thrilling semi-final in the Women’s Asia Cup 2022: Sri Lanka Women 122/6 in 20 overs: Pakistan Women 121/6 in 20 overs.
SRI LANKA ORIGINAL NARRATIVE SUMMARY: 14/10
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