- President Ranil Wickremesinghe says the future distribution of emerging economy benefits to a larger population: asserts systematic implementation of activities based on a scientific plan: emphasises integrity in leadership, never compromised for power, and prioritising national reconstruction over personal ambitions: laments politicians are dreaming of power while ignoring reality.
- Former Minister Basil Rajapaksa, to meet President Ranil Wickremesinghe to discuss future political arrangements ahead of elections: The meeting comes amidst the formation of electoral alliances and discussions on the order of elections: SLPP factions have already expressed support for the President, but no formal decision has been made.
- The NPP vows not to impede the IMF programme if elected but aims to renegotiate its terms: criticises current austerity measures and caution against privatising public assets: Prof. Anil Jayantha underscores the need for homegrown solutions to stabilise the economy, criticises the government’s handling of economic challenges, and pledges to engage constructively with the IMF while ensuring transparency.
- ACMC MP Ali Sabri Raheem’s parliamentary services are suspended for one month following a recommendation from the Committee on Ethics and Privileges: The decision stems from an incident last May when Raheem was caught with undeclared gold and smartphones upon returning from Dubai.
- The IMF begins the second review of Sri Lanka’s EFF program today: Finance State Minister Shehan Semasinghe highlights its importance for stability and growth: Success could lead to accessing the programme’s third tranche, boosting confidence in the economy.
- The Sri Lanka Posts Department aims to achieve a revenue target of Rs. 21 billion in 2024, aiming for self-sustainability without Treasury funding: Postmaster General Ruwan Sathkumara highlights a shift towards becoming a business service provider, forging partnerships with the private sector, including a recent collaboration with UPS: Despite a revenue of Rs. 13.6 billion last year, the department incurred a Rs. 3.2 billion loss.
- In January, Experience Travel Group and 35 others urge the UK’s FCDO to reconsider its travel advice on Sri Lanka, criticising references to outdated issues like fuel shortages and past unrest: Conservative peer Lord Naseby echoes concerns in the House of Lords, calling for a review. Managing Director Sam Clark welcomes this development, hoping for updated advice that reflects Sri Lanka’s current situation without harming its tourism industry.
- CB Governor Nandalal Weerasinghe cautions against undermining the Central Bank’s autonomy, citing recent controversy surrounding its salary increases: emphasises the importance of the CB’s autonomy in setting wages and salaries to avoid undue influence, citing past lessons: defends the transparency of the salary review process while warning that compromising the bank’s autonomy could lead to economic instability, as witnessed in 2019.
- State Minister Arundika Fernando announces the government has kickstarted vital development projects amidst growing interest from India, China, and Western nations in investing in Sri Lanka: Initiatives include a 2,000-house project in Colombo with Chinese aid, issuing deeds to flat residents, progress on rural development projects like “Kandukara Dashakaya,” and coastal development activities: highlights significant interest from major nations, signalling confidence in investing in Sri Lanka amid improving economic conditions.
- Bangladesh clinched an 8-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in the second T20 game in Sylhet, leveling the series: Najmul Hossain Shanto’s unbeaten 53 and Tawhid Hridoy’s 32 not out steered Bangladesh to victory: SL’s innings saw struggles with Avishka Fernando out for a duck, while Kusal Mendis scored 36: Despite efforts from Angelo Mathews and Dasun Shanaka, Sri Lanka posted 165: Bangladesh’s solid start ensured an easy win with 11 balls to spare: The final T20 match is set for March 9 in Sylhet.
