- President Ranil Wickremesinghe states that for the reconstruction of the fallen country, economic stabilization and recovery programs were formally implemented and that as a result, the journey of economic growth started in the middle of 2023. Wickremesinghe said he assumed leadership of the country without any conditions, despite being a sole member of Parliament. He cited his well-thought-out plan, extensive experience and international relationships as reasons for his confidence in the country’s recovery from its challenges.
- The Election Commission also said that by virtue of the powers vested in the commission to fix the date for the election, it will hold the presidential election between 17th September and 16th October 2024.
- The Maligakanda Magistrate’s Court has ordered the former CEO of the National Medicines Regulatory Authority (NMRA) Dr. Vijith Gunasekara to be remanded in custody until May 20, 2024. He was produced before the court following the recording of a statement by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID).
- State Minister for Technology, Kanaka Herath, announced that the amended bill to amend the Telecommunications Regulatory Act after 28 years will be presented to the Parliament. Additionally, he highlighted plans for the drafting of the National Cyber Security Act in May.
- The Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) is yet to submit the proposals regarding the reduction of electricity tariffs to the Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL), according to PUCSL chairman Prof. Manjula Fernando. The said proposals were initially expected to be submitted to the PUCSL by the 1st of May.
- The Colombo Magistrate’s Court has issued an overseas travel ban on former State Minister Diana Gamage. This order was issued by Colombo Magistrate Thilina Gamage after considering a request made by the attorneys of the petitioning party in the case related to her dual citizenship.
- Litro Gas Company opens its new gas filling station in Mabima, Kaduwela, which was established with an investment exceeding Rs.01 billion.
- Minister of Labor and Foreign Employment Manusha Nanayakkara has urged the general public not to seek military employment opportunities in foreign countries. Issuing a statement in this regard, the Minister highlighted the presence of a human trafficking network that is currently facilitating the recruitment of Sri Lankan youths for military service in Russia.
- Sri Lanka’s Dairy Industry is set to enhance the production and quality of liquid milk and milk based products in a new partnership with the Department of Animal Production and Health revolutionizing the industry. This collaborative effort aims to modernize dairy farming practices, enhance livestock genetics, and boost dairy productivity across the nation.
- The Cricket Selection Committee has selected a 15-member squad to take part in the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) said. Issuing a statement, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) said the team will depart for the World Cup on May 14, 2024.
