- President Ranil Wickremesinghe urges a political culture prioritising national interests over partisan politics for Sri Lanka’s advancement: emphasises the responsibility of political leaders to support economic initiatives free from political interference, citing recent strikes as politically motivated: calls for unity across political affiliations, drawing on historical examples of bipartisan cooperation for national progress and outlining goals for economic transformation and stability.
- State Minister Lohan Ratwatte’s remarks on NPP Leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s presidential candidacy drew condemnation from Opposition MP Eran Wickramaratne: Ratwatte stated, “Has Anura Dissanayake constructed even a small culvert for the people? We won’t allow him to become President of this country as long as I am around in politics,” sparking criticism for undermining democratic principles: Wickramaratne emphasises no politician should dictate election outcomes, citing Sri Lanka’s history of electoral interference and violence: underscores the need for fair elections, regardless of political differences.
- NPP leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake emphasises political protection of the underworld has fostered crime and drugs in Sri Lanka: pledges an NPP government would ensure equality under the law, aiming to create a peaceful environment free from fear: also highlights collaboration with senior ex-CID officials to combat crime and drug issues effectively.
- Minister Vidura Wickramanayake announces plans for the repatriation of Sri Lankan artefacts, including the Tara statue, from the UK, highlighting cultural restoration efforts: underscores the importance of an education system aligned with local traditions to foster national pride: defends recent local government appointments, emphasising their procedural rigor over criticism of electoral motives.
- Transport Minister Bandula Gunawardena announces the Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB) appointed 370 new drivers and conductors to fill vacancies in the Western Province: mandates new recruits remain at their assigned depots for three years, cautioning against union actions: stresses SLTB’s importance since nationalisation in 1957, warning of privatisation if profitability isn’t achieved by 2025.
- Former CB Governor Dr. Indrajit Coomaraswamy criticises Sri Lanka’s Debt Sustainability Analysis (DSA) for using a conservative growth rate, urging for a higher trajectory supported by reopened credit lines: highlights recent debt restructuring progress and praised Sri Lanka’s negotiation skills with bondholders: Emphasises macroeconomic stability and structural reforms and suggests these are key to surpassing a 3% growth rate and achieving fiscal health targets.
- A Starlink representative visits Sri Lanka to finalise a licence for the satellite internet service: Discussions with local authorities, including the Telecommunications Regulatory Commission, were positive: The visit follows recent legislative amendments enabling such operations: Despite delays, Starlink aims to commence operations soon after receiving final approval, expected within two weeks.
- The Cabinet sanctions a one-time payment of Rs. 10,000 to all government employees below Executive Grade who reported for duty during the recent strike: The proposal, presented by President Ranil Wickremesinghe, also includes granting these government sector employees a certificate of appreciation.
- The Railway Station Masters’ Union plans to decide today (16) on future trade union actions following unmet demands despite previous assurances from authorities: Union President Sumedha Somaratne expresses dissatisfaction with the Cabinet’s failure to address their issues as promised, prompting the union to convene this morning for a decision: Meanwhile, the Ceylon Teachers’ Union (CTU) warns of potential strikes over unresolved grievances, citing government threats to deter their actions.
- Madushani Herath of Nannapurawa MV Bibile sets a new long jump record at 6.32m in the girls under 20 category during the Junior National Athletic Championships at Diyagama Mahinda Rajapaksa Stadium: surpasses her own previous record of 6.06m set last year at the same venue: Additionally, Sashini Perera of St. Bridget’s Convent Colombo achieved a new meet record of 30.42m in the under 16 Hammer Throw.
