- President Ranil Wickremesinghe emphasises his commitment to easing the people’s burdens by adhering to the IMF agreements, which have enabled debt management and economic support: criticises rivals Sajith and Anura for their unapproved proposals and vows to continue economic reforms for a sustainable, export-driven economy: urges citizens to support his path over what he described as “misleading promises.”
- Opposition leader and SJB presidential candidate Sajith Premadasa reaffirms his commitment to implementing the 13th Amendment, which grants powers to provincial councils: Emphasising the importance of reconciliation amongst Sri Lanka’s ethnic and religious communities, Premadasa argues that implementing this legal framework is necessary and has been affirmed by the Supreme Court, asserting it would not harm national unity.
- National Peoples Power’s (NPP) leader and presidential candidate Anura Kumara Dissanayake criticises President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s claims that a fuel shortage and a rising dollar rate are inevitable without his leadership: dismisses these statements as fear tactics and assures that, under NPP governance, economic stability would be prioritised, preventing such crises.
- Sri Lanka signs an agreement to establish a cyclotron facility for local production of Fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG), used in PET scans crucial for cancer diagnosis: Currently, 97% of imported FDG becomes unusable due to its short shelf life: The facility aims to reduce PET scan costs and improve access to cancer diagnosis and treatment nationwide.
- The Commissioner General of Examinations Amith Jayasundara announces the results of the Grade 5 Scholarship Examination held on 15 September are expected to be released in 40 days: This year’s exam took place across 2,849 centres, with 323,879 students participating.
- The United States Department of State updates its travel advisory for Sri Lanka, urging caution around the 21 September presidential election: warns of potential demonstrations, noting past use of water cannons and tear gas by police: U.S. citizens are advised to avoid gatherings, be aware of surroundings, and follow local authorities’ guidance during this period.
- The Campaign for Free and Fair Elections (CaFFE) notes a rise in election-related violence from 8 to 14 September for the 2024 Presidential Election, despite an otherwise peaceful pre-election period: Incidents include intimidation, assaults on party supporters, and damage to party offices: warns that continuing trends may threaten the integrity of a free and fair election.
- The International Monetary Fund (IMF) commends Sri Lanka’s economic recovery but warned of ongoing vulnerability: IMF Communications Director Julie Kozack emphasises the need for continued reforms, especially with upcoming elections: Despite progress in areas like inflation and revenue collection, Kozack highlights significant economic risks, stressing the importance of safeguarding the gains achieved so far.
- The Election Commission declares it illegal for presidential candidates to promote rivals during campaigns: Candidates are required to campaign solely for their own victory: Complaints have been received about some candidates endorsing others, which violates election laws: Those found engaging in or benefiting from such activities will face legal consequences.
- The Inter University Wrestling Championship 2024, organised by the University of Colombo and the Sri Lanka Universities Sports Association, will take place on 16th and 17th of September: Over 300 students from 12 state universities are to take participation: Vice-Chancellor of the University of Colombo, Senior Prof. H.D. Karunaratne, will serve as the Chief Guest at both the opening and awarding ceremonies.
