- President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, born in 1968, celebrates his 56th birthday today (Nov 24): A prominent figure in Sri Lankan politics, he began his education at Thambuttegama Central College and later earned a degree from the University of Kelaniya: Dissanayake’s political career, marked by his leadership in the JVP and the formation of the National People’s Power, culminated in his election as Sri Lanka’s 9th President in 2024.
- Nearly 30 former MPs are still occupying official residences, despite being instructed to vacate for newly elected parliamentarians: While some are removing belongings, many have yet to leave: The government has warned of service cuts if they don’t comply: Renovations for new MPs are underway, with handover set for December 3. Meanwhile, the Madiwela Housing Complex is in high demand.
- Experts have raised concerns about the legitimacy of the Adani Group’s $442 million wind power project in Sri Lanka, following fraud charges against its chairman in the U.S.: urge the government to scrutinise the deal, which has faced allegations of corruption and lack of transparency: Despite opposition, the project continued under ex-President Wickremesinghe’s administration, while environmental and legal challenges persist: Current President Dissanayake’s administration is urged to reconsider.
- Minister Vijitha Herath confirmed that Sri Lanka’s local government elections will be held in early 2025, despite delays caused by unforeseen challenges such as candidate deaths, defections, and political shifts: The government is preparing for elections for Pradeshiya Sabhas and Urban Councils and considering amendments to the Local Government Election Act: Consultations with political parties will ensure smooth implementation.
- A new public-private partnership in Sri Lanka’s Sabaragamuwa Province aims to add 300 megawatts of solar power to the national grid: Launched on November 19, the project involves installing solar panels on state-owned buildings like schools and hospitals: Funded by Gala Green Energy Holdings at a cost of $200 million, the initiative promotes renewable energy and sustainability while contributing to the country’s climate goals.
- The Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) has arrested 73 individuals, including 21 law enforcement officers, over the past ten months for bribery-related offences: Among those detained were a Chief Police Inspector, several police officers, and 24 civilians, including Grama Niladhari officers and a school principal: CIABOC reaffirmed its commitment to combating corruption in Sri Lanka’s public service.
- The Ministry of Justice and National Integration, in collaboration with USAID, provided technological tools to strengthen national unity and religious harmony in Sri Lanka: On November 22, 61 laptops and communication equipment were distributed to National Integration Officers: This initiative, part of the USAID-funded SCORE project, aims to improve social cohesion and community engagement, with official documents exchanged at the event.
- The Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) will conduct special raids starting December 15 to protect consumers during the festive season: Inspections will target wholesale outlets, warehouses, retail shops, and vendors selling clothing, electronics, and essential goods to prevent the circulation of expired products and unfair trade practices: Consumers can report issues via the CAA’s hotline at 1977.
- The excavation near the Central Expressway construction site in Veyangoda, initiated on November 21, concluded on November 23 without uncovering any treasure or significant archaeological items: The search, prompted by a court order following the arrest of nine individuals attempting to unearth valuables, involved multiple authorities but yielded no findings of historical or cultural value, despite efforts to break through a large obstructing stone.
- Newly appointed Deputy Sports Minister Sugath Tillekaratne, a former Olympian, said he aims to elevate Sri Lanka’s sports, from grassroots to international levels: emphasised the importance of building a healthy society and growing the sports economy, with a focus on developing athletes and improving facilities: stressed collaboration with sports bodies and officials to produce talented athletes and achieve national success.
