April 07, Colombo (LNW): The Court of Appeal has issued an interim order suspending any further action regarding the conduct of local authority elections in several municipal and urban councils, including the Colombo Municipal Council.
This decision comes in response to a series of legal challenges lodged by political parties and independent candidates whose nominations were dismissed during the initial stages of the election process.
The interim injunction, granted earlier today, effectively freezes election-related activity within the affected local government bodies until a full hearing into the matters raised in the petitions can be conducted.
April 07, Colombo (LNW): The Colombo Stock Exchange endured a significant downturn today, with the All Share Price Index (ASPI) plunging over 700 points and slipping beneath the psychologically important 15,000 mark.
This sharp decline, amongst the steepest in recent memory, comes as ripples from intensifying global trade disputes reached Sri Lankan shores, unsettling local investor confidence.
A wave of selling swept across the exchange from the opening bell, spurred by growing apprehension over fresh tariff announcements by the United States.
These measures have sparked renewed fears of a trade standoff involving several major economies, triggering a chain reaction of volatility throughout financial markets worldwide.
In response, numerous countries have begun urgent negotiations with Washington in an effort to recalibrate existing trade agreements and avoid further economic destabilisation.
At home, the Colombo bourse mirrored the wider turmoil. The market opened with unusually high turnover, and within the first hour of trading, the S&P SL20 Index nosedived, activating an automatic circuit breaker—a rarely used mechanism designed to cool excessive market fluctuations.
By the close of trading, the ASPI had retreated to 14,660.45, marking a 4.64 percent drop, whilst the S&P SL20 fared worse, plummeting 5.92 percent to close at 4,264.84. Total market turnover reached Rs. 6.47 billion, with 188.3 million shares changing hands.
Banking and capital goods counters bore the brunt of the sell-off, as jittery investors exited positions en masse, fearing extended fallout from global events. Notably, Commercial Bank PLC emerged as the biggest drag on the index, pulling it down by 64.5 points.
Conversely, Nation Lanka Finance PLC managed to lend a sliver of positive momentum, contributing a modest 1.65 points to the ASPI.
Despite the gloomy atmosphere, block transactions drew some attention. Diesel & Motor Engineering PLC (DIMO) was the focus of one of the session’s largest negotiated deals.
A substantial crossing valued at Rs. 948.68 million took place, with 0.9 million shares exchanged at Rs. 1,050 each—considerably higher than the stock’s closing price of Rs. 956.75, suggesting a degree of institutional confidence in the company’s fundamentals even amid broader market weakness.
Market analysts have warned that unless global diplomatic channels succeed in de-escalating trade tensions, Sri Lanka’s equity market may continue to face pressure in the days ahead.
With the island’s economy already navigating a fragile recovery path, prolonged external shocks could undermine investor sentiment further and complicate fiscal stability efforts.
Stakeholders across financial and policy-making circles are now watching developments in Washington closely, hoping that emerging consensus amongst trade partners will lead to a de-escalation of tariff measures.
A reversal or softening of the current trajectory may be critical not just for global markets, but for restoring investor trust in frontier markets like Sri Lanka’s.
Outrage Over Sathsara Nimesh’s Death Sparks Mass Protests Against Police Brutality
By:Ovindi Vishmika
April 07, Colombo (LNW): A wave of protests has swept across Sri Lanka following the death of 26-year-old Sathsara Nimesh, who died while in police custody at the Welikada Police Station under controversial circumstances. The tragedy has sparked public outrage, with demonstrators calling for immediate justice, accountability, and comprehensive reform within Sri Lanka’s law enforcement agencies.
On the evening of April 6, 2025, a candlelit protest gathered around 120 individuals outside the Welikada Police Station in Colombo. The crowd, which included students, activists, and concerned citizens, expressed their anger and grief over Nimesh’s death, which they believe may have been the result of police brutality. The protest also raised broader concerns about the pattern of custodial deaths that have plagued Sri Lanka’s police system in recent years.
Nimesh, a resident of Meegahakiwula in Badulla, was arrested on April 1 after being accused of entering a house in Nawala without permission. According to police reports, Nimesh appeared to be mentally distressed during his arrest, prompting the officers to detain him for his own safety.
However, during his time in the police cell, Nimesh reportedly exhibited erratic behavior, allegedly banging his body against the walls. In response, he was transferred to the Mulleriyawa Mental Hospital, where he died early on April 2, 2025, while receiving treatment.
The circumstances surrounding Nimesh’s death have raised serious questions. His mother, Samanthi, visited the police station on April 2, only to find that her son’s clothing had been removed. His trousers were reportedly found discarded in a nearby trash bin. When she inquired about her son’s condition, the police allegedly informed her that Nimesh had attempted suicide, a claim that has been met with skepticism by human rights organizations and legal experts.
The Committee for Protecting the Rights of Prisoners (CPRP) has called for an immediate, transparent investigation into the incident, alleging that Nimesh may have been subjected to torture while in custody.
This case is not an isolated one. Nimesh’s name now joins a growing list of individuals who have died while in police custody,prompting widespread calls for greater accountability within the police force. Activists are demanding immediate reforms, stressing that the issue has been gone unchecked for too long.
In the wake of Nimesh’s death, his case has become a rallying point for those calling for sweeping reforms in Sri Lanka’s police force. One of the protest’s organizers, Suchith Abeywickrama, stated that the incident resonated with many people because it exemplified the vulnerability of citizens at the hands of law enforcement. “This is not just about one man,” Abeywickrama said. “The next victim could be anyone—your friend, your family, or even you.”
In response to the mounting public pressure, Acting Inspector General of Police (IGP) Priyantha Weerasuriya has announced that he has recommended the transfer of the Officer-in-Charge (OIC) of the Welikada Police Station.
Additionally, two police officers have been suspended pending investigation. The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has been tasked with investigating the cause of death, with the IGP directing an interim report be submitted by April 25.
Legal experts and human rights groups have stressed the importance of an impartial investigation, with Attorney Tharushi Dishara stating that transparency in this case is critical to upholding the rule of law. The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has also issued a statement expressing deep concern over the allegations of custodial abuse, calling for an urgent investigation into the matter. The BASL emphasized that repeated custodial deaths severely damage public confidence in law enforcement and urged authorities to adopt a zero-tolerance policy toward such incidents.
Meanwhile, the family of Nimesh and civil society organizations have called for the implementation of long-overdue reforms within the police force. These include better training for officers, particularly on human rights and the treatment of individuals with mental health issues, as well as increased accountability and oversight mechanisms. They also advocate for technological solutions such as body cameras and CCTV systems in police stations to ensure greater transparency in police interactions with the public.
The death of Sathsara Nimesh has ignited a national conversation about police brutality, the lack of accountability, and the urgent need for reforms in Sri Lanka’s law enforcement system. While some initial steps have been taken by the authorities, activists and legal professionals stress that meaningful change will only occur if the government commits to systemic reform and ensures justice for those who have suffered due to police misconduct. As investigations continue, the hope is that Nimesh’s tragic death will serve as a catalyst for lasting change in the country’s policing practices.
April 07, Colombo (LNW): Parliament has formally notified the Election Commission of a vacancy in the legislature, following the untimely death of Kosala Nuwan Jayaweera, the National Peoples Power (NPP) MP representing the Kegalle District.
The official communication was made by Acting Secretary General of Parliament, Chaminda Kularatne, in accordance with the constitutional and electoral provisions that govern such circumstances.
Jayaweera, a rising political figure known for his outspoken advocacy on social justice and grassroots development, passed away unexpectedly yesterday (06). He was only 38 years old at the time of his demise.
The MP had been admitted to the Karawanella Hospital after suffering a sudden cardiac arrest, where he later succumbed despite medical efforts.
The notification of the vacancy has been issued in terms of Article 66(a) of the Constitution, effective from the date of his death. The process follows procedural requirements outlined in Section 64(1) of the Parliamentary Elections Act No. 1 of 1981, as amended by the Elections (Special Provisions) Act No. 35 of 1988, which mandates that the Election Commission be informed without delay in such events.
Jayaweera’s passing has sent shockwaves through political circles and the wider public. As one of the youngest MPs in the current Parliament, he was widely regarded as a promising new voice within the NPP, representing a generational shift in Sri Lankan politics.
Tributes have poured in from colleagues across the political spectrum. Many have expressed their sorrow over the loss of a parliamentarian who was seen as principled, accessible, and committed to public service.
The NPP leadership has yet to formally announce who will succeed Jayaweera in Parliament, though the process of nominating a replacement from the party’s district list is expected to begin shortly under the supervision of the Election Commission.
April 07, Colombo (LNW): A sitting Member of Parliament representing the New Democratic Front, Chamara Sampath Dassanayake, has been ordered to remain in custody until April 21, following proceedings at the Badulla Magistrate’s Court.
The development marks the latest stage in an ongoing inquiry into a series of corruption allegations dating back to his time as Chief Minister of the Uva Province.
Dassanayake, who was originally detained on March 27, is facing multiple charges of financial misconduct linked to his tenure in provincial leadership.
While bail was granted in two of the three cases under review by the Colombo Magistrate’s Court, the third and most serious charge has resulted in his continued detention.
According to evidence presented by the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC), Dassanayake is accused of soliciting and misusing funds purportedly intended for an educational welfare programme.
In 2016, he allegedly requested financial assistance from three state-owned banks to fund a project supplying schoolbags to preschool children.
Two of these institutions reportedly released Rs. 1 million and Rs. 2.5 million respectively, which investigators claim were subsequently diverted into a private account linked to his own charitable foundation.
The controversy deepened when it emerged that, following a third bank’s refusal to participate in the funding arrangement, Dassanayake purportedly retaliated by ordering the withdrawal of the Uva Provincial Council’s fixed deposits from that bank—a move said to have led to a significant financial setback for the council.
CIABOC estimates the total loss to the public purse at Rs. 17.3 million.
Legal representatives for the MP argue that the transactions were undertaken in good faith as part of a community outreach initiative. However, state prosecutors maintain that the lack of transparency, combined with the funds being routed to a personal entity, constitutes a clear abuse of public office.
The matter was taken up again this morning in Badulla, where the Magistrate reviewed updated submissions from both the prosecution and the defence.
The court ruled that remand custody would be extended as investigations continue into the alleged financial misappropriation.
This case has sparked renewed debate about political accountability in Sri Lanka’s provincial administrations, especially concerning the management of public funds.
Critics argue that systemic loopholes have allowed similar instances of financial irregularity to go unchecked, particularly when those involved enjoy political protection.
Further hearings are expected later this month, and CIABOC has indicated it will press for a full trial if sufficient grounds for prosecution are established.
April 07, Colombo (LNW): The Central Bank has formally presented its comprehensive economic assessment for the year 2024 to President and Finance Minister Anura Kumara Dissanayake, underlining what it described as encouraging momentum in Sri Lanka’s path toward economic stabilisation.
The ceremonial handover of the 2024 Annual Economic Review took place at the Presidential Secretariat and was led by Central Bank Governor Dr P. Nandalal Weerasinghe.
The publication, regarded as the Bank’s principal analytical document of the year, offers an in-depth exploration of the country’s macroeconomic performance, financial system conditions, policy decisions and forward-looking projections.
The Review is structured into four core segments, providing a detailed account of how the island nation is gradually emerging from its most severe economic crisis in post-independence history.
The 2024 analysis acknowledges that while economic activity remains uneven across sectors, Sri Lanka has seen measurable gains over the past year. These include a modest revival in consumer confidence, improved fiscal discipline, greater stability in exchange rates and a reduction in overall inflationary pressures.
Particularly noteworthy is the assertion that the country’s recovery has proceeded at a faster pace compared to several other nations that have undergone similar debt crises.
Commentary included in the Review suggests that Sri Lanka’s relative progress has been made possible through a combination of stringent macroeconomic reforms, careful monetary calibration, and multilateral support.
The cautious optimism reflected in the report was echoed by top government and Central Bank officials attending the event, including the Secretary to the President, Dr Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, Treasury Secretary K. M. Mahinda Siriwardena, and several senior economists from the Central Bank’s Research Division.
While acknowledging these improvements, the Central Bank has also cautioned that sustained recovery remains conditional on continued structural reforms, public sector discipline, and prudent debt management.
Uncertainties in the global economy, fluctuating commodity prices, and vulnerabilities within Sri Lanka’s export-dependent sectors are still seen as potential obstacles to long-term growth.
Despite these challenges, the tone of the Review is largely forward-looking. It draws attention to the importance of building institutional resilience, expanding productivity-driven investments, and nurturing greater public trust in economic governance.
The Bank’s policy emphasis for the coming year includes measures to reinforce the financial sector, widen fiscal buffers, and ensure that inflation remains within manageable bounds.
Additionally, the Central Bank reiterated its commitment to data transparency, policy predictability, and improved communication with the public—factors seen as essential for both investor confidence and citizen engagement in the reform agenda.
April 07, Colombo (LNW): A candlelit protest erupted outside the Welikada Police Station yesterday (06) evening, as a crowd of around 120 individuals—largely youth—gathered to voice their anger and grief over the death of Sathsara Nimesh, a young man whose life ended under disturbing circumstances allegedly linked to police actions.
The demonstrators, coming from varied backgrounds, called for immediate accountability and systemic reform within Sri Lanka’s law enforcement.
The protest was not just a call for justice in a single case but a broader stand against what many see as a deep-rooted culture of violence and impunity within the police system, according to Suchith Abeywickrama, one of the event’s organisers.
Writing on social media following the protest, Abeywickrama shared that during their demonstration they learned of preliminary administrative action: the Officer-in-Charge of the Welikada Police had reportedly been transferred, and two officers suspended.
He underscored, however, that this was merely a beginning—one brought about through persistent pressure by civil society over the past several days. The death of Nimesh, he wrote, resonated widely because it reflected a shared vulnerability.
“The next victim of police brutality could be you, me, a loved one, or a friend,” he said, drawing a sharp contrast between the role the police are expected to play and the violent outcomes that too often unfold behind station walls.
Abeywickrama also acknowledged the grief and loss felt by the family and extended a heartfelt wish that Sathsara Nimesh may attain peace. He further reported that the Prisoners’ Rights Protection Committee is expected to file for a special, impartial investigation through Magistrate’s Court No. 04 on April 9th.
According to Attorney Tharushi Dishara, legal outcomes in such cases are often strengthened by broad public awareness and engagement.
The case of Sathsara Nimesh, tragically, is not isolated. His name now joins a growing list of individuals who have died whilst in police custody, including R. Rajkumari—who was reportedly killed at the very same Welikada Police Station two years ago—as well as Nagaraasa Alex in Vaddukodai, Roshan Kumarasiri in Narammala, and R. M. Samitha Dilshan in Wadduwa. Each of these deaths has raised serious concerns about the safety and accountability of Sri Lanka’s custodial practices.
Such cases, activists argue, point to the urgent need for deep structural reforms within the policing system. Abeywickrama outlined a series of proposals aimed at transforming law enforcement into a transparent, accountable, and people-focused institution.
His suggestions included revamping police training to centre on human rights and dignity, eliminating corruption, removing officers entrenched in outdated political patronage networks, and creating a force reflective of the country’s ethnic and linguistic diversity.
Technological solutions were also highlighted as part of the path forward—such as the mandatory installation of CCTV in all police stations, the use of body-worn cameras during interactions with the public, and GPS tracking to ensure transparency in police movements.
These reforms, he stressed, must be supported by prompt and effective mechanisms to investigate and redress abuses, along with legal reforms to eliminate outdated and misused laws.
More broadly, Abeywickrama called for a cultural shift away from glorifying violence and authoritarianism, urging citizens to reflect critically on how power is wielded and how impunity is often tolerated or even celebrated.
The aspiration, he said, is to build a law enforcement system that upholds justice not just in name, but in practice—one rooted in respect, legality, and humanity.
April 07, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) Namal Rajapaksa presented himself at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) earlier today (07), following the launch of an official inquiry into his legal qualifications.
The investigation stems from accusations that Rajapaksa may have acquired his Attorney-at-Law designation through fraudulent means. This allegation, which has drawn considerable public attention, was brought to the fore by an anti-corruption watchdog, Citizens’ Power Against Bribery and Corruption.
The group has been vocal in its demand for increased transparency and accountability, particularly concerning public figures holding positions of influence.
The CID had previously briefed the Colombo Chief Magistrate’s Court about the initiation of the inquiry, indicating that preliminary evidence warranted a formal investigation.
Whilst specific details of the inquiry remain undisclosed, legal observers suggest that the case could involve scrutiny of academic records, procedural irregularities in certification, and potential misuse of political connections.
April 07, World (LNW): Equity markets across Asia experienced a dramatic sell-off on Monday, intensifying concerns over a growing global economic fallout triggered by sweeping new tariffs imposed by the United States.
Investor sentiment took a sharp downturn following the announcement of a blanket tariff on Japanese exports by the White House, a move that has alarmed financial analysts and policymakers alike.
In Tokyo, stocks opened in freefall, with Japan’s leading Nikkei 225 index plunging by more than 8% in early trading. It has now slipped below the psychological 33,000-point threshold — a level not seen since August of the previous year.
The broader Topix index also faced steep losses, initially dropping by over 7.5% before clawing back some ground.
Amid the turmoil, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba addressed parliament, acknowledging the severe economic impact of Washington’s aggressive trade stance.
He indicated that diplomatic efforts would continue in hopes of persuading the US to ease its tariff regime, though he warned that positive outcomes were unlikely to materialise in the short term.
In the meantime, Ishiba said his government was preparing a suite of emergency economic measures aimed at protecting domestic industries and safeguarding jobs.
The crisis has its roots in a dramatic escalation of trade tensions spearheaded by US President Donald Trump, who announced a sweeping 24% tariff on all Japanese imports, set to take effect later this week.
Despite Japan being a long-standing defence ally of the United States, the move has been viewed by many as a signal that no country is exempt from Washington’s new protectionist approach.
The shockwaves were felt well beyond Japan. South Korea’s Kospi index dropped by nearly 5%, triggering automatic trading halts designed to prevent market panic.
Meanwhile, Taiwan’s Taiex nosedived almost 10% shortly after markets opened, prompting circuit breakers for major tech players such as TSMC and Foxconn, whose shares each fell by close to the daily maximum limit.
In Australia, the ASX 200 index recorded losses of over 6% during morning trade, while across the Tasman, New Zealand’s NZX 50 index slipped by more than 3.5%.
Regional financial authorities are reportedly monitoring the situation closely, with several preparing to intervene should further instability threaten local markets.
The turbulence in Asian markets follows on the heels of a volatile spell on Wall Street, where US stocks endured their worst two-day stretch in half a decade.
Futures trading pointed to further declines ahead of the opening bell, with the S&P 500 teetering near the threshold of a bear market — defined as a 20% drop from its recent peak.
Adding fuel to investor anxiety, China responded to the US tariff blitz with retaliatory measures of its own, slapping a 34% levy on all American goods. The tit-for-tat escalation has reignited fears of a prolonged and damaging trade war that could disrupt supply chains, depress consumer demand, and undermine the fragile post-pandemic recovery in several economies.
Despite mounting global unease, President Trump struck a defiant tone while speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, asserting that the US economy was becoming stronger and would ultimately emerge more competitive. However, he declined to offer any assurances regarding future market behaviour.
With financial markets in a tailspin and diplomatic channels under strain, the next few days could prove critical in determining whether this trade dispute can be defused — or if the world is heading towards a full-blown economic crisis.
April 06, Colombo (LNW): World Health Day is being observed today (April 07), marking a renewed global commitment to advancing public health and well-being.
The day serves as a key platform for raising awareness around critical health issues and promoting long-term solutions through international cooperation.
Established by the World Health Organisation (WHO), World Health Day aims to engage governments, institutions, and communities in collective efforts to foster healthier societies.
Each year, a theme is chosen to highlight a pressing issue within the global health agenda. For 2025, the theme “Healthy beginnings, hopeful futures” underscores the need to prioritise maternal and child health as a foundational step towards broader societal progress.
In keeping with this year’s message, the WHO is calling on policymakers, healthcare providers, and civil society to intensify measures aimed at eliminating preventable maternal and newborn deaths.
The organisation has further emphasised the importance of supporting women’s health beyond childbirth, recognising that access to consistent, quality healthcare is essential not only for survival, but also for long-term empowerment and well-being.
Across the world, health authorities and development partners are hosting a range of programmes, from community outreach events and educational campaigns to free health screenings and medical clinics.
In Sri Lanka, the Ministry of Health has taken an active role in organising a series of commemorative events throughout the country. These include workshops, mobile health services, and public awareness drives designed to encourage early healthcare engagement, particularly among expectant mothers and young families.
Senior health officials have stressed the importance of viewing maternal and newborn health as a cornerstone of national development. They point out that better outcomes for mothers and babies contribute to stronger, more resilient communities in the long run, making it a strategic priority that transcends the health sector alone.
