Colombo (LNW): More than 900 cargo containers (965) are stalled at the Sri Lanka Customs and are lying either inside the Port terminals or at the Customs Examination Yards due to pending finalisation of Customs probes, regulations on temporary suspension of imports and pending lawsuits, disclosed the Parliamentary Committee on Ways and Means.
The current procedure for customs appeals is protracted and often results in delays, and this leads to a significant inconvenience for importers and exporters who are in need of prompt solution, a report by the Committee on Ways and Means noted.
It added that investigations and resolutions of customs-related appeals must be expedited.
The Parliamentary Committee further recommended that a Unified National Single Window be introduced, thereby allowing the streamlining of processes for the interconnection of all pertinent state entities.
Having such a portal being opened, redundant tasks will be eradicated and rapid cargo clearance will be ensured, the Committee went on, adding that entities like the Sri Lanka Customs, Inland Revenue Department, Board of Investment (BOI) of Sri Lanka, major airports, Sri Lanka Ports Authority, and other relevant institutions could benefit immensely by integrating with this proposed system.
Colombo (LNW): Nada Al-Nashif, the United Nations Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights addressing the 54th session of UN Human Rights Council in Geneva said accountability is central to secure Sri Lanka’s present and future.
While it remains the obligation of the Sri Lankan authorities to acknowledge past violations and undertake credible accountability measures, this Council and the Member States can play an important and complementary role in advancing accountability, she pointed out.
Al-Nashif further noted that her Office remains committed to supporting the Government and the people of Sri Lanka in advancing reconciliation, and accountability as well as the full enjoyment of human rights.
Full Statement:
Interactive Dialogue on OHCHR report on Sri Lanka
Distinguished President, Your Excellencies, Colleagues and friends,
Pursuant to its resolution 51/1 of October 2022, the Council has been presented with the written update of High Commissioner on the situation of human rights in Sri Lanka.
One year after the remarkable protest movement demanding deep political and democratic reforms, the transformation that was hoped for to address long-standing challenges has still not materialised. The country continues to deal with the aftermath of the deep economic crisis of 2022 and the current stresses in the global economy. Delays in holding local government elections and in reconstituting Provincial Councils under the 13th amendment have limited people’s right to political participation and the free expression of voters.
While the economic crisis has significantly affected the enjoyment of rights of large segments of the population in Sri Lanka, it has impacted the poor and the marginalized communities the most. As the country’s poverty rate has doubled from 13% in 2021 to 25% in 2022, another 2.5 million people have been driven into poverty and an estimated 37% of households face acute food insecurity.
A s the Government implements its economic recovery policies, it should be guided by its obligations under the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights to protect the most vulnerable. The international community, including international financial institutions, should keep supporting Sri Lanka in its recovery, in line with obligations around international cooperation and assistance, by providing the fiscal space needed while pressing for genuine progress in governance, transparency and accountability.
The economic hardship, the tensions around economic and structural reform policies and the delay of local elections continue to give rise to protests. Land acquisition in the north and east for expansion of military installations, Buddhist heritage conservation at Hindu or Muslim sites, and forestry protection have also escalated tensions.
Our Office continues to receive cases of misuse of tear gas and water cannons during demonstrations, affecting protestors and media personnel. Initiatives by victims to memorialise their loved ones have also been obstructed. These measures restricting the right to protest will only generate more tension in the country as they prevent people from expressing their grievances and engaging in critical debate. It is imperative that the Government ensures an environment that respects free expression, peaceful assembly, and democratic space as the basis for reconciliation and social cohesion.
The report provides an analysis of concerns with some forthcoming legislation, in particular the proposed Anti-Terrorism Bill that will replace the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) and the new law to regulate media broadcasting. It urges a moratorium on the use of the PTA in the meantime, and for the review of long-standing PTA cases to be expedited.
Fourteen years since the war ended, tens of thousands of victims and their families continue to suffer in agony and grief as they await truth, justice , and remedy. The report recognizes the initiatives the Government has initiated to advance reconciliation, including its proposal for a new truth-seeking mechanism. However, it also stresses that urgent confidence building steps are needed to create an environment in which a genuine reconciliation and transitional justice processes could succeed.
These include meaningful and transparent consultations with victims and civil society on the current truth-seeking proposal and includes an end to all forms of harassment and unlawful and arbitrary surveillance against human rights defenders and victims’ groups, as well as support for initiatives to acknowledge and memorialize the experience of victims.
Truth-seeking alone will not be sufficient and must be accompanied by a clear commitment to accountability, including through an independent ad hoc special court.
The report recommends that the Government to a ccelerate investigations and prosecutions in emblematic cases of human rights violations, as well as the Easter Sunday bombings, in compliance with international human rights standards.The High Commissioner has repeatedly recommended the Government of Sri Lanka to establish a follow-up, independent and transparent investigation into the Easter Sunday attacks with international assistance and the full participation of victims and their representatives.
Mr. President, Excellencies,
While noting the Government’s rejection of resolutions 46/1 and 51/1, the report updates on the work of the accountability project established by our Office to collect, consolidate, analyze, and preserve relevant information and evidence and provide support to relevant judicial and other proceedings, including those in Member States, with competent jurisdiction. The project is receiving a steady increase in requests from competent State authorities, including in relation to 10 named individuals to date.
The project has made significant progress in developing a repository of information and evidence and based on identified gaps and priorities for further investigation . It is also actively engaging with civil society, including victims’ representatives.
Mr. President, Excellencies,
Accountability is central to secure Sri Lanka’s present and future. While it remains the obligation of the Sri Lankan authorities to acknowledge past violations and undertake credible accountability measures, this Council and the Member States can play an important and complementary role in advancing accountability.
My Office remains committed to supporting the Government and the people of Sri Lanka in advancing reconciliation, and accountability as well as the full enjoyment of human rights.
On 08 September 2023, High Commissioner Saroja Sirisena presented credentials to Kitack Lim, Secretary General of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) as Sri Lanka’s first Permanent Representative to the IMO.
Sri Lanka’s accreditation to IMO comes at a time when the country is due to assume chairmanship of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) in October this year. Being in the centre of one of the most vital shipping lanes, Sri Lanka is positioned to be a major maritime hub in the Indian Ocean. Sri Lanka’s geographic location and its access to regional markets add immensely to its economic and commercial interests and the country remains committed to safe, secure Indian ocean and sustainable use of its maritime resources.
Established in 1948, IMO, which is headquartered in the United Kingdom, is the United Nations specialised agency with responsibility for the safety and security of shipping and the prevention of marine and atmospheric pollution by ships. IMO currently has 175 Member States and three Associate Members. Sri Lanka obtained membership of IMO in 1972.
High Commission of Sri Lanka London 11 September 2023
The Embassy of Sri Lanka in the Kingdom of Bahrain, in coordination with Lulu Hypermarket, organized a week-long Sri Lanka Produce and Food Mart, from 07-13 September 2023, titled “Sri Lanka Fest”, with a view to promote trade, tourism and culture of Sri Lanka, as well as to augment the image of the country, amongst the nationals of Bahrain and foreign expatriates, residing in Bahrain. The event is expected to attract over 2000 visitors and shoppers, including nationals of Sri Lanka domiciled in Bahrain.
Sri Lankan Ambassador to Bahrain H.M.G.R.R.K. Wijeratne Mendis inaugurated the colourful event on 07 September 2023, along with Undersecretary for Consular & Administrative Affairs Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Bahrain Dr. Mohamed Ali Bahzad, Acting. Chief Executive Officer of Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) Mohamed Atef Al Khaja, Chief Executive Officer of Labour Market Regulatory Authority (LMRA) Nibras Mohammed Talib and Lulu Group Regional Director Mohamed Kaleem. The Ambassadors of China, Nepal, the Philippines to Bahrain, and the members of the Diplomatic Community in Bahrain graced the opening ceremony.
This year’s event displayed and marketed number of new products and goods such as cinnamon, seafood including tuna, kingfish and prawns, pepper, authentic spices, various kinds of biscuits, and confectionary products. A variety of healthy organic coconut products such as coconut cream, coconut milk, and cold-pressed coconut oil were available for attractive prices. Ceylon Tea and tea-based herbal infusions with turmeric, chamomile and other herbs from well-known plantations around Sri Lanka, were also promoted.
Other attractions at the Sri Lanka Fest included the stalls set up by Sri Lankan-origin entrepreneurs displaying Kithul jaggery, confectionary items, spices, palmyra products, handicrafts, handloom, batik products as well as various eco-friendly products. The Ceylon Tea stall organized by Dilmah provided the visitors a unique opportunity for tea tasting, while attractive Sri Lanka Tourism packages were offered by Akbar Holidays. Large television screens displayed videos on touristic attractions of Sri Lanka, Ceylon Tea, export products of Sri Lanka, and the many investment opportunities such as Colombo Port City project.
Using the event as a platform, the Sri Lanka Embassy with the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment organized a stall to promote foreign employment and encourage skills recognition through NVQ certification. The aim of the Embassy’s initiative is to collect data and information regarding skills and qualifications of Sri Lankan migrant workers and expatriates in Bahrain, enabling them to register for the “Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)” which is being organized by the Embassy.
Highlighting Sri Lanka’s vibrant culture, the dance performance was showcased by members of the Sri Lanka Club Dancing Group and “Thiranga Kala – Bahrain”, which drew wide applause and appreciation from the audience. The cultural performances were also showcased on 08 and 09 September 2023.
Adding flavour to the event, Chef Udaya Kumara from Bahrain-based Sri Lankan Restaurant “Zaynah” demonstrated the preparation of authentic Sri Lankan cuisine.
The “Sri Lankan Fest” is part of a series of events organized by the Embassy of Sri Lanka under the Economic Diplomacy initiative in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Export Development Board, Sri Lanka Tourism, Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment and other relevant Sri Lankan authorities to promote trade, tourism, culture and investment in Bahrain.
Colombo (LNW): Sri Lankan media giant and business magnet Dilith Jayaweera announced that he official entered politics by being appointed as the leader of a political party named ‘Mawbima Janatha Party’.
Being appointed as the leader of a registered political party in the Election Commission, Jayaweera will contest elections under ‘Aeroplane’ symbol.
Colombo (LNW): General Secretary of the Bodu Bala Sena (BBS) movement Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara Thera has pleaded guilty to charges in connection with a case filed in 2014 accusing him of trespassing and obstructing a briefing held at a hotel in Colombo.
The Thera was among seven suspects who pleaded guilty in connection with a case related to the obstruction of a briefing held at Nippon Hotel Colombo in 2014, and the verdict was produced by the Fort Magistrate Court this (11) afternoon, according to reports.
The Theara along with other defendants were ordered by Fort Magistrate Thilina Gamage to pay a compensation of Rs. 300,000 to the complainant and severely warned to not repeat such offences again.
In 2014, BBS Secretary Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara Thero and other suspects were accused of trespassing into Nippon Hotel in Colombo, obstructing a press briefing called in by Jathika Bala Sena (JBS) leader Watareka Vijitha Thera and threatening the attendees.
Colombo (LNW): The government of Sri Lanka is set to roll out two additional taxes next year, namely, the ‘wealth tax’ and the ‘inheritance tax,’ according to a recent report by Sunday Times.
These upcoming taxes aim the boosting of the state’s revenue stream, especially in light of the underwhelming tax collections recently, which are yet to be met with the anticipated revenue projections.
A detailed analysis presented to the legislative body by the Committee on Fiscal Planning and Strategy highlights that the duty of devising the necessary frameworks for these potential tax systems rests on the shoulders of the Finance Ministry.
One of the primary reasons behind this move is the persistent budget shortfall the government has faced, primarily stemming from the expenses surpassing the revenue.
Notably, the fiscal shortfall during the first half of the year amounted to Rs 1.24 billion. Such a deficit was a consequence of the delay in repaying the international loans since last April and the enhanced state spending relative to the prior year’s first half. This included doubled interest outlays.
The government’s three pivotal revenue-collecting bodies, i.e. the Customs Department, the Inland Revenue Department, and the Excise Department, demonstrated underperformance in their tax collection duties during the 1H23.
The statistics reveal that the Inland Revenue Department gathered just Rs 696.94 billion, which is 41.81% of the targeted Rs 1.667 trillion. Similarly, the Customs collected Rs 400.07 billion, which is only 32.79% of its set goal of Rs 1.22 trillion. The Excise Department managed to amass Rs 88.963 billion, just 41% of its projected Rs 217 billion target.
Further, there are recommendations in the report suggesting enhancements to the existing digital tax-collection system, RAMIS 2.0. This comes in anticipation of the upcoming tax changes, and there are considerations to renew the contract with the Singapore-based firm responsible for the platform’s development and maintenance.
Colombo (LNW): The Sri Lankan Rupee today (11) has appreciated slightly against the US Dollar in comparison to last week’s Friday, as revealed by the official exchange rates list issued by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL).
Accordingly, the buying price of the US Dollar has dropped to Rs. 316.29 from last week’s Rs. 316.71, and the selling price to Rs. Rs. 327.60 from Rs. 327.99.
Meanwhile, the Sri Lankan Rupee has also appreciated against several other foreign currencies, including Gulf currencies.
Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka Postal Department has warned the public of two financial scams pretending to be the Dept in their respective websites and attracting people via SMS messages and / or emails.
The first scam involves a fake website resembling the Postal Department which includes an online transaction system, the Dept clarified, pointing out that Sri Lanka Post has not facilitated such a platform on its official website.
Such scam sites request the visitors to provide sensitive details such as credit / debit card information, the Dept went on, urging the public to stay vigilant and protect themselves and others from such harmful scammers.
The second scam involves another platform pretending to be Sri Lanka Department of Post and targetting specifically Sri Lankans in their claim of postal deliveries being failed due to ‘a missing address line’, the Dept revealed.
The scammers send out SMS messages or emails requesting to log on to a website resembling their Dept’s, subsequently requesting the visitors to provide sensitive details such as credit / debit card information.
The Postal Department urged the public to not share their sensitive information such as credit / debit card details on suspicious websites as such, and encouraged the people to report any suspicious activity immediately to the Sri Lanka Department of Post.
Colombo (LNW): The United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) will commence its fifty-fourth regular session today, September 11, 2023, and will hold till October 13, 2023 at the Palais des Nations in Geneva.
The session will open at 10 a.m. on Monday, 11 September under the presidency of Ambassador Václav Bálek (Czech Republic). The opening will be addressed by the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk. The Council will be meeting in room XX of the Palais des Nations.
During the session, the Council will hold 29 interactive dialogues with Special Procedure mandate holders, expert mechanisms and investigative mechanisms.
It will hold interactive dialogues with the High Commissioner on his annual report, and on the human rights situations in Nicaragua and Sudan under agenda item two on the annual report of the High Commissioner and reports of his Office and the Secretary-General; in Belarus and Myanmar under agenda item four on human rights situations that require the Council’s attention; and in Ukraine and Haiti under agenda item 10 on technical assistance and capacity building.
Further, the Council will hold two enhanced interactive dialogues with the High Commissioner, one on racial justice in law enforcement, and the other on the human rights situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The Council will also hold an interactive dialogue with the Advisory Committee and five panel discussions on unilateral coercive measures and human rights, the integration of a gender perspective throughout the work of the Council, youth and human rights, cyberbullying against children, and the rights of indigenous peoples. It will additionally hear presentations of country and thematic reports from the Secretary-General, including his report on reprisals against those who seek to cooperate or have cooperated with the United Nations.
Reports and oral updates will also be presented on the human rights situations in Sri Lanka, Afghanistan and Nicaragua under agenda item two; Ethiopia, Russian Federation, Syria, Burundi, Ukraine and Venezuela under agenda item four; and in South Sudan, Cambodia, Somalia, Central African Republic, Georgia and Yemen under agenda item 10. Towards the end of the session, the Council will appoint a total of 12 mandate holders of Special Procedures, and seven members of its Advisory Committee.
The final outcomes of the Universal Periodic Review of 14 States will also be considered, namely those of France, Tonga, Romania, Mali, Montenegro, Botswana, Bahamas, Burundi, Luxembourg, Barbados, United Arab Emirates, Israel, Liechtenstein and Serbia.
The Council will adopt outcome documents for each review, which will include recommendations for the improvement of the human rights situation in each country. The general debate on agenda item six on the Universal Periodic Review is scheduled to take place on the morning of 4 October.
