Starting today, September 15, the new Anti-Corruption Act comes into operation, ushering in measures aimed at bolstering transparency in governance and public trust in the government. This legislation also establishes an independent commission tasked with identifying and investigating allegations of bribery, corruption, asset and liability declarations, and related offenses.
The Act seeks to fulfill Sri Lanka’s obligations under the UN Convention against Corruption and other international agreements on corruption prevention, embracing global standards and best practices to cultivate a culture of integrity within the nation.
With the commencement of the Anti-Corruption Act No. 9 of 2023, the Bribery Act (Chapter 26), the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) Act, No. 19 of 1994, and the Declaration of Assets and Liabilities Law No. 1 of 1975 are repealed.
Furthermore, as of today, the Assistance to and Protection of Victims of Crime and Witnesses Act No. 10 of 2023 also takes effect, providing additional support and safeguards for those impacted by crime.
Meanwhile, Speaker of Parliament Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena recently endorsed the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) Bill and the Banking (Special Provisions) Bill. Following their passage in Parliament, these bills are now officially recognized as the Central Bank of Sri Lanka Act No. 16 of 2023 and the Banking (Special Provisions) Act No. 17 of 2023.
The world has been seeing the bright side of India. In August it landed a spacecraft on the Moon. In the latest quarter gdp grew at an annual rate of 7.8%, making it the world’s perkiest big economy. Narendra Modi, the prime minister, has just hosted a g20 summit where other leaders, including Joe Biden, courted Asia’s rising behemoth. Yet inside India the talk has turned to whether Mr Modi’s hunger for power and dreams of national renewal could lead him to bend the constitution. There are signs he wants to increase the clout of national politics and the central government, and dilute the influence of India’s 28 states—many of which are not run by his party.
The constitution grants autonomy to the states in many areas, reflecting India’s size and diversity. The reform under consideration is obscure but sensitive: synchronising state elections with national polls, potentially creating a single event every five years when India votes (a general election is due in spring next year). Next week Mr Modi is convening an unusual special session of parliament. It could be used to advance this idea. On September 1st he formed a committee to examine the feasibility of unitary elections.
His critics say this is a power grab that will upset a delicate regional balance. Although Mr Modi dominates national politics, his Hindu-nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (bjp) does not control any states in the more prosperous and dynamic south: in May it lost control of Karnataka, India’s tech hub. Synchronised polls could help Mr Modi exploit his personal popularity in regional elections, enabling the bjp to expand its reach.
In many ways the goal of “one India” is sensible. For too long the economy was balkanised, with myriad local markets and taxes (try looking up “octroi”). Mr Modi has simplified this since he won power in 2014, replacing many local levies with a national goods-and-services tax (gst). Along with better infrastructure this has created a deeper single market which is boosting growth. He has also promoted national digital-payment and welfare schemes. Strengthening central government, which doles out less than half of public spending, can be wise.
A simpler electoral calendar is also a legitimate goal. Non-stop campaigning for state elections disrupts the business of government. Other democracies hold polls simultaneously. But if Mr Modi goes ahead, risks loom. He may be tempted to circumvent the rules (on paper, constitutional amendments are needed, which may require a supermajority of parliament and the approval of most states). And if foiled he might weaponise regional tensions to stoke resentment in the bjp’s northern heartlands. The bjp has form: it has weakened the courts and incited anti-Muslim chauvinism.
Such divisiveness is always dangerous in India, with its many languages and at least six major religions. It poses a particular threat in the next decade as the regional balance shifts. Economically the south is pulling far ahead, leading to rows about why its taxes subsidise the backward north. In political terms a long-delayed redrawing of constituencies after 2026 will cause northern states to gain parliamentary seats, and the south, with its lower birth rates, to lose out.
Handled badly, such tensions could disrupt the single market and trigger unrest. To manage them India needs to safeguard the federal system, which creates flexibility and facilitates co-operation. Mr Modi’s landmark reform, the gst, came after painstaking negotiations with the states to achieve unanimity. That spirit should govern other constitutional reforms, including of election sequencing. Political federalism is not an impediment to India becoming a superpower; it is a condition for it.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe is set to take the helm of the Sri Lankan delegation at the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. President Wickremesinghe will address the General Assembly on September 21. His speech will revolve around the theme ‘Rebuilding trust and reigniting global solidarity: accelerating action on the 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development Goals towards peace, prosperity, progress and sustainability for all.’
UGC has commenced the calling in of applications for university admissions from those who passed the 2022 G.C.E. Advanced Level Examination for the academic year 2022/2023. The applications will be accepted from September 14 to October 05, 2023.
Sri Lanka Police have reportedly introduced a new hotline to report incidents of ragging (initiation ritual) that take place at universities in Sri Lanka. This new hotline will operate 24/7. Any information pertaining to incidents of ragging can be provided to the hotline 1997.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe has granted a special state pardon to a total of 933 prison inmates, in commemoration of the 25th National Prisoners’ Day.
Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena today (14) endorsed the certificate on the recently approved Central Bank of Sri Lanka Bill and the Banking (Special Provisions) Bill.The CBSL Bill was passed in Parliament by a majority vote last month with amendments, and the Banking (Special Provisions) Bill without a vote on July 21.
Minister of Agriculture Mahinda Amaraweera assures that egg and chicken prices will likely decrease next year and remain stable thereafter. He confirms that there will be no need for egg imports from next year.
The first review of the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) programme of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to Sri Lanka commenced on Septemeber 14. State Minister of Finance Shehan Semasinghe says that the review is a significant milestone towards securing the second tranche for Sri Lanka.
Urban Development Authority (UDA) announced calls for Request for Proposals (RFPs) to restore and develop two unique and iconic properties in the city of Colombo. One notable project underway is the renovation of a building situated at No. 11, Sir Baron Jayatillake Mawatha, Colombo 01. Another exciting project on our horizon is the development of a high-end boutique hotel at No. 25, Independence Avenue, Colombo 07.
The government has decided to recall retired doctors and specialists for service on contract basis, Minister of Health Keheliya Rambukwella says. This aims to address the prevailing doctor shortage at hospitals due to brain drain prompted by the economic crisis.
Sri Lanka beat the World No. 1 ranked ODI team, Pakistan, to qualify for the Asia Cup final for the record 12th time. Sri Lanka will now play India on Sunday at the R Premadasa Stadium. Kusal Mendis scores a classic 91 runs. He is also the highest run-scorer of the Asia Cup 2023 with 254 runs.
Showers will occur at times in Southern province and in Kaluthara district.
Several spells of showers will occur in Sabaragamuwa and North-western provinces and in Colombo, Gampaha, Kandy and Nuwara-Eliya districts.
Showers or thundershowers may occur at a few places in Uva province, and in Batticaloa and Ampara districts during the evening or night.
Fairly strong winds about (40-45) kmph can be expected at times in western slopes of the central hills, Northern, North-central and North-western provinces and in Trincomalee and Hambantota districts.
General public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimize damages caused by temporary localized strong winds and lightning during thundershowers
On 11 and 12 September 2023, Circle 19 for the Right to Information in China, an independent group supported by Reporters without Borders (RSF), held its inaugural symposium in Paris and launched the drafting process of a statement aimed at demonstrating that this universal principle is deeply rooted in China’s traditions.
Circle 19 for the Right to Information in China (Circle 19), an independent group composed of Chinese people and China specialists, held its inaugural symposium in Paris on 11 and 12 September 2023. On this occasion, Circle 19 launched the drafting process of a statement of principles aimed at demonstrating that the universal principle of the right to information is deeply rooted in China’s traditions, history and political system, contrary to certain narratives conveyed by the Chinese regime. The group’s long-term objective is to empower the Chinese public with intellectual resources related to this right to information in the People’s Republic of China.
“In its frantic race for social control, the Beijing regime deprives the Chinese public of its legitimate right to information by invoking a so-called ‘relativity’ of cultures which denies the universality of human rights. The Circle 19 initiative should demonstrate through unassailable arguments that the right to information is a central element of Chinese culture and that its implementation has been, and remains to this day, a constant demand of the Chinese people. A strategy of naming and shaming is not enough. As Liu Xiaobo, press freedom defender and nobel peace prize winner, said, change in China will come from inside.”
Christophe Deloire Secretary General of Reporters Without Borders (RSF)
Circle 19 was gradually formed from 2019 and now includes around 30 participants, whose details are not public and remain anonymous for security reasons. On its website, the group also features a selection of impactful Chinese investigative reports demonstrating the importance of journalism for the development of Chinese society.
The group’s name, Circle 19, refers to Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights that enshrines the right to freedom of opinion and expression, as well as the 1919 “May Fourth movement” which advocated for progressive political and social reforms, including freedom of information.
Ranked 179th out of 180, China lies at the bottom of the 2023 RSF World Press Freedom Index and is the world’s largest captor of journalists, with at least 114 currently detained.
REPORTERS SANS FRONTIÈRES / REPORTERS WITHOUT BORDERS (RSF)
Colombo (LNW): The Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) said it submitted an offer to exchange the portfolio of Treasury Bonds of the Fun under the govenrment’s new Domestic Dept Optimisation (DDO) programme.
The offer will be in terms of the invitation made by the Ministry of Finance, Economic Stablisation and National Policies following a resolution adopted by the Parliament of Sri Lanka.
Colombo (LNW): Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena today (14) endorsed the certificate on the recently approved Central Bank of Sri Lanka Bill and the Banking (Special Provisions) Bill.
The CBSL Bill was passed in Parliament by a majority vote last month (July 20) with amendments, and the Banking (Special Provisions) Bill without a vote on July 21.
These bills, accordingly, will be enacted as law – as the Central Bank of Sri Lanka Act No. 16 of 2023 and the Banking (Special Provisions) Act No. 17 of 2023.
Colombo (LNW): President Ranil Wickremesinghe has granted a special state pardon to a total of 933 prison inmates, in commemoration of the 25th National Prisoners’ Day (Sep 12).
Among the inmates granted pardon are 926 male inmates and seven female inmates.
Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka Police have reportedly introduced a new hotline to report incidents of ragging (initiation ritual) that take place at universities in Sri Lanka.
This new hotline will operate 24/7, News1st reported quoting Police Spokesman SSP Nihal Thalduwa.
Videos and photographs of such events can be sent via WhatsApp to 076 54 53 454, and any information pertaining to incidents of ragging can be provided to the hotline 1997.
PMD: In a landmark discussion held yesterday (12) in Colombo, Mr. Sagala Ratnayaka, the President’s Senior Advisor on National Security and the President’s Chief of Staff, unveiled a bold vision for the Indian Ocean region. The event was attended by notable figures including President Ranil Wickremesinghe, former Speaker Karu Jayasuriya and high-ranking diplomats. The event highlighted Sri Lanka’s pivotal role in shaping the future of this strategically vital region.
Mr. Sagala Ratnayaka attended as the keynote speaker at the Geopolitical Cartographer discussion on the Indian Ocean and Indo-Pacific dimensions of recent high-level visits. He commenced the discussion by highlighting the profound transformation of the Indian Ocean from a mere maritime trade route to a global nexus encompassing security, economics, environmental concerns, social issues and strategic interests. He also emphasized the implementation of a robust reform program, which is poised to bring harmony to the Indian Ocean with its commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific, while noting that the national interests of individual states significantly influence the international system.
He also underscored Sri Lanka’s unique position in the Indian Ocean region, highlighting the nation’s on-going economic recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic and the implementation of robust reform and revival programs. These initiatives have positioned Sri Lanka to play a crucial role in fostering harmony within the Indian Ocean.
One of Sri Lanka’s central policies in the region is the promotion of a free and open Indo-Pacific, encompassing maritime safety and security, protection of undersea cables, combating illegal fishing and trafficking, addressing human trafficking and tackling environmental issues, including disaster relief and maritime pollution. Mr. Ratnayaka drew attention to Sri Lanka’s responsibilities in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) and stressed the importance of stability and growth through reform.
Mr. Ratnayaka acknowledged the importance of maintaining a stable and credible image, emphasizing that Sri Lanka’s reform processes and economic stabilization are crucial for attracting international support and cooperation. The domestic debt restructuring process in Sri Lanka is currently approaching its final stages, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s economic recovery efforts. This comprehensive restructuring initiative is designed to address and manage the country’s domestic debt obligations more effectively. One crucial step in this process involves the enactment of the Central Bank Act, a legislative framework that will provide the necessary regulatory framework and guidelines for managing domestic debt. Once this act is enacted, it will facilitate the completion of the domestic debt restructuring process. As part of this restructuring, Sri Lanka plans to convert existing treasury bills into bonds, a strategic move to better manage its debt portfolio and ensure long-term financial stability.
In the initial phases of the debt restructuring process, Sri Lanka sought assurances and support from international partners. Notably, the Paris Club, along with India and China, responded positively and cooperatively, extending their assistance to help Sri Lanka navigate its economic challenges. As Sri Lanka nears the completion of the domestic debt restructuring, it anticipates continued support from these key partners in the upcoming rounds of restructuring. The discussion further emphasized connectivity in various forms, including air, sea, road, logistics, energy security and power grid development. Sri Lanka aims to collaborate with countries like Japan to build confidence in its reform process and attract investments.
France’s role in combating climate change and the establishment of a School of Regional Maritime Safety and Security in Trincomalee were among the key highlights of the discussion. Additionally, the talk emphasized the significance of Chinese investments in Sri Lanka, including the Port City and Hambantota, in driving economic growth and creating job opportunities.
As Sri Lanka positions itself as a key player in the Indian Ocean, the discussion underscored the pivotal role of the private sector in driving the nation’s vision forward. With global diplomatic support and ambitious plans, Sri Lanka’s aspirations for the Indian Ocean region have taken centre stage on the international platform.
The culmination of discussions during President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s visit to India resulted in the issuance of a visionary document that outlines Sri Lanka’s strategic goals for the region. This document underscores the central theme of connectivity, highlighting the importance of fostering robust connections by air, sea and road. It also emphasizes the significance of logistics, an efficient economy and the trading of currencies. Additionally, the document places a strong focus on digital finance and energy security, acknowledging their pivotal roles in Sri Lanka’s economic future.
The commitment to enhancing connectivity extends to the development of a power grid and pipelines for fuel, not only within Sri Lanka but also extending to its neighbouring regions. This ambitious approach aims to provide greater flexibility and reliability in meeting the energy needs of Sri Lanka and its surrounding areas.
Furthermore, the vision document prioritizes food security, with an emphasis on high-tech agriculture and the development of livestock and dairy sectors. These initiatives are aimed at bolstering Sri Lanka’s self-sufficiency in food production and reducing its reliance on imports. In addition to these economic facets, the document recognizes the importance of tourism, with India playing a vital role in Sri Lanka’s tourism industry. The focus on education, as emphasized by President Wickremesinghe, highlights Sri Lanka’s commitment to fostering a skilled workforce and promoting educational partnerships with India and other nations.
The recent high-powered visit to China was of great significance and it was noted that President Ranil Wickremesinghe will soon embark on his third Belt and Road Initiative visit to China. Notably, President Wickremesinghe had previously represented Sri Lanka as Prime Minister during the inaugural Belt and Road visit. In terms of China-Sri Lankan relations, Sri Lanka has benefitted from two substantial Chinese investments. One of these is the ambitious Port City project, which, while encountering occasional challenges, is currently undergoing consultations for the finalization of new legal frameworks. These legal adjustments are expected to be particularly enticing to prospective investors.
Additionally, discussions included the Hambantota investment, where the port has faced challenges due to a lack of sufficient maritime traffic resulting from delays in the development of the investment zone. Addressing this issue is deemed crucial for Hambantota’s full potential to be realized, as it holds the promise of job creation, the establishment of export industries and a significant increase in revenue for Sri Lanka. These topics, among others, constituted key areas of focus during the discussions between the leaders.
Both Japan and Sri Lanka emphasized the crucial role of the private sector in driving Sri Lanka’s development. This emphasis on the private sector’s leadership was a central theme in discussions and the vision document. Recent visits by Japanese officials highlighted discussions on climate change and education, aiming to build confidence in Sri Lanka’s reform process. Concerns among Japanese investors and private sector players prompted a call for reform, standardization and improved safety regulations to attract foreign investment. Overall, the focus remains on fostering a business-friendly environment and instilling confidence in foreign investors, particularly from Japan, to participate in Sri Lanka’s growth and prosperity.
Subsequently, during the diplomatic engagement with France, President’s discussions were conducted efficiently. A significant portion of the dialogue was dedicated to the critical subject of climate change, including the establishment of a Climate Change University. Moreover, the talks cantered on enhancing cooperation in regional maritime safety, with a specific proposal to establish the School of Regional Maritime Safety and Security. This institution is slated to be headquartered in Trincomalee while maintaining affiliation with the prestigious Kotelawala Defence University.
The discussion attended by notable figures such as High Commissioner of India HE Gopal Bagley, Ambassador of China HE Qi Zhenhong, Ambassador of France HE Jean-Francois Pactet and Ambassador of Japan HE Hideaki Mizukoshi, each providing unique perspectives on the region’s evolving dynamics and expressed their support for Sri Lanka’s Role in Shaping the Future of the Indian Ocean Region. Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ms Aruni Wijewardane was the moderator at this event.
