February 04, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka is set to take a significant step towards modernising its public service infrastructure with the launch of ‘GovPay,’ a digital payment platform designed to streamline government transactions.

The groundbreaking initiative will be officially unveiled by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake on February 7th, 2025, as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to digitalise public services.

‘GovPay’ is expected to transform the way citizens interact with government services, offering a convenient and secure way to make payments for a wide range of government fees and services.

The platform aims to eliminate the need for manual, in-person transactions, reducing long queues and enhancing overall efficiency within public service departments.

In his announcement, the President highlighted the significance of this digital shift, emphasising how it aligns with the government’s broader vision of fostering a more accessible and transparent public sector.

The platform is expected to cover various payment services, ranging from taxes and utility bills to fees for public permits and licenses, with future expansion planned to include a wider array of government-related financial transactions.

The initiative will not only simplify payments but also enable the government to collect revenues more efficiently, paving the way for improved fiscal management.

February 04, Colombo (LNW): On the occasion of Sri Lanka’s 77th Independence Day, Leader of the Opposition Sajith Premadasa, emphasised the nation’s duty to preserve and strengthen the democracy it inherited at the time of independence.

In his message, Premadasa urged Sri Lankans to reflect on their shared history and recognise the current moment as a critical point in the nation’s democratic evolution.

Premadasa called on the people of Sri Lanka to make a resolute commitment towards fostering a more unified and inclusive future.

Full Statement:

“On the occasion of the 77th National Independence Day, I attended the Independence Day celebrations and religious observances held this morning at the Sri Dharmakeerthyarama Maha Vihara in Kollupitiya. After our country gained independence on February 4, 1948, then-Prime Minister D.S. Senanayake visited this temple and planted a mango sapling under the blessings of the Chief Incumbent at the time, Ven. Hanchapola Wimalawansa Anunayake Thero. To commemorate this historic event, an annual Independence Day celebration is held at the temple, including a floral tribute to the statue of D.S. Senanayake on the temple grounds. This year’s event saw the participation of a large gathering, including politicians and members of the public.

Strengthening the democracy we inherited with independence is our responsibility at this moment.

To achieve this, let us resolve on this Independence Day to understand the present clearly, rise above divisive, caste-based, and religiously narrow thinking, and stand united.“

February 04, Colombo (LNW): The Chairman of the Election Commission, R.M.A.L. Ratnayake, has announced that preparations for the upcoming Local Government (LG) elections are well underway, with the election body awaiting the delivery of several crucial Supreme Court rulings to the Speaker of Parliament before setting a date for the polls.

Speaking at a briefing, Ratnayake outlined that once the rulings on the ongoing legal cases related to the LG elections are handed over to Parliament, the Commission will be fully prepared to proceed with organising the elections.

He reassured the public that the election body is ready to take all the necessary steps as soon as the legal framework is cleared.

The Chairman also provided updates on the status of Provincial Council elections, stating that these would follow once the required amendments to the Provincial Council Election Act are approved by Parliament.

He indicated that the Election Commission stands ready to oversee these elections once the legislative changes are enacted, although they are still awaiting the finalisation of the necessary amendments.

Ratnayake acknowledged the frequent inquiries the Commission has received about the timing of the LG elections, confirming that the delay is solely due to the pending Supreme Court decisions.

He reiterated that, “Once the court rulings are formally delivered to the Speaker of Parliament, the Election Commission will take immediate action to conduct the Local Government elections.”

Addressing concerns about the financial preparations for the elections, Ratnayake reassured the public that sufficient funding for the LG polls has already been allocated.

This financial support is expected to ensure that the elections can be conducted smoothly once the legal and legislative hurdles are cleared.

February 04, Colombo (LNW): A legal petition has been lodged in the Court of Appeal, demanding the invalidation of the parliamentary seat held by Public Security Minister Ananda Wijepala.

The petition was filed by Renuka Perera, the Administrative Secretary of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), and names Minister Wijepala, the Secretary-General of Parliament, and the Attorney General as the respondents in the case.

The crux of the petition is a claim made by Perera, who asserts that Minister Wijepala, who was appointed to his current role on November 18, 2024, was subsequently reported to have also been named as the President’s Chief of Staff.

This claim was based on a report published by the Sunday Times on December 10, 2024, which suggested that Wijepala had indeed assumed this additional position.

Further substantiating this claim, Perera cites a Right to Information (RTI) request that reportedly confirmed Wijepala’s appointment to the President’s staff.

The petitioners argue that under Article 91 of Sri Lanka’s Constitution, any state official holding a position in the government, such as the role of Chief of Staff, is prohibited from maintaining a parliamentary seat or voting in Parliament.

This, they argue, renders Wijepala ineligible to serve as a Member of Parliament.

The petition requests the Court of Appeal to issue a declaration disqualifying Wijepala from holding his parliamentary seat and also to issue an interim order to prevent him from attending parliamentary sessions or voting until a final decision is made.

Furthermore, the petition seeks an order barring Wijepala from continuing in his capacity as Public Security Minister, pending the court’s ruling.

February 04, Colombo (LNW): As Sri Lanka commemorates its 77th Independence Day, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake urged the nation to focus on building a brighter future rather than looking back at past challenges.

In his address during the national celebrations at Independence Square in Colombo, the President emphasised the collective hope and expectation shared by all Sri Lankans, whether from the north or the south, to unite in the quest for a modern, progressive nation.

“The path ahead is for every citizen to walk together,” President Dissanayake declared, highlighting the importance of achieving economic and socio-cultural independence for all.

He stressed that true freedom lies not just in political sovereignty, but in the ability for individuals to thrive as modern citizens within a nation that values their dignity and contributions.

The President called for a concerted national effort to achieve economic independence, reminding the public that it must be pursued without falling prey to the external pressures of the global economy.

“Economic freedom is not easily won, but together we can overcome any obstacle that stands in our way,” he said, urging citizens to dedicate themselves to this common goal.

Looking forward, President Dissanayake shared his vision for Sri Lanka’s future. “The nation we aim to leave behind is not just the one we inherited from history, but a Sri Lanka that you, the next generation, will be proud to call home—one that is respected globally and enriched by its cultural humanity,” he remarked.

He spoke passionately about the unique opportunity the nation now faces, encouraging citizens to embrace the moment and work tirelessly to shape the future. “We have no excuse to let this precious opportunity slip by. I trust that the nation we pass on to you will be taken forward with even greater vigour than we, the current generation, possess.”

President Dissanayake also touched upon the core responsibility of humanity in today’s world, reminding the people of their duty to make the world a better place for all.

“We are bound by an undeniable responsibility to create a world that reflects true humanity—one where all people can experience and cultivate kindness, respect, and mutual understanding.”

In his closing remarks, he called for national unity to bring the vision of independence to life.

“Let us all dream of this independence together and transform that dream into reality. While we may never be the wealthiest nation, we can certainly become an exemplary one—a country that stands as a beacon of equality, freedom, and national spirit.”

With his impassioned speech, President Dissanayake reminded Sri Lankans that the road ahead requires collective action, deep commitment, and unwavering faith in the nation’s potential.

This Independence Day, the focus was not on what has been lost, but on the boundless possibilities that lie ahead for a united and resilient Sri Lanka.

February 03, Colombo (LNW): In a significant diplomatic development, Foreign Affairs Minister Vijitha Herath engaged in a telephone conversation yesterday (03) with Myanmar’s Deputy Prime Minister, U Than Swe, to discuss key matters aimed at enhancing bilateral ties and addressing urgent issues concerning Sri Lankan nationals in Myanmar.

The primary focus of the conversation was the urgent request made by Minister Herath for Myanmar’s assistance in securing the safe rescue and repatriation of 18 Sri Lankan citizens who have been trafficked to the Myawaddy region in Myanmar.

These individuals have been forced to work in Cybercrime centres under harrowing conditions. The Minister stressed the critical need for swift action, as the victims are reportedly being subjected to severe mistreatment and torture by criminal syndicates.

Minister Herath also took the opportunity to express Sri Lanka’s gratitude to the Myanmar Government for its ongoing cooperation in efforts to rescue and repatriate Sri Lankan victims of human trafficking.

From 2022 to 2024, Myanmar had successfully assisted in the safe return of 91 Sri Lankans who had been trafficked to the Myawaddy region, a gesture which has been highly appreciated by the Sri Lankan Government.

However, with 18 Sri Lankans still held in captivity, the Minister urged Myanmar to prioritise their immediate rescue and return.

During the discussion, both Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening the robust bilateral relationship between their countries, which has been built over more than 75 years of diplomatic ties.

These relations are also enriched by deep people-to-people connections, particularly through shared Theravada Buddhist heritage.

The two leaders also agreed to explore the possibility of convening the fourth round of the Sri Lanka-Myanmar Joint Commission on Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC) at a time convenient for both parties, reinforcing their ongoing efforts to deepen cooperation in various fields.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in collaboration with the Ministries of Foreign Employment and Tourism, will continue to work closely with Myanmar to ensure the swift and safe repatriation of the remaining Sri Lankans trapped in Myawaddy.

Both governments remain committed to overcoming the challenges posed by human trafficking and will intensify efforts to safeguard the welfare of their citizens abroad.

February 04, Colombo (LNW): Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya in a remark celebrating Sri Lanka’s 77th Independence Day emphasised that independence is not only about sovereignty, but also about dignity, justice, and the fundamental right to live free from oppression.

Reflecting on the nation’s journey, the Prime Minister stated that true freedom lies in creating an inclusive society where every community, regardless of ethnicity, religion, caste, gender, or class, has an equal role in shaping the future of Sri Lanka.

She underlined that every citizen must feel respected and valued, marking the foundation of a truly free nation.

“A prosperous nation and a fulfilling life for all is not merely a dream; it is a collective call to action,” Dr. Amarasuriya remarked.

She called for a strengthened democracy, one where economic justice is at the forefront, and the voices of the most vulnerable and marginalised groups are not only heard but actively included in the decision-making process.

The Prime Minister further affirmed her commitment to building a Sri Lanka where every individual can feel a profound sense of belonging, equality, and worth. She urged the nation to move beyond symbolic gestures and focus on meaningful change, ensuring that Sri Lanka becomes a country that truly belongs to all of its people, with no one left behind.

Full Statement:

“Today, as we reflect on our journey, we recognise that true freedom comes from an inclusive and equitable society where every community; regardless of ethnicity, religion, caste, gender or class has an equal stake in shaping this nation and feels valued and respected.

A thriving nation, a beautiful life is not just a vision; it is a call to action. It is a commitment to a Sri Lanka where democracy is deepened, where economic justice is prioritised, and where the voices of the marginalised are not just heard but cantered in decision-making. It is a promise to build a country where every individual feels a sense of belonging and worth.

On this historic day, let us go beyond symbolism and dedicate ourselves to meaningful change; towards a Sri Lanka that truly belongs to all.”

February 04, Colombo (LNW): In a significant boost to Sri Lanka’s environmental infrastructure, the Government of Japan has granted 300 million Japanese Yen (approximately LKR 565 million) to enhance the nation’s waste management system.

This generous contribution is part of the ‘Clean Sri Lanka’ initiative, aimed at improving waste management capabilities in key regions across the country.

The formal agreement was concluded on the 3rd of February at the Presidential Secretariat in Colombo.

The signing ceremony was attended by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and key officials from both governments, with the document signed by Ms. SAYAMA (IKUINA) Akiko, Japan’s Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Mr. Mahinda Siriwardana, the Secretary to Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Finance.

The grant will be utilised primarily to strengthen waste management infrastructure, particularly in Sri Lanka’s Western, Northern, and Eastern Provinces.

The funds will be directed towards the procurement of 28 garbage compactors, which will significantly improve the waste collection and transportation capacity across these regions.

The allocation of the vehicles will see 14 compactors provided to the Western Province, 8 to the Eastern Province, and 6 to the Northern Province, enhancing local government authorities’ ability to manage waste effectively.

During the ceremony, Vice-Minister SAYAMA expressed Japan’s admiration for the Sri Lankan government’s ongoing anti-corruption efforts, which she highlighted as a major factor in attracting international investment to the country.

She also reiterated Japan’s commitment to supporting Sri Lanka’s development trajectory, particularly in terms of infrastructure and governance reforms.

Further strengthening the bond between the two nations, Vice-Minister SAYAMA delivered a message of goodwill from Japan’s Prime Minister to President Dissanayake.

In his response, the Sri Lankan President thanked Japan for its continued cooperation and support, acknowledging the long-standing, fruitful relationship between the two nations.

He emphasised Sri Lanka’s unwavering commitment to upholding anti-corruption policies and promoting transparency in governance.

The President also took the opportunity to express his appreciation for Japan’s involvement in the country’s debt restructuring process and for resuming several Japan-funded projects that had been temporarily halted.

In addition, President Dissanayake thanked Japan for providing employment opportunities for many Sri Lankan expatriates and requested further assistance in expanding these opportunities in the future.

In addition to the grant for waste management, the President asked for Japan’s support in improving Sri Lanka’s public transportation system through further Japanese aid, highlighting the importance of sustainable development for the country’s future.

The signing ceremony was attended by several distinguished officials, including Dr. Anil Jayantha Fernando, Sri Lanka’s Minister of Labour and Deputy Minister for Economic Development, as well as high-ranking diplomats and representatives from Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, including Mr. ISOMATA Akio, Japan’s Ambassador to Sri Lanka, and Mr. SAITO Jun, Secretary to Vice-Minister SAYAMA.

February 04, Colombo (LNW): On the occasion of Sri Lanka’s 77th National Independence Day, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has urged the nation to stand united in the pursuit of a modern vision of freedom and national progress.

In a heartfelt message to the people, the President emphasised the importance of collective effort in realising the dreams of a revitalised Sri Lanka.

In his Independence Day address, President Dissanayake remarked on the nation’s resilience, despite the numerous challenges and deeply ingrained flaws left behind by the previous political regime.

He noted that the people’s government, founded on the collective will of Sri Lanka’s citizens, continues to move steadily forward, overcoming the shadows of the past.

“We are navigating through a difficult yet hopeful period,” the President stated, acknowledging the struggles faced but highlighting the remarkable achievements of the current government.

“Despite the obstacles we have encountered, we have laid the foundations for national revival and, as promised, Sri Lanka is now poised to enter a new era of growth and renewal.”

The President reaffirmed his government’s commitment to building on the progress already made, stressing that the real work now lies in systematically expanding the gains of the past years.

He called on every Sri Lankan to contribute to this collective effort, to help realise the long-held dream of a prosperous, self-sustaining nation.

“We must remain steadfast in our pursuit of this dream. With confidence and creativity, we will continue to build upon the foundation we have established and move forward with unwavering resolve,” he declared.

Full Statement:

“Today, as we celebrate the 77th National Independence Day, we do so with hopes and aspirations for a new kind of freedom. Reflecting on Sri Lanka’s history, we have now embarked on a new path, with a government built through the collective efforts of the people from the North, East, West, and South. At this moment, we stand together to take on the challenge of rebuilding a thriving nation – a beautiful life; something that was lost and eluded us over the past century.

For the sake of our future generations, we must elevate our nation to new heights. This was the very expectation of all the heroes in our history who struggled to achieve it with their blood and tears. Therefore, both individually and collectively, we must build a modern, developed Sri Lankan nation, guided by social, environmental, and ethical principles.

As the new government, over the past four months, we have laid the foundation for a stable economy, introduced a new political culture, and committed ourselves to a new political ideal. We strive for a society where people regard each other with equality, respect, and empathy; —free from racism and religious divisions. We focus on governance through public engagement and the rule of law, while prioritising the eradication of rural poverty. Our policies and actions aim to ensure that no citizen, particularly the most vulnerable, is left behind. Steps have also been taken towards digitalising the economy to embrace advancements in science and technology that we previously missed. Additionally, we are committed to transforming Sri Lanka’s global image—from a country known for corrupt governance to one that upholds an independent foreign policy and earns trust in international relations.

Despite countless obstacles and the deep-rooted flaws of the past corrupt political system, the people’s government, built by the collective will of the citizens, is steadily progressing forward. As promised, we have successfully ushered Sri Lanka into an era of national revival. Now, the task ahead is to systematically build upon this foundation and realise a centuries-old dream with unwavering confidence and creativity.

On this 77th National Independence Day, I invite all Sri Lankans to stand strong and united, to take part in shaping a modern vision of freedom, and to contribute to the collective beginning of this new era of revival.”

Meanwhile, issuing the Independence Day message, Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya states that the independence is not just about sovereignty; it is about dignity, justice, and the right to a life free from oppression.