November 03, Colombo (LNW): The Department of Prisons confirmed that former State Minister Lohan Ratwatte, who had been receiving treatment at the Prison Hospital, was moved to Colombo General Hospital due to “a sudden illness” last night.
Ratwatte’s transfer follows his recent arrest related to allegations of involvement with an illegally imported luxury vehicle.
Ratwatte was initially placed under remand after Mirihana Police apprehended him on October 31 in connection with an unregistered luxury car found at his wife’s residence in Mirihana, Nugegoda.
The discovery of the vehicle, devoid of registration plates, was reportedly made on 26 October during a targeted inspection based on information indicating the presence of such a car at a three-storey property belonging to his wife, Shashi Prabha Ratwatte.
During police questioning, Ratwatte and his wife claimed that the property in question is primarily occupied by his mother-in-law and that the vehicle had been brought there by his private secretary roughly three weeks prior.
This assertion added complexity to the investigation, as the private secretary in question was recently found dead with gunshot wounds in Katugastota, Kandy.
Ratwatte’s hospital transfer was sanctioned by the Acting Magistrate of Nugegoda, who granted his initial move to the Prison Hospital.
Authorities have since indicated that the investigation remains ongoing as they work to untangle the circumstances surrounding the luxury vehicle and the recent, related incidents.
November 03, World (LNW): The recent resurfacing of allegations against the late Mohamed Al-Fayed—an Egyptian rebel against the Crown turned a British business mogul—has cast a shadow over the legacy of the former Harrods owner.
Despite his flamboyant persona and public accusations against the British sovereign—most notably, blaming it for the death of Princess Diana—Al-Fayed’s history is marred by multiple allegations of sexual misconduct that span decades.
These accusations, long whispered about in hushed tones, paint a grim picture of a man who wielded his wealth and influence to evade accountability.
Al-Fayed with wife | Photo: The Sunday Times
Who is Mohamed Al-Fayed? Where did he come from?
Mohamed Abdel Moneim Al-Fayed was an Egyptian businessman who resided in the United Kingdom and pursued his primary business interests there from the mid-1960s. His ventures included ownership of the Hôtel Ritz Paris, Harrods department store, and Fulham Football Club. At the time of his death in 2023, Forbes estimated his wealth at £2 billion.
Al-Fayed was married to Samira Khashoggi from 1954 to 1956, and they had a son, Dodi, who was in a romantic relationship with Diana, Princess of Wales, at the time of their tragic car crash in Paris in 1997.
Mohamed Al Fayed arrives at the High Court on February 20, 2008 in London | Photo: Peter Macdiarmid/Getty
Al-Fayed died on August 30, 2023, aged 94, in London. However, he has since become a focal point of media scrutiny and investigations concerning allegations of sexual harassment and assault. By 2024, he faced multiple posthumous accusations of rape, with over 200 women reporting illegal activities attributed to him by September of that year.
Al-Fayed with Queen Elizabeth II at the Royal Windsor Horse Show | Photo: Tim Graham Photo Library/Getty
The friendship with Princess Diana
Al-Fayed and Princess Diana forged a unique friendship marked by mutual admiration and support. Their bond began in the 1980s, centred around shared interests in charity work and a desire to challenge the status quo.
Al-Fayed, known for his extravagant lifestyle, provided Diana with a sense of freedom from royal constraints. Their relationship deepened during the tumultuous periods in Diana’s life, with Al-Fayed often offering counsel and companionship.
Princess Diana, Prince Charles, and Mohamed Al-Fayed during the Harrods Polo Cup at Smith’s Lawn in Windsor, UK, July 1987 | Photo: Jayne Fincher/Princess Diana Archive/Getty
However, their friendship was also scrutinised by the media, especially in the context of Diana’s tragic death in 1997, which Al-Fayed controversially linked to a conspiracy involving the British sovereign.
The nature of the allegations
Numerous individuals have come forward, recounting experiences of harassment and abuse in the workplace. Al-Fayed has been accused of exploiting his position of power within his various enterprises, including the luxury department store Harrods and the Ritz Paris.
The claims date back to as early as 1995, when a police investigation was initiated regarding an alleged sexual assault on a teenager, which was subsequently dismissed by law enforcement dismissal, is a stark reminder of the systemic failures that often protect powerful figures from scrutiny.
The testimony of former employees has revealed a disturbing culture of silence and complicity surrounding Al-Fayed’s alleged behaviour. His status and wealth appeared to shield him from the repercussions that less privileged individuals would undoubtedly face.
Princess Diana and Mohammed Al Fayed attending a charity dinner for the Harefield Heart Unit held at Harrods London in February 1996. Photo: Jayne Fincher/Getty
In recent weeks, a coalition of over 400 alleged victims has formed, collectively demanding justice and accountability supported by advocacy groups that highlight the need for systemic change within institutions that have long turned a blind eye to such abuses.
Why is Al-Fayed’s name cleared of charges?
The Metropolitan Police has faced scrutiny for its handling of these allegations, particularly the revelation that reports about Al-Fayed had been made to authorities as early as ten years before they claimed to have any knowledge of, raising significant questions about the efficacy of law enforcement and its commitment to protecting victims of sexual violence.
Samantha-Jane Ramsay (left) with her sister Emma Wills | Family of Samantha-Jane Ramsay says she made allegation 10 years before police say first complaint made | Photograph: Leigh Day
Many victims feel betrayed by a system that failed to respond adequately to their cries for help. The feeling of helplessness amongst these individuals is compounded by the apparent lack of urgency in pursuing these allegations, unearthing a broader issue within institutions tasked with ensuring safety and justice.
Al-Fayed’s case is emblematic of a larger societal issue—how wealth and power can be weaponised to silence victims and enable predators. The culture within Harrods, Fulham Football Club, and other ventures associated with Al-Fayed reflects what critics claim as “a patriarchal attitude” that prioritises the reputation of the institution over the wellbeing of individuals.
The numerous claims of harassment, exploitation, and abuse reveal not just the actions of one man but a system that allows such behaviour to persist.
Al-Fayed | Photo: BBC
This pattern is particularly concerning in light of the current #MeToo movement, which has sought to empower survivors and challenge the status quo. Yet, as Al-Fayed’s situation illustrates, the fight for justice is far from over.
The voices of victims must not only be heard but also acted upon with sincerity and urgency. The time for accountability is now, and any attempt to downplay or dismiss these allegations only serves to reinforce the status quo of silence surrounding abuse.
The Justice for Harrods Survivors group said this week that 421 women had come forward to lawyers, alleging sexual misconduct by Fayed | Photo: Andy Rain/EPA/Shutterstock
The man is dead, but serve justice for the victims!
The revelations about Al-Fayed should prompt not only public outrage but also a reassessment of how society deals with allegations of sexual misconduct, particularly when they involve high-profile individuals. It is imperative that institutions actively work to dismantle the culture of silence that has enabled such abuses to occur.
This includes implementing comprehensive training programmes for employees, ensuring that there are clear channels for reporting misconduct, and fostering an environment where survivors feel safe and supported when coming forward.
Moreover, the victims of Al-Fayed’s alleged actions deserve justice and recognition. The coalition of survivors rallying against him represents a significant step towards accountability, but it is clear that much more needs to be done.
Bianca Gascoigne alleges she was groomed and sexually assaulted by Al-Fayed when she worked at the department store as a teenager | Photo: Getty
Advocacy groups are actively calling for increased scrutiny of corporate cultures that allow such behaviour to fester and thrive. Without concerted efforts to challenge and change these dynamics, the cycle of abuse is likely to continue.
In light of the deceased Al-Fayed’s legacy being reassessed upon these allegations, it becomes clear that his narrative is one of exploitation and power dynamics that allowed him to thrive at the expense of others. The juxtaposition of his public persona with the troubling accusations against him raises critical questions about accountability and justice in cases of sexual misconduct.
November 03, Colombo (LNW): Six individuals, including a Maldivian national, have been apprehended in connection with reported security concerns in Arugam Bay, a popular tourist area, Public Security Minister Vijitha Herath disclosed.
The arrests were made following intelligence reports indicating possible threats in the area, alongside reports of suspicious activity involving the photographing of key financial sites in Colombo.
The arrested suspects consist of one Maldivian and five Sri Lankans, and investigations are ongoing to determine the nature and intent of their activities.
Minister Herath cautioned against speculative interpretations, noting that the information gathered thus far is insufficient to confirm the specific objectives behind these actions.
“We are carefully assessing the evidence at hand. While we have detained these individuals, it is too early to make definitive conclusions regarding any potential plans or threats. Misinformation can lead to unnecessary public concern,” he stated.
The Ministry of Public Security reassured the public of heightened vigilance and coordination between security and intelligence agencies, aiming to ensure the safety of both local citizens and visiting tourists.
Enhanced surveillance and monitoring have been implemented in high-tourism areas to further strengthen security measures in light of these recent developments.
November 03, Colombo (LNW): The Association of Medical Specialists (AMS) has called for urgent disciplinary action regarding allegations of misconduct by a specialist at Karapitiya Teaching Hospital, Galle.
The AMS has requested an impartial investigation after two members, Dr. Jayamini Horathugoda and Dr. Harshani Dharmawardena, reported experiencing verbal abuse by the specialist while on duty.
In an official letter to Director General of Health Services Dr. Asela Gunawardene, the AMS underscored its firm opposition to any form of abusive language or threats in the workplace, urging the Ministry of Health to address the incident promptly.
The AMS stressed that such actions are essential to uphold a safe, respectful, and professional environment for healthcare staff.
In response to these concerns, the hospital’s trade union has temporarily halted its strike action until Monday (04), following an assurance from the Health Ministry that appropriate action will be taken against the accused specialist.
This pause allows the Ministry time to initiate steps that would restore a supportive working environment at the hospital, which is vital for effective patient care and employee morale.
November 03, Colombo (LNW): The Ministry of Defence has refuted recent social media claims suggesting the government intends to withdraw military personnel from providing security at temples and other religious sites.
In an official statement, the Ministry clarified that these reports are unfounded, affirming that no such decision has been made regarding the security arrangements for religious sites across the country.
The Ministry emphasised its commitment to maintaining current security protocols to ensure the protection of these places of worship, urging the public not to rely on unverified information circulating on social media.
November 03, Colombo (LNW): The Road Development Authority (RDA) has issued a cautionary notice to all motorists, advising heightened vigilance on highways due to ongoing heavy rains across the region.
P. C. Gunasinghe, Deputy Director General of the Expressway Operation, Maintenance, and Management Division, emphasised that the combination of wet road surfaces and reduced visibility poses increased risks.
As a safety measure, Gunasinghe recommended that drivers adhere to a reduced maximum speed of 60 kilometres per hour to ensure control on slippery surfaces and minimise accident risks.
The advisory is intended to prevent incidents often triggered by wet weather, particularly with surface water affecting vehicle grip.
The RDA urges drivers to be mindful of speed and avoid abrupt manoeuvres, especially in areas prone to water accumulation.
November 03, Colombo (LNW): President Anura Kumara Dissanayake announced that the government is actively working to expedite the completion of the Central Expressway, seeking Japan’s support to finalise the project.
The President disclosed these plans during an election rally in Kandy yesterday (02), highlighting the significance of this long-awaited expressway in enhancing national connectivity.
The government recently engaged in discussions with the Japanese Ambassador to secure financial and technical assistance for the expressway, which has faced delays over the years.
President Dissanayake affirmed that Japan’s support is expected to play a pivotal role in seeing the project to completion.
Beyond the expressway, the President emphasised the government’s commitment to alleviating Kandy’s traffic congestion, a persistent issue affecting daily life and local businesses.
In a recent review meeting, the government evaluated the current status of numerous halted projects aimed at modernising Kandy’s infrastructure, pledging to revive them swiftly.
Amongst the projects that have stalled are the construction of the Good Shed Bus Stand and planned bus terminals in key locations including Katugastota, Peradeniya, and Tennakumbura.
These hubs are considered essential for easing traffic flow and improving the daily commute within the region.
“We are determined to secure the required funding and resume these vital projects as soon as possible,” President Dissanayake assured, indicating that infrastructure development remains a top priority for his administration.
As these initiatives are critical to Kandy’s urban development, the President expressed confidence in the government’s ability to revitalise these projects, promising that they will receive focused attention and support.
November 03, Colombo (LNW): The National Building Research Organisation (NBRO) has issued early landslide warnings for eight districts in Sri Lanka as persistent heavy rainfall continues to heighten risks in affected areas.
The warnings, announced yesterday (02) at 5 pm, will remain effective until 5 pm today.
Districts under a Level 02 warning — indicating a heightened risk of landslides — include Kalutara, Kandy, Kegalle, Matara, and Ratnapura.
Specific areas identified at risk within these districts include Bulathsinhala in Kalutara; Udapalatha and Yatinuwara in Kandy; Bulathkohupitiya, Mawanella, Dehiowita, and Kegalle in Kegalle district; Pasgoda in Matara; and several high-risk locations in Ratnapura, including Eheliyagoda, Elapatha, Kuruwita, Kahawatta, Godakawela, and Pelmadulla.
Additionally, Level 01 warnings, a preliminary caution, have been issued for Welimada and Haldummulla in Badulla district, Elpitiya in Galle district, and Polgahawela in Kurunegala district.
These lower-level alerts serve as an early advisory, encouraging residents in these areas to remain vigilant and prepared for worsening conditions.
NBRO has urged residents in these areas to take proactive measures, particularly those in landslide-prone regions, and to closely monitor updates from local authorities.
As heavy rains persist, further alerts may be issued as conditions evolve, especially for communities on or near hilly terrain where landslide risk is more acute.
November 03, Colombo (LNW): Sunil Jayarathne has been appointed as the Chairman of the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) of Sri Lanka, bringing with him a wealth of expertise garnered over 37 years in the Department of Customs, where he last held the position of Additional Director General.
In his tenure with Customs, Jayarathne demonstrated a keen focus on international trade facilitation, particularly in his role as Media Spokesman over the past three and a half years and in his leadership of various technical and operational initiatives.
Throughout his career, Jayarathne has helmed multiple pivotal committees within the Department of Customs, advancing significant government and international policy initiatives.
His achievements include chairing the Customs Paperless Trade Initiative and overseeing the implementation of the World Trade Organisation’s Trade Facilitation Agreement (WTO-TFA).
Notably, he was instrumental in introducing non-intrusive cargo scanners at Colombo Port, bolstering customs efficiency and security.
Additionally, he served as the Vice Chairman of the Customs Valuation Technical Committee, helping to streamline customs valuation processes in alignment with global best practices.
Jayarathne is also recognised internationally as an accredited expert trainer and advisor for the World Customs Organisation (WCO) on the Time Release Study, a key measure in expediting customs clearance processes.
As the head of the National Trade Facilitation Committee (NTFC) Secretariat, he has overseen the implementation of WTO-led best practices, strengthening Sri Lanka’s trade facilitation landscape.
Beyond his administrative and operational accomplishments, Jayarathne has contributed as a key resource in the Department of Customs, sharing his insights on trade facilitation and customs valuation with both local and international stakeholders.
His collaborations with leading Sri Lankan trade chambers and global organisations such as the WCO and WTO underline his extensive experience and commitment to fostering smooth, efficient cross-border trade practices.
November 03, Colombo (LNW): The Election Commission has announced a comprehensive leave policy for public and private sector employees, ensuring they can participate in the upcoming parliamentary elections without losing income or using personal leave.
In line with paragraph 12.3 of Chapter XII of the Establishments Code under “Special Leave of Public Officers,” all public sector employees are entitled to at least four hours of leave to cast their votes, with this time off granted as paid special leave.
Private sector employees are also guaranteed voting leave, arranged through coordination between the Election Commission and the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL).
This provision ensures private employees can vote without a deduction in salary or personal leave, mirroring the public sector arrangement.
To address the varying distances some employees may need to travel to polling stations, the Election Commission has implemented a distance-based leave system for private sector employees:
For distances up to 40 kilometres: half-day leave
For distances of 40–100 kilometres: one full day’s leave
For distances of 100–150 kilometres: one and a half days’ leave
For distances exceeding 150 kilometres: two full days’ leave
Employees must submit a written request for leave to their employers, who in turn are required to display a list of all employees taking special leave for voting, along with the duration of leave granted.
