May 01, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s political parties and trade unions are marking International Workers’ Day today with a multitude of rallies and parades held in various parts of the country, each group advancing its own message of solidarity, struggle, or resurgence, in what has become an important annual tradition.

At the heart of Colombo, Galle Face Green will host one of the day’s most prominent gatherings, where the National People’s Power (NPP) will rally under the banner “May Day Rally of the People’s Power Building the Country.”

This large-scale event will be presided over by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, whose leadership has redefined the political narrative in the post-crisis era. Deputy Minister of Labour Mahinda Jayasinghe stated that all logistics and security arrangements for the rally have been finalised, with crowds expected from across the island.

In the central highlands, the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) is set to stage its main Labour Day observance at the Lindula Municipal Council Grounds in Talawakele. Party leader Sajith Premadasa will lead the gathering, rallying under the theme “Workers’ Power to Win the Country.”

The location is symbolic, as it lies in the heart of plantation country—a region with a deep-rooted labour history and ongoing demands for wage justice and improved working conditions.

The Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), seeking to re-energise its base after a series of political setbacks, will bring its supporters together at the Ananda Samarakoon Open Air Theatre in Nugegoda.

Under the slogan “We Have Endured the Deception, Let’s Rise Up Now,” the party aims to position itself as the voice of those disillusioned with recent governance transitions. General Secretary Sagara Kariyawasam expressed confidence in a significant turnout, viewing the day as an opportunity to rally their traditional voter base.

At the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) headquarters, the Podujana Eksath Peramuna will host a more restrained yet symbolically important celebration. Trade Union Coordinator Prasanna Kalutarage confirmed the event will focus on reaffirming the SLFP’s commitment to labour rights and social justice, themes that have historically formed the bedrock of the party’s ideology.

In Warakapola, the relatively newer political alliance ‘Sarvajana Balaya’ is planning a rally with a modern twist—focusing on transforming workers into entrepreneurs. Under the theme “The Worker Towards Entrepreneurship,” the event, led by MP Dilith Jayaweera, reflects a broader shift in political messaging, where labour empowerment is increasingly linked to innovation, self-reliance, and economic adaptability.

Meanwhile, the Frontline Socialist Party will hold its rally at the Lalith Athulathmudali Stadium in Kirulapone, with the participation of long-time activists and grassroots organisers. The party’s Education Secretary, Pubudu Jagoda, said the event will spotlight class struggle, workers’ dignity, and economic inequality—issues that remain unresolved despite waves of political change.

To manage the influx of participants and the logistical demands of multiple large-scale gatherings, the Police Media Division has implemented a comprehensive traffic control strategy.

With 15 locations in Colombo alone designated for processions and meetings, motorists have been urged to avoid key city arteries and instead use alternate routes where possible.

Security, public safety, and road discipline are being prioritised, with special teams deployed to coordinate event zones and ensure smooth proceedings.

May 01, Colombo (LNW): Despite a noticeable reduction in fuel prices announced by both the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CEYPETCO) and the Lanka Indian Oil Corporation (LIOC), passengers relying on public transport will see no relief in bus fares.

This decision has sparked renewed criticism over the disconnect between fuel pricing and public transportation costs in Sri Lanka.

Lanka Private Bus Owners’ Association Chief Gemunu Wijeratne has made it clear that bus fares will not be adjusted downwards, even though the cost of auto diesel—on which most buses operate—has been brought down by Rs. 12 per litre.

With diesel now retailing at Rs. 274 per litre, many commuters had anticipated a corresponding fare reduction, only to be disappointed.

The price revision, effective from midnight on April 30, has seen petrol and diesel fuels slashed significantly. Petrol Octane 92 has dropped by Rs. 6, bringing it to Rs. 293 per litre, while the higher-grade Octane 95 has fallen by Rs. 20 to Rs. 341 per litre. Super Diesel is now priced at Rs. 325, following a Rs. 6 cut, and Kerosene has been reduced to Rs. 178, down by Rs. 5.

By: Isuru Parakrama

May 01, Colombo (LNW): President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, in his official message marking International Workers’ Day, asserted that the current administration has successfully laid the foundation for the country’s economic revival after decades of mismanagement, nepotism, and corruption.

His statement underscored the government’s ongoing efforts to rebuild the nation through policies aimed at equity, inclusion, and social transformation.

Reflecting on the origins of May Day, President Dissanayake paid tribute to the workers of Chicago’s Haymarket Square in 1886, whose demands for an eight-hour workday became the catalyst for the global labour movement.

He emphasised that Sri Lanka today stands at a similar turning point—one led by the will of the people to dismantle entrenched systems of privilege and reclaim governance for the broader public good.

The President highlighted several of the government’s early achievements, including what he described as landmark reforms: a significant increase in the minimum salary for public sector employees and a wide range of support schemes for farmers, fisherfolk, women, students, youth, and small-scale business owners.

These measures, he claimed, marked a departure from past policies that largely benefited a narrow elite.

He acknowledged the structural challenges inherited by his administration, including an economy left in ruins by years of political and fiscal mismanagement. However, he asserted that the government had managed to stabilise the situation and put in motion a recovery plan with visible progress.

Notably, Dissanayake reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving the living standards of plantation workers and ensuring their long-overdue civil rights are protected.

Beyond national concerns, the President’s address also looked to the future of global workers’ rights, calling for a new era in human rights that would include digital access, environmental protections, and civil liberties fit for the 21st century.

He pointed out that the evolving nature of global challenges necessitates an updated international framework—one that expands on the principles set out in the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

He further acknowledged the burden borne by Sri Lankan workers in navigating the ongoing economic recovery, describing them as the backbone of the nation’s resilience.

In closing, he invited the working people of the country to stand together in unity, not only to defend their own rights but also to contribute to the larger mission of building a dignified, equitable society.

May 01, Colombo (LNW): The Intertropical Convergence Zone (where winds from the Northern Hemisphere and Southern Hemisphere converge) affects the island’s weather, and showers or thundershowers, therefore, will occur at most places of the island during the afternoon or night, the Department of Meteorology said in its daily weather forecast today (01).

Showers may occur in Southern and Western provinces and Puttalam, Ampara and Batticaloa districts in the morning too.

Fairly heavy falls about 75 mm are likely at some places in Central, Sabaragamuwa and Uva provinces and in Hambantota and Ampara districts.

The general public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimise damages caused by temporary localised strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.

Misty conditions can be expected at some places in Central and Uva provinces during the morning.

Marine Weather:

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya called for unity and civic engagement to transform Colombo into the most beautiful city in the country, stating that the National People’s Power (NPP) is committed to building a future free of discrimination and corruption.

Speaking at public gatherings in Dematagoda, Kotahena, Maradana, and Kompannaveediya on April 28, the Prime Minister emphasised that Colombo’s Municipal Council, with an annual revenue of Rs. 30 billion, has the resources to uplift the city’s infrastructure and living standards. However, she criticised the current administration for lacking empathy and failing to use public funds effectively, describing it as a “den of corruption.” Dr. Amarasuriya underscored the need to restore public trust and accountability within the council.

Reflecting on the political changes since 2024, she noted the historic decisions made by citizens during the Presidential and Parliamentary elections, which brought a new government committed to serving all communities. She recalled that elections scheduled for 2023 were postponed by President Ranil Wickremesinghe, and it was only through legal intervention that the NPP was able to secure the people’s right to vote and push forward with Provincial Council Elections.

Dr. Amarasuriya expressed confidence in an NPP victory at the upcoming Municipal Council elections on May 6, stating that Vraie Cally Balthazaar is ready to take on the role of Mayor of Colombo. She praised Balthazaar’s accessibility, passion, and capability to develop the city, supported by a dedicated team. The Prime Minister highlighted the NPP’s clean record and commitment to safeguarding public funds, pointing to the leadership of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake as a model of responsible governance.

Education reform was another key topic of the Prime Minister’s speech. She outlined plans to revamp the education system, making it more inclusive and enjoyable for children. She stressed that education should extend beyond textbooks and exams to inspire curiosity and critical thinking. Under the Municipal Council’s purview, she said, preschools have already seen improvements, and these reforms are being mirrored nationally.

Dr. Amarasuriya praised the cultural diversity of Colombo, referencing places of worship for multiple faiths coexisting peacefully and the variety of cuisines available in local shops. She said that this multiculturalism is a valuable asset for tourism and must be preserved and promoted.

The Prime Minister also touched on economic policy, noting that the first budget of the new administration allocated funds for critical infrastructure, including preschools, roads, water and waste management, and drainage systems. These projects aim to directly improve residents’ daily lives. She reaffirmed that these funds were collected through national sacrifices and must be protected from corruption.

While acknowledging that only six months have passed since the new government assumed office, Dr. Amarasuriya highlighted progress in stabilising the economy. The focus now, she said, is to drive economic growth through support for small businesses, women’s empowerment, youth entrepreneurship, and improved community infrastructure.

She concluded by urging the public to elect a capable and honest team to the Municipal Council to continue the transformative journey and build a transparent, inclusive, and thriving Colombo.

The event was attended by Parliamentarian and Attorney-at-Law Lakmali Hemachandra, Hemanta Wijekoon, Colombo Mayoral Candidate Vraie Cally Balthazaar, and other candidates.

Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa has raised serious concerns over what he described as sensationalist and misleading media reports on medicine shortages in Sri Lanka, suggesting that some narratives may be intended to justify overpriced emergency procurements rather than reflect genuine concern for patients.

Speaking at the Cabinet media briefing on April 29, the Minister acknowledged that supply chain disruptions exist but firmly denied accusations of systemic failure. He pointed to a recent insulin supply issue, explaining that the problem arose not from a procurement failure but due to a delay by the supplier in delivering the required quantity. This situation led to a temporary adjustment in dosage for some patients. However, he stressed that the matter was being swiftly addressed. On April 12, the country imported enough insulin to last three and a half months, and another shipment sufficient for two more months is expected within the next two weeks.

Dr. Jayatissa elaborated on the complexities of the procurement process, noting that from initiating a tender to receiving delivery, the process could take up to seven months. In the meantime, the Ministry is working to secure emergency medical supplies through bilateral agreements with seven countries. He clarified that direct imports from abroad only occur when local suppliers fail to fulfill their obligations and that diplomatic interventions are necessary under such circumstances to ensure continued public access to essential medicines.

The Minister also stated that efforts are ongoing to maintain a buffer stock of essential medicines sufficient for three to six months. He issued a clear warning to local suppliers against attempting to manipulate the pharmaceutical market for personal gain, saying that any supplier unable to deliver on time risks having their NMRA registration reviewed. He stressed that this is a national issue and called for accountability and responsibility from all parties involved.

Furthermore, Dr. Jayatissa addressed public perceptions around availability, clarifying that the presence or absence of a drug at the Medical Supplies Division (MSD) alone should not be taken as an indication of a nationwide shortage. He emphasized that supplies may still be available in regional warehouses or hospitals and urged a more holistic view when assessing the national stock levels.

The Minister called on media outlets to report responsibly and reminded all stakeholders that ensuring consistent access to medication is a shared duty that must remain above political or commercial interests.

The Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB) has officially resumed government-operated bus services along Palaly Road to Kankesanthurai after a suspension of 35 years, marking a major step forward in restoring regional connectivity in the Northern Province.

Public transport access along the route was cut off in 1990 due to the creation of the Palaly High-Security Zone during the civil conflict. The full reopening of Palaly Road on April 10, under specific conditions, cleared the way for this long-anticipated revival of services.

On Tuesday (April 29), the SLTB launched two key bus services:

• From Jaffna to Tellippalai, via Manipay, Alankulai, and Alaveddy
• From Kankesanthurai to Jaffna, running along the newly reopened Palaly Road

These routes aim to improve daily commutes and support the broader development of the northern region, which includes Jaffna International Airport, Sri Lanka’s northernmost railway station, and a planned industrial zone.

The move, guided by Transport Minister Bimal Ratnayake and SLTB Chairman Jeewaka Prasanna Purasinghe, is expected to boost economic activity, social integration, and mobility across the region.

Private bus services are also anticipated to begin soon, further enhancing accessibility.

The relaunch was met with widespread local enthusiasm, with many residents viewing it as a symbol of peace, progress, and regional revival after decades of isolation.