October 24, Colombo (LNW): The Election Commission has announced that the financial reports detailing campaign expenditures of the candidates who contested in Sri Lanka’s 2024 Presidential Election will be made publicly accessible from today (24).
This move is part of a broader effort to enhance transparency and accountability in the electoral process.
According to Saman Sri Ratnayake, the Commissioner General of Elections, the income and expenditure reports of all presidential candidates will be available for review at every District Secretariat across the country.
These documents will offer insight into how funds were raised and utilised by the various campaigns during the election period.
The Election Commission aims to strengthen the democratic process and ensure that election campaigns adhere to the legal requirements regarding financial transparency.
The release of these reports is expected to provide voters and civil society groups with crucial information, enabling them to assess how responsibly candidates managed their resources during the election.
Election expenses have long been a contentious issue, with concerns often raised about the influence of money on the political processes.
Ratnayake emphasised that the Commission will continue to monitor and enforce regulations on campaign financing, ensuring compliance with legal requirements.
The public is encouraged to examine these financial statements to better understand the dynamics behind each candidate’s campaign and the role of funding in shaping the election.
October 24, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s security forces have arrested two individuals suspected of plotting an attack on Israeli nationals, following heightened concerns about threats to foreign tourists in the country.
The arrests were made by the Terrorism Investigation Division (TID), with authorities increasing security in key areas frequented by tourists, particularly around Arugam Bay, a well-known surfing destination on the island’s eastern coast.
Police spokesman Deputy Inspector General Nihal Thalduwa confirmed that intelligence reports had pointed to a potential threat against Israeli tourists in the region.
“There is credible information suggesting a possible attack targeting Israelis at a specific location where they are staying,” Thalduwa stated.
In response to these reports, approximately 500 police officers and members of the Special Task Force have been deployed in Arugam Bay and Pottuvil, areas that are popular with Israeli visitors.
The bolstered security presence includes heightened surveillance and the establishment of checkpoints to ensure the safety of tourists.
As a result of the threat, Israel’s national security council has issued an urgent warning to its citizens to leave southern Sri Lanka, including the Arugam Bay area.
The region has been classified as a high-level security risk, with the council advising Israelis to take additional precautions, such as avoiding large public gatherings and concealing their Jewish identity while travelling.
Israeli authorities are said to be in close coordination with Sri Lanka’s security services, actively monitoring the evolving situation.
This security alert follows a similar advisory from the US Embassy in Colombo, which warned American citizens to avoid Arugam Bay due to credible reports of an imminent attack.
Other nations, including Russia and the UK, have echoed these warnings, urging their citizens to remain vigilant and to steer clear of large crowds or public events in potentially affected areas.
The Sri Lankan police have assured the public and foreign visitors that every possible measure is being taken to safeguard their safety.
October 24, Colombo (LNW): The Supreme Court of Sri Lanka has directed the National Election Commission to accept the nomination of Pararajasingham Udayarasa of the Democratic National Alliance, reversing an earlier rejection for the 2024 General Election.
Udayarasa’s candidacy for the Vanni District had previously been dismissed by the District Returning Officer, who claimed the nomination had not been formally submitted.
This decision led Udayarasa and two other petitioners to seek legal redress, arguing that all required documents had been properly submitted and that the rejection was unlawful.
The petitioners contended that the Returning Officer’s decision to reject the nomination was in direct violation of electoral laws.
They requested the court to declare the decision invalid and restore Udayarasa’s candidacy.
After reviewing the details of the case, the Supreme Court ruled that the rejection was indeed unlawful.
It ordered the National Election Commission to promptly take the necessary steps to approve Udayarasa’s nomination paper, enabling his participation in the upcoming election.
Senior President’s Counsel Ali Sabry represented the petitioners in this high-profile case.
October 24, Colombo (LNW): The Sri Lanka Army has strongly denied recent videos circulating on social media, which claim that the relocation of troops from certain camps was a hasty and unplanned move.
In an official statement, the Army clarified that these troop relocations are part of a well-thought-out, long-term strategic initiative, linked to its ongoing restructuring and resizing programme.
According to the Army’s statement, all relocations are being implemented under the close supervision of the Commander of the Army, the Minister of Defence, and the Ministry of Defence.
These measures are being executed in line with national defence objectives and adhere to strict protocols.
The statement went on to stress that the videos in question had been produced by social media content creators who did not verify their information. The Army accused these creators of spreading falsehoods to undermine the institution’s reputation and incite distrust among the public.
The content, it added, was based on misinformation from a few disillusioned individuals within the Army, individuals with limited career progression prospects, who sought to gain attention on social platforms.
“This irresponsible behaviour violates media ethics and represents a deliberate attempt to damage the strong bond between the Army and the public,” the statement warned.
It also suggested that such misinformation, if left unchallenged, could potentially threaten national security by creating unnecessary tension and distrust.
The Army condemned the spread of these baseless claims, calling on the public to remain vigilant against misleading information.
It also underscored the importance of verifying facts before accepting or sharing any claims that could negatively affect the country’s security landscape.
The statement emphasised that its restructuring process is designed to enhance operational efficiency, further securing the nation’s defence without compromising public safety or trust.
October 24, Colombo (LNW): French electro pop artist Charlie Motto is set to captivate audiences in Sri Lanka with a three-date music tour this autumn.
The concerts will take place in Colombo on October 29, Ahangama on November 01, and Kandy on November 03, providing music lovers an opportunity to experience her unique sound live.
This tour forms part of the French Cultural Season 2024, a cultural initiative organised by the Embassy of France in Sri Lanka and the Maldives, in collaboration with the Alliances Françaises network.
Motto, a rising star in the electro pop scene, is known for her ethereal melodies, combined with energetic beats that have drawn comparisons to the latest trends in hyperpop.
Her performances are anticipated to be a highlight of this year’s cultural calendar in Sri Lanka.
The first performance will be held at The Warehouse Colombo at 7 p.m. Following this, Motto will head to Trax Ahangama for an 8:30 pm show on 1st November.
The tour concludes in Kandy at Atelier on November 03, with a performance starting at 6 p.m. All shows are open to the public, and entrance is free, making it a must-see event for both fans of contemporary French music and newcomers alike.
In addition to her performances, Charlie Motto will also conduct music workshops for students of Alliances Françaises in Colombo, Matara, and Kandy, offering a glimpse into her creative process and unique fusion of French chanson, electro pop, and classical influences.
Her recent debut EP Citadelle, released in February 2024, has earned critical acclaim, solidifying her place as one of the most promising new artists in the international electro pop landscape.
Originally from the south of France, Charlie Motto has made a name for herself with her dynamic stage presence and crystalline vocals. Trained as a classical pianist and singer, she has skilfully blended her background in French polyphony with modern electro pop, creating a sound that is both introspective and expansive.
October 24, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka is facing growing security concerns in its southern and eastern regions due to an increase in Israeli nationals settling in these areas, prompting local intelligence to take action.
Weeks before, intelligence agencies were alerted to a possible threat from Islamic extremists, raising concerns about the safety of tourists and local communities, senior defence sources revealed.
The Israeli presence, particularly in areas such as Weligama, Mirissa, and Arugam Bay, has been a source of tension.
Reports from local residents indicate that Israeli nationals have been overstaying their visas and engaging in unregulated business activities, often excluding locals from their establishments and social gatherings.
Despite complaints, authorities had not taken concrete measures to address the situation, allowing the community to grow unchecked.
Amidst escalating violence in the Middle East, security concerns in Sri Lanka have intensified, leading intelligence services to bolster their presence in areas frequented by Israeli nationals and western tourists.
Special Task Force (STF) units have been deployed, with bomb squads placed on standby. Heightened security measures have also included increased intelligence personnel on the ground, ensuring a constant monitoring of potential threats.
Compounding the situation, the US Embassy in Sri Lanka issued a travel advisory warning its citizens to avoid Arugam Bay due to credible intelligence about a potential attack on tourist hotspots in the region.
This prompted swift action from other nations, with Australia, Russia, New Zealand, and the UK updating their own travel advisories, urging citizens to exercise caution and avoid large gatherings.
The Israeli national security council also issued a warning, advising its citizens to leave southern tourist areas immediately, citing a specific threat to locations popular with Israeli tourists, such as Arugam Bay and nearby beaches.
These advisories have cast a shadow over Sri Lanka’s tourism industry, which is entering its peak season.
DIG Nihal Thalduwa, the Police Spokesman, confirmed that authorities had already implemented security measures in response to potential threats.
The police have been conducting roadblocks, vehicle checks, and joint patrols involving the Special Task Force and military forces to safeguard the area.
The security presence has been particularly concentrated in tourist-frequented areas, such as Arugam Bay and Pottuvil, both known for attracting Israeli tourists, especially for surfing events.
The presence of a “Chabad House” in Arugam Bay, a place of worship for Israeli nationals, has stirred additional controversy in the area, adding to local anxieties.
Rehan Jayawickreme, SJB candidate for the Matara District, voiced his frustration at the lack of action from authorities regarding what he described as “the unlawful stay of Israeli nationals,” warning that the situation could escalate into a broader conflict.
As part of a broader response to these concerns, Sri Lanka’s police force, in collaboration with the Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Public Security, is rolling out a special security programme to ensure the safety of foreign tourists during the upcoming peak season.
The Police Tourism Division will be enhanced, with Acting Inspector General of Police Priyantha Weerasuriya set to issue new guidelines to all police stations.
Tourists are encouraged to report any security concerns via the Sri Lanka Police hotline at 1997, while hotel staff and tourism operators have been urged to remain vigilant and take steps to protect visitors and their belongings.
Sri Lanka is bracing itself for a challenging season, balancing its efforts to protect the tourism sector with the necessity of ensuring the safety of both locals and visitors amid rising international tensions.
October 24, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka is set to fall short of its tourism target for 2024, with the country now expected to attract approximately two million visitors, missing its initial goal of 2.36 million by 11.6 per cent, according to a report by Softlogic Stockbrokers (SSB).
The revised forecast comes in the wake of visa processing challenges and uncertainties surrounding the upcoming elections, which have negatively impacted tourist inflows.
Tourism authorities initially projected 2.36 million arrivals for the year, banking on strong early performance.
The year began on a positive note, with arrivals in January and February showing a significant year-on-year growth of 103 per cent, buoying hopes of a full recovery for the sector.
However, as the year progressed, momentum began to falter due to administrative delays in visa processing, which made it difficult for potential visitors to enter the country smoothly.
Additionally, fears that the forthcoming elections may disrupt travel plans have added further pressure to the numbers.
In September, growth in tourist arrivals slowed to single digits for the first time in 2024, marking a concerning decline.
Based on this trend, SSB has revised its forecast to two million visitors for the year, a notable reduction from the original target.
Data from the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) shows that 63,491 tourists arrived in the first half of October, with a slight uptick in the daily average of 4,232 compared to September’s figure of 4,071.
However, to meet the monthly goal of 153,123 arrivals, the country still needs to attract an additional 90,000 visitors before the end of October, a challenging task given the current trends.
By mid-October, total arrivals for the year reached 1.55 million, leaving the target of 2.36 million increasingly out of reach.
For Sri Lanka to meet this goal, the country would have to bring in over 815,000 tourists in the remaining months of the year, a figure that is now seen as unlikely given the ongoing obstacles.
India remains the top source of tourists for Sri Lanka in 2024, helping to bolster numbers despite the broader challenges.
Nonetheless, the country’s tourism sector is bracing for a tough end to the year, with election-related uncertainties and lingering visa processing issues likely to continue affecting visitor numbers.
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, speaking at an election rally in Trincomalee, emphasised the government’s commitment to establishing equal law for all Sinhala, Tamil, and Muslim citizens: called on Trincomalee residents to help form a government that promotes peace and unity, whilst expressing confidence in the National People’s Power’s ability to gain the trust of all communities across the country.
SJB’s Gampaha District Team Leader, former MP Harshana Rajakaruna says a group of educated and intelligent youths will contest under his party for the Gampaha District at the 2024 Parliamentary Election: urges the public to not vote without knowing who will be contesting the polls from the electorate they live in: stresses appointing an MP per will following the securing of votes for a mere political symbol is antidemocratic and such a system, therefore, should be changed.
Ex-President Ranil Wickremesinghe urges the immediate implementation of the legal Cabinet decision he made as Finance Minister to raise public servant salaries: emphasises that if not enacted, the government should clarify where the allocated funds have gone: also criticises delays, stressing the necessity of the salary hike to ease the public’s financial burdens and uphold the Cabinet’s legal decision.
The new government’s budget will be presented in February or March 2025, featuring measures to support various demographics and boost economic growth: Key components include salary increases for public servants, allowances for school supplies, and higher pensions for the elderly, although these allowances are not meant to be permanent.
The Ministry of Public Administration informs 14 former ministers to vacate their official residences by the 30th of this month: They have also been instructed to settle outstanding utility bills, including water and electricity, before returning the properties: The ministry will only accept the residences after confirming that all payments have been completed.
The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) records a statement from the Director of Transport at the President’s Office regarding the disappearance of 29 vehicles, including motorcycles: This investigation follows a complaint by the Presidential Secretary: The Director’s statement lasted several hours, and he has been asked to provide further details within two weeks.
The Maldivian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, His Excellency Masood Imad, met with Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd.) at the Defence Headquarters in Sri Jayewardenepura: discuss enhancing bilateral ties and cooperation: Mementoes were exchanged, with officials including Air Vice Marshal Padman De Costa and Colonel Hassan Amir also in attendance.
Former MP Johnston Fernando was arrested by the CID over an illegally assembled luxury vehicle allegedly belonging to him, found at a Colombo hotel: remanded until October 30 by the Colombo Fort Magistrate: Meanwhile, a High Court arrest warrant was issued against him for failing to appear in court regarding a separate case involving the misuse of Sathosa employees.
Ten Iranian nationals were sentenced to life imprisonment by the Negombo High Court after pleading guilty to attempting to smuggle 146 kg of heroin into Sri Lanka by sea from Pakistan: They were part of a group of 17 individuals arrested during the operation: The sentencing was delivered by High Court Judge Pamila Ratnayake.
Sri Lanka secure a 5-wicket victory over the West Indies in the second ODI at Pallekele International Stadium, clinching the three-match series 2-0: Captain Charith Asalanka led with an unbeaten half-century, supported by Nishan Madushka and Sadeera Samarawickrama, who both scored 38: West Indies, bowled out for 189, struggled despite Sherfane Rutherford’s 80 runs, while Gudakesh Motie’s 50 not out helped salvage the innings.
October 24, Colombo (LNW): Showers or thundershowers will occur at times in Western, Sabaragamuwa, Southern, North-western and Northern provinces and in Kandy and Nuwara-Eliya districts, and fairly heavy showers above 50 mm are likely at some places in Western, Sabaragamuwa, Southern, North-western and Northern provinces, the Department of Meteorology said in its daily weather forecast today (24).
Showers or thundershowers will occur at several places in the other areas of the island during the evening or night.
Strong winds about (40-45)kmph can be expected at times over Northern, North-central, North-western, and Central provinces and in Trincomalee and Hambantota districts.
The general public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimise damages caused by temporary localised strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.
Marine Weather:
Condition of Rain:
Showers or thundershowers will occur at several places in the sea areas around the Island. Heavy showers are likely at some places in the sea areas off the coasts extending from Mannar to Mullaittivu via Kankasanthurai.
Winds:
Winds will be South-westerly in the sea areas around the island and wind speed will be (30-40) kmph. Wind speed can increase up to (50-55) kmph at times in the sea areas off the coasts extending from Trincomalee to Puttalam via Kankasanthurai and Mannar and from Hambantota to Pottuvil.
State of Sea:
The sea areas off the coasts extending from Trincomalee to Puttalam via Kankasanthurai and Mannar and from Hambantota to Pottuvil can be rough at times. The other sea areas around the island can be moderate. Temporarily strong gusty winds and very rough seas can be expected during thundershowers.
October 23, Colombo (LNW): Chinese Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Qi Zhenhong, met with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake yesterday (22) at the Presidential Secretariat and made a generous donation of Rs. 30 million (US$ 100,000) as emergency flood relief for those affected by the recent floods in the country.
The meeting not only focused on immediate relief efforts but also included discussions on long-term flood prevention and management strategies. Both parties explored sustainable approaches to improve the resilience of communities and reduce the impact of future flooding.
Heavy rains in recent weeks have led to widespread flooding across several provinces, displacing thousands of families and causing severe damage to infrastructure and agricultural lands.
