September 28, Colombo (LNW): The Election Commission has confirmed that its Strategic Plan for the 2026–2029 electoral cycle is set to be officially released in the first week of November.
According to Elections Commissioner General Saman Sri Ratnayake, the strategic document is currently nearing completion and is in its final stages of preparation.
The plan is expected to outline key reforms, operational priorities, and technological advancements aimed at strengthening electoral processes over the next four years.
In addition to the forthcoming strategic roadmap, Ratnayake revealed that preliminary work is already underway to draft new legislation concerning early elections.
These legal reforms are intended to provide greater flexibility and clarity in the event of unforeseen political developments or changes in electoral timelines.
Election Commission to Launch Strategic Plan for 2026–2029 in November
Death Toll Rises to Eight in Tragic Cable Car Accident at Na Uyana Monastery
September 28, Colombo (LNW): The death toll from the devastating cable car accident at Na Uyana Āranya Senāsanaya in Melsiripura has risen to eight, following the passing of another monk who had been receiving treatment in the Intensive Care Unit at Kurunegala Base Hospital.
Hospital officials confirmed that despite efforts by medical staff, the monk succumbed to his injuries yesterday.
The tragedy unfolded on the night of Wednesday (24), when a cable car used by resident monks to navigate the hilly terrain of the monastery reportedly malfunctioned and collapsed.
At the time of the incident, 13 monks were inside the vehicle, returning to their meditation huts after attending a religious observance at the Pūjā Bhūmiya (offering ground).
Seven monks were confirmed dead shortly after the incident, and several others sustained injuries of varying severity. Amongst the passengers, two monks are reported to have narrowly escaped with minor injuries after leaping from the cable car moments before it fell.
Four others remain hospitalised, receiving treatment at the Kurunegala Teaching Hospital and the Polgahawela Divisional Hospital.
Police investigations suggest that a structural failure—specifically the breaking of a support cable—was the likely cause of the accident. The cable car was being used to transport the monks uphill when the malfunction occurred, leading to a sudden and fatal descent.
Of the deceased, three monks were foreign nationals. Their remains have been transferred to the Gokarella Divisional Hospital, while the bodies of the other victims are being kept at the Kurunegala Teaching Hospital.
The last rites for five of the monks were held yesterday at the Melsiripura–Pansiyagama Public Cemetery, drawing large crowds of mourners, including fellow clergy, devotees, and local residents, all united in grief over the tragic loss of life.
Foreign Investment in SL Gov Bonds Reaches Two-Year High Amid Global Bond Rally
In the latest reporting week, foreign investors made a net purchase of Rs. 334 million (approximately US$ 1.11 million), pushing the total net inflow over the past five weeks to Rs. 14.04 billion (around US$ 46.8 million). This marks the strongest foreign participation in the country’s bond market in two years, with total foreign holdings reaching Rs. 120.6 billion as of September 25—the highest level since December 2023.
The surge in demand coincides with a global appetite for government bonds. Citing figures from Reuters, international bond markets recorded a staggering US$ 22.96 billion in net inflows within a single week, the largest since at least 2022. Of this, US$ 10.01 billion was directed into short-term government bond funds, highlighting a shift towards safer assets amid ongoing global uncertainties.
Sri Lanka’s performance in this context is particularly notable given its economic challenges in recent years. Since 26th December last year, the country has attracted a cumulative Rs. 51.3 billion (approximately US$ 171 million) in foreign investment into rupee-denominated bonds.
Analysts attribute the recent inflows to the government’s continued implementation of deflationary policies, aimed at stabilising the currency and reducing import pressures. These measures appear to have improved investor confidence, even as the rupee has experienced slight depreciation following geopolitical developments earlier this year—most notably, after tariff declarations in April that triggered an Rs. 10.1 billion (US$ 32 million) outflow in just two weeks.
Despite this positive trend, Sri Lanka’s broader capital flow picture remains mixed. In 2024 alone, the country experienced foreign outflows amounting to Rs. 48.2 billion, although this is an improvement from 2023, when 78.1 billion rupees—around 66 per cent of all capital flight—was recorded from government securities in the first nine months.
With global investors continuing to seek out stable, higher-yielding government debt, Sri Lanka’s bond market may remain a beneficiary—provided macroeconomic stability is maintained and fiscal reforms continue on track.
Joint Police-Army Operation in Maradana Nets 30 Suspects
September 28, Colombo (LNW): A coordinated security operation was conducted in Maradana yesterday (27) evening, resulting in the arrest of 30 individuals linked to a range of criminal offences.
According to police, the targeted raid focused on multiple locations within the area and was carried out with the assistance of the Sri Lanka Army. The individuals taken into custody are believed to be connected to outstanding warrants and various forms of criminal activity.
Authorities stated that the operation aimed to curb organised crime, enhance public safety, and strengthen law enforcement visibility in high-risk zones.
Health Officials Urge Vigilance as Dengue Cases Surge Once Again During Rains
September 28, Colombo (LNW): Amidst ongoing monsoon rains, the National Dengue Control Unit has issued a renewed public appeal, urging communities across Sri Lanka to eliminate mosquito breeding sites without delay in order to curb the spread of dengue fever.
Public Medical Consultant Dr Prashila Samaraweera stressed the importance of proactive household and community action, warning that the disease could escalate further if preventive measures are not taken seriously. She identified Colombo, Gampaha, Jaffna, and Batticaloa as districts currently facing the highest risk.
So far this year, health authorities have recorded 38,702 cases of dengue across the country—a figure that continues to climb with the onset of wet weather. Tragically, 21 deaths linked to dengue-related complications have been confirmed.
Dr Samaraweera noted that many of these infections could have been prevented with routine removal of stagnant water in domestic and public environments. “Simple actions like clearing blocked gutters, covering water storage containers, and properly disposing of discarded items can make a significant difference,” she said.
The National Dengue Control Unit is working in coordination with local government bodies to intensify surveillance and public awareness campaigns in high-risk zones. However, officials emphasise that lasting success in reducing the spread of dengue depends largely on consistent community participation.
Health professionals continue to urge the public to seek early medical attention if symptoms such as high fever, severe headaches, muscle pain, or rashes occur—particularly in areas already flagged as vulnerable.
Over 450 Public Institutions Summoned for COPE Review
September 28, Colombo (LNW): A comprehensive review involving 457 public institutions has been scheduled for 2nd October, as announced by Dr Nishantha Samaraweera, Chair of the Committee on Public Enterprises (COPE).
According to Dr Samaraweera, all institutions falling under COPE’s oversight have been formally called to participate in the meeting, which is expected to address both systemic inefficiencies and financial accountability within the public sector.
The session will centre on identifying recurring concerns, including the potential mismanagement or misuse of public funds, lack of internal controls, and compliance issues.
Outdated Home Appliances Driving Up Electricity Bills, Energy Authority Warns
In a briefing held in Colombo, Director General Harsha Wickramasinghe emphasised that many domestic electrical items—particularly refrigerators and air conditioners—are responsible for unnecessarily high power usage, contributing significantly to inflated energy bills across the island.
Recent studies conducted by the Authority reveal that a large number of households, particularly in the Western Province, are still relying on electrical appliances that are well beyond their recommended lifespan. “We found that roughly one in every three refrigerators in this region is no longer fit for use in terms of energy efficiency,” Wickramasinghe stated. “These outdated units can consume over 100 extra units of electricity each month, placing a hidden but heavy financial strain on households.”
Air conditioners, especially those manufactured more than a decade ago or imported without adhering to modern efficiency standards, were also flagged as major culprits in energy wastage. With cooling appliances becoming more widespread due to rising temperatures and changing lifestyles, the cumulative impact on national electricity demand has become impossible to ignore.
Wickramasinghe noted that the government has already moved to curb the problem by placing restrictions on the importation of low-efficiency appliances. In a further step, he confirmed that new regulations governing the energy performance standards of air conditioners are set to come into effect before the end of the year.President AKD Opens Japan Visit with Cultural Diplomacy at Osaka Expo
September 28, Colombo (LNW): President Anura Kumara Dissanayake commenced his official tour of Japan with his arrival at Kansai International Airport in Osaka early on September 27.
This marks a significant diplomatic engagement aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between Sri Lanka and Japan.
Shortly after his arrival, the President took part in the Sri Lanka Day festivities at the “EXPO 2025” in Osaka—an international event expected to draw millions of visitors over its course. His presence at the celebration served not only as a show of national pride but also as a statement of Sri Lanka’s intention to assert its cultural identity on the world stage.
The Sri Lanka Day event was organised in collaboration by the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau and the Sri Lankan Embassy in Tokyo. It featured a rich display of traditional dance, music, and visual art, all designed to reflect the island nation’s unique cultural heritage. The performances drew a diverse and enthusiastic audience, comprising both local Japanese citizens and attendees from around the globe.
In addition to attending the cultural showcase, President Dissanayake toured the national pavilions of Sri Lanka and Japan at the expo grounds. His visit highlighted Sri Lanka’s broader participation in the international exhibition, which is centred around the themes of innovation, sustainability, and cultural exchange.
Speaking to those gathered at the event, President Dissanayake described “EXPO 2025” as a valuable opportunity for Sri Lanka to articulate its aspirations for the future—one rooted in its centuries-old civilisation while embracing technological progress and shared human values.
He also used the occasion to reflect on the enduring ties between Sri Lanka and Japan, noting the solidarity and goodwill that have defined the relationship over decades. Japan, he remarked, has consistently stood by Sri Lanka during both challenging and celebratory times, and remains a dependable ally in the region.
Full Speech:“Friendship is one of the most valuable bonds of humanity. It unites individuals, communities and cultures. It transcends boundaries and fosters human relationships. Moreover, it brings nations together through common goals to build a better world.
The “EXPO 2025” exhibition provides an opportunity to demonstrate this vision. On this occasion, which celebrates friendship and shared objectives, Sri Lanka has the opportunity to engage and collaborate with Japan and other nations. I consider it an honour to join you in celebrating Sri Lanka Day at the ‘EXPO 2025’ exhibition in the historic city of Osaka.
‘EXPO 2025’ offers a global platform for over 150 nations to showcase mutual friendship, coexistence, cultural diversity and the universal human values present in every society. Here, we present not only the richness of Sri Lanka’s heritage but also our clear vision of a sustainable, resilient and future-ready nation to the world.
By demonstrating our strengths and capabilities on international platforms like the Expo, we reaffirm our role as a responsible partner with foresight in the global community. Through our participation in the ‘EXPO 2025,’ Sri Lanka has a unique opportunity to show the world its commitment to decisive economic transformation, moving towards a modern, production-based economy. This includes clearly defined policies on technology, tourism, agriculture and the sustainable utilisation of our abundant marine resources.
The theme of ‘EXPO 2025’ is the creation of a future society. Its vision is to build a better life for future generations, especially for our children. In this era of global transformations, Sri Lanka stands at a critical moment in its economic journey. Having faced continuous challenges, we are now rebuilding a sustainable and inclusive economy, ensuring that the benefits of development are widely shared and that the prosperity generated improves the quality of life for every citizen.
‘EXPO 2025’ provides Sri Lanka with a global platform to share its vision for a bright future, grounded in culture, innovation and human values.
The friendship between Japan and Sri Lanka spans many decades. Recently, this relationship has grown even stronger. As a close partner, Japan offers support in difficult times and joins in celebrating successes. Many Sri Lankans now live in Japan, further strengthening collaboration based on trust and mutual understanding.
Despite the challenges we face today, the Sri Lanka pavilion at ‘EXPO 2025’ showcases our nation’s uniqueness, cultural pride and confidence in the future.
Today, I had the opportunity to visit ‘EXPO 2025.’ I extend my warmest wishes to the organising committee for the successful execution of this outstanding exhibition. I also express my gratitude for the invaluable support provided by the Government of Japan and the ‘EXPO 2025’ Association, which contributed to the success of the Sri Lanka pavilion and the Sri Lanka Day celebrations.
This event provides an opportunity to showcase Sri Lanka’s ancient cultural heritage, natural beauty and attractive tourist destinations, as well as world-renowned products such as Ceylon tea, gemstones and spices. It also reaffirms our commitment to building, A Thriving Nation , A Beautiful Life, based not only on material progress but also on human values.
I invite all of you to work together to create a world where every dream can be realised, opportunities are available to all and a nation can achieve excellence.”
Foreign Employment and Tourism Minister Vijitha Herath, Japan’s Ambassador to Sri Lanka Akio Isomata, Sri Lanka’s Ambassador in Japan Professor Pivithuru Janak Kumarasinghe and senior officials from the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs also joined this occasion.
Showers may continue to occur in several provinces across Island
September 28, Colombo (LNW): Several spells of showers will occur in Western, Sabaragamuwa and North-western provinces and in Galle, Matara, Kandy and Nuwara-Eliya districts, the Department of Meteorology said in its daily weather forecast today (28).
Showers or thundershowers are likely at a few places in Uva province and in Ampara district after 2.00 p.m.
Strong winds of about (40-50) kmph can be expected at times over Western slopes of the central hills and in 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 minimize damages caused by strong winds.
Marine Weather:
Condition of Rain: Showers will occur at several places in the sea areas off the coast extending from Colombo to Pottuvil via Galle, Matara and Hambantota.
Winds: Winds will be south-westerly and wind speed will be (30-40) kmph.
Wind speed can increase up to (50-60) kmph at times in the sea areas off the coast extending from Galle to Pottuvil via Matara and Hambantota and from Chilaw to Trincomalee via Mannar, Kankasanthurai and Mullaittivu.
State of Sea: The sea areas off the coast extending from Galle to Pottuvil via Matara and Hambantota and from Chilaw to Trincomalee via Mannar, Kankasanthurai and Mullaittivu will be rough at times.
Naval and fishing communities are requested to be vigilant in this regard.
The Ideal Ambassador: A Portrait in Prose
BY DR ROGER SRIVASAN
An ambassador is not merely a messenger of state, but the living embodiment of a nation’s
conscience, culture, and aspirations. In their bearing one discerns both the weight of history and the promise of the future. To listen to such a figure is to hear both reason and resonance, for their words carry the authority of intellect, the elegance of rhetoric, and the subtle power of diplomacy.
Yet beneath the eloquence lies the careful architecture of competence. An ambassador is
measured not merely by title, but by the sum of qualities that make them a custodian of their nation’s honour. At the heart of their calling is a mastery of diplomacy itself: the ability to negotiate wisely, to mediate with patience, and to safeguard national interest while sustaining international goodwill. Political acumen enables them to read shifting tides of power, anticipate consequences, and navigate the complex interplay of domestic and international priorities.
No less vital is the gift of communication. The ambassador must command English with the fluency of a scholar and the poise of an orator. Language becomes their foremost instrument: not merely to convey information, but to persuade, inspire, and charm. Their voice moves seamlessly from the deliberations of cabinets to the salons of the press, capable of commanding attention while remaining relatable and human.
Cultural literacy amplifies their influence. Raised or educated in the West, exposed to its ideals, institutions, and social codes, the ambassador gains instinctive familiarity with democratic values and international norms. This Western polish never eclipses loyalty to their homeland; rather, it equips them to interpret their nation to foreign audiences with subtlety, credibility, and grace. They understand that diplomacy is as much about listening and learning as it is about asserting national interest.
Character is their unshakable foundation. Integrity is essential, for an envoy who lacks
incorruptibility cannot inspire trust. Composure under pressure, emotional intelligence in delicate encounters, and quiet charisma that wins respect without demanding it—all are indispensable. Courtesy and discretion are their constant companions, for the smallest word or gesture can ripple through the corridors of power.
Beyond the negotiating table, the ambassador is a consummate bridge-builder. They weave
networks among governments, scholars, merchants, and artists. In banquets, boardrooms, and cultural forums alike, they embody hospitality and tact, ensuring their nation is represented with dignity and warmth. Diplomacy, in its highest form, is not only the negotiation of treaties; it is the cultivation of goodwill, the forging of trust, and the quiet strengthening of bonds between peoples.
An ambassador of this calibre combines intellect, eloquence, loyalty, and grace. They speak, act, and live as the voice of their nation, translating its values into action, its principles into presence, and its vision into enduring relationships across the globe. They do not simply represent a country—they personify its voice, its vision, and its values.