August 26, Colombo (LNW): Veteran customs officer Seevali Arukgoda has officially taken over as the Director General of Sri Lanka Customs, with the appointment taking effect today (26).
Being appointed, he becomes the 45th individual to lead the institution.
Having first entered the service in 1989 as an Assistant Superintendent, Arukgoda brings with him over three decades of hands-on experience and institutional knowledge. His journey through the ranks is considered unprecedented in the department’s history — he is the first officer to have progressed through every grade, culminating in his appointment to the topmost post.
Over his 36-year career, Arukgoda has not only made a mark domestically but has also built a solid international profile, particularly through his work with the World Customs Organization (WCO).
He served two terms with the WCO, contributing to global customs reform efforts, border management policy, and capacity-building programmes. His standing as an accredited WCO expert has earned him a respected place among international peers, and his insights are frequently sought in areas related to trade facilitation and customs modernisation.
Arukgoda’s academic background further complements his professional journey. He holds a Bachelor of Laws degree from Buckinghamshire New University in the United Kingdom, along with a Master’s in Customs Administration from the Postgraduate Institute of Management at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura.
Seevali Arukgoda Assumes Leadership of Sri Lanka Customs as 45th Director General
President Calls for Accountability and Community Focus in National Development Projects
August 26, Colombo (LNW): President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has directed fresh attention towards the obstacles hindering the continuation and completion of national development projects that were stalled during the recent economic downturn, the President’s Media Division (PMD) reported.
With the country now seeking to stabilise and reorient its growth path, the President has called for greater accountability and urgency in both reviving past initiatives and delivering on newly launched programmes.
During a high-level meeting held at the Presidential Secretariat, President Dissanayake chaired discussions concerning projects funded under the 2025 budget allocations for the Ministry of Urban Development, Construction, and Housing.
The gathering also served as a precursor to the 2026 budget, offering a platform to evaluate progress and realign priorities.
The President stressed the importance of ensuring that all development efforts launched within the current year reach their intended milestones before year’s end. He warned that despite the government’s commitment to allocating adequate financial resources to the relevant ministries, poor utilisation of those funds within designated timeframes poses a major risk to the credibility and effectiveness of public investment.
A wide array of sectors came under review, including urban regeneration schemes, rural and affordable housing, city planning, environmental management, solid waste disposal, and improvements to water and sanitation infrastructure.
Officials provided updates on the status of projects being carried out across various provinces, with special attention paid to areas where delays or underperformance had been recorded.
President Dissanayake also emphasised that future development efforts must be grounded in the needs and voices of the communities they are meant to serve. He criticised the legacy of past governments, citing numerous state buildings constructed without proper planning or consultation—many of which now stand idle or unutilised.
In contrast, he underscored that public engagement should be a foundational element of housing and urban planning efforts moving forward.
Heightened Security Near Colombo Court as Ex-President’s Case Draws Public Attention (PHOTOS)
August 26, Colombo (LNW): Tight security measures have been put in place around the Colombo Fort Magistrate’s Court today (26), as authorities prepare for a potentially high-profile hearing involving Sri Lanka’s former president, Ranil Wickremesinghe.
Personnel from both the Police and the Special Task Force have been stationed in the vicinity, anticipating a significant public turnout. The increased presence of law enforcement follows the ongoing legal proceedings tied to allegations of financial misconduct during Wickremesinghe’s time in office.
The former president, who was detained by the Criminal Investigation Department on Friday (22), faces accusations related to the alleged misappropriation of public funds.
The charges stem from a 2023 visit to the United Kingdom, undertaken while he was still in office, which reportedly involved state expenditure for what investigators suggest was a private engagement.
After being placed on remand by the court, Wickremesinghe was taken to Welikada Prison. However, due to reported health issues, he was promptly transferred to the Prison Hospital. His condition later required further medical attention, prompting his relocation to the National Hospital in Colombo, where he remains under observation in the Intensive Care Unit.
Medical professionals have expressed concern over his current condition, and as of this morning, it remains uncertain whether he is physically fit to attend court. A final decision regarding his appearance will likely hinge on ongoing assessments by hospital staff.
Photo Courtesy: Ajith Senevirathne
Former President Wickremesinghe to be produced before Colombo Fort Magistrate today
August 26, Colombo (LNW): Ranil Wickremesinghe, the former President of Sri Lanka, is scheduled to be brought before the Colombo Fort Magistrate’s Court today (26), in connection with an ongoing case concerning the alleged misuse of state funds during his tenure.
Wickremesinghe has been in remand custody since August 22, following his arrest by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID). He is currently detained under a court order valid until August 26, pending further legal proceedings. Today’s hearing is expected to play a significant role in determining whether his remand will be extended or altered.
Since his detention, the former head of state was initially admitted to the Prison Hospital. However, medical personnel later recommended that he be transferred to the National Hospital in Colombo due to symptoms of dehydration. Hospital sources confirm that Wickremesinghe has been under observation in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) as a precautionary measure.
The investigation centres on a visit made by Wickremesinghe to the United Kingdom in September 2023. The trip occurred as he returned from Havana, where he had attended the G77 summit. During the stopover in London, he accompanied his wife, Professor Maithree Wickremesinghe, to a ceremonial event hosted by the University of Wolverhampton.
While the former president has maintained that the stop in the UK was a personal matter and that his wife covered her own expenses, authorities allege that public funds were used to facilitate the visit, including the cost of his travel and security. The CID has filed the case under the Public Property Act, citing potential misuse of government resources.
Wickremesinghe’s legal team is expected to challenge the basis for the remand during today’s court appearance, while prosecutors are likely to push for an extension as investigations continue.
Meanwhile, in a latest development the Prison Spokesman said the former President, who is receiving treatment at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the National Hospital in Colombo, is unlikely to appear before court today.
Afternoon showers expected in several areas: Mainly fair weather to prevail elsewhere (Aug 26)
August 26, Colombo (LNW): Showers or thundershowers may occur at a few places in Uva province and in Ampara and Batticaloa district after 2.00 p.m., the Department of Meteorology said in its daily weather forecast today (26).
A few showers may occur in Western and Sabaragamuwa provinces during the morning.
Mainly fair weather will prevail elsewhere of the island.
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:
Mainly fair weather will prevail in the sea areas around the island.
Winds:
Winds will be westerly to south-westerly and wind speed will be (25-35) kmph.
Wind speed can increase up to (50-55) kmph at times in the sea areas off the coast extending from Puttalam to Kankasanthurai via Mannar and from Matara to Pottuvil via Hambantota.
State of Sea:
The sea areas off the coast extending from Puttalam to Kankasanthurai via Mannar and from Matara to Pottuvil via Hambantota may be rough at times.
Waters Edge Expands Hospitality Portfolio with Launch of New Luxury Accommodation Complex
August 25, Colombo (LNW): Waters Edge, operating under the purview of Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Urban Development, Construction and Housing, has unveiled a new luxury accommodation complex, marking a significant expansion of its service offerings within the tourism and hospitality sector.
The newly completed project, comprising 50 high-end rooms, was officially opened at a ceremony attended by Minister of Urban Development, Construction and Housing, Anura Karunathilaka, and Ministry Secretary, Ranjith Ariyaratne. Also present was Chairman of the Sri Lanka Tourism Authority, Buddhika Hewawasam, who participated in the event at the invitation of Waters Edge Chairman, Chathura Krishantha Perera.
Set amidst a backdrop of natural beauty, the development makes extensive use of the surrounding environment’s scenic charm. The design of the complex prioritises aesthetics and comfort, with interiors curated to appeal to both domestic and international visitors. Of particular note is the inclusion of rooms specifically designed to accommodate guests with disabilities, reflecting an inclusive approach to tourism infrastructure.
Guests staying at the new facility will also enjoy seamless access to a range of on-site amenities. The culinary offerings include authentic Sri Lankan cuisine alongside Italian and Japanese dining options, ensuring a diverse gastronomic experience.
In addition to fine dining, the project offers a variety of recreational facilities. These include a golf course, opportunities for birdwatching with a focus on species native to the local environment, scenic boat rides, and a state-of-the-art gymnasium.
The expansion aligns with Waters Edge’s strategic vision to enhance its hospitality footprint while contributing to Sri Lanka’s appeal as a premium travel destination.
Foreign Travel of Current and Former Presidents
By Adolf
Ranil Wickremesinghe is currently languishing in jail for taking security officers on a visit to London. His Private Secretary, Sandra, described it as a personal trip, which led the judge to order his remand. Former Foreign Minister and President’s Counsel Ali Sabry has dismissed the allegations as political vendetta, arguing that there is no misuse of public funds when a sitting President travels under official security and protocol.
Sabry stressed that every President, including the incumbent, is entitled to police and security protection whether travel is official or private. “A sitting President doesn’t have a public and private life when it comes to security, health, and protocol. That is true for the incumbent President as well. When he campaigned for the NPP during the General Elections and Local Government elections, how did he travel? Wasn’t he protected by the police and security forces? He should be, because he is our President, whether he is my favorite or not,” he pointed out. Against this backdrop, it is worth recalling the foreign travel records of past presidents.
Mahinda Rajapaksa (2005–2015)
Rajapaksa traveled abroad more frequently than any of his predecessors. His foreign visits were high-profile and often drew attention for the size of delegations, the luxury with which they were conducted, and the large expenditure of public funds.
– Large entourages: Often included family members, political allies, and private associates, far beyond what protocol required.
– Major events: For CHOGM or UN General Assembly sessions, delegations reportedly ran into the hundreds, straining taxpayer resources.
– High costs: Official visits involved luxury hotels and chartered flights.
Critics frequently noted that some trips doubled as family holidays or personal excursions, blurring the line between state business and private indulgence.
Chandrika Kumaratunga and Maithripala Sirisena
Both Chandrika and Sirisena also made private visits with full security detail, as protocol demanded. Sirisena, notably, was on a private visit to Singapore during the Easter Sunday attacks, drawing heavy criticism for being absent at a critical national moment.
The Current President
The sitting President AKD has visited Germany to meet the Foreign Minister and the diaspora, and more recently traveled to Vietnam, returning on a private jet. These trips, too, have raised questions on cost and necessity.
Conclusion
Mahinda Rajapaksa’s decade of travel symbolized a presidency marked by grandeur and excess, while other leaders also blended official and private travel under full security cover. The reality is that every Sri Lankan President has traveled abroad at public expense, whether on state business or private matters. The irony, critics argue, is that prosecutors today ignore the long history of excesses by previous presidents and instead target Ranil Wickremesinghe. The question remains: why single him out? What is the message to the world?
Prime Minister’s Office debunks fake news alleging visit to ex-President RW
August 25, Colombo (LNW): Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya has officially refuted the claim that she and Prof. Maithri Wickremesinghe have paid a visit to former President Ranil Wickremesinghe, who is currently receiving treatment at the Colombo National Hospital.
In a formal statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, Dr. Amarasuriya clarified that the purported visit is a fake story published by ‘Hiru News’ and asserted that legal actions will be taken in this regard.
The Prime Minister’s Office further urged the media institute in question to rectify the story.
Wickremesinghe was arrested and remanded in connection with the alleged misuse of public funds on August 23.
CEAT’s US $171m BOI deal boosts Sri Lanka tyre exports growth
By: Staff Writer
August 25, Colombo (LNW): CEAT OHT Lanka Ltd. yesterday announced that it has signed an agreement with the Board of Investment (BOI) of Sri Lanka to formalise a landmark investment of $171 million, one of the largest inflows from India in recent years, aimed at strengthening the island’s manufacturing and export profile.
The investment follows CEAT Ltd.’s global acquisition of Michelin Group’s Construction Compact Line business, including the Midigama plant and the Casting Product facility in Kotugoda.
With this, CEAT will assume worldwide ownership of the Camso brand after a three-year licensing period. The acquisition process is still being finalised but is set to embed Sri Lanka at the centre of CEAT’s global Off-Highway Tyre (OHT) expansion strategy.
The company emphasised that Sri Lanka’s role as an OHT hub will be reinforced by this move, even as the country struggles with inconsistent government policies and a lack of private-sector facilitation.
Industry stakeholders note that while the tyre sector has shown resilience, rising input costs, energy prices, and the absence of a coherent industrial strategy have placed significant strain on private manufacturers—traditionally recognised as the engine of economic growth.
As part of its long-term commitment, CEAT OHT Lanka has signed a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Michelin Lanka and the Inter Company Employees’ Union (ICEU) to safeguard the future of 1,483 employees. The MoU guarantees full retention of service, seniority, benefits, and salaries, ensuring no retrenchments during the transition.
BOI Chairman Arjuna Herath welcomed the investment, stating: “This is among the largest Indian investments in recent years and strengthens Sri Lanka’s position as a global export hub.”
CEAT Specialty CEO Amit Tolani described the agreement as a “new chapter” in the company’s partnership with Sri Lanka, adding that the investment would create “exciting new opportunities” for the local industry. CEAT CFO Kumar Subbiah reiterated the company’s commitment to a seamless transition, job security, and positioning Sri Lanka as a “world-class OHT manufacturing hub.”
Despite such milestones, analysts point out that Sri Lanka’s tyre industry—spanning passenger, truck, bus, and specialty tyres—continues to face bottlenecks, particularly in accessing raw materials, competing with cheaper imports, and managing high operational costs.
While private investors such as CEAT have injected capital and global expertise, the government has been criticised for offering little policy clarity or incentives to sustain competitiveness.
CEAT’s latest venture highlights how foreign direct investment can accelerate industrial growth and exports, but also underscores the urgent need for the government to create a more supportive ecosystem for the private sector, which remains the backbone of economic recovery.
Sri Lankan Ajai Vir Singh to represent nation at BRICS+ in Moscow
By: Staff Writer
August 25, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s fashion industry will gain international exposure later this month when Ajai Vir Singh, Founder of Colombo Fashion Week (CFW), Responsible Fashion initiative, and the Ceylon Literary and Arts Festival, represents the country at the BRICS+ Fashion Summit in Moscow.
The high-profile gathering, taking place from 28 to 30 August, will bring together leaders of fashion associations, manufacturers, designers, buyers, and experts from over 60 countries. Since its inception, the BRICS+ Summit has become one of the fastest-growing platforms in the global fashion industry, encouraging collaboration and opening new opportunities for emerging markets.
Over the last three years, the event has highlighted talent from more than 90 countries, ranging from Brazil, Ecuador, and Indonesia to South Africa, India, and China. Moscow itself has rapidly developed into a thriving hub of fashion and design, leveraging the BRICS+ platform to build cultural and commercial alliances worldwide.
The Summit’s Business Program will tackle pressing issues including sustainable production, innovation, professional education, international trade expansion, and challenges faced by developing economies. Singh’s participation will position Sri Lanka’s fashion sector within these global discussions.
Speaking ahead of the event, Singh emphasized the importance of the platform for countries like Sri Lanka:
“BRICS+ is becoming a powerful voice for emerging fashion nations. It is not just about style but about dialogue, mutual understanding, and building bridges across cultures. The Summit provides a stage where cultural exchange contributes directly to global creativity and innovation.”
Alongside the BRICS+ Summit, Moscow Fashion Week will run from 28 August to 2 September, featuring Russian designers alongside labels from 10 countries, including Brazil, India, China, Spain, and South Africa. Together, the two events underline the rise of a multicultural fashion community in Russia, positioning Moscow as a central player in the global fashion economy.
Singh’s involvement underscores the progress of Colombo Fashion Week, one of South Asia’s most established fashion platforms. Now over 20 years old, CFW is among the only four fashion weeks in Asia with such longevity, and it continues to nurture Sri Lanka’s design talent while advancing sustainability and responsible practices.
By participating in BRICS+, Singh not only elevates Sri Lanka’s fashion profile but also contributes to fostering partnerships that may enhance exports, open new markets, and strengthen Sri Lanka’s creative economy in the global arena.