September 17, Colombo (LNW): The Sri Lanka Police have issued a stern warning about the re-circulation of old video footage on social media, cautioning that these outdated clips are being falsely portrayed as recent events.

Authorities are concerned that this misleading content has the potential to create public unrest and compromise national security.

According to the police, certain videos—such as those depicting vehicle inspections near Katunayake Airport and scenes captured during past curfew periods—are being reshared on social platforms, giving the impression that these incidents are currently unfolding.

By presenting historical events as new occurrences, these videos risk causing unnecessary alarm and confusion among the public.

The police emphasise that the dissemination of such misleading information can have serious consequences, including the disruption of peace and public order.

In light of the upcoming electoral period, where tensions can already be heightened, the spread of false information poses an even greater risk to national stability.

Authorities are therefore urging citizens to exercise caution and verify the authenticity of content before sharing it online.

In their statement, the police highlighted the need for responsible use of social media. They reminded the public that the reckless sharing of outdated or manipulated footage not only spreads misinformation but also fosters an environment of fear and uncertainty.

This behaviour could lead to misunderstandings, unnecessary panic, and could potentially incite unrest in various communities.

To counter these issues, the Sri Lanka Police have warned that they will take legal action against individuals who are found to be deliberately spreading such misleading content.

This measure is aimed at curbing the spread of false information and ensuring that social media does not become a tool for creating discord.

September 17, Colombo (LNW): The Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) has issued a statement addressing recent media claims regarding the alleged misuse of its aircraft for presidential campaign activities.

These reports suggested that state resources were being improperly utilised to support presidential candidates.

In its response, published on the social media platform ‘X’, the SLAF clarified its procedures, emphasising that aircraft are made available to candidates strictly on a payment basis.

The statement stressed that this arrangement adheres to established protocols, ensuring transparency and fairness in the use of military assets.

The issue surfaced amid growing public concern over the potential use of state resources in election campaigns.

Speculation in the media had pointed towards the possibility that presidential candidates were benefitting from state-funded assets, including SLAF aircraft, for their campaigning needs.

This sparked a debate on the ethical use of public resources during election periods, raising questions about the fairness and integrity of the electoral process.

The SLAF’s clarification aims to dispel such concerns by outlining the formal procedures in place.

By offering aircraft on a payment basis, the SLAF asserts that it is maintaining a neutral stance and preventing the inappropriate use of state assets.

This measure is in line with efforts to ensure that all candidates have equitable access to transportation options without unduly relying on state resources.

The SLAF further reassured the public that these protocols are in place to uphold the integrity of the election process, ensuring that military resources are not exploited for political gain.

In doing so, the SLAF seeks to maintain public confidence in the impartiality of national institutions during the electoral period.

September 17, Colombo (LNW): Climate change is increasingly impacting migratory bird patterns, with an estimated 84 per cent of bird species listed under the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species (CMS) facing threats linked to global warming, according to environmentalist and legal expert Dr Jagath Gunawardana.

In a detailed report by Daily Mirror, Dr Gunawardana pointed out that Sri Lanka usually sees the arrival of migratory birds from regions such as Siberia, India, and Mongolia between September and October, and occasionally as early as August.

However, due to climate change, these migration periods have become unpredictable, with seasons starting either earlier or later than usual.

“This year, the migration season has commenced earlier than expected,” he noted.

Sri Lanka hosts a diverse avian population, comprising 435 species, of which 110 are migratory, making up 26 per cent of the total bird population, as per the Conservation of Migratory Species of Sri Lanka.

Over recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of vagrant birds—those that appear outside their typical breeding ranges.

These migratory birds play a crucial role in maintaining ecosystems, enriching soil nutrients, aiding crop cultivation, and regulating food cycles by preying on smaller creatures.

However, Dr Gunawardana highlighted several environmental challenges confronting these migratory birds. The loss of habitat due to deforestation and the destruction of wetlands used for nesting and foraging has been particularly detrimental.

Additionally, the contamination of food sources through pollutants poses a significant risk to bird populations.

In Sri Lanka, unlike some countries with traditions of hunting birds, the primary threat stems from habitat degradation rather than hunting practices.

“Habitat loss remains the most unsustainable threat to ornithology in Sri Lanka,” he emphasised.

While Sri Lanka has made international commitments to protect migratory birds, including being a signatory to the CMS and the Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance, Dr Gunawardana argued that local legislative measures are still insufficient.

He urged the government to first identify and protect critically endangered species, then categorise other endangered and endemic species, and finally recognise specific migratory species that require protection.

Illustrating the complexity of avian conservation, Dr Gunawardana referenced the reappearance of the ‘Glossy Ibis’ in Sri Lanka. This rare winter visitor, which was observed nesting at Bundala National Park in 2020 after a gap of 148 years, had been declared extinct in the region for the first half of the 20th century. Its unexpected return highlights the dynamic nature of migratory patterns, influenced by both environmental changes and conservation efforts.

Additionally, this August witnessed an unusual influx of blue-tailed bee-eaters, attributed to erratic weather conditions.

September 17, Colombo (LNW): The Election Commission has announced the distribution of cardboard ballot boxes to all returning officers across the country for the upcoming Presidential election.

These boxes are expected to reach polling stations by 20 September, ensuring that all necessary equipment is in place before voters head to the polls.

In a departure from tradition, cardboard boxes have been chosen over the usual wooden ones to accommodate the larger ballot papers being used this year.

Recognising the need for flexibility, the Commission has produced these boxes in three different sizes to suit various polling station requirements.

The Commission has confirmed that all election preparations are complete, with comprehensive instructions issued to government officials involved in the electoral process.

This ensures that the polling procedure will run smoothly, maintaining the integrity of the voting process.

Election officials have been advised to finalise their arrangements and proceed to their designated polling stations as scheduled.

The thoroughness of these preparations underscores the Commission’s commitment to a well-organised and efficient election, with all aspects carefully considered to facilitate voter participation.

September 17, Colombo (LNW): International election observers, who have arrived in Sri Lanka to oversee the upcoming Presidential election, are set to meet with the Election Commission of Sri Lanka today (17).

This significant discussion is scheduled to take place at the Election Commission premises, marking the first formal interaction between the observers and the Commission ahead of the election.

Key participants in this meeting include representatives from the Asian Network for Free Elections (ANFREL) and the Commonwealth Observer Group (COG).

Both organisations have a history of promoting democratic processes and ensuring electoral integrity across Asia and the Commonwealth countries.

Their presence is seen as a crucial step in guaranteeing a transparent and fair electoral process in Sri Lanka.

Today’s meeting is part of a broader schedule for the international observers. Following the discussion, they are expected to visit various districts throughout the country to monitor the electoral activities.

Their monitoring will extend to different regions, offering a comprehensive view of the electoral process and ensuring adherence to democratic principles.

Meanwhile, local election watchdog, the People’s Action for Free and Fair Elections (PAFFREL), has stressed the importance of maintaining peace and order as the election date approaches.

Rohana Hettiarachchi, Executive Director of PAFFREL, called on the public to remain calm and not be swayed by misleading reports or rumours circulating during this critical period.

He emphasised the necessity of a peaceful environment to facilitate a smooth and fair voting process, urging all stakeholders to act responsibly.

With the final week of the election period underway, the engagement of both international observers and local monitoring groups underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in this electoral process.

The joint efforts of the Election Commission, international observers, and local organisations aim to ensure that the upcoming Presidential election is conducted in a manner that upholds democratic values and reflects the will of the people.

September 17, Colombo (LNW): A Commonwealth Observer Group (COG) has arrived in Colombo to oversee Sri Lanka’s upcoming Presidential election, marking a significant milestone as the Commonwealth’s 200th election observation since the 1980s.

With the country set to vote on 21 September, the 15-member team, deployed by the Commonwealth Secretary-General, aims to ensure a transparent and democratic electoral process, following an invitation from Sri Lanka’s Election Commission.

In a statement made in Colombo, the Chairperson of the group, former President of Seychelles, Danny Faure, expressed his honour at leading the delegation for this historic occasion.

He emphasised the Commonwealth’s ongoing commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and fostering citizen participation.

“We are here as part of the Commonwealth’s full electoral cycle approach…to help strengthen democratic institutions and processes, and enable citizen participation and representation during elections,” Faure said.

The timing of Sri Lanka’s election is particularly symbolic, coinciding with the International Day of Peace. Faure highlighted this alignment, noting it as a commitment to the global pursuit of peace, mirroring the Commonwealth’s values of promoting free, democratic societies and enhancing the prosperity of all citizens.

The Observer Group’s mandate involves a comprehensive evaluation of the entire electoral process, covering the pre-election environment, the election day itself, and the post-election period.

The group’s role extends beyond merely observing; it involves engaging with various stakeholders to gain a holistic view of the election’s conduct.

Since their arrival, the team has actively participated in meetings with civil society representatives, political parties, the police, and citizen observers, aiming to gather insights into the electoral landscape.

In preparation for the main polling day, members of the support team monitored the postal voting process on 11 and 12 September in Colombo.

This early voting mechanism allows eligible voters who are unable to cast their ballots on 21 September to participate in the election.

This phase of observation provided the team with an early indication of the organisational and procedural aspects of the election.

On 19 September, observers will be deployed in small teams across various provinces, where they will assess local electoral preparations and meet with regional stakeholders.

This decentralised approach ensures a broader and more nuanced understanding of the election’s conduct at the grassroots level.

During the election, the group will observe critical aspects, including the opening of polling stations, voting procedures, the closing of polls, vote counting, and the management of results.

Their observations will culminate in an interim statement on 23 September, offering a preliminary assessment of the electoral process.

Following the election, the group will produce a comprehensive final report, which will include recommendations for enhancing future electoral processes. This report is intended to provide a framework for continuous improvement, ensuring that Sri Lanka’s democratic processes are robust and aligned with international standards.

September 17, Colombo (LNW): Several spells of showers will occur Western, Sabaragamuwa and North-western provinces and in Kandy, Nuwara-Eliya, Galle and Matara districts, the Department of Meteorology said in its daily weather forecast today (17).

Showers or thundershowers may occur at several places in Eastern and Uva provinces during the evening or night.

Strong winds about (40-45)kmph can be expected at times over the western slopes of the central hills and in Northern, North-central, and North-western provinces and in Hambantota, Monaragala and Trincomalee 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:

1. President Ranil Wickremesinghe, at the “Ranil Can” rally, emphasises Sri Lanka’s economic recovery efforts and international support from India and Japan: announces plans for Trincomalee’s development and pledges to improve living conditions: Criticising rivals for their inaction during the crisis, he urges voters to support his continued leadership, aiming to resolve ongoing economic challenges by 2025.
   
2. SJB presidential candidate Sajith Premadasa stresses the need for a leader who treats everyone equally, regardless of caste or religion: proposes boosting Sri Lanka’s tourism by learning from Malaysia, addressing local housing issues, modernising schools and hospitals, and criticises rivals for their silence on past injustices towards the Muslim community.
   
3. The National People’s Power (NPP) vows to cancel the Adani Group’s wind power project in Sri Lanka if elected in the upcoming presidential election: Candidate Anura Kumara Dissanayake claims the project threatens energy sovereignty: The Adani Group faced legal challenges over environmental concerns, transparency issues, and allegations of a financially disadvantageous tariff for Sri Lanka.
   
4. The Ilankai Tamil Arasu Kachchi (ITAK) officially decides to endorse SJB presidential candidate Sajith Premadasa in the upcoming election, following a meeting in Vavuniya: Despite party leader Mavai Senathirajah’s support, some dissent exists, notably from MP S. Shritharan, who advocates for Tamil common candidate P. Ariyanethiran, criticising the Sinhalese candidates’ commitment to Tamil issues.
   
5. Ahead of the Presidential election, Sri Lankan law enforcement is authorised to use firearms if disturbances occur at polling stations: Public Security Minister Tiran Alles confirms a robust security plan, including deploying 54,000 police officers nationwide, to maintain order: Measures focus on potential unrest, safeguarding the electoral process, and ensuring secure ballot box transportation.
   
6. Chinese Ambassador Qi Zhenhong says both China and Sri Lanka are entering crucial five-year periods, offering new cooperation opportunities: emphasises the importance of the nations’ close economic ties, including projects like Port City Colombo: notes both countries are at pivotal junctures, suggesting enhanced future collaboration.
   
7. A Commonwealth Observer Group (COG) is in Colombo to observe Sri Lanka’s 21 September presidential election, marking the Commonwealth’s 200th observation since the 1980s: The 15-member group, led by Seychelles’ former President Danny Faure, aims to assess the electoral process, ensure democratic standards, and support peace: They will issue a preliminary report on 23 September.
   
8. Sri Lanka’s Election Commission warns employers to grant employees sufficient leave to vote in the upcoming Presidential election: Commissioner Saman Sri Ratnayake emphasises voting as a fundamental right, outlining specific leave guidelines based on the distance to polling stations: Legal action may be taken against non-compliant institutions, ensuring all eligible voters have fair access to the democratic process.
   
9. The All Ceylon Health Service Union accuses Dr. Saranga Alahapperuma, Chairman of Sri Jayewardenepura General Hospital, of making arbitrary recruitments and promotions in violation of election laws: Despite the complaints, the Election Commission has not acted: Alahapperuma defends his actions, stating that all appointments followed due processes and were approved by the Commission.
   
10. Sri Lanka Women’s ‘A’ fast bowler Malsha Shehani took 4 for 12, but Bangladesh Women’s ‘A’ secured a 10-run victory in the third T20, winning the series 3-0: Bangladesh scored 97 for 9, with Shathi Rani top-scoring at 26: Sri Lanka managed 87 for 8 in response, with Kaushani Nuthyanga and Nilakshana Sandamini contributing 21 and 22 runs, respectively.

September 16, Colombo (LNW): Ahead of the upcoming Presidential election, law enforcement officers have been authorised to use firearms if disturbances arise at polling stations.

Public Security Minister Tiran Alles disclosed this measure to Lankadeepa newspaper, emphasising the need to maintain order during the electoral process.

According to Minister Alles, police and security forces have been equipped with firearms to manage any potential unrest, signalling a firm stance on maintaining peace and stability throughout the election period.

A detailed security plan has been put in place to ensure the smooth conduct of the election day, as well as the subsequent period.

This plan aims to address various potential scenarios, ranging from minor disturbances to more significant threats, to preserve the integrity of the electoral process.

It also includes measures for heightened security during the critical phase of ballot box transportation, with the Police Headquarters confirming a specialised security strategy for this operation.

An extensive deployment of around 54,000 police officers is anticipated to bolster election security, marking one of the most comprehensive security efforts for an election in recent times.

These officers will be strategically stationed across the country, focusing on areas deemed sensitive or high-risk.

The deployment plan also includes rapid response units prepared to tackle any incidents swiftly, minimising disruption and ensuring voter safety.