May 14, Colombo (LNW): The Court of Appeal has scheduled a hearing for June 26, 2025 to consider a legal petition challenging the parliamentary eligibility of Ramanathan Archchuna, an independent MP representing the Jaffna District.
The case, filed by civic activist Oshala Herath, was called before a two-judge bench consisting of Justices Mayadunne Corea and Mahen Gopallawa earlier today (14 May).
The petition seeks Archchuna’s disqualification from serving as an MP, though the specific grounds underpinning the legal challenge remain to be publicly clarified.
During the brief hearing, the court directed that the case be taken up next month to confirm and examine the factual submissions.
This procedural step indicates the court’s intention to determine whether there is sufficient basis to proceed with a full hearing on the matter.
Archchuna, a prominent independent figure from the northern region, entered Parliament during the last general election amid shifting political alliances and growing public sentiment favouring non-party-affiliated candidates.
His parliamentary tenure has since drawn both praise and scrutiny, particularly from those advocating for stricter standards of political accountability.
Across the Global South, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has come to symbolize not economic rescue but systemic devastation. Sri Lanka is a textbook example. In a desperate attempt to stabilize its collapsing economy, the country turned to the IMF—an act that came at a painful cost to its people. The rescue, though eventually successful, was driven largely by the deft leadership of an experienced president working in tandem with the IMF.
Yet, this so-called recovery pushed over 500,000 middle-class citizens below the poverty line and ultimately damaged the president’s electoral prospects. Ironically, the current president, who capitalized on this crisis by stoking class divisions, now claims credit for the recovery. Everyone knows that’s not true. If he doesn’t get his act together quickly, he could be heading for even bigger electoral defeats.
The IMF Recipe: Pain First, More Pain Later
Despite its professed goals of fostering stability and growth, the IMF’s rigid policy prescriptions often plunge nations into deeper poverty, greater dependency, and endless cycles of austerity and debt. The sequence of destruction is disturbingly consistent—and devastating. It typically begins with enforced economic liberalization. Governments are instructed to dismantle tariffs, eliminate subsidies, and expose fragile domestic markets to unregulated foreign competition. The outcome is predictable: local industries collapse under pressure from cheap imports, jobs disappear, and countries lose the capacity to produce even essential goods.
Economies become dependent on imported food, fuel, and medicine—commodities now priced and controlled by external markets. Next comes the floating of the national currency. Countries with weak exports and low investor confidence watch helplessly as their currency plummets in value. Servicing dollar-denominated debt becomes unsustainable. What once cost one unit now costs two or three—devastating public finances and widening the fiscal gap. With local production dismantled and currency values collapsing, import prices skyrocket. Inflation runs rampant. Wages stagnate while basic living costs soar. The burden falls squarely on ordinary citizens who find themselves struggling to afford food, transportation, and medicine. In response, the IMF insists on aggressive interest rate hikes to curb inflation.
But this move throttles economic activity. Businesses already reeling from the crisis can no longer afford to borrow. Many are forced to shut down. Government borrowing also becomes more expensive, leading to cuts in infrastructure, healthcare, and public services. What follows is a deeper capital and debt crisis. Domestic firms face double-digit interest rates, while foreign competitors thrive on cheap global credit. The IMF then tightens the screws further—demanding tax increases and the removal of incentives. Local businesses are left gasping for air.As the economy crumbles, the IMF deflects blame, citing “corruption” or “inefficiency” within the country. The real damage—inflicted by externally imposed structural reforms—is rarely acknowledged. Instead, more austerity is prescribed: pension cuts, regressive taxation, and the privatization of education and healthcare. The social contract is gutted, and the most vulnerable bear the heaviest burden.
Conclusion
Critics argue this is not a failure of policy but a deliberate model. IMF programs have consistently dismantled national economic sovereignty, prioritized creditor interests, and trapped nations in long-term dependency. The result is a hollowed-out economy: indebted, import-reliant, and stripped of the capacity to achieve sustainable, inclusive growth. The pattern repeats—by design, not mistake. To be clear, the IMF does not force countries to borrow. But when governments mismanage their economies to the point of collapse and then run to the Fund, they must be prepared to face the consequences. The pain is real—and often, it is the people, not the politicians, who pay the highest price.
May 14, Colombo (LNW): Public health officials in Sri Lanka are intensifying efforts to combat a concerning rise in mosquito-borne diseases, with nearly 20,000 cases of dengue reported across the country so far this year.
The National Dengue Control Unit has identified 38 Medical Officer of Health (MOH) areas as critical hotspots for dengue transmission, prompting the launch of an urgent vector control campaign.
Dr Sudath Samaraweera, Director of the National Dengue Control Unit, confirmed that over 2,200 new dengue cases have been recorded in the first two weeks of May alone, with the Western Province accounting for a staggering 47 per cent of infections.
The situation is further exacerbated by a parallel rise in chikungunya cases, another viral illness spread by the Aedes mosquito species.
Health authorities are particularly concerned about the dual burden of these two diseases, both of which present with fever, joint pain, and fatigue, and can place immense pressure on public health services if left unchecked.
The same mosquito species responsible for dengue is also a carrier of chikungunya, making the containment of breeding grounds a public health priority.
In response, a nationwide eradication initiative will take place from May 19 to 24, focusing on the elimination of mosquito breeding sites in 15 high-risk districts.
This concerted operation will involve local government bodies, health workers, and community leaders, aiming to disrupt the mosquito life cycle and stem the spread of disease before the onset of the southwest monsoon season, which typically exacerbates transmission rates.
Public cooperation is being emphasised as a key factor in the success of the initiative. Residents are being urged to routinely inspect their premises for stagnant water—particularly in items like discarded containers, blocked gutters, uncovered tanks, and neglected garden areas.
Simple household practices, such as clearing leaf debris and cleaning water storage units, can significantly reduce the risk of mosquito breeding.
Dr Samaraweera has also appealed to the public to allow health inspection teams access to both private and commercial premises during the scheduled eradication week.
These teams will be inspecting neighbourhoods for potential mosquito breeding sites and educating households about prevention measures.
The upcoming weeks are expected to be critical in determining whether this spike in cases can be brought under control. Health experts warn that without decisive action, the situation could escalate into a larger public health crisis, especially in urban and semi-urban areas where population density allows for rapid viral spread.
May 14, Colombo (LNW): Archbishop of Colombo Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith held a cordial audience with newly elected Pope Robert Prevost during a recent visit to the Vatican.
The meeting, which took place in the wake of the papal conclave that selected the American-born Cardinal Prevost as the new leader of the Roman Catholic Church, was confirmed by the Archdiocese of Colombo through images shared on its official social media platforms.
The encounter marks a significant moment for Sri Lanka’s Catholic community, as Cardinal Ranjith—one of the few Asian cardinals present at the conclave—was amongst the senior church figures considered a potential successor to the late Pope Francis.
The conclave, held within the revered halls of the Vatican Palace, drew together cardinal-electors from across the globe, reflecting the Church’s increasingly global character.
Cardinal Prevost, who hails from the United States and previously served in the Vatican’s Dicastery for Bishops, was elected following the passing of Pope Francis. His election represents a continuation of the Church’s evolving leadership, with a focus on pastoral reform, global outreach, and addressing contemporary social and moral challenges.
Cardinal Ranjith’s presence at the conclave and subsequent meeting with Pope Prevost highlights his longstanding influence within the global Catholic hierarchy. A former Vatican diplomat and Prefect of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments under Pope Benedict XVI, Ranjith has long been a voice for liturgical tradition and moral clarity within the Church.
He has also been an outspoken advocate for justice in Sri Lanka, particularly in the wake of the 2019 Easter Sunday attacks, for which he has repeatedly called for accountability and transparency.
During their meeting, Cardinal Ranjith and Pope Prevost reportedly discussed matters concerning the global Catholic community, regional concerns affecting the Church in Asia, and ongoing efforts to support post-conflict reconciliation and interreligious harmony in Sri Lanka.
May 14, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lankan authorities have launched an intensified inspection programme targeting long-distance passenger vehicles, in a bid to stem the alarming rise in serious road accidents involving night-time buses.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Sri Lanka Police, is aimed at curbing dangerous driving practices and enhancing passenger safety following a spate of recent tragedies.
Police officers have been instructed to conduct random night-time checks on highways and major roads, with particular focus on long-haul buses that operate during the late hours.
The directive, issued by the Acting Inspector General of Police, mandates both stationary checkpoints and mobile inspections using police motorcycles.
According to senior police officials, these checks will target a range of violations, including driving under the influence of alcohol or narcotics, excessive speeding, reckless overtaking, and other hazardous behaviours that have become increasingly associated with long-distance bus operations.
Vehicles found violating safety regulations will be subject to immediate disciplinary action under prevailing traffic laws.
The crackdown follows a series of devastating incidents in recent days that have left the nation reeling. On Saturday, 10 May, a bus lost control and careened into a ravine in Dayaraba, Welimada, injuring at least 20 passengers.
A far more catastrophic accident occurred the next morning, 11 May, when a private bus travelling from Kataragama to Kurunegala veered off the mountainous road at Gerandi Ella in Kotmale and plunged into a deep precipice, killing 23 people on board.
The tragedy prompted widespread public outcry and renewed scrutiny over the regulation of public transport vehicles.
The carnage continued on Monday (12) when yet another bus crashed in Aladeniya, Kandy, injuring more than 20 passengers. All three incidents involved long-distance buses operating on winding roads in central and southern regions of the island, often during hours when driver fatigue and low visibility heighten the risk of accidents.
In response, law enforcement agencies are coordinating with the National Transport Commission and provincial transport authorities to tighten enforcement and ensure accountability among bus operators.
Passengers have been encouraged to report erratic driving behaviour via designated hotlines, while transport companies have been warned to ensure their drivers comply with mandatory rest periods and safety regulations.
Authorities are also exploring the feasibility of introducing GPS monitoring for commercial buses and expanding the use of dashboard cameras to monitor driver conduct in real time.
The Ministry of Transport is expected to table proposals in the coming weeks aimed at revising safety protocols for long-distance travel, including compulsory health checks for drivers and stricter licensing conditions.
May 14, Colombo (LNW): In the aftermath of the devastating bus crash in the Garandiella area of Kotmale, which left many passengers critically injured, immediate efforts have been mobilised to support the overwhelmed Kotmale Regional Hospital.
With dozens of casualties rushed to the facility, both the government and the local community have stepped in to improve conditions at the hospital, which has been operating under significant strain.
As part of the nationwide “Clean Sri Lanka” initiative, teams were swiftly deployed to the Kotmale hospital to assist in a comprehensive clean-up and refurbishment of the wards and surrounding premises.
The campaign, which is aimed at improving public health infrastructure and promoting civic responsibility, has turned its focus to the hospital in response to the sudden influx of patients needing urgent care.
Volunteers from the area, along with representatives from the “Clean Sri Lanka” secretariat, worked tirelessly to sanitise the hospital environment, enhance sanitation services, and provide a more dignified and hygienic space for the treatment of the injured.
The ward complex—typically under-resourced—was given a much-needed facelift, whilst outdoor areas were cleared and prepared to better accommodate emergency services.
The President’s Media Division issued a statement commending the efforts of all those involved, with particular praise directed toward the medical professionals and support staff at Kotmale Regional Hospital.
Despite limited facilities, the hospital’s personnel acted swiftly and decisively to stabilise the injured, prioritising life-saving care under intense pressure.
What stood out in this effort, beyond the institutional involvement, was the spontaneous support from ordinary citizens. Locals, some of whom had witnessed the tragic incident, came forward to donate supplies, assist in cleaning efforts, and offer emotional support to affected families.
Their participation was not only practical but deeply symbolic, reflecting a spirit of solidarity that continues to be a hallmark of Sri Lankan resilience during times of crisis.
Officials from the “Clean Sri Lanka” initiative acknowledged the powerful example set in Kotmale and have suggested that similar community-driven responses may be encouraged at other public institutions as part of the broader public health improvement agenda.
May 14, Colombo (LNW): Several spells of showers will occur in Western, Sabaragamuwa and North-western provinces and in Galle and Matara districts, the Department of Meteorology said in its daily weather forecast today (14).
Showers or thundershowers may occur at a few places in Central, Uva, North-central and Eastern provinces after 1.00 p.m., the statement said.
Fairly strong winds of about 30-40 kmph can be expected at times over Northern, North-central, North-western and Southern provinces and in Trincomalee district, according to the Met Department.
Thus, the general public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimise damages caused by temporary localised strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.
May 13, Colombo (LNW): Maxwell de Silva, the former Secretary of Sri Lanka’s National Olympic Committee (NOC), has been officially barred from all sporting functions under the organisation’s banner for a period of five years, following a series of investigations into serious ethical breaches and administrative misconduct.
The decision comes after months of scrutiny, during which both the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Sports had previously suspended de Silva from his duties.
Allegations had surfaced regarding long-standing irregularities linked to his handling of official responsibilities, prompting a formal inquiry by the NOC’s internal oversight mechanisms.
Suresh Subramanian, Chairman of the NOC, confirmed that the Ethics Committee undertook a detailed review of the complaints lodged against the former official. Upon assessing the findings and recommendations, the Executive Committee reached a unanimous decision to impose a five-year ban.
The punishment, Subramanian added, has already been formally communicated to the IOC, signalling the seriousness of the action taken and the organisation’s commitment to upholding ethical governance.
As a consequence of the ruling, de Silva is barred from representing the National Olympic Committee in any capacity—be it at international sporting events, conferences, or meetings under the Olympic movement.
This blanket prohibition also means he will be excluded from involvement in all NOC-affiliated activities, both domestically and abroad.
The Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) has reported a notable surge in international tourist arrivals, with 33,910 visitors recorded during the first week of May 2025—a significant increase compared to the same period in previous years.
This growth reflects a steady upward trend in Sri Lanka’s tourism recovery:
May 2023 (first week): 18,761 arrivals
May 2024 (first week): 28,526 arrivals
May 2025 (first week): 33,910 arrivals
As of May 07, total arrivals for 2025 have reached 930,794, with an average of 5,000 tourists arriving daily, even with the usual seasonal slowdown from Western markets post-winter.
Complementing this rise in arrivals, the Central Bank of Sri Lanka reported that tourism earnings from January to April 2025 reached USD 1,379 million, marking a 10.2% increase compared to USD 1,251.6 million during the same period in 2024.
For April 2025 alone, estimated tourism earnings stood at USD 646.1 million, highlighting tourism’s growing contribution to Sri Lanka’s economy.
This upward trajectory signals strong global interest in Sri Lanka as a travel destination and reflects effective tourism strategies and ongoing promotional efforts.
Would you like a brief chart visualizing the year-on-year comparison of arrivals and earnings?
The Sri Lankan government is facing criticism over its handling of electricity tariffs, with allegations of double standards, misinformation, and a lack of transparency surfacing amidst growing public concern. Despite earlier claims of profitability and tariff reductions, the government and the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) are now signaling the possibility of a significant price hike—raising questions about the accuracy and consistency of their financial narratives.
At the heart of the controversy is the government’s agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to adopt a cost-reflective pricing model for electricity, which requires full cost recovery over time. This model, intended to stabilize the energy sector, stipulates that any profits made by the CEB should be passed on to consumers as relief. Conversely, losses would justify tariff increases.
Available data shows that the CEB recorded a profit of Rs. 51 billion during the first half of 2024. Based on this performance, industry experts argue that electricity tariffs should be reduced—not increased. In fact, earlier this year, the CEB even proposed a 10–20% tariff reduction, citing strong financial performance in the first quarter of 2025.
Yet, the narrative appears to be shifting. The government, through Energy Minister Kumara Jayakody, told Parliament it has “no intention” to raise tariffs, but also implied that electricity pricing is critical to managing national debt. The minister admitted that a clearer picture will only emerge next month after the CEB submits its financial data to the Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL). So far, no such submission has been made.
Meanwhile, the PUCSL is under pressure to finalize public consultations and approve any tariff changes by July 1, as the revision is a key benchmark for unlocking a US$344 million IMF loan tranche. Critics argue that this process is being manipulated to portray the CEB as financially distressed, thereby justifying an unnecessary tariff hike.
Fueling suspicions further is the blackout on February 9, which caused losses of around Rs. 8.4 billion. Despite prior warnings from engineers, no preventive action was taken—a pattern eerily reminiscent of the government’s handling of the 2019 Easter Sunday attacks. No investigation into the blackout has been initiated, and accountability remains elusive.
Adding to the confusion is the CEB’s new energy policy, which claims the power system is “imbalanced,” making it difficult to use renewable sources like solar, wind, and hydro. But energy experts point out that such renewable resources were used effectively during similar periods in previous years without disruption. The deliberate curtailment of green energy, in favor of expensive coal and diesel, raises environmental and economic concerns.
As of late April, the CEB had posted a Rs. 20 billion loss—just months after reporting profits. Experts argue this shift is artificially engineered to pave the way for tariff hikes. They insist the PUCSL should mandate at least a 10% tariff reduction based on available data.
With mounting inconsistencies, the government’s credibility is now under scrutiny. Critics demand transparency, accountability, and a tariff policy that prioritizes public welfare over political maneuvering.
