September 24, Colombo (LNW): An extraordinary gazette declaration signed by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, authorising the dissolution of Parliament has been issued, paving the way for the holding of a General Election.
Accordingly, Parliament will be dissolved at midnight today (24).
The General Election is set to be held on November 14, 2024, and the acceptance of nominations will be undertaken from October 04 to 11, 2024.
By: Isuru Parakrama
September 24, Colombo (LNW): 15 new Secretaries have been appointed to head several key ministries in Sri Lanka, the President’s Media Division (PMD) announced.
The appointments include critical positions such as Secretary to the Prime Minister and Cabinet Secretary, marking a fresh phase of leadership in these ministries.
These appointments come at a time of substantial political and economic change in the country, with the new administration looking to instil a renewed sense of governance and efficiency.
Each of these roles is expected to carry a profound responsibility in implementing the government’s strategic objectives and managing the day-to-day operations of vital sectors.
The full list of appointments:
1. Mr. G.P. Saputhanthri – Secretary to the Prime Minister
2. Mr. W.M.D.J. Fernando – Cabinet Secretary
3. Mr. K.D.S. Ruwanchandra – Secretary to the Ministry of Transport, Highways, Ports, and Civil Aviation
4. Mr. K.M.M. Siriwardena – Secretary to the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development, Policy Formulation, Planning, and Tourism
5. Mrs. Aruni Wijewardena – Secretary to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
6. Ms. J.M.T. Jayasundara – Secretary to the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology
7. Mr. K. Maheson – Secretary to the Ministry of Women, Children, Youth Affairs, and Sports
8. Mr. M.M. Naimuddin – Secretary to the Ministry of Trade, Commerce, Food Security, Cooperative Development, Industry, and Entrepreneurship Development
9. Mr. A.M.P.M.B. Atapattu – Secretary to the Ministry of Rural and Urban Development, Housing, and Construction
10. Dr. Palitha Gunaratne Mahipala – Secretary to the Ministry of Health
11. Mr. W.P.P. Yasaratne – Secretary to the Ministry of Justice, Public Administration, Home Affairs, Provincial Councils, Local Government, and Labour
12. Mr. B.K. Prabhath Chandrakeerthy – Secretary to the Ministry of Environment, Wildlife, Forest Resources, Water Supply, Plantation, and Community Infrastructure
13. Mr. M.P.N.M. Wickramasinghe – Secretary to the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Livestock, Irrigation, Fisheries, and Aquatic Resources
14. Mr. H.S.S. Thuiyakontha – Secretary to the Ministry of Defence
15. Mr. D.W.R.B. Seneviratne – Secretary to the Ministry of Public Security
16. Mr. Ranjith Ariyaratne – Secretary to the Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, National Integration, Social Security and Mass Media
17. Professor K.T.M. Udayanga Hemapala – Secretary to the Ministry of Energy
By: Isuru Parakrama
September 24, Colombo (LNW): In a significant political development, Sri Lanka’s newly formed three-member Cabinet of Ministers was officially sworn in before President Anura Kumara Dissanayake at the Presidential Secretariat in Colombo this (24) evening.
This move follows the election of Dissanayake as President, marking a shift in the political landscape.
Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, an academic and advocate for social justice, took her oath as Prime Minister, assuming an extensive set of ministerial portfolios. She will serve as Minister of Justice, Education, Labour, Industries, Science and Technology, Health, and Food Security, reflecting the government’s focus on a broad range of critical national issues. Amarasuriya’s role signifies an intention to introduce reforms in key areas, including education and labour, while also addressing pressing concerns such as food security and public health.
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has chosen to personally retain control over several of the country’s most vital ministries, underscoring his direct involvement in shaping the nation’s future. He will oversee Defence, Finance, Economic Development, Policy Formulation, Planning, Tourism, Energy, Agriculture, and Natural Resources. His hands-on approach in these sectors signals his administration’s focus on security, financial stability, and agricultural reform, key areas that require immediate attention.
Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya’s expanded ministerial responsibilities include Justice, Public Administration, Education, and Women’s and Youth Affairs. Her leadership will play a pivotal role in steering legislative reforms, enhancing educational infrastructure, and fostering technological development in Sri Lanka. Additionally, her oversight of labour and trade will likely focus on improving employment opportunities and industrial growth. Amarasuriya’s diverse portfolio underscores her administration’s commitment to a balanced approach in governance, addressing social welfare alongside economic development.
Vijitha Herath, another key figure in the Cabinet, will manage an array of portfolios including Buddhasasana, Religious Affairs, Transport, Foreign Affairs, and Environment. His leadership in foreign relations will be crucial in strengthening diplomatic ties, while his oversight of transport and civil aviation is expected to bring improvements to the country’s infrastructure. Additionally, his role in managing environmental and wildlife resources aligns with the government’s focus on sustainable development and conservation efforts.
The swearing-in ceremony was attended by other prominent political figures, including MP Lakshman Nipunaarachchi, as well as former MPs Sunil Handunnetti, Bimal Ratnayake, and Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa.
By: Staff Writer
September 24, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s apparel industry has significantly advanced from traditional exports and tailoring to delivering comprehensive solutions, creativity, and expertise in areas such as BPO services, fashion, research and development, and innovation centers. This progress helps bridge the gap between the country’s developing and developed markets. Sri Lanka now boasts the highest per capita apparel exports among exporting countries in the region.
In August, the country’s apparel sector surpassed the US $3 billion earnings mark, recording a notable double-digit growth. Export revenues for the industry surged by approximately 22% year-on-year (YoY) for the month. The Sri Lankan apparel market is projected to generate an estimated US $1.70 billion in 2024, with a projected annual growth rate of 2.00% from 2024 to 2028.
According to provisional data from Sri Lanka Customs, the sector’s export earnings in August totaled US $485.62 million. All key markets showed positive growth. Exports to the United States rose by 22.9% YoY, reaching US $209.4 million, while exports to the European Union grew by 18.84% YoY to US $140.51 million. Exports to the United Kingdom and other regions increased by 17.74% and 30.91% YoY, bringing in US $62.39 million and US $73.32 million, respectively. With this strong August performance, the sector’s cumulative export earnings surpassed US $3 billion.
For the first eight months ending in August, the sector generated US $3.158 billion, reflecting a 2.41% YoY increase. Cumulative data show positive export trends across all markets except the European Union, where a marginal 1.16% decline was recorded. Exports to the United States, the United Kingdom, and other regions increased by 1.82%, 8.49%, and 5.36% YoY, amounting to US $1.26 billion, US $462 million, and US $513 million, respectively. Exports to the EU reached US $914 million.
In 2024, women’s apparel is expected to dominate the market with a volume of US $0.85 billion. On a global scale, the United States leads the apparel industry, projected to generate US $359 billion in 2024. In Sri Lanka, the apparel sector is expected to generate US $77.29 per capita in 2024. By 2028, the volume of Sri Lanka’s apparel market is forecasted to reach 250.9 million pieces, although a slight decline of 0.8% is anticipated in 2025. On average, each person in Sri Lanka is expected to contribute 11.8 pieces of apparel to the market in 2024, with 96% of total sales coming from non-luxury items. The country is also experiencing growing demand for sustainably and ethically produced clothing.
By: Staff Writer
September 24, Colombo (LNW): A Stakeholder Consultation Meeting on the Earth Resources and Minerals Sector, held at the Institution of Engineers Sri Lanka, emphasized the country’s strategic focus on two key mineral resources—quartz and graphite—for 2024. The consultation highlighted a targeted approach for these minerals in 2024, with plans to address the development of other major minerals starting in 2025.
The primary objectives of the consultation were twofold: to increase foreign exchange income from mineral exports over the next five years, and to develop a comprehensive action plan for the mineral sector from 2025 to 2029. The meeting also reviewed the current state of value addition and explored opportunities for advanced technological applications to enhance the country’s mineral offerings.
The stakeholders agreed on a range of initiatives aimed at boosting the mineral sector. Chief among these was the establishment of a National Production Laboratory, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities for analytical solutions and high-tech product testing. The laboratory, with international accreditation, will cater to both local and international geology, minerals, metallurgical, and materials industries.
In a bid to boost foreign exchange revenue, the consultation set ambitious targets for increasing the export volumes of quartz and graphite. Current export earnings stand at USD 11.7 million and USD 7.8 million, respectively. By the end of the five-year period (2025-2029), the aim is to raise the export income for each mineral to USD 30 million.
The meeting also proposed easing restrictions on mineral exploitation, particularly for commonly available minerals like quartz. New regulations may allow individuals to exploit quartz on their own lands, fostering small-scale mining opportunities across the country.
From a chemical engineering perspective, stakeholders noted that secondary value addition through chemical processing is a capital-intensive and technologically advanced area. Sri Lanka currently lacks the infrastructure and technology for high-end processing, particularly for turning quartz into products like solar panels, fiber optic cables, and optical lenses. Attracting foreign investment and expertise for these advanced processes was seen as crucial for the sector’s future growth.
Graphite production was another key focus of the discussions. The current annual output of 2,500 metric tons is insufficient to attract large-scale foreign investment for high-tech industries, such as the production of carbon brushes for electric motors. The consultation proposed raising graphite production to 10,000 metric tons per year by 2029 to enhance investment appeal.
The stakeholder consultation laid the groundwork for a five-year plan to strengthen Sri Lanka’s mineral exports, with a focus on value addition and attracting foreign investment. While 2024 will see a concentration on quartz and graphite, the broader plan envisions a robust minerals sector driving economic growth and increasing the nation’s foreign exchange earnings in the years to come.
By: Staff Writer
September 24, Colombo (LNW): The 2024 Presidential Election can be recognized as one of the most intense and competitive elections. This election is taking place against the backdrop of a country where people are demanding change, both economically and socio-politically, the latest analysis of the 2024 presidential poll result revealed. .
Special attention should be given to the number of votes received by Ranil Wickremesinghe, the acting president who took over after the resignation of former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa following the people’s uprising in 2022.
Ranil Wickremesinghe, aligning with the parliamentary group of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), ran as an independent candidate, using the symbol of a gas cylinder. On the other hand, Sajith Premadasa, who was a candidate in the 2019 Presidential Election, ran this time under the symbol of a telephone through his party, the Samagi Jana Balawegaya.
Meanwhile, Anura Kumara Dissanayake, who faced significant setbacks in 2019, emerged this time with strong public support and enthusiasm, running as the candidate for the National People’s Power (NPP) party, using the symbol of a compass.
Thus, it can be noted that from the very beginning, the vote distribution for the 2024 election is more fragmented compared to 2019. Accordingly, it is clear that public behavior in the 2024 Presidential Election marks a noticeable shift at the grassroots level after many years, the report revealed.
The analysis of Sri Lanka’s presidential election results and the division of right-wing politics is rooted in the complex interplay of ethnic, religious, and economic factors that have shaped the country’s political landscape. Several points stand out in this context:
Ethnic and Religious Factors: Sri Lanka’s elections are often influenced by the ethnic divide between the majority Sinhalese (primarily Buddhist) and the Tamil and Muslim minorities. Right-wing politics in Sri Lanka, particularly parties like the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), have historically appealed to Sinhalese nationalism.
This ethnic polarization plays a significant role in how votes are distributed across the country, especially in the Sinhalese-majority southern and central regions versus the Tamil and Muslim-majority north and east.
Economic Concerns: Economic mismanagement, debt crises, and inflation have become central issues in Sri Lankan elections. In recent years, the failure of the government to address these concerns effectively led to discontent across a wide spectrum of the electorate. Right-wing politics often promise strong economic reform, but the results have been mixed, with many voters disillusioned by the outcomes. The recent financial crisis in Sri Lanka has intensified these concerns.
Right-Wing Fragmentation: Within Sri Lanka’s right-wing political sphere, divisions have become apparent. Parties like the SLPP, led by the Rajapaksa family, have faced challenges due to their handling of the economy and governance issues, leading to dissent even among right-leaning voters. The emergence of alternative right-wing figures or movements could further splinter the conservative vote.
Populism and Nationalism: A significant feature of right-wing politics in Sri Lanka has been the appeal to populism and nationalism, particularly around the protection of Buddhist heritage and national sovereignty. This stance has led to tensions with minority communities and further cemented the divide between ethnic groups.
External Influence: Sri Lankan politics, including right-wing movements, have also been influenced by international actors, including China and India, which have vested interests in the country’s strategic location. These geopolitical factors can sway public opinion, especially on economic and sovereignty issues.
The future of right-wing politics in Sri Lanka will likely depend on how the country addresses these economic and ethnic challenges, and whether new political forces emerge to reshape the traditional political alliances.
By: Isuru Parakrama
September 24, Colombo (LNW): The United National Party (UNP) has announced that former President Ranil Wickremesinghe will not be contesting in the upcoming General Election, marking the end of his 50-year political career.
Deputy Leader of the UNP, Ruwan Wijewardena, confirmed that Wickremesinghe has no intention of seeking re-entry into Parliament through the National List, thus signalling his formal retirement from active politics.
Wickremesinghe, who has played a significant role in Sri Lankan politics for over five decades, has held various high-ranking positions throughout his career.
He served as Prime Minister multiple times before becoming President, navigating the nation through challenging economic and political landscapes.
His decision to step away from public office comes at a time when the UNP is reshaping its leadership and preparing for the upcoming electoral battles.
Wijewardena’s statement underscores that Wickremesinghe is ready to conclude his political journey, having contributed significantly to the country’s governance and policy-making.
For decades, he was a central figure in steering the UNP’s ideology and political direction, leaving behind a complex legacy marked by both achievements and controversies.
By: Staff Writer
September 24, Colombo (LNW): European Union election monitors have raised concerns over the fairness of the election campaign leading up to Sri Lanka’s 2024 Presidential election, pointing to actions by the government that skewed the playing field in favor of the incumbent.
In a preliminary report on the election, the EU Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) highlighted salary increases for public employees, social welfare programs, interest-free student loans, and financial aid for small businesses as measures introduced by the government during the campaign and promoted positively by state media. These initiatives were viewed as benefiting the incumbent’s re-election campaign.
The EU EOM stated that the distinction between governance and campaigning became blurred, with government officials actively participating in the incumbent’s rallies. This situation was exacerbated by the absence of elected provincial and local councils…
“The line between governing and campaigning was further blurred by the participation of state and local officials in the incumbent’s rallies. This was aggravated by the absence of elected provincial and local councils,” the EU EOM said.
Nacho Sánchez Amor, Member of the European Parliament from Spain and Chief Observer of the European Union Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) to Sri Lanka, presented the mission’s preliminary findings for the 21 September presidential election.
“The 2024 presidential election was a pivotal step for Sri Lanka, as the first electoral contest, after the unprecedented economic and political crises of 2022.
The Election Commission conducted the process independently and with resolve, ensuring transparency at all key stages of the election. The election itself offered voters genuine political choices, and the campaign was largely peaceful and energetic,” he said.
However, he said the advantage of incumbency tilted the playing field, while some manipulative digital campaigns aimed to confuse voters.
The Chief Observer noted that the election day was orderly and calm, with well-trained polling staff efficiently facilitating voting in all polling stations observed by the EU EOM.
The first count of the ballots was equally well-organised, ensuring the integrity of the process, although at times the premises were crowded. The presence of citizen observers and party agents in polling stations, counting centres and at the tabulation of results added to the transparency of the process.
The Election Commission of Sri Lanka (ECSL) managed its responsibilities transparently, earning stakeholders’ trust. The Commission worked closely with civil society and monitored the campaign, despite having limited enforcement powers. It also took public stances against the misuse of state resources and addressed other campaign violations, noted the Chief Observer.
The legal framework provides a solid foundation for democratic elections, with recent reforms improving privacy protections and regulating campaign finance. However, new and proposed laws create powers which could restrict political freedom.
The campaign was competitive, and fundamental freedoms were broadly respected. The media coverage of the presidential contest was lively, yet media offered very limited non-partisan scrutiny and analysis, which would have helped voters to make an informed choice.
National fact-checkers and civil society organisations made a positive contribution to the different stages of the election and strengthened transparency. They were agile in flagging disinformation, tracking violations of election rules and calling public attention to the misuse of incumbency.
“While the election framework supports a democratic election, improvements could be made to refine the electoral process, including by enhancing transparency in political finance and advancing women’s participation in public and political life,” added Chief Observer Sánchez Aor.
The EU EOM has been present in Sri Lanka since 14 August, with over 70 international observers deployed across all nine provinces. The mission will continue to observe the post election environment and will publish a final report, including recommendations for improving future elections, in the coming months.
By: Isuru Parakrama
September 24, Colombo (LNW): The Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR) indicates slight appreciation against the US Dollar today (24) which is the first working working day after the Presidential Election, official exchange rates released by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) revealed.
Accordingly, the buying price of the US Dollar has dropped to Rs. 299.71 from Rs. 299.94, and the selling price to Rs. 309.08 from Rs. 309.23.
The Sri Lankan Rupee indicates appreciation against several other currencies, including Gulf currencies, as well.
By: Isuru Parakrama
September 24, Colombo (LNW): Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has been officially selected as the prime ministerial candidate for the Samagi Jana Sandhanaya (SJB) in the upcoming General Election.
The decision, which was unanimously endorsed at a recent party meeting, reaffirms Premadasa’s leadership role within the coalition as they prepare for the electoral race.
Addressing speculation about potential alliances, Premadasa dispelled rumours of any collaboration between himself and former President Ranil Wickremesinghe.
He clarified that there is no partnership between the two, firmly distancing himself from any suggestion of a political alliance with Wickremesinghe.
As the SJB mobilises its campaign under his leadership, Premadasa also took a moment to reflect on his recent defeat in the presidential election. In a heartfelt message to his supporters, he expressed deep gratitude for the backing he received from all corners of Sri Lanka.
Premadasa acknowledged the diverse support across Sinhalese, Tamil, Muslim, and Burgher communities, underscoring his continued dedication to the country’s progress.
“Whether you are Sinhalese, Tamil, Muslim, Burgher, or from any other community, and regardless of your political ideology, I have felt your hopes, and I carry them with me,” Premadasa said.
Reaffirming his commitment to unity and national development, Premadasa stressed that his vision for a prosperous and inclusive Sri Lanka remains steadfast.
“I am as dedicated as ever to the dream of a united and flourishing Sri Lanka, where every child has the opportunity to thrive, every community feels a sense of belonging, and peace touches every heart,” he declared.
In his closing remarks, Premadasa vowed to continue fighting for the nation’s future. “Thank you for believing in me, and I assure you, I will not stop striving for the future we deserve,” he added.
