July 03, Colombo (LNW): Former minister Mervyn Silva, along with two other individuals, has been released on bail by the Gampaha High Court, following their arrest in connection with a suspected land fraud case. The decision was delivered by High Court Judge W.K.D. Wijekoon.
The trio had been taken into custody by officers from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) after being implicated in a scheme involving the alleged sale of state-owned land to a private entity.
Investigators believe that forged documentation was used to carry out the transaction, raising serious concerns over the misuse of public assets and the possible involvement of political influence in facilitating the deal.
July 03, Colombo (LNW): A senior paediatric specialist has issued a stark warning over the growing number of childhood accidents, urging families and caregivers to take a more proactive role in ensuring children’s safety.
Prof. Ruwanthi Perera, a consultant paediatrician at the Colombo South Teaching Hospital in Kalubowila, voiced her concerns during a press briefing held by the Health Promotion Bureau to mark National Accident Prevention Week.
Drawing attention to national health statistics, Prof. Perera revealed a worrying upward trend in injuries amongst children, noting that Sri Lanka ranks high amongst South Asian countries in terms of accident-related incidents involving minors.
She stressed that most of these injuries are avoidable and often stem from a lack of adult supervision or insufficient awareness of potential hazards in everyday environments.
According to Professor Perera, medical services treat children up to the age of 16, and two specific age brackets are especially susceptible to accidents. The first includes younger children who are naturally curious and prone to unintentional harm through exploration, such as inserting objects into sockets or handling sharp items.
The second group, typically adolescents between 12 and 14, tend to engage in more deliberate risk-taking behaviour, driven by a desire for independence and experimentation.
She identified falls, cuts, and burns as the most frequently reported types of injuries amongst children, many of which occur in familiar settings like homes, schools, or playgrounds. “These are not rare occurrences—they are daily realities in emergency departments,” she stated.
Professor Perera also pointed out that prevention starts with education. “Parents, teachers, and caregivers must take the lead in creating safer environments and teaching children to recognise and avoid dangerous situations,” she said. She called for increased public awareness campaigns and stronger emphasis on safety education in schools to help reduce these incidents.
July 03, Colombo (LNW): Over the past five years, 49 individuals have died whilst in custody, sparking serious concern over law enforcement practices and institutional accountability.
The figures were disclosed by Human Rights Commissioner Nimal Punchihewa during a media briefing held in Colombo yesterday (02).
According to Commissioner Punchihewa, 30 of these deaths reportedly occurred during confrontations involving police officers. In total, 79 custodial deaths have been recorded between 2020 and 2025, raising urgent questions about the use of force and the safeguarding of detainees’ rights.
A number of these incidents bear signs of severe mistreatment, with some cases pointing to torture whilst in detention, he revealed. “Misconduct by a few individuals has cast a long shadow over entire institutions,” Punchihewa remarked, noting that trust in public bodies is being eroded by the actions of a minority.
He also criticised the way certain arrests are officially documented, highlighting a disturbing trend where individuals are taken into custody on vague or unsubstantiated grounds. “Labelling arrests as being based on ‘suspicion’ without concrete evidence undermines the principle of justice,” he warned.
Punchihewa further stressed that every individual holds the fundamental right to remain politically neutral and to report wrongdoing without fear of retribution. He expressed concern that fear of harm or backlash discourages citizens from reporting crimes or providing information to authorities, thereby weakening the foundations of public cooperation with law enforcement.
Calling for comprehensive reforms and greater transparency, the Commissioner urged authorities to ensure that every arrest is legally justified and that mechanisms are put in place to prevent further abuse.
The situation, he emphasised, reflects the need to restore public confidence and uphold the dignity of all citizens, regardless of whether they are in custody or not.
July 03, Colombo (LNW): The Ministry of Education has announced that the 2025 distribution of sanitary napkins to schoolgirls will be managed exclusively by four trading organisations that have received official certification.
This revised approach seeks to enhance the efficiency and reliability of the national programme while maintaining stringent standards for product quality and student welfare.
These selected institutions have been vetted and approved by the Sri Lanka Standards Institution (SLSI) and hold certification under the SLS 1732:2022 standard, which covers health, hygiene, and safety requirements.
Only these authorised entities will be permitted to access school premises and deliver sanitary napkin packs directly to students, according to the Ministry.
The decision to limit distribution to certified suppliers follows growing concerns over the consistency and safety of products delivered through previous channels. Officials stated that the move is expected to protect the dignity, health, and comfort of school-aged girls, particularly in underserved communities where access to proper menstrual hygiene products remains a challenge.
By introducing a streamlined model anchored in regulatory oversight, the Ministry aims to eliminate substandard or unregulated supplies and ensure that every student benefits from reliable, high-quality menstrual hygiene support.
The involvement of certified distributors also introduces a layer of accountability, making it easier to monitor distribution efforts and address any deficiencies.
July 03, Colombo (LNW): The government has reaffirmed its commitment to implementing a structured fuel pricing system, citing it as the most equitable and practical solution available under the current economic climate.
Speaking at the weekly Cabinet media briefing yesterday (02), Cabinet Spokesperson and Minister Dr Nalinda Jayatissa stated that the pricing formula, originally introduced by the previous administration, remains the most viable means of ensuring transparency, repaying the mounting debts of the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CEYPETCO), and addressing legacy issues of fiscal mismanagement.
Dr Jayatissa acknowledged the inherent volatility associated with fuel pricing formulas, noting that price fluctuations are an unavoidable reality when such mechanisms are in place. However, he argued that this approach, despite its imperfections, is essential in distributing the burden fairly while safeguarding the country’s financial stability.
Responding to questions regarding the government’s apparent shift in stance—having previously criticised the former regime for implementing the very same formula—Dr Jayatissa emphasised that the circumstances have evolved.
He remarked that although the present administration had reservations about the former government’s policies, the harsh economic realities necessitate difficult but responsible choices.
He further pointed out that the possibility of offering greater relief to the public is constrained by the deep financial woes inherited from the past. The CEYPETCO, he explained, remains heavily indebted, and irregularities in fuel procurement and financial conduct during the tenure of the previous administration continue to weigh on the sector.
“The repercussions of past misconduct do not simply vanish when a minister leaves office,” he said. “We are left to manage the fallout for years to come.”
According to the Minister, the reimplementation of the pricing formula is not a matter of political alignment, but a strategic decision aimed at restoring order and accountability in the energy sector. He reiterated that the government remains committed to reforms that will ultimately ease the burden on citizens, even if short-term adjustments prove difficult.
July 03, Colombo (LNW): A key meeting took place yesterday (02) at the Presidential Secretariat in Colombo, bringing together Dr Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, Secretary to the President of Sri Lanka, and Dutch Ambassador Bonnie Horbach, to deliberate on the prospective repatriation of Sri Lankan heritage items currently housed in the Netherlands.
The dialogue centred around a shared interest in facilitating the return of historically significant artefacts and manuscripts that were taken abroad during the colonial period.
Ambassador Horbach acknowledged the positive engagement of Sri Lankan authorities, commending the government’s commitment to cultural restoration. She further highlighted that this collaborative effort not only signifies restitution but also paves the way for enhanced cultural and diplomatic relations between the two nations.
The Dutch administration has recently adopted a proactive approach to the repatriation of cultural heritage acquired during its colonial past, recognising the importance of returning these treasures to their rightful custodians.
As part of this policy, the Netherlands has initiated comprehensive research efforts aimed at identifying and cataloguing such objects in preparation for their eventual return.
In keeping with this approach, a bilateral agreement has been forged to facilitate joint research, with both Sri Lankan and Dutch scholars engaging in detailed studies of the colonial-era collections. The research is to be conducted under the guidance of Sri Lanka’s Department of National Archives, which will oversee the examination and authentication of these artefacts.
Also in attendance were Senior Additional Secretary to the President, Roshan Gamange, and Krishen Mendis, who serves as the Cultural Affairs Advisor to the Dutch Ambassador. Their presence underscored the high-level support for this collaborative undertaking.
July 03, Colombo (LNW): A long-simmering salary dispute at Wijaya Newspapers, a major Sri Lankan newspaper company, has now escalated into a full-blown crisis, with employees accusing senior management of corruption, favouritism, and wilful neglect.
Sources within the company reveal that staff salaries have consistently been delayed for over a year, with payments now typically being disbursed after the 5th of each month. Non-permanent workers fare even worse, receiving their wages in staggered instalments.
This precarious situation has led to mounting frustration among employees, who allege that internal operations are dictated solely by Janaka Ratnakumara, a figure referred to internally as the “competent authority”. According to staff, even the head of finance, Sumith, appears powerless in the face of Janaka’s unchecked decisions.
Despite reported objections from company chairman Ranjith Wijewardene, insiders claim Janaka continues to ignore dissenting voices. More disturbingly, two employees — Roshan Thanthirige Sajith from the accounting department and Tharanga Attanayake, a watchman from the paper unit — are said to have openly proposed halting salary payments altogether, citing financial losses.
Tensions have further escalated with allegations of verbal abuse. Several employees claim that Roshan Sajith and Tharanga have resorted to shouting profanities at staff who inquire about delayed payments. The workers say they played a role in ousting former manager Lal Jayawardena, but now face increasing hostility for raising concerns. But one employee, Kalupahana — a printer associated with the Frontline Political Movement — has emerged as a vocal critic of the current administration and is seen as a thorn in the side of those accused of mismanagement, they revealed.
Despite reports that the company earns over Rs. 300 million monthly from advertising, employees argue that Janaka diverts significant funds into failing ventures. Amongst them are the ‘Times School’, ‘Supreme’ textbook project, and the underperforming ‘Horavpothana Tourist Hotel’ in Anuradhapura. These side projects, according to staff, have failed to produce any tangible results.
Two individuals linked to these ventures, Ruwani and Buddhika of the Supreme Book Department, reportedly receive monthly salaries of Rs. 700,000 and Rs. 600,000 respectively, along with other perks. However, employees question the merit of such generous compensation, pointing out that the school has yet to enrol a single student and Buddhika has not managed to produce a single printed item of value.
In sharp contrast, editors of the Wijaya Newspapers’s flagship publications — including Lankadeepa, Sunday Times, and Daily Mirror — are said to be paid far less, despite their proven track records. Staff members have also reported that commission payments for advertising personnel have been arbitrarily suspended.
When one employee, Darshana, inquired about the issue, he was allegedly told by accounting staff Roshan and Sajith that no payment timeline could be confirmed due to what they described as “company losses.”
There are signs that internal dissent is coalescing into an organised pushback. Indika Jayamaha, head of the advertising division, recently met with colleagues Darshana Silva and Nipuli Weeratunga at the Gymkhana Club to discuss forming a new media venture — a clear indication of growing dissatisfaction and potential defection from within the company’s ranks.
Founded over four decades ago by Ranjith Wijewardene — a titan of Sri Lankan media who once led Lake House — the Wijaya Newspapers company was once considered the industry leader. However, many now blame Janaka Ratnakumara for steering the institution toward financial ruin. Kalupahana, said to represent nearly 2,000 workers, has openly accused Janaka of singlehandedly driving the company to collapse.
Senior figures are also being criticised for inaction. The editor of Irida Lankadeepa has reportedly lamented that Deputy Chairman Sujan Wijewardene has turned a blind eye to the crisis. Similarly, veteran journalist Sujith Hewajuli has expressed concern to Kalupahana, warning that Lankadeepa is rapidly declining under the current leadership.
In what may be a precursor to widespread industrial action, head of personnel Tissa Kahadawala issued an internal email last evening declaring that employees will don black ribbons in protest on the 25th of this month. The email reportedly states that the only viable resolution is the immediate resignation of Janaka Ratnakumara and the reinstatement of former director Prithi Viraj de Silva.
As employee unrest reaches boiling point, the future of one of Sri Lanka’s most storied media institutions hangs precariously in the balance.
July 03, Colombo (LNW): Several spells of showers will occur in the Western, Sabaragamuwa and North-western provinces and in Nuwara-Eliya, Kandy, Galle and Matara districts, the Department of Meteorology said in its daily weather forecast today (03).
Showers or thundershowers may occur at a few places in the Uva province and in Ampara and Batticaloa districts during the afternoon or night.
Fairly strong winds of about (30-40) kmph can be expected at times over Western slopes of the central hills and in Northern, North-central and North-western provinces and in Trincomalee and Hambantota 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:
Condition of Rain: Several spells of showers will occur in the sea areas off the coast extending from Puttalam to Matara via Colombo and Galle.
Winds: Winds will be south-westerly and wind speed will be (30-40) kmph.
Wind speed can increase up to (50-55) kmph at times in the sea areas off the coast extending from Chilaw to Kankasanthurai via Mannar and from Matara to Pottuvil via Hambantota.
Wind speed can increase up to 45 kmph at times in the sea areas off the coast extending from Chilaw to Matara via Colombo and Galle and from Kankasanthurai to Trincomalee via Mullaittivu.
State of Sea: The sea areas off the coast extending from Chilaw to Kankasanthurai via Mannar and from Matara to Pottuvil via Hambantota will be rough at times.
The sea areas off the coast extending from Chilaw to Matara via Colombo and Galle and from Kankasanthurai to Trincomalee via Mullaittivu may be fairly rough at times.
Sri Lanka’s corporate sector is regaining momentum in 2025, buoyed by a strong resurgence in exports and a thriving technology industry. Key data from the Export Development Board (EDB) highlights a 7.14% year-on-year rise in total exports during the first five months of 2025, reaching US$ 6.93 billion—a notable improvement from the US$ 6.47 billion recorded in the same period last year.
This growth is driven by both merchandise and service exports, with the latter contributing significantly to the upward trend. Merchandise exports saw a 5.46% increase, totaling US$ 5.34 billion, while service exports surged by 13.2% to US$ 1.59 billion between January and May.
Sectors such as spices, food and beverages, electrical components, and coconut-based products have played a major role in this export performance. Notably, export-oriented companies producing coconut kernel and fibre products—such as coconut oil, milk powder, cream, coco peat, and fibre pith—posted strong gains. The apparel sector also showed signs of a robust recovery, with exports to the European Union (excluding the UK) growing by an impressive 27.04%.
Among the standout performers in the corporate space are Teejay Lanka PLC and Hayleys PLC. Teejay, a major textile exporter, is poised to benefit from expanded trade agreements and improved export facilitation, while Hayleys continues to maintain a strong presence across sectors like activated carbon, textiles, and rubber. Ex-Pack Corrugated Cartons PLC, which supports packaging for export goods, and Kelani Tyres PLC, a rubber-based manufacturer, also recorded improved performance amid rising global demand.
Adding to this optimistic outlook is renewed investor confidence, particularly among Japanese companies operating in Sri Lanka. A majority of these firms expect profit growth in 2025, reflecting an improved economic environment and growing business confidence.
Meanwhile, the technology sector continues to thrive, not only in performance but also in workplace satisfaction. According to a recent study by Great Place to Work, the top 10 companies in Sri Lanka’s tech industry reported an average 91% positive employee perception. These companies include Adapt Information Technologies, Altrium Ltd., BoardPAC, Dijital Team, EGUARDIAN Lanka, Huawei Technologies Lanka, ITX360, Stelacom, SYNERGEN Health, and SYNERGEN Technology Labs.
The EDB expects the manufacturing sector, particularly textiles and garments, to lead the industrial recovery, supported by a rise in new orders. Overall, the corporate outlook for 2025 remains positive, as exports and tech continue to be key drivers of economic resurgence.
Sri Lanka’s consumer inflation in Colombo is beginning to show signs of resurgence after a long period of stability, raising new questions about the sustainability of monetary policy as food prices rise. While overall inflation remains subdued on a year-on-year basis, short-term price pressures—particularly from the food sector—have begun to mount, complicating the Central Bank’s policy outlook.
According to the Department of Census and Statistics, the Colombo Consumer Price Index (CCPI) rose by 0.9 percent in June 2025, following a 0.8 percent increase in May. This recent uptick is largely driven by rising food prices, with the food sub-index increasing by 1.8 percent in June to reach 249.3 points, after a sharper 2.7 percent rise the previous month.
Although prices have been on the rise in the short term, consumer inflation over the past 12 months actually recorded a deflationary trend of -0.6 percent. This paradox highlights the uneven nature of Sri Lanka’s post-crisis recovery. Over the past 33 months since monetary stability was restored around September 2022, consumer prices in Colombo have only risen by 3.6 percent—an unusually low figure given the volatility experienced during the economic crisis that preceded this period.
The food sub-index has increased by just 0.9 percent since September 2022, signaling that while price pressures are currently intensifying, they remain moderate compared to historical norms. Nonetheless, the sharp climb in vegetable prices and other staples in recent weeks has stoked fresh concerns among consumers and policymakers alike.
The Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) is currently targeting an inflation range of 5 to 7 percent, though actual inflation has remained below this level for several months. Despite high levels of excess liquidity in the money market, inflation has remained in check due to disciplined monetary and exchange rate policies. The rupee has remained stable, and interest rates have gradually declined as the government reduced domestic borrowings.
Economists note that the CBSL’s success in preserving capital and preventing currency depreciation has been a key factor in maintaining price stability. However, recent monetary easing—particularly the most recent policy rate cut—has raised caution. While it was not directly inflationary, given weak private credit demand and the mid-corridor signaling, some analysts warn that further loosening may carry risks if not aligned with underlying economic fundamentals.
Historically, Sri Lanka maintained inflation on par with the United States up until 1978. However, subsequent changes to the central bank’s operating framework led to recurrent inflation spikes. Since the deflationary turn in 2022, these “anchor conflicts” have been largely muted, and stability restored.
Nevertheless, with inflation creeping up and food prices leading the charge, the CBSL may soon face a delicate balancing act—sustaining growth without igniting inflation.
