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MP Chamara Sampath further remanded over allegations of financial misconduct

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MP Chamara Sampath further remanded over allegations of financial misconduct

April 07, Colombo (LNW): A sitting Member of Parliament representing the New Democratic Front, Chamara Sampath Dassanayake, has been ordered to remain in custody until April 21, following proceedings at the Badulla Magistrate’s Court.

The development marks the latest stage in an ongoing inquiry into a series of corruption allegations dating back to his time as Chief Minister of the Uva Province.

Dassanayake, who was originally detained on March 27, is facing multiple charges of financial misconduct linked to his tenure in provincial leadership.

While bail was granted in two of the three cases under review by the Colombo Magistrate’s Court, the third and most serious charge has resulted in his continued detention.

According to evidence presented by the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC), Dassanayake is accused of soliciting and misusing funds purportedly intended for an educational welfare programme.

In 2016, he allegedly requested financial assistance from three state-owned banks to fund a project supplying schoolbags to preschool children.

Two of these institutions reportedly released Rs. 1 million and Rs. 2.5 million respectively, which investigators claim were subsequently diverted into a private account linked to his own charitable foundation.

The controversy deepened when it emerged that, following a third bank’s refusal to participate in the funding arrangement, Dassanayake purportedly retaliated by ordering the withdrawal of the Uva Provincial Council’s fixed deposits from that bank—a move said to have led to a significant financial setback for the council.

CIABOC estimates the total loss to the public purse at Rs. 17.3 million.

Legal representatives for the MP argue that the transactions were undertaken in good faith as part of a community outreach initiative. However, state prosecutors maintain that the lack of transparency, combined with the funds being routed to a personal entity, constitutes a clear abuse of public office.

The matter was taken up again this morning in Badulla, where the Magistrate reviewed updated submissions from both the prosecution and the defence.

The court ruled that remand custody would be extended as investigations continue into the alleged financial misappropriation.

This case has sparked renewed debate about political accountability in Sri Lanka’s provincial administrations, especially concerning the management of public funds.

Critics argue that systemic loopholes have allowed similar instances of financial irregularity to go unchecked, particularly when those involved enjoy political protection.

Further hearings are expected later this month, and CIABOC has indicated it will press for a full trial if sufficient grounds for prosecution are established.

Central Bank releases annual review highlighting path to economic stabilisation

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Central Bank releases annual review highlighting path to economic stabilisation

April 07, Colombo (LNW): The Central Bank has formally presented its comprehensive economic assessment for the year 2024 to President and Finance Minister Anura Kumara Dissanayake, underlining what it described as encouraging momentum in Sri Lanka’s path toward economic stabilisation.

The ceremonial handover of the 2024 Annual Economic Review took place at the Presidential Secretariat and was led by Central Bank Governor Dr P. Nandalal Weerasinghe.

The publication, regarded as the Bank’s principal analytical document of the year, offers an in-depth exploration of the country’s macroeconomic performance, financial system conditions, policy decisions and forward-looking projections.

The Review is structured into four core segments, providing a detailed account of how the island nation is gradually emerging from its most severe economic crisis in post-independence history.

The 2024 analysis acknowledges that while economic activity remains uneven across sectors, Sri Lanka has seen measurable gains over the past year. These include a modest revival in consumer confidence, improved fiscal discipline, greater stability in exchange rates and a reduction in overall inflationary pressures.

Particularly noteworthy is the assertion that the country’s recovery has proceeded at a faster pace compared to several other nations that have undergone similar debt crises.

Commentary included in the Review suggests that Sri Lanka’s relative progress has been made possible through a combination of stringent macroeconomic reforms, careful monetary calibration, and multilateral support.

The cautious optimism reflected in the report was echoed by top government and Central Bank officials attending the event, including the Secretary to the President, Dr Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, Treasury Secretary K. M. Mahinda Siriwardena, and several senior economists from the Central Bank’s Research Division.

While acknowledging these improvements, the Central Bank has also cautioned that sustained recovery remains conditional on continued structural reforms, public sector discipline, and prudent debt management.

Uncertainties in the global economy, fluctuating commodity prices, and vulnerabilities within Sri Lanka’s export-dependent sectors are still seen as potential obstacles to long-term growth.

Despite these challenges, the tone of the Review is largely forward-looking. It draws attention to the importance of building institutional resilience, expanding productivity-driven investments, and nurturing greater public trust in economic governance.

The Bank’s policy emphasis for the coming year includes measures to reinforce the financial sector, widen fiscal buffers, and ensure that inflation remains within manageable bounds.

Additionally, the Central Bank reiterated its commitment to data transparency, policy predictability, and improved communication with the public—factors seen as essential for both investor confidence and citizen engagement in the reform agenda.

Public outcry grows following alleged Police killing of young man in Welikada

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Public outcry grows following alleged Police killing of young man in Welikada

By: Isuru Parakrama

April 07, Colombo (LNW): A candlelit protest erupted outside the Welikada Police Station yesterday (06) evening, as a crowd of around 120 individuals—largely youth—gathered to voice their anger and grief over the death of Sathsara Nimesh, a young man whose life ended under disturbing circumstances allegedly linked to police actions.

The demonstrators, coming from varied backgrounds, called for immediate accountability and systemic reform within Sri Lanka’s law enforcement.

The protest was not just a call for justice in a single case but a broader stand against what many see as a deep-rooted culture of violence and impunity within the police system, according to Suchith Abeywickrama, one of the event’s organisers.

Writing on social media following the protest, Abeywickrama shared that during their demonstration they learned of preliminary administrative action: the Officer-in-Charge of the Welikada Police had reportedly been transferred, and two officers suspended.

He underscored, however, that this was merely a beginning—one brought about through persistent pressure by civil society over the past several days. The death of Nimesh, he wrote, resonated widely because it reflected a shared vulnerability.

“The next victim of police brutality could be you, me, a loved one, or a friend,” he said, drawing a sharp contrast between the role the police are expected to play and the violent outcomes that too often unfold behind station walls.

Abeywickrama also acknowledged the grief and loss felt by the family and extended a heartfelt wish that Sathsara Nimesh may attain peace. He further reported that the Prisoners’ Rights Protection Committee is expected to file for a special, impartial investigation through Magistrate’s Court No. 04 on April 9th.

According to Attorney Tharushi Dishara, legal outcomes in such cases are often strengthened by broad public awareness and engagement.

The case of Sathsara Nimesh, tragically, is not isolated. His name now joins a growing list of individuals who have died whilst in police custody, including R. Rajkumari—who was reportedly killed at the very same Welikada Police Station two years ago—as well as Nagaraasa Alex in Vaddukodai, Roshan Kumarasiri in Narammala, and R. M. Samitha Dilshan in Wadduwa. Each of these deaths has raised serious concerns about the safety and accountability of Sri Lanka’s custodial practices.

Such cases, activists argue, point to the urgent need for deep structural reforms within the policing system. Abeywickrama outlined a series of proposals aimed at transforming law enforcement into a transparent, accountable, and people-focused institution.

His suggestions included revamping police training to centre on human rights and dignity, eliminating corruption, removing officers entrenched in outdated political patronage networks, and creating a force reflective of the country’s ethnic and linguistic diversity.

Technological solutions were also highlighted as part of the path forward—such as the mandatory installation of CCTV in all police stations, the use of body-worn cameras during interactions with the public, and GPS tracking to ensure transparency in police movements.

These reforms, he stressed, must be supported by prompt and effective mechanisms to investigate and redress abuses, along with legal reforms to eliminate outdated and misused laws.

More broadly, Abeywickrama called for a cultural shift away from glorifying violence and authoritarianism, urging citizens to reflect critically on how power is wielded and how impunity is often tolerated or even celebrated.

The aspiration, he said, is to build a law enforcement system that upholds justice not just in name, but in practice—one rooted in respect, legality, and humanity.

Photos: Facebook

Namal Rajapaksa appears before CID amid legal credentials controversy

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Namal Rajapaksa appears before CID amid legal credentials controversy

April 07, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) Namal Rajapaksa presented himself at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) earlier today (07), following the launch of an official inquiry into his legal qualifications.

The investigation stems from accusations that Rajapaksa may have acquired his Attorney-at-Law designation through fraudulent means. This allegation, which has drawn considerable public attention, was brought to the fore by an anti-corruption watchdog, Citizens’ Power Against Bribery and Corruption.

The group has been vocal in its demand for increased transparency and accountability, particularly concerning public figures holding positions of influence.

The CID had previously briefed the Colombo Chief Magistrate’s Court about the initiation of the inquiry, indicating that preliminary evidence warranted a formal investigation.

Whilst specific details of the inquiry remain undisclosed, legal observers suggest that the case could involve scrutiny of academic records, procedural irregularities in certification, and potential misuse of political connections.

Global markets tumble amid escalating trade dispute between Washington and key allies

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Global markets tumble amid escalating trade dispute between Washington and key allies

April 07, World (LNW): Equity markets across Asia experienced a dramatic sell-off on Monday, intensifying concerns over a growing global economic fallout triggered by sweeping new tariffs imposed by the United States.

Investor sentiment took a sharp downturn following the announcement of a blanket tariff on Japanese exports by the White House, a move that has alarmed financial analysts and policymakers alike.

In Tokyo, stocks opened in freefall, with Japan’s leading Nikkei 225 index plunging by more than 8% in early trading. It has now slipped below the psychological 33,000-point threshold — a level not seen since August of the previous year.

The broader Topix index also faced steep losses, initially dropping by over 7.5% before clawing back some ground.

Amid the turmoil, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba addressed parliament, acknowledging the severe economic impact of Washington’s aggressive trade stance.

He indicated that diplomatic efforts would continue in hopes of persuading the US to ease its tariff regime, though he warned that positive outcomes were unlikely to materialise in the short term.

In the meantime, Ishiba said his government was preparing a suite of emergency economic measures aimed at protecting domestic industries and safeguarding jobs.

The crisis has its roots in a dramatic escalation of trade tensions spearheaded by US President Donald Trump, who announced a sweeping 24% tariff on all Japanese imports, set to take effect later this week.

Despite Japan being a long-standing defence ally of the United States, the move has been viewed by many as a signal that no country is exempt from Washington’s new protectionist approach.

The shockwaves were felt well beyond Japan. South Korea’s Kospi index dropped by nearly 5%, triggering automatic trading halts designed to prevent market panic.

Meanwhile, Taiwan’s Taiex nosedived almost 10% shortly after markets opened, prompting circuit breakers for major tech players such as TSMC and Foxconn, whose shares each fell by close to the daily maximum limit.

In Australia, the ASX 200 index recorded losses of over 6% during morning trade, while across the Tasman, New Zealand’s NZX 50 index slipped by more than 3.5%.

Regional financial authorities are reportedly monitoring the situation closely, with several preparing to intervene should further instability threaten local markets.

The turbulence in Asian markets follows on the heels of a volatile spell on Wall Street, where US stocks endured their worst two-day stretch in half a decade.

Futures trading pointed to further declines ahead of the opening bell, with the S&P 500 teetering near the threshold of a bear market — defined as a 20% drop from its recent peak.

Adding fuel to investor anxiety, China responded to the US tariff blitz with retaliatory measures of its own, slapping a 34% levy on all American goods. The tit-for-tat escalation has reignited fears of a prolonged and damaging trade war that could disrupt supply chains, depress consumer demand, and undermine the fragile post-pandemic recovery in several economies.

Despite mounting global unease, President Trump struck a defiant tone while speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, asserting that the US economy was becoming stronger and would ultimately emerge more competitive. However, he declined to offer any assurances regarding future market behaviour.

With financial markets in a tailspin and diplomatic channels under strain, the next few days could prove critical in determining whether this trade dispute can be defused — or if the world is heading towards a full-blown economic crisis.

Global spotlight on health equity as World Health Day 2025 is marked

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Global spotlight on health equity as World Health Day 2025 is marked

April 06, Colombo (LNW): World Health Day is being observed today (April 07), marking a renewed global commitment to advancing public health and well-being.

The day serves as a key platform for raising awareness around critical health issues and promoting long-term solutions through international cooperation.

Established by the World Health Organisation (WHO), World Health Day aims to engage governments, institutions, and communities in collective efforts to foster healthier societies.

Each year, a theme is chosen to highlight a pressing issue within the global health agenda. For 2025, the theme “Healthy beginnings, hopeful futures” underscores the need to prioritise maternal and child health as a foundational step towards broader societal progress.

In keeping with this year’s message, the WHO is calling on policymakers, healthcare providers, and civil society to intensify measures aimed at eliminating preventable maternal and newborn deaths.

The organisation has further emphasised the importance of supporting women’s health beyond childbirth, recognising that access to consistent, quality healthcare is essential not only for survival, but also for long-term empowerment and well-being.

Across the world, health authorities and development partners are hosting a range of programmes, from community outreach events and educational campaigns to free health screenings and medical clinics.

In Sri Lanka, the Ministry of Health has taken an active role in organising a series of commemorative events throughout the country. These include workshops, mobile health services, and public awareness drives designed to encourage early healthcare engagement, particularly among expectant mothers and young families.

Senior health officials have stressed the importance of viewing maternal and newborn health as a cornerstone of national development. They point out that better outcomes for mothers and babies contribute to stronger, more resilient communities in the long run, making it a strategic priority that transcends the health sector alone.

Postal ballot distribution for Local Polls commences as key preparations finalised

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Postal ballot distribution for Local Polls commences as key preparations finalised

April 07, Colombo (LNW): With Sri Lanka’s Local Government Elections approaching, the Election Commission has confirmed that sealed packets containing postal ballot papers for over one hundred councils are to be formally handed over to the Postal Department today (07).

This development marks a significant step forward in the administrative rollout of the 2025 electoral process.

According to Election Commission Chair R.M.A.L. Rathnayake, this initial handover covers 114 local bodies. He further noted that ballot dispatches for the remaining councils will proceed after judicial procedures concerning their respective nominations are concluded, signalling the Commission’s intention to ensure both procedural integrity and timely execution.

In parallel, the Postal Department has indicated its readiness to handle the upcoming distribution. Post Master General S.R.W.M.R.P. Sathkumara stated that all logistical arrangements have been completed to receive and process the ballot consignments.

Depending on final confirmations, deliveries are expected to commence either later this afternoon or on the following day.

The Department of Government Printing has also announced the completion of its task, having finalised the production of postal ballots for all Local Government bodies nationwide. Government Printer Pradeep Pushpakumara confirmed that the full consignment has already been handed over to the Election Commission, following strict quality control and verification protocols.

Heavy rainfall of above 100 mm expected in several provinces across island (April 07)

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Heavy rainfall of above 100 mm expected in several provinces across island (April 07)

April 07, Colombo (LNW): Showers or thundershowers will occur at most places of the island during the afternoon or night, with showers being expected in Western province and Galle and Matara districts in the morning too, the Department of Meteorology said in its daily weather forecast today (07).

Heavy rainfall of above 100 mm are likely at some places in Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, Southern, Uva and North-central provinces and in Ampara district.

Misty conditions can be expected at some places in Sabaragamuwa, Central, Uva and North-central provinces during the morning.

The general public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimise damages caused by temporary localised strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.

On the apparent northward relative motion of the sun, it is going to be directly over the latitudes of Sri Lanka during 05th to 14th of April in this year. The nearest areas of Sri Lanka over which the sun is overhead today (07th) are Colombo, Awissawella, Talawakelle, Dimbula, Galakumbura and Dambagalla at about 12:12 noon.

Marine Weather:

Condition of Rain:
Showers or thundershowers will occur at several places in the sea areas off the coast extending from Kankasanthurai to Hambantota via Puttalam, Colombo and Galle. Showers or thundershowers may occur at several places in the other sea areas around the island during the evening or night.
Winds:
Winds will be Westerly or variable in direction and wind speed will be (20-30) kmph. Wind speed may increase up to (40–45) kmph at times in the sea areas off the coasts extending from Galle to Pottuvil via Hambantota.
State of Sea:
The sea areas off the coasts extending from Galle to Pottuvil via Hambantota can be fairly rough at times. Temporarily strong gusty winds and very rough seas can be expected during thundershowers.

India–Sri Lanka Ties strengthen with Energy Deals, Debt Relief, and Vision for Regional Stability

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India–Sri Lanka Ties strengthen with Energy Deals, Debt Relief, and Vision for Regional Stability

By: Staff Writer

April 06, Colombo (LNW): Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Colombo marked a significant step in strengthening India–Sri Lanka relations through energy cooperation, economic support, and regional security collaboration.

During his bilateral meeting with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, PM Modi announced key developments aimed at benefiting the Sri Lankan people and deepening bilateral ties under India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ and SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) initiatives.

Modi emphasized the importance of three major energy initiatives—the Sampur Solar Power Plant, a Multi-product Pipeline, and the development of the Trincomalee Energy Hub—which are expected to enhance energy access and economic opportunities for all Sri Lankans. Additionally, he highlighted a significant interconnectivity agreement that would enable Sri Lanka to export surplus electricity, potentially transforming the country’s energy landscape.

A major announcement during the visit was India’s decision to convert over USD 100 million of Sri Lanka’s debt into grants, effectively writing off the loans. “In just the last six months, we have converted more than USD 100 million worth of loans into grants,” Modi stated at a press briefing held at the Presidential Secretariat.

This gesture comes in the wake of Sri Lanka’s economic crisis and foreign debt default in 2022, which was triggered by years of poor fiscal management and macroeconomic instability. Of the approximately USD 1.366 billion of Indian loans eligible for restructuring, this conversion underscores India’s goodwill and support.

India and Sri Lanka also finalized a debt restructuring deal through bilateral amendatory agreements, easing Sri Lanka’s financial burdens. Typically, debt restructuring for middle-income nations involves extending repayment periods and lowering interest rates. However, India’s move to write off a portion entirely is an exceptional gesture of support.

The two countries signed seven Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) following the high-level talks. Among these were agreements on defence cooperation, the development of Trincomalee as a strategic energy hub, and multi-sectoral grant assistance for Sri Lanka’s eastern provinces.

Prime Minister Modi used the occasion to reiterate India’s hope that Sri Lanka would address long-standing issues concerning the Tamil community. He urged the government to fully implement its constitution, particularly the provisions on provincial council elections. “We hope the aspirations of the Tamil people will be fulfilled,” he said, emphasizing the importance of inclusive governance.

President Dissanayake expressed appreciation for India’s support and reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s commitment to ensuring its territory is not used in any way that would threaten India’s security or the region’s stability. The two leaders also addressed the contentious issue of fishermen, agreeing to adopt a more humanitarian approach.

Modi advocated for the swift release of detained fishermen and their boats, while Dissanayake requested India’s assistance in tackling illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing practices.

Modi’s remarks were peppered with symbolism and references to cultural bonds. Quoting Tamil saint Thiruvalluvar, he underscored the strength of true friendship, highlighting that both leaders had chosen to visit each other’s countries as their first foreign visits since assuming office.

This mutual choice reflects the depth and special nature of the relationship between the two South Asian neighbours.

In conclusion, Modi’s visit not only reinforced India’s strategic commitment to Sri Lanka but also set a positive tone for future cooperation. The agreements and initiatives announced during the visit mark a new chapter in bilateral relations, focusing on mutual development, regional security, and cultural affinity.

Sri Lanka Caught Off Guard by Trump’s Tariff Surge amid Global Trade Shifts

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Sri Lanka Caught Off Guard by Trump’s Tariff Surge amid Global Trade Shifts

By: Staff Writer

April 06, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka has been thrust into an external trade crisis following U.S. President Donald Trump’s imposition of steep tariffs on the island nation’s exports. This decision, long in the making, appears to have taken Sri Lanka by surprise, raising questions about the government’s preparedness or potential oversight in assessing the situation.

Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, Sunil Handunneththi, publicly expressed alarm over the new tariffs, calling them both unexpected and economically damaging. “This came as a shock,” he stated, adding that the 44% tariff could derail the government’s goal of boosting exports by $3 billion.

He went on to criticize the methodology behind the tariff rate, describing it as “unfair,” since it was based on halving the trade deficit between the two countries—effectively penalizing Sri Lanka disproportionately.

Handunneththi further pointed out that the U.S. had no immediate political reason to target Sri Lanka, and lamented the timing of the decision just as the nation was beginning to regain economic stability.

His remarks exposed what many see as either negligence or willful ignorance on the part of Sri Lanka’s leadership, given that Trump’s protectionist trade stance has been globally recognized since his first term.

Trump’s tariff-heavy policies are not new. During his first presidency, he initiated a trade war with China, applying heavy duties on Chinese goods, which led to retaliatory measures. Similar tactics were used to renegotiate trade agreements with Canada and Mexico under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). President Joe Biden retained most of those tariffs, albeit with a more selective approach.

Trump’s renewed presidency has brought an even more aggressive push. Since taking office again, Trump has signed multiple executive orders. In January, he proposed a 25% tariff on Canada and Mexico, and later extended the tariffs to Colombia after diplomatic tensions.

By early March, Trump had implemented new tariffs: 25% on imports from Canada and Mexico, 20% on Chinese goods, and new measures targeting timber and lumber to “protect national security.”

On April 2, Trump introduced his long-planned “reciprocal” tariffs, applying a 10% baseline on all imports and higher rates for countries with trade surpluses with the U.S. The European Union responded with its own retaliatory duties on U.S. products like bourbon, jeans, and peanut butter, although implementation was delayed to mid-April.

Given this global backdrop, Handunneththi’s claim of surprise appears questionable. Trump’s agenda of imposing reciprocal tariffs has been clear and consistent. Yet Sri Lanka failed to prepare or engage in early dialogue, leaving the nation vulnerable.

 Currency dealers have already noted downward pressure on the Sri Lankan rupee following the 44% tariff announcement. A leading dealer said the rupee could further weaken if Sri Lanka fails to negotiate a better deal, citing reduced dollar inflows and a growing trade deficit.

In response, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has appointed a special committee to assess the tariff’s impact and strategize a response. A meeting held at the Presidential Secretariat reviewed the committee’s recommendations, with expectations for urgent bilateral discussions with the U.S. to seek tariff relief.

Sri Lanka’s internal economic structure—characterized by protectionist policies and high import taxes that favor a few politically connected industries—has long hampered its export competitiveness. Trump’s strategy, favoring hardline border taxes over diplomatic requests, has pushed countries worldwide into renegotiations, often under pressure.

Trump, addressing media aboard Air Force One, proudly claimed that countries are now eager to deal with the U.S. due to these tough tariffs. “If we asked nicely, most wouldn’t respond. But now they’ll do anything for us,” he said.

Historically, the U.S. thrived as a liberal trading nation during the 1980s and 1990s. However, following years of monetary expansion and rising inflation, Trump has adopted a bold strategy: reduce domestic taxes while leveraging international tariffs to regain control over trade.

For Sri Lanka, this episode serves as a wake-up call. It highlights the need for proactive economic planning, diplomatic agility, and policy reform to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving global trade landscape.

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