The annual ‘Poppy Day’ ceremony, organised by the Sri Lanka Ex-Servicemen’s Association (SLESA), was held at the War Memorial in Vihara Maha Devi Park, Colombo, under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake: The event honored fallen war heroes and disabled veterans, with a two-minute silence and floral tributes following religious observances to commemorate their sacrifices for the nation’s security.
SJB Leader and Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa assures details about the party’s national list MPs will be revealed soon, stressing there are no issues with the selections: emphasises the party’s commitment to clear policies, welcoming those who align with its vision: also highlights the public can evaluate the conduct of the new MPs in and outside Parliament.
Ex-President Ranil Wickremesinghe urges his successor, Anura Kumara Dissanayake, to fully implement the “vision document” signed with India in 2023, which outlines key areas of bilateral cooperation, particularly in economic, maritime, energy, and people-to-people ties: emphasises its importance ahead of Dissanayake’s visit to India in December and praised India’s support during Sri Lanka’s economic crisis.
The GCE A/L Examination begins today (25), with 333,185 candidates registered, including 253,390 school and 79,795 private applicants: A total of 2,312 examination centres and 319 coordination centers have been set up across Sri Lanka: To ensure integrity, a special program to prevent examination fraud has been implemented, according to Commissioner General of Examinations, Amith Jayasundara.
The Irrigation Department issues a flood warning for low-lying, flood-prone areas across Sri Lanka from November 25 to 28 due to a low-pressure system in the Bay of Bengal: Affected river basins include Malwathu, Kala Oya, Mahaweli, and others: Residents and travellers are urged to stay alert, and Disaster Management Authorities are advised to take necessary precautions.
Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya emphasises the importance of vocational education, stating it directly contributes to the economy and should be viewed as a respectable career path: highlights that vocational education is integral to a holistic education system and ensures a promising future.
An extraordinary Gazette notification appoints Senior Prof. R.M.U.S.K. Rathnayake as the competent authority for the University of Ruhuna, replacing the Vice Chancellor due to administrative dislocation: The appointment, effective from November 25, 2024, follows protests and a strike by university staff and students demanding the removal of the Vice Chancellor, Senior Prof. Sujeewa Amarasena, who has denied the allegations.
The Public Utilities Commission (PUCSL) announces there will be no electricity tariff revisions for 2024 due to delays in the Ceylon Electricity Board’s (CEB) submission of necessary proposals: After multiple extensions, the CEB’s revised proposals are now expected by December 6, 2024: However, any tariff changes will be postponed to 2025, following a review period of six to eight weeks.
The Ceylon Electricity Board Workers’ Union urges the CEB management to distribute bonuses to employees, citing the board’s profitability: General Secretary Ranjan Jayalal sends a letter to the CEB Chairman, requesting bonuses be paid before December 10: criticises the management for failing to act on bonuses over the past two years, despite financial improvements.
Sri Lanka’s Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana were bought by Rajasthan Royals for the 2025 IPL season in the mega auction: Hasaranga, a match-winning leg-spinner, was sold for ₹5.25 crore, while Theekshana fetched ₹4.40 crore: Hasaranga, a former Sunrisers Hyderabad player, was RCB’s highest wicket-taker in 2022: Both players will strengthen RR’s spin-bowling attack.
November 24, Colombo (LNW): Experts have raised concerns about Sri Lanka’s partnership with the Adani Group following fraud charges against its Chairman, Gautam Adani, and seven associates by U.S. federal prosecutors in New York.
The charges have triggered calls for increased scrutiny over the conglomerate’s projects in Sri Lanka, including a significant renewable energy initiative in the country.
Nishan De Mel, Executive Director of Colombo-based think tank Verité Research, emphasized the importance of Sri Lanka guarding against potential corruption.
He cited past cases where corruption involving the country was uncovered abroad, such as the SriLankan Airlines’ aircraft purchase scandal linked to Airbus through a UK investigation and the Pandora Papers, which implicated Sri Lankan politicians and business figures.
The recent news of alleged fraud involving the Adani Group has led to widespread concern among Sri Lankan citizens and activists, who have taken to social media to demand greater oversight of the company’s investments on the island.
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, who assumed office in September, along with his National People’s Power (NPP) alliance—which achieved a landmark two-thirds majority in the November 14 general elections—has made anti-corruption a cornerstone of his administration.
Prior to his victory, President Dissanayake promised to cancel the “corrupt Adani deal” if elected. Following his win, the interim administration signaled plans to review the project after parliamentary elections.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF), in its ongoing program with Sri Lanka, has also highlighted the urgency of tackling “corruption vulnerabilities” as part of the country’s recovery efforts.
Controversial Investment in Renewable Energy
The Adani Group’s $442 million investment in a wind power project in Mannar and Pooneryn, northern Sri Lanka, has been contentious since its inception under the Gotabaya Rajapaksa administration in 2022.
Critics, including the main opposition, argued that the contract was awarded without a transparent tender process. Allegations of external influence surfaced when a senior official from the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) claimed that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had “pressured” former President Rajapaksa to award the project to Adani—a statement the official later retracted before resigning.
Despite concerns raised by anti-corruption groups, the administration led by Ranil Wickremesinghe proceeded with the project. In early 2023, after the Adani Group’s stocks were hit by a damning report from U.S. short seller Hindenburg, accusing the conglomerate of fraud, then-Foreign Minister Ali Sabry expressed confidence in the project’s future, describing it as a “government-to-government” agreement with India.
Meanwhile, environmentalists and residents from the Mannar region filed a lawsuit in Sri Lanka’s Supreme Court, challenging the project due to environmental concerns and a perceived lack of transparency. A five-member bench is set to hear the case in March 2025.
In addition to the wind power project, Adani is also leading a $700-million container terminal venture in Colombo. This project recently received a $553-million boost from the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC), marking a significant foreign investment in the sector.
November 24, Colombo (LNW): The Sri Lankan government has pledged to continue the renewable energy (RE) initiatives set forth by former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, aiming to achieve 70% of electricity generation from renewable sources by 2030.
Despite this ambitious goal, the country’s energy sector is fraught with challenges, including gaps in RE capacity, project delays, and shortfalls in base power generation.
Renewable Energy Aspirations and Current Shortfalls
Sri Lanka’s energy policy targets a 70% RE contribution by 2030, yet current figures show that renewables account for 57.35% of energy generation. To close the gap of 12.65% in the next five years, significant efforts are required.
The Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) plans to follow the Long-Term Generation Expansion Plan (LTGEP) outlined for 2023-2042.
This document aligns with government policies mandating RE as the primary energy source, discouraging coal and emphasizing clean alternatives like regasified LNG.
The LTGEP highlights a gradual increase in RE capacity, projecting it to grow from 2,711 MW in 2022 to 8,783 MW by 2030 and further to 16,963 MW by 2042.
However, the process involves refurbishing or replacing existing RE plants upon the expiration of their lifespan, creating a continuous need to manage and upgrade infrastructure.
Challenges in Meeting Base Load and LNG Integration
Despite an emphasis on RE, Sri Lanka faces a base power shortage of 300-500 MW. The government’s interim solution involves LNG plants, expected to operate on diesel until a shift to natural gas by 2025, pending the completion of necessary infrastructure.
This transition is central to meeting the growing energy demands.The first two 350 MW natural gas plants, under construction, are expected to be operational by 2024-2025.
However, delays in infrastructure development pose risks. Plans to convert existing power plants to natural gas by 2025 are underway, but timelines are tight.
Moreover, the administration is reassessing previous LNG tenders to expedite progress, indicating a need to overcome procedural hurdles.
Delays and Discrepancies in Long-Term Energy Planning
The LTGEP has seen delays and revisions, leading to uncertainty in future energy planning. A revised LTGEP covering 2025-2044 awaits approval from the Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL).
This pending approval is critical for long-term energy stability. Meanwhile, PUCSL has raised concerns about cost discrepancies, project timelines, and the absence of comprehensive solutions like integrated solar PV and storage.
Significant projects, including the Uma Oya and Moragolla hydropower plants, have experienced delays, impacting the country’s ability to maintain a reliable energy supply.
To ensure grid stability during anticipated shortages between 2023 and 2025, additional power sources ranging from 320 MW to 120 MW are needed.
Conflicting Roadmaps and Uncertainty Ahead
The PUCSL’s approval of the current LTGEP framework contrasts with the pending review of the updated 2025-2044 plan.
The commission has flagged rising costs for energy storage, exclusion of key projects like the Wewathenna Pumped Storage Plant, and the absence of clear nuclear power and solar integration strategies.
These discrepancies suggest potential conflicts between regulatory oversight and CEB’s execution plans.
Public consultations are ongoing, yet the lack of a finalized roadmap complicates the country’s path toward a renewable energy transition.
The new administration’s commitment to RE is evident, but unresolved issues around infrastructure, cost, and project management pose challenges to achieving the 70% target by 2030.
November 24, Colombo (LNW): As Sri Lanka gears up for the 2025 budget, the country faces a pivotal moment in its economic recovery. After enduring a prolonged financial crisis, the government aims to stabilize the economy, manage national debt, and encourage development. The 2025 Appropriation Bill, scheduled for March, will set the tone for Sri Lanka’s fiscal path and long-term recovery.
Provisional Budget Estimates and Key Targets
The Finance Ministry has released provisional figures for 2024 to guide the detailed planning for 2025. These estimates are essential in defining a fiscal framework that balances financial discipline with economic growth.
In 2025, the government plans to boost revenue to 15.1% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) while maintaining expenditures at 20% of GDP. This careful approach aims to sustain economic stability amid recent challenges.
Key objectives for the 2025 budget include: Revenue Goal: Achieving 15.1% of GDP, equivalent to Rs. 3.9 trillion. Expenditure Limit: Capping at 20% of GDP, or around Rs. 5.2 trillion.
Budget Deficit: Targeting below 5% of GDP. Primary Surplus: 2.3% of GDP, aiding debt management. Increased Capital Investment: Over 4% of GDP for growth-oriented projects.
These targets are part of a strategy to ensure effective completion of projects, avoiding delays and cost overruns, thereby contributing to sustainable development.
Fiscal Performance in 2024 and 2025 Outlook
In 2024, Sri Lanka’s revenue collection surpassed expectations. Initial projections set a revenue-to-GDP ratio at 13.02% based on a GDP of Rs. 31,500 billion, aiming for revenue of Rs. 4,100 billion. Adjustments brought the GDP estimate to Rs. 30,000 billion, leading to a higher revenue-to-GDP ratio of 13.67%, an overperformance equivalent to Rs. 201 billion.
For 2025, the Finance Ministry is targeting Rs. 5,000 billion in revenue, with GDP estimates ranging between Rs. 33,000 billion and Rs. 34,500 billion.
These figures translate to revenue-to-GDP ratios of 15.15% and 14.49%, respectively—both above the International Monetary Fund (IMF) benchmarks, signaling confidence in meeting fiscal targets.
Tax Adjustments and Revenue Implications
The 2025 budget will bring several tax modifications. An increase in the tax threshold from Rs. 100,000 to Rs. 200,000, coupled with reduced tax rates, may reduce revenue by Rs. 70-80 billion. Exemptions on Value Added Tax (VAT) for essentials like school supplies and baby food could lead to an additional Rs. 70-80 billion shortfall. Despite this, the strong 2024 revenue performance suggests that these adjustments are manageable.
Interest Payments and Budget Priorities
Professor Wasantha Athukorala from the University of Peradeniya has highlighted concerns about Sri Lanka’s rising domestic debt and interest payments, a growing topic in political discussions.
In 2024, interest payments totaled LKR 2,651 billion, consuming 40% of total expenditure. This far exceeds the combined 14% allocated for health, education, and social protection, and the 9% earmarked for defense.
These figures underline the challenge of managing interest payments, which dominate government spending more than any other category, signaling the need for careful fiscal planning to prioritize sustainable economic growth.
November 24, Colombo (LNW): As the number of outbound Indian tourists rises, Sri Lanka and Australia are introducing new initiatives to draw in more visitors from India.
SriLankan Airlines recently unveiled the “Ramayana Trail,” a unique travel package targeting Indian tourists.
This trail highlights 50 key locations in Sri Lanka linked to the Hindu epic, the Ramayana. Among these sites are the Seeta Amman Temple, associated with Sita’s prayers during her captivity, and Rumassala Hill, believed to be a fragment of the Himalayas dropped by Hanuman.
Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner launched the trail in Delhi, emphasizing the Ramayana’s deep cultural and spiritual ties between India and Sri Lanka.
The initiative aligns with the extension of India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) to Sri Lanka, easing digital transactions for Indian tourists.
It was extended to the country, which enhances digital financial connectivity. It not only facilitates cross-border transactions, and digital connectivity but also helps the Indian tourists travelling to the country.
Sri Lankan Airlines’ CEO, Richard Nuttall, expressed pride in promoting the Ramayana Trail, aiming to elevate Indian tourism to new heights. In October 2024, Indian visitors accounted for 26.8% of all foreign tourists in Sri Lanka, with the trend continuing strong in November.
Meanwhile, Australia is also targeting Indian tourists with its “Howzat for a holiday?” campaign, coinciding with the Border Gavaskar Trophy. Australian Test cricket captain Pat Cummins leads the campaign, aiming to capitalize on India’s massive cricket viewership.
According to Senator Don Farrell, the cricket series presents a unique opportunity to showcase Australia as a prime travel destination.
Tourism Australia’s Managing Director, Phillipa Harrison, noted that Indian tourism to Australia is expected to exceed pre-pandemic levels, with a forecasted doubling by 2028. Indian tourists are known for their high spending abroad, making them a valuable demographic for global tourism.
Overall, both Sri Lanka and Australia are tapping into India’s growing travel market, seeing it as a significant opportunity to boost their tourism industries.
Senator Don Farrell, Australia”s Minister for Trade and Tourism in a statement said, “With tens of millions of people across India tuning in to watch the Test cricket series here in Australia, we have an opportunity to showcase to a huge audience why there is no place like Australia for a holiday.”
The number of Indian travellers visiting Australia already exceeds 2019 levels and, according to Tourism Research Australia, arrivals from India are forecast to double pre-pandemic levels by 2028.
Tourism Australia Managing Director, Phillipa Harrison pointed out, “With a population of more than 1.4 billion people and more Indians looking to travel, the potential in the Indian market is endless and we see the Test series as our chance to get on the front foot and promote our country to a captive TV audience.”
According to a report by the International Trade Administration (ITA), Indian tourists are one of the highest spenders per visit abroad, which contributes to the economies of the countries they visit. The number of Indian travellers is not only increasing in numbers but is expected to overtake Chinese travellers in the coming years.
November 24, Colombo (LNW): The Irrigation Department has issued a flood alert for several regions across Sri Lanka from November 25 to 28, 2024, in response to a developing low-pressure system in the Bay of Bengal.
The department has cautioned that the ongoing weather patterns could lead to potential flooding, particularly in low-lying areas situated along river basins.
The low-pressure area, which has been forming over the southeast Bay of Bengal, is expected to intensify into a depression by November 25, with significant rainfall predicted in various parts of the country.
The authorities have flagged several river basins, including Malwathu, Kala Oya, Kanagarayanaru, Parangi Aru, and others, as vulnerable to potential flood risks.
Residents in these flood-prone zones, particularly those living in close proximity to rivers such as the Mahaweli Ganga, Maduru Oya, and Yan Oya, are being urged to remain cautious during the warning period.
The department has highlighted the possibility of rising water levels in these regions, which could lead to floods, especially in areas already susceptible to such events.
In addition to the flood warning, the Meteorological Department has predicted heavy rainfall throughout the island, particularly in the Eastern, Northern, North-Central, Central, Uva Provinces, and the Hambantota district.
The department has issued warnings of very heavy showers exceeding 150 mm in some areas, with heavy rains of over 100 mm expected in others.
These conditions are expected to continue over the next few days, further exacerbating the potential for flooding.
Authorities have advised residents, travellers, and those in flood-prone areas to stay alert and prepared for possible disruptions caused by the adverse weather.
Precautionary measures, including the clearance of drainage systems and securing property, are being strongly recommended.
The public is encouraged to stay informed by following updates from the Meteorological Department and the Irrigation Department, especially in light of potential changes to the weather system’s intensity.
November 24, Colombo (LNW): Today (24) marks the 56th birthday of Anura Kumara Dissanayake, the 9th Executive President of Sri Lanka, who has built a distinguished career in politics spanning several decades.
Born in 1968, President Dissanayake has been an influential figure in shaping the country’s political landscape.
Early in life, Dissanayake’s academic journey began at Thambuttegama Primary School before he moved on to Thambuttegama Central College, where he excelled in the Mathematics stream at the Advanced Level examinations.
In 1992, he pursued higher education at the University of Kelaniya, enrolling in the Faculty of Science, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in 1995.
It was during his university years that Dissanayake’s political consciousness took shape.
In 1987, he became involved with the Socialist Students’ Union and soon emerged as a prominent activist, particularly during the nationwide protests against the Indo-Lanka Accord.
His early involvement in these movements set the stage for his future in politics.
Dissanayake’s political career gained momentum in 1993 when the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), the party that had been suppressed during a period of state repression, began to re-establish itself.
Dissanayake quickly became an integral part of the JVP, assuming the role of National Organiser of the Socialist Students’ Union in 1997.
That same year, he was elected to the JVP Central Committee, and by 1998, he had joined the party’s Politburo.
In 1999, he made his first significant step into electoral politics by running for the Provincial Council elections as the JVP’s Chief Ministerial candidate for the Central Province.
His parliamentary debut came in 2000 when he was elected through the national list.
Dissanayake’s influence within Sri Lankan politics continued to grow. In the 2004 parliamentary elections, he won the highest number of preferential votes in the Kurunegala District and was appointed as the Minister of Agriculture, Lands, Irrigation, and Livestock under the United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) government.
His leadership abilities were further recognised when he was elected Leader of the Parliamentary Group of the JVP in 2008. He continued to serve in Parliament after 2010 through the National List and represented the Colombo District in 2015.
In 2014, Dissanayake was elected as the leader of the JVP during the party’s 7th National Convention, marking a new phase in his leadership role. In the following years, he played a pivotal role in the formation of the National People’s Power (NPP) in 2019, a coalition that brought together various political parties, civil organisations, and activists with the aim of reforming Sri Lanka’s political system.
This initiative further cemented Dissanayake’s reputation as a key political figure advocating for change.
The culmination of his long and dynamic political journey came in September 2024 when he was elected as the President of Sri Lanka. This historic victory was a significant moment not only for Dissanayake but for the political trajectory of the country, as he emerged as a prominent voice for progressive change and national unity.
November 24, Colombo (LNW): In a bid to ensure that consumers are not exploited during the upcoming festive season, the Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) has announced a nationwide series of targeted raids starting December 15.
This initiative aims to safeguard the interests of shoppers by cracking down on unfair trade practices and preventing the sale of substandard or expired products.
As revealed by CAA Director Asela Bandara, the inspection programme will cover a wide range of retail sectors, including wholesale markets, warehouses, and stores.
The primary focus will be on preventing the circulation of expired goods, which have been a consistent issue in some sectors, especially around peak shopping times like the festive season.
The CAA is determined to ensure that consumers are not deceived into purchasing products that are no longer safe or suitable for use.
The raids will not be limited to food and beverage outlets but will also include stores selling clothing, electronics, and other essential items.
The CAA will ensure that all outlets, including those offering seasonal discounts and promotions, adhere to established consumer protection regulations.
This is especially important as many vendors ramp up sales with heavy advertising and attractive promotions during the festive period.
There will be a particular focus on mobile vendors, pop-up stalls, and shops hosting large seasonal sales events, which often attract large crowds but can also be venues for dishonest practices.
The CAA has made it clear that this enforcement effort is aimed at maintaining high standards across the retail industry and protecting consumers from falling victim to misleading promotions, defective products, or unsafe goods.
Authorities will be inspecting items to ensure that they meet the necessary quality standards and have not been tampered with or mislabelled.
For shoppers who encounter problems such as expired items, false advertising, or poor-quality goods, the CAA encourages them to report any issues through its dedicated hotline at 1977.
This hotline will serve as a quick and accessible way for consumers to voice complaints and seek assistance if they believe their rights have been violated.
The CAA asserted that they are determined to uphold consumer rights and ensure that everyone can enjoy a safe and worry-free shopping experience during this festive period.
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, born in 1968, celebrates his 56th birthday today (Nov 24): A prominent figure in Sri Lankan politics, he began his education at Thambuttegama Central College and later earned a degree from the University of Kelaniya: Dissanayake’s political career, marked by his leadership in the JVP and the formation of the National People’s Power, culminated in his election as Sri Lanka’s 9th President in 2024.
Nearly 30 former MPs are still occupying official residences, despite being instructed to vacate for newly elected parliamentarians: While some are removing belongings, many have yet to leave: The government has warned of service cuts if they don’t comply: Renovations for new MPs are underway, with handover set for December 3. Meanwhile, the Madiwela Housing Complex is in high demand.
Experts have raised concerns about the legitimacy of the Adani Group’s $442 million wind power project in Sri Lanka, following fraud charges against its chairman in the U.S.: urge the government to scrutinise the deal, which has faced allegations of corruption and lack of transparency: Despite opposition, the project continued under ex-President Wickremesinghe’s administration, while environmental and legal challenges persist: Current President Dissanayake’s administration is urged to reconsider.
Minister Vijitha Herath confirmed that Sri Lanka’s local government elections will be held in early 2025, despite delays caused by unforeseen challenges such as candidate deaths, defections, and political shifts: The government is preparing for elections for Pradeshiya Sabhas and Urban Councils and considering amendments to the Local Government Election Act: Consultations with political parties will ensure smooth implementation.
A new public-private partnership in Sri Lanka’s Sabaragamuwa Province aims to add 300 megawatts of solar power to the national grid: Launched on November 19, the project involves installing solar panels on state-owned buildings like schools and hospitals: Funded by Gala Green Energy Holdings at a cost of $200 million, the initiative promotes renewable energy and sustainability while contributing to the country’s climate goals.
The Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) has arrested 73 individuals, including 21 law enforcement officers, over the past ten months for bribery-related offences: Among those detained were a Chief Police Inspector, several police officers, and 24 civilians, including Grama Niladhari officers and a school principal: CIABOC reaffirmed its commitment to combating corruption in Sri Lanka’s public service.
The Ministry of Justice and National Integration, in collaboration with USAID, provided technological tools to strengthen national unity and religious harmony in Sri Lanka: On November 22, 61 laptops and communication equipment were distributed to National Integration Officers: This initiative, part of the USAID-funded SCORE project, aims to improve social cohesion and community engagement, with official documents exchanged at the event.
The Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) will conduct special raids starting December 15 to protect consumers during the festive season: Inspections will target wholesale outlets, warehouses, retail shops, and vendors selling clothing, electronics, and essential goods to prevent the circulation of expired products and unfair trade practices: Consumers can report issues via the CAA’s hotline at 1977.
The excavation near the Central Expressway construction site in Veyangoda, initiated on November 21, concluded on November 23 without uncovering any treasure or significant archaeological items: The search, prompted by a court order following the arrest of nine individuals attempting to unearth valuables, involved multiple authorities but yielded no findings of historical or cultural value, despite efforts to break through a large obstructing stone.
Newly appointed Deputy Sports Minister Sugath Tillekaratne, a former Olympian, said he aims to elevate Sri Lanka’s sports, from grassroots to international levels: emphasised the importance of building a healthy society and growing the sports economy, with a focus on developing athletes and improving facilities: stressed collaboration with sports bodies and officials to produce talented athletes and achieve national success.
November 24, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka stands at a crossroads in its journey toward equality, justice, and human rights. With the recent election of a progressive new president and a parliament populated by many political figures who have long advocated for the rights of the LGBTQIA+ community, there is now a unique opportunity to address a deeply entrenched injustice: the criminalisation of consensual same-sex sexual relations between adults.
For decades, these laws have been used as a tool of persecution, stripping LGBTQIA+ individuals of their dignity, rights, and basic freedoms. It is time for Sri Lanka to right this wrong and decriminalise same-sex relations, a step that will not only protect the rights of LGBTQIA+ people but also strengthen the country’s commitment to human rights, equality, and justice for all.
Amongst elected key political figures who have been strong advocates for LGBTQIA+ rights are:
Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, who has been an active voice for LGBTQIA+ rights on and off the House,
Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) Leader and Leader of the Opposition MP Sajith Premadasa,
SJB MP Rohini Kaviratne, who has been an active voice for LGBTQIA+ rights on and off the House,
SJB MP Dr. Harsha De Silva,
SJB MP Harshana Rajakaruna,
National Peoples Power (NPP) MP Wasantha Samarasinghe, who currently serves as the Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development,
NPP MP Eranga Gunasekara, who currently serves as the Deputy Minister of Youth Affairs,
United National Party (UNP) MP Jeevan Thondaman, whose support for LGBTQIA+ people comes in an intersectional approach with the rights of the plantation community,
Sarvajana Balaya (SB) Leader MP Dilith Jayaweera, who categorically expressed support for LGBTQIA+ persons before entering politics
Illankai Tamil Arasu Kachchi (ITAK) MP Shanakiyan Rasamanickam
NPP MP Bimal Ratnayake, who currently serves as the Minister of Transport, Highways, Ports and Civil Aviation and Leader of the House of Parliament,
NPP MP Attorney Harshana Nanayakkara, who currently serves as the Minister of Justice and is known to have provided legal support for LGBTQIA+ people,
NPP MP K.D. Lal Kantha, who currently serves as the Minister of Agriculture, Lands, Irrigation and Livestock,
NPP MP Dr. Kaushalya Ariyaratne, who has been vocal about LGBTQIA+ rights as a civil activist long before entering politics, and
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake himself, the first leader of a political party to officially recognise LGBTQIA+ rights in Sri Lanka’s political history.
Their presence is a beacon of hope for the LGBTQIA+ community in Sri Lanka.
These leaders, who have long been outspoken advocates for LGBTQIA+ rights, now have the platform and power to effect real change. Their presence in parliament offers a unique opportunity to quash traditional and conservative ideologies, push forward progressive politics instead and begin the much-needed process of reform.
It is time for them to make good on their promises and take concrete steps to decriminalise same-sex relationships, a crucial aspect of securing fundamental rights for all Sri Lankans, irrespective of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
For decades, Sri Lanka has criminalised same-sex relations between consenting adults under Sections 365 and 365A of the Penal Code. These laws, which date back to colonial times, are interpreted to categorise consensual same-sex sexual activities between adults as “unnatural offences” and conduct of “gross indecency”, punishable by up to ten years in prison, despite failing to provide what unnatural or gross indecency means, or add provisions defining sexual orientation or gender identity.
The vague nature of these provisions paved the way for legal experts to argue that homosexuality in itself is not a crime. Nevertheless, these laws have served as a convenient tool for discrimination, harassment, and violence against LGBTQIA+ individuals, particularly gay people and transgender people. It has allowed law enforcement, politicians, and members of society to stigmatise and marginalise the LGBTQIA+ community, denying them basic human rights, such as the right to privacy, bodily autonomy, and freedom from discrimination.
The harm caused by this criminalisation is immeasurable. It has led to widespread societal discrimination, hate crimes, and mental health challenges, with LGBTQIA+ individuals being forced to live in fear of arrest, public shaming, and social exclusion. Many members of the community are forced to conceal their identities and live in the shadows, suffering in silence due to the fear of legal repercussions and societal rejection.
These laws have, for far too long, placed the lives of LGBTQIA+ people at risk, simply for loving whom they choose. This situation is unacceptable, particularly in a country that aspires to be a beacon of justice and human rights in the region.
In 2023, the Supreme Court delivered a historic determination affecting this population, asserting that a bill proposing decriminalisation of consensual same-sex sexual relations between adults does not violate the Constitution, and, therefore, can be made into law by the approval of the simple majority in Parliament. The response came countering the fundamental rights (FR) petitions brought forward by certain political groups against a private member’s bill presented by former MP Premnath Dolawatta proposing decriminalisation of consensual same-sex relations.
The Attorney General’s Department on four consecutive occasions (2014, 2017, 2019 and most recently, 2022) asserted before the United Nations that the provisions of Article 12 of the Constitution do recognise LGBTQIA+ rights, and any law criminalising them, therefore, would be unconstitutional.
With the new pro-LGBTQIA+ government now in power, it must act in the interest of the public and shall not forget that 1.5 million people of the population have recognised themselves within the LGBTQIA+ spectrum and are registered voters.
The decriminalisation of consensual same-sex relations is a crucial step in ensuring that LGBTQIA+ individuals are treated with dignity and respect. It is also essential for upholding Sri Lanka’s obligaton to international human rights treaties, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which guarantees the right to privacy and non-discrimination.
Decriminalisation would send a clear message to the world that Sri Lanka is committed to embracing diversity and creating a more inclusive society, where all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, are free to live openly and without fear of persecution.
Despite the probability of certain opposition factions from conservative and religious groups being vocal against the move, history has shown that progress often requires challenging outdated and harmful beliefs. With the Supreme Court’s backing and a regime – which has been outspoken for queer rights for years – now in power, the move is only a step away.
Just as Sri Lanka has made significant strides in advancing women’s rights, minority rights, and freedom of expression, it is time for the country to take the next step towards equality by recognising that love, in all its forms, is not a crime.
The newly elected members of parliament, particularly those who have long championed the rights of LGBTQIA+ individuals, must now demonstrate their commitment to justice by prioritising the decriminalisation of same-sex sexual relations. This is a moment for bold leadership and decisive action. They now have the power to change the lives of countless LGBTQIA+ individuals who have lived in fear for too long.
It is time for Sri Lanka to join the ranks of nations that respect and protect the rights of LGBTQIA+ citizens.
