October 09, Colombo (LNW): The Ministry of Public Administration and Home Affairs has revealed that only 14 official residences have been returned by former ministers to date. According to a senior official, 41 official residences were initially allocated to ministers of the previous government in Colombo and surrounding areas.
Following the recent presidential election, the Ministry issued a notice requesting the immediate return of these properties. The official also indicated that legal action is being planned against individuals who continue to withhold the residences, in an effort to recover the remaining properties.
October 09, Colombo (LNW): Former MP and renowned actor Ranjan Ramanayake is set to officially launch his new political party, United Democratic Voice, at a press briefing in Colombo today. The party, which will contest under the mic symbol, is expected to unveil its manifesto in preparation for the upcoming parliamentary elections.
October 09, Colombo (LNW):According to the latest statistics released by the National Dengue Control Unit (NDCU), Sri Lanka has recorded over 40,000 dengue cases so far in 2024. As of Tuesday, 40,109 cases have been reported across the country, with 19 confirmed fatalities, as per Xinhua news agency.
The Western Province has been the hardest hit, accounting for 42.3% of the total cases. The Colombo district alone has seen the highest number, with 10,027 cases. The Gampaha district follows with 4,698 cases.
The Northern Province ranks second, contributing 12% of the total cases, while the Central Province holds third place with 10.3%.
The NDCU has also identified 10 high-risk areas for dengue outbreaks and is intensifying efforts to combat the disease. In comparison, last year saw over 88,000 cases and 57 deaths, reflecting the ongoing challenge of controlling the spread of dengue in Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka has stated that Indian Foreign Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar’s visit was part of a tradition to strengthen diplomatic ties following the appointment of a new President. According to Cabinet Spokesperson and Minister Vijitha Herath, both countries exchanged invitations for their leaders to visit, focusing on further enhancing friendly relations. Minister Herath also clarified that no discussions occurred regarding the controversial Adani project during the visit.
The Election Commission of Sri Lanka today announced that the deadline for accepting applications for postal voting in the 2024 General Election has been extended until midnight on 10 October 2024. The Elections Commissioner General said that this decision was made in consideration of the possible postal delays and several requests made by the public to the commission.
More than 40,000 dengue cases have been reported so far this year in Sri Lanka, according to the latest statistics released by the National Dengue Control Unit (NDCU) on Tuesday. The western province recorded the highest number of cases accounting for 42.3 per cent of the total.
The Constitutional Council has approved the appointment of Senior DIG Priyantha Weerasooriya as the Acting Inspector General of Police (IGP). The Constitutional Council convened a meeting at the parliamentary complex under the chairmanship of Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena to take a final decision on approving the appointment of the Acting IGP.
Cabinet Spokesman Minister Vijitha Herath says that the fertilizer subsidy of Rs. 25,000 for paddy farmers will commence from Ampara District next Monday (Oct. 14).
Sri Lanka’s new government said it will review a wind power deal with the Adani Group, throwing a fresh hurdle for the Indian conglomerate as it seeks to expand abroad. The previous administration’s approval of electricity prices for Adani Green Energy Ltd.’s projects “was a problem,” Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath told reporters after a meeting of the Cabinet ministers. The new government would give the deal a fresh look after parliamentary elections are held Nov. 14, he said.
Senior former Opposition MP Lakshman Kiriella (76) has announced that he will not contest the upcoming parliamentary election, marking the end of his 36-year career in parliament. Speaking to the media, Kiriella said he plans to rest after decades of political service.
The Democratic Left Front (Prajathanthravadi Vamanshika Peramuna) has officially announced its support for the National People’s Power (NPP) in the forthcoming parliamentary elections. The party’s leader, former Member of Parliament Vasudeva Nanayakkara, confirmed this decision during a press conference.
Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa emphasized that Sri Lanka’s economic and political stability is essential to meet the 2028 debt repayment obligations. Speaking at a meeting with Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) activists in Moratuwa, Premadasa stated that attracting direct foreign investments is critical for economic growth. He highlighted the need for reforms to eliminate corruption and streamline regulations to boost investor confidence.
The International Masters League (IML) is set to feature legendary cricketers from six cricketing giants India, Sri Lanka, Australia, England, South Africa, and West Indies in an exciting T20 franchise tournament. The inaugural edition will take place from November 17, 2024, to December 8, 2024.
October 09, Colombo (LNW):Showers or thundershowers will occur at times in Western, Sabaragamuwa and North-western provinces and in Galle and Matara districts. Showers or thundershowers will occur elsewhere at several places in the island during the afternoon or night.
Fairly heavy showers above 75mm are likely at some places in Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, North-western, Uva and Eastern provinces and in Galle and Matara districts.
The general public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimize damages caused by temporary localized strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.
October 08, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka will pursue membership in the BRICS organization during the meeting in Russia later this month, as announced by Cabinet Spokesman Minister Vijitha Herath.
He confirmed that Sri Lanka has been invited to the BRICS summit and aims to seek membership. This decision follows discussions with the Indian Foreign Minister during his recent visit to Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka has been invited for the BRICS later this month… and we expect to seel membership in BRICS,” Herath told a weekly media briefing to announce the cabinet decisions.
The invitation to attend was delivered to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake by the Russian ambassador Levan S. Dzhagaryan.
“We have discussed with Indian Foreign Minister when he was here last week as well.”The previous government’s cabinet approved the country seeking the membership in the BROCS which includes economic giants such as China, India, and Brazil, he added.
Sri Lanka is to participate at the next BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) summit from October 22-24 on the invitation of Russian President Vladimir Putin.
However, none of the JVP/NPP political leadership will be attending the summit as they will be engaged in campaigning for the parliamentary elections
The previous Sri Lankan government had already approved efforts to join BRICS, which includes economic powerhouses like China, India, and Brazil. Originally an acronym created by an investment bank,
BRICS+ is a coalition that seeks to increase its influence on the global political landscape and advocates for a multipolar system that promotes democratic engagement in international decision-making processes.
Many of BRICS+’s goals and demands, regardless of whether they fall under economic, development, or political categories, are formulated and refined through a multilateral approach
BRICS has grown into a major intergovernmental organization that presides over a multilateral financial institution. In January 2024, it expanded by adding several key energy providers, potentially increasing its influence in a world dominated by the U.S.
BRICS, which initially included Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, aims to strengthen economic ties among emerging markets.
Four new members—Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the United Arab Emirates—have been added this year. Sri Lanka will attend the summit from October 22-24 at the invitation of Russian President Vladimir Putin, although leaders from the JVP/NPP political party will not be present due to election campaigning.
The group was established to unite developing economies and challenge the dominance of wealthier nations in North America and Western Europe. Russia currently holds the chair for the BRICS summit in 2024. The invitation to Sri Lanka’s President Anura Kumara Dissanayake was delivered by Russian Ambassador Levan S. Dzhagaryan.
The former Sri Lankan Cabinet had already recommended applying for BRICS membership and proposed creating a development bank under its framework.
October 08, Colombo (LNW): Hayleys Fabric PLC, Sri Lanka’s largest textile manufacturer, has been honored with the prestigious ZDHC Torchbearer Award for its outstanding leadership in sustainable chemical management.
The award was presented by Prasad Pant, ZDHC South Asia Region Director, at the fifth ZDHC South Asia Regional Conference on Sustainable Chemical Management in the Fashion Industry, held in Chennai, India, on September 25.
Hayleys Fabric’s HR and Administration Executive Director, Prasanna Pathirana, accepted the award on behalf of the company, highlighting its dedication to creating a safer and more sustainable textile industry. The company’s role as the Gold sponsor of the conference further underscored its commitment to promoting sustainable chemical practices.
The ZDHC Foundation, a global non-profit, aims to eliminate harmful chemicals from the textile, apparel, and footwear industries, striving for a sustainable supply chain that safeguards the environment and human health.
The foundation collaborates with leading brands, retailers, manufacturers, and suppliers worldwide to develop and implement standards and tools for sustainable chemical management.
A signatory member of the ZDHC Foundation since 2021, Hayleys Fabric has been actively involved in the ZDHC ‘Roadmap to Zero’ (RtZ) program since 2015, showcasing its long-term dedication to environmental sustainability.
At the conference, Dunstan Weragala, Head of Compliance at Hayleys Fabric, shared insights on how the ZDHC RtZ program has significantly contributed to the company’s sustainability objectives.
Significantly, Hayleys Fabric is the first and only Sri Lankan textile manufacturer to receive the ZDHC Torchbearer Award, marking a major milestone for the country’s textile industry. This recognition highlights Hayleys Fabric’s leading role in implementing the ZDHC ‘Supplier to Zero’ program, which focuses on sustainable chemical management across the supply chain.
In his acceptance speech, Pathirana acknowledged the pivotal role played by Hayleys Fabric’s Managing Director and CEO, Rohan Goonetilleke, whose support has been instrumental in driving the company’s sustainability journey.
He also praised the relentless efforts of the Compliance Division, led by Weragala, and the DGM Compliance, who have been key in advancing the company’s progress in sustainable practices through the ZDHC initiatives.
Hayleys Fabric PLC’s commitment to sustainable chemical management is a core element of its broader sustainability vision, embedded in the Hayleys Life code.
By prioritizing eco-friendly practices, the company contributes to a safer and more responsible textile supply chain, in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles.
This accolade not only reinforces Hayleys Fabric PLC’s position as a leader in sustainable textile manufacturing in Sri Lanka but also sets a benchmark for other industry players to follow in their pursuit of environmental stewardship.
October 08, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka and Jordan have recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a Political Consultation Mechanism aimed at expanding cooperation in various areas of mutual interest.
The agreement was formalized on July 10, 2024, in Amman, with the signing carried out by the Sri Lankan Ambassador to Jordan, J.A.D.S. Priyangika Wijegunasekara, and Majed Thaliji Alqatarneh, Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of Jordan.
In parallel with the political MoU, discussions on enhancing trade and investment relations between the two nations were held between the Sri Lankan Ambassador and Mohammad Shoha, Chairman of the Irbid Chamber of Commerce.
Shoha emphasized the significance of boosting trade ties, particularly in the agriculture and commerce sectors. He suggested exploring new investment opportunities that could benefit both nations and encouraged greater private sector involvement in advancing bilateral trade, tourism, and investment.
Shoha also proposed organizing joint exhibitions and delegations to further develop economic ties.
He assured that the Irbid Chamber is committed to supporting import and export operations to enhance the flow of goods and services between Jordan and Sri Lanka, with a particular focus on agricultural, industrial, and handicraft products.
Ambassador Wijegunasekara reiterated Sri Lanka’s dedication to strengthening economic cooperation with Jordan.
Highlighting Sri Lanka’s economic potential, she mentioned that approximately 10,500 Sri Lankan workers are currently employed in Jordan, mainly in the textile, knitting, and domestic sectors. In 2023, Sri Lanka’s exports to Jordan were valued at $88 million, while imports from Jordan stood at $1.98 million.
The ambassador pointed out that Jordanian products like olive oil, Dead Sea salts, and dates align well with the needs of the Sri Lankan market. On the other hand, Sri Lanka’s major exports to Jordan include tea, furniture, and plant-based products, while Jordan exports textiles, fabrics, and iron products to Sri Lanka.
Acknowledging the long-standing relations between the two countries, established in 1965, Wijegunasekara called for enhanced collaboration in trade, economic relations, and skilled labor exchange. She invited Jordanian investors to explore opportunities in Sri Lanka’s Port City in Colombo, citing the favorable business environment in the country.
Additionally, she emphasized the benefits of deploying more skilled Sri Lankan workers to Jordan’s industrial cities, leveraging the existing cooperation in the industrial sector. The ambassador expressed her goal of increasing trade volumes and supporting Jordanian companies in promoting their olive oil and Dead Sea salt products to the Sri Lankan market.
Both nations acknowledged the significant growth in trade exchanges during the first half of 2024 and agreed to organize joint economic activities to deepen their bilateral cooperation in various fields.
October 08, Colombo (LNW): Despite a previous directive to raise the daily wage of Sri Lanka’s plantation workers to Rs. 1,700, the workers will now receive a revised daily minimum wage of Rs. 1,350, along with an additional allowance of Rs. 50 for each extra kilogram of harvest starting from October 10.
This decision comes after extensive discussions among Regional Plantation Companies (RPCs), trade unions, and the Wages Board, which led to an agreement with the Estate Sector Wage Control Council at the Labour Department.
According to industry sources, the new regulations, outlined in the latest Gazette, require RPCs to pay this base wage of Rs. 1,350 beginning on October 10.
While the Rs. 1,350 excludes contributions to the Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) and Employees’ Trust Fund (ETF), the total daily earnings for workers will exceed Rs. 1,500 once these benefits are included.
Wages for these plantation workers, generally calculated at the end of each month, are scheduled to be paid on the 10th of the subsequent month.
The current wage agreement, reached on September 10, marked the conclusion of a series of disputes between employers and trade unions, with the workers continuously advocating for improved pay and conditions.
The new wage structure represents a significant step forward for plantation workers, who have long struggled for fairer wages. This productivity-based model allows workers in the tea and rubber sectors to earn additional income, with a potential increase of Rs. 50 or more depending on their output.
This revised wage system specifically targets workers in the tea and rubber industries, encompassing roles in tea cultivation, tea manufacturing, rubber cultivation, and raw rubber processing.
Under the existing system, plantation workers earn a base wage of Rs. 1,000 with an additional Rs. 40 per kilo after achieving a target of 20 kilos of tea leaves.
Previously, plantation companies had legally contested the directive to pay the Rs. 1,700 wage, with the prior government threatening to expropriate firms that did not comply.
An official confirmed that while the base wage of Rs. 1,350 remains, with the addition of EPF, ETF, and gratuity, workers’ earnings could exceed Rs. 2,000 per day.
The wage increase to Rs. 1,700 had initially been announced by former President Ranil Wickremesinghe at a May Day rally earlier in the year, with politicians from the ruling coalition at that time pressuring plantation companies to implement the change.
Despite resistance, about 14 boards ultimately voted in favor of the Rs. 1,700 wage, as noted by, a representative of the Ceylon Workers Congress, the leading labor union.
While the revised wage is lower than the initially proposed Rs. 1,700, it still marks a significant improvement for plantation workers, taking into account the productivity-based incentives.
This approach aims to balance the interests of both workers, who have long been advocating for better pay, and the plantation companies, which had previously opposed the wage increase.
The final agreement showcases a crucial effort to address workers’ grievances while also considering the sustainability of the plantation sector.
October 08, Colombo (LNW): The Sri Lankan government has announced the commencement of a fertiliser subsidy programme aimed at supporting paddy farmers, with the initiative set to kick off in the Ampara District on Monday, 14 October.
This announcement was made by Cabinet Spokesman Minister Vijitha Herath during a press conference held on 8 October.
Minister Herath highlighted the timing of the subsidy, noting, “As the Maha season approaches, we are keen to ensure that our farmers have the resources they need to cultivate their crops effectively.
We will begin by rolling out the fertiliser subsidy of Rs. 25,000 specifically for the farmers in the Ampara District next week.”
Following the initial implementation in Ampara, the subsidy programme will expand to include farmers in other vital agricultural areas, including Polonnaruwa, Anuradhapura, Mahiyanganaya, and the Mahaweli regions.
This phased approach aims to ensure that farmers across the country receive the necessary support during the crucial planting season.
The government’s decision to introduce this subsidy comes in response to the challenges faced by farmers in recent years, including rising input costs and fluctuating market conditions.
By providing financial assistance for fertiliser, the government hopes to bolster agricultural productivity and enhance food security.
As the Maha season is critical for paddy cultivation in Sri Lanka, this initiative is expected to have a significant positive impact on the livelihoods of farmers.
Minister Herath reassured stakeholders that the government is committed to facilitating the agricultural sector’s growth and sustainability through targeted support measures.
