Minister of Fisheries Ramalingam Chandrasekaran stated that the Indo-Lanka fishing dispute will be addressed during President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s upcoming visit to India: Both countries have recently discussed the issue, and the minister emphasised the importance of mutual understanding: The Sri Lanka Navy has increased operations to arrest Tamil Nadu fisherfolk violating maritime boundaries, with the goal of finding an immediate resolution.
SJB MP Ajith P. Perera stated that the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) is considering a no-confidence motion against Speaker Ashoka Ranwala: The SJB Parliamentary Group will meet to discuss this option following controversy over Ranwala allegedly holding a fake doctoral title: The no-confidence motion will be considered as part of their response to the issue.
The Election Commission of Sri Lanka confirmed Faiszer Musthapha’s election as a Member of Parliament through the National List of the New Democratic Front (NDF) following the 2024 General Election: Musthapha was nominated for the remaining National List seat by the NDF, but a dispute has arisen within the coalition, with partners claiming the decision was made without their consultation: The NDF secured two National List seats, with the other filled by Ravi Karunanayake.
Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Public Administration has started the process of amending the law to cancel nominations from the previous local government election: Minister Prof. Chandana Abeyratne stated that the Legal Draftsman’s Department will handle the amendments, which aim to allow one million new candidates: The amendments will be submitted to Parliament after review by the Attorney General’s Department.
Agriculture Minister Lal Kantha announced that the government is willing to revisit discussions on exporting Toque Macaque monkeys to China as part of efforts to address the monkey menace affecting crops: He emphasised the need for both short- and long-term solutions to the issue, which includes the previous plan to export 100,000 monkeys, but was halted by a court petition.
The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) reported to the Colombo Magistrate’s Court that over 2,000 complaints have been filed by depositors who lost money in the alleged pyramid scheme operated by Onmax DT, totalling Rs. 2.96 billion in losses: Nine suspects, including directors, have appeared in court, with three others wanted overseas: Investigations are ongoing, with properties identified abroad, and the court has instructed the CID to develop a reimbursement program for the victims: The next hearing is set for February 5, 2025.
The Public Utilities Commission (PUCSL) will announce its final decision on proposed electricity tariff revisions on January 17, 2025: Public consultations will begin on December 17, 2024, allowing citizens to submit feedback via email, WhatsApp, Facebook, or post until January 8, 2024: The Ceylon Electricity Board’s proposal aims for tariff revisions in January 2025.
Dr. T. Sathyamoorthy, Director of Jaffna Teaching Hospital, warned that MP Ramanathan Archchuna would be handed over to Jaffna Police if he disrupts hospital operations again: This follows a recent incident where the MP visited unannounced, disrupted staff duties, and demanded to be addressed as “Sir.” Sathyamoorthy declined and stated that further disruptions would lead to police involvement.
The death toll from an unidentified fever in Jaffna has risen to five, with victims aged 20 to 65 dying from fever and respiratory complications: Suspected to be leptospirosis, blood samples have been sent to Colombo for confirmation: Health authorities are conducting detailed investigations to identify the disease’s nature and are monitoring the situation closely to prevent further spread.
Sri Lankan cricketer Niroshan Dickwella’s three-year suspension for a doping violation has been reduced to three months following a successful appeal: Dickwella had tested positive for cocaine after the Lanka Premier League in July 2024: The appeals committee concluded the substance did not enhance performance and was consumed outside competition: As a result, Dickwella is now cleared to return to cricket immediately.
December 11, Colombo (LNW): The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has sanctioned a $30 million Small Expenditure Financing Facility (SEFF) for the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB), guaranteed by Sri Lanka, to enhance the sustainability of current and future energy sector projects.
“This marks Sri Lanka’s first SEFF, tailored to sustain ADB-funded energy projects, promote renewable energy adoption, and encourage private sector investment in renewables, particularly amidst the nation’s economic challenges,” stated ADB Country Director for Sri Lanka, Takafumi Kadono.
He explained that the facility will fund post-completion tasks of ADB-supported projects, feasibility studies for advanced renewable technologies, preparatory efforts for transmission and distribution upgrades, and capacity-building initiatives in emerging technologies.
The inaugural activity under SEFF will focus on improving the operational sustainability of the ADB-financed Moragolla Hydropower Plant.
This facility is pivotal for Sri Lanka’s goal of generating 70% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030, a milestone in its energy transition strategy.
Achieving this target demands significant investment in renewable energy infrastructure, grid modernization, energy storage systems, and policy reforms to attract private investments and international funding.
SEFF complements Sri Lanka’s broader power sector reform agenda, supported by ADB’s Power Sector Reforms and Financial Sustainability Program and the recently approved Power System Strengthening and Renewable Energy Integration project.
Its approval underscores ADB’s ongoing commitment to Sri Lanka’s energy sector, acknowledging the progress made in implementing critical power sector reforms.
These reforms aim to strengthen the sector’s financial sustainability, introduce cost-recovery tariff adjustments, and promote competitive renewable energy development.
The facility will also enhance the institutional capacity of the CEB, enabling it to manage renewable energy systems more effectively, adopt digital solutions, and guide the sector toward a sustainable and resilient energy future.
Of the total $30 million, $15 million is allocated for improving the Moragolla Hydropower Plant’s operational sustainability, while the remaining $15 million will support initiatives to expand renewable energy generation and integrate it into the national grid.
ADB remains dedicated to fostering a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific while striving to eliminate extreme poverty. Founded in 1966, ADB is owned by 69 members, 49 of which are from the region.
December 11, Colombo (LNW): The National Chamber of Exporters (NCE) of Sri Lanka has called for immediate reforms to revitalize the country’s export sector.
Addressing the 32nd NCE Export Awards in Colombo, NCE President Jayantha Karunaratne emphasized the urgent need for innovation, competitiveness, and sustainability to tackle challenges impacting the industry.
Karunaratne stressed the importance of transparency and accountability in regulatory processes and urged the government to eliminate delays in patent fund disbursements. He advocated for adopting a single-window system to streamline operations and enhance efficiency.
Addressing industry leaders and stakeholders, he highlighted the need to empower Sri Lanka’s trade missions, rebuild global confidence in Sri Lankan products, and mitigate the negative effects of economic instability.
Identifying key barriers, Karunaratne pointed to the high production costs and the 30% tax on profits as deterrents to investment and innovation.
He contrasted Sri Lanka’s situation with that of regional competitors like India, Vietnam, and Bangladesh, which provide exporters with easier access to international loans from 60 countries. This gives them a distinct advantage in global markets.
He urged Sri Lanka to adopt similar policies to promote inclusivity and growth in the export sector.
Karunaratne also called for liberal reforms to cultivate a dynamic workforce and improve access to international trademark administration.
He emphasized the need for greater support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and startups, which are essential drivers of export growth.
The devaluation of the Sri Lankan rupee by 10% over the past year and uncertainty surrounding the removal of the Simplified Value Added Tax (SVAT) system were cited as ongoing concerns. Rising energy and credit costs further exacerbate the challenges faced by exporters.
Despite these obstacles, Karunaratne assured attendees that the NCE is actively collaborating with key stakeholders, including the Export Development Board, Ministry of Industries, and Ministry of Finance, to devise actionable solutions.
Proposed measures include stabilizing the currency, reforming the tax structure, and prioritizing research and development initiatives.
In his concluding remarks, Karunaratne urged the government to prioritize the export sector as a national imperative. He emphasized that strategic reforms could help Sri Lanka boost foreign exchange earnings, enhance GDP growth, and create sustainable employment opportunities.
“With the right policies and support, Sri Lanka can significantly expand its global export footprint and achieve ambitious trade targets,” Karunaratne stated, expressing optimism about the country’s economic future.
December 11, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka Railways (SLR) is set to receive 22 ALCO diesel engines from India as part of a generous grant aimed at addressing the country’s pressing transportation needs.
Cabinet spokesman Nalinda Jayatissa announced that the gift comprises 20 slightly used M10 locomotive engines and two additional engines for spare parts.
The locomotives, valued at Rs. 16,000 million, were previously in service with Indian Railways but remain highly functional despite being replaced by electric models in India.
The initiative began with a request by former Minister of Transport Dr. Bandula Gunawardena, who appealed to the Indian government to support Sri Lanka’s ailing railway system. The Indian government’s decision, facilitated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former High Commissioner Gopal Baglay, underscores the strong bilateral relationship between the two nations. Current High Commissioner Santosh Jha played a critical role in expediting the transfer.
India’s RITES Limited (Rail India Technical and Economic Service) had initially proposed a five-year maintenance service for the locomotives, but a government committee determined that SLR possesses the capability to manage their upkeep. This grant offers Sri Lanka significant technological and operational advantages. The ALCO engines, with a horsepower capacity of 3,300, surpass Sri Lanka’s current maximum of 3,000, allowing them to haul up to 22 carriages. This increase in power and efficiency is expected to improve passenger capacity and overall service quality.
The arrival of these locomotives comes at a critical time for SLR, which has long struggled with aging infrastructure and financial constraints. The railway’s dependence on external loans for modernization has hindered profitability. India’s gift, therefore, provides much-needed relief by offering resources without adding to the nation’s financial burden. Beyond the immediate benefits, the introduction of these modern engines will enable SLR personnel to gain hands-on experience with advanced technologies, aiding in the long-term sustainability of Sri Lanka’s railway network.
This collaboration is part of a decades-long partnership between India and Sri Lanka in the railway sector. Since the 1990s, India has played a pivotal role in revitalizing Sri Lanka’s railway system, including projects like the full reconstruction of the Northern Railway Line and the provision of M8 and M11 locomotives. Indian companies such as IRCON have also been instrumental in restoring infrastructure damaged by natural disasters.
The foundation for this historic grant was laid in August 2023, when Dr. Gunawardena formally requested the locomotives in a letter to High Commissioner Baglay. The letter highlighted India’s significant contributions to Sri Lanka’s railway projects since 2011, valued at over $466 million. In November 2023, the Indian High Commission confirmed arrangements for a Sri Lankan delegation to inspect the locomotives at the Southern Railway Service Yard in Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu.
In December 2023, Sri Lankan officials, including senior railway engineers, selected 23 locomotives suitable for operation in Sri Lanka. This milestone marks the first time India has provided locomotives to Sri Lanka as a grant, reflecting the enduring friendship and cooperation between the two nations. The grant is expected to bolster SLR’s capacity and pave the way for further modernization of Sri Lanka’s railway system.
December 11, Colombo (LNW): The Attorney General has informed the Supreme Court that the Cabinet of Ministers has instructed the legal draftsman to amend the Local Government Elections (Special Provisions) Bill to facilitate the holding of the upcoming Local Government elections using the 2024 voters’ list.
The proposed amendments are aimed at ensuring that the young voters, who will be included in the updated register, are able to exercise their right to vote.
Deputy Solicitor General Nirmalan Vigneswaran made this statement on behalf of the Attorney General during the hearing of a Fundamental Rights petition, which sought a court order mandating the use of the 2024 voters’ list for the Local Government elections.
The petition was presented before a three-member bench of the Supreme Court, comprising Chief Justice Murdu Fernando, and Justices Arjuna Obeysekara and Priyantha Fernando.
The Deputy Solicitor General further informed the court that the Cabinet has also instructed amendments to allow the invalidation of previously submitted nominations for the elections, as well as the reopening of the nomination process to ensure fresh candidates are put forward.
During the proceedings, President’s Counsel Ali Sabry, representing the petitioners, requested the court to order the publication of advertisements in all three languages in newspapers, so that the general public could be informed and given an opportunity to intervene in this important case.
The Supreme Court bench granted the request and also instructed the petitioning party to issue notices to the respondents, including the Chairman of the Election Commission, to appear before the court.
The case was adjourned, with the Supreme Court scheduling the next hearing for 29th January 2025.
December 11, Colombo (LNW): Billionaire Gautam Adani-led conglomerate announced it will use its own resources to fund a Sri Lankan port project and not seek US funding.
The Indiajn Company said it has withdrawn a funding request from the US International Development Corporation for its Colombo West International Terminal (CWIT) project in Sri Lanka.
In an India’s Bombay Stock Exchange filing late on Tuesday10, Adani Ports and SEZ Ltd disclosed the project “is on track for commissioning by early next year” and added that the company will fund the ongoing project through “internal accruals”, aligning with its capital management strategy.
The company said it has withdrawn its 2023 “request for financing from the US International Development Finance Corporation (DFC)”.
The US International Development Finance Corp, in November last year, agreed to provide a USD 553 million loan to support the development, construction, and operation of a deep-water container terminal called the Colombo West International Terminal (CWIT) at the Port of Colombo in Sri Lanka.
After charges were filed in the US including against Adani officials for misleading US investors about 250 million dollars in alleged bribery in a renewable energy project, the DFC said it was still conducting due diligence.Adani group had denied the allegations
The company, however, said the Colombo West International Terminal project is progressing well and is on track for commissioning by early 2025.
Adani Group, controlled by Indian billionaire Gautam Adani, holds a 51% stake in the west container terminal of the port, which also has a terminal run by China Merchants Port Holdings Co Ltd.
Sri Lankan conglomerate John Keells Holdings owns 34% of the terminal and the rest is held by the state-run Sri Lanka Ports Authority.
Last month, US authorities accused Adani Group Chairman Gautam Adani and seven others of being part of a $265 million scheme to bribe Indian officials, and of misleading US investors while raising funds there.
The company, however, said the Colombo West International Terminal project is progressing well and is on track for commissioning by early 2025.
The Adani Group and John Keells Holdings (JKH) have announced that their joint venture terminal at Colombo Port in Sri Lanka is expected to become operational by the first quarter of the 2025 calendar year. This new terminal, known as the West Container Terminal (WCT), is one of the largest projects.
December 11, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lankan cricketer Niroshan Dickwella’s suspension from all forms of cricket has been significantly reduced from three years to just three months.
The new ruling, which makes him eligible to return to competitive cricket from December 11, 2024, follows a successful appeal process.
In a statement following the appeal, the appeal panel explained that medical evidence clearly indicated that Dickwella had ingested a substance of abuse outside of competition and that it was unrelated to enhancing his sports performance.
Based on this, the panel concluded that the initial three-year suspension imposed by the disciplinary committee should be substantially shortened to a three-month ban, effective from August 13, 2024.
The panel also emphasized that the decision strikes a balance between upholding anti-doping principles and ensuring fairness for the player. Their ruling was designed to maintain the integrity of the sport while considering Dickwella’s right to fair treatment.
The appeal panel was composed of Retired Judge Upali Samaraweera, Professor Asela Mendis, and Attorney-at-Law Gimhana Jagodaarachchi.
Niroshan Dickwella’s legal representation included Attorney-at-Law Suminda Perera and Senior Attorney-at-Law Ranil Prematilake.
Dickwella was initially suspended by Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) on August 16, 2024, after an anti-doping violation was detected during the Lanka Premier League (LPL).
The breach came to light following a routine doping test conducted by the Sri Lanka Anti-Doping Agency, leading to his suspension from all forms of cricket, which raised concerns among fans and officials alike.
December 11, Colombo (LNW): Health authorities in Sri Lanka are investigating a sudden outbreak of an unidentified fever in the Jaffna District, raising alarm across the region.
The Epidemiology Unit of the Ministry of Health has launched an inquiry to identify the disease and assess its potential links to leptospirosis, commonly known as ‘rat fever’.
Preliminary tests are currently underway to determine the cause of the illness, which has affected several individuals.
Dr. Kumudu Weerakoon, a senior official from the Epidemiology Unit, addressed the growing concern at a media briefing held at the Health Promotion Bureau on 11th December.
She reported that many patients in the affected areas have been displaying symptoms such as high fever and respiratory distress.
Health authorities are actively collecting samples from these patients in order to confirm the specific nature of the disease.
Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection transmitted through water contaminated by animal urine, remains a major health concern in Sri Lanka.
The country recorded over 9,000 cases of the disease in 2023, leading to nearly 200 fatalities.
Dr. Weerakoon highlighted that the number of leptospirosis cases this year has already surpassed the figures from the same period last year, raising further alarm among public health officials.
The disease primarily affects individuals who work in environments involving exposure to water and mud, such as farmers, miners, and those living in flood-prone areas.
With recent heavy rains and flooding caused by Cyclone Fengal, which has led to the displacement of thousands in Jaffna, the risk of leptospirosis transmission has increased significantly.
Additionally, the iconic Nallur Temple and the A9 main road to Jaffna were both severely impacted by the floods, further complicating the situation.
Dr. Weerakoon outlined the typical symptoms of leptospirosis, which include a high fever, muscle pain, red eyes, vomiting, headaches, body aches, blood in the urine, and reduced urination.
If left untreated, the infection can cause severe damage to vital organs such as the kidneys, liver, and brain, and in extreme cases, it can be fatal.
The Ministry of Health is prioritising early detection and treatment to prevent further complications and protect lives. Dr. Weerakoon urged individuals, particularly those engaged in water-related occupations, to seek immediate medical care if they exhibit any symptoms.
The Ministry is also providing free antibiotics to individuals at high risk, such as those in flood-affected regions or involved in occupations like paddy farming and mining.
These antibiotics can be obtained from Public Health Inspectors through the relevant Medical Officer of Health offices.
December 11, Colombo (LNW): The Sri Lankan Government has announced an extension of the suspension of the Parate Execution Law, which prevents banks from auctioning collateral for defaulted loans, until March 31, 2025.
The law, which was initially suspended by the previous administration, was due to expire on December 15, 2024.
However, in response to appeals from small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), the Government has decided to extend this relief.
Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa, Cabinet Spokesman, confirmed that the Cabinet of Ministers had approved the extension, following a proposal put forward by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, who also serves as the Finance Minister.
The decision is part of ongoing efforts to support businesses affected by the challenging economic environment, particularly those in the SME sector.
Minister Jayatissa highlighted that the Government recognises the vital role that SMEs play in the national economy and is committed to finding sustainable solutions to help these entrepreneurs meet their financial obligations.
The Cabinet’s approval also includes the establishment of a mechanism aimed at facilitating dialogue with all relevant stakeholders, to ensure that a fair and viable approach is adopted.
The Government is exploring the development of an action plan that will enable SME entrepreneurs to repay their loans without the fear of having their assets seized.
This plan is intended to provide a more progressive and mutually beneficial solution, allowing businesses to recover and continue contributing to the economy, while also ensuring that financial institutions are able to recoup their dues.
December 11, Colombo (LNW): The ongoing fishing dispute between India and Sri Lanka will be a key topic of discussion during the upcoming official visit of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to India, Fisheries Minister Ramalingam Chandrasekaran disclosed.
The visit, which is scheduled from December 15 to 17, is expected to focus on several bilateral issues, with the fishing controversy taking centre stage.
Chandrasekaran revealed that discussions between officials from both countries have already taken place, aimed at addressing the tensions surrounding fishing practices in the waters off Sri Lanka’s northern coast.
He stressed that the matter requires mutual understanding and cooperation from both parties to reach a long-term, sustainable solution that benefits both countries’ fishermen.
The fishing activities of Tamil Nadu fishermen in Sri Lanka’s territorial waters have been a long-standing issue, with many Sri Lankan fishermen in the north feeling the adverse effects of the intrusion.
These cross-border fishing practices have led to tensions over maritime boundaries and resource management, threatening the livelihoods of local fishermen in Sri Lanka, particularly in the northern regions.
Chandrasekaran emphasised that the current government is committed to resolving this issue promptly, with a focus on finding a solution that is acceptable to both sides.
He further revealed that the Sri Lanka Navy has increased its patrols and operations in a bid to apprehend Tamil Nadu fishermen who are found to be fishing within Sri Lankan waters, in violation of the country’s maritime boundaries.
