The Court of Appeal, headed by Justices Sobhitha Rajakaruna and D.N. Samarakoon, has once again pushed back the hearing on the Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) Interim Committee case.
Sri Lanka Original Narrative Summary: 24/11
- President Ranil Wickremesinghe says Sri Lanka may become a battleground in the geopolitical power struggle between India & China: asserts however that SL will not endanger the security of India.
- Ceylon Electricity Board says it is confronting staggering losses once again: estimates an alarming Rs.18bn loss, and asserts it is necessary to introduce the tariff increase.
- Dr Sashini Ranaweera of the National Dengue Control Unit says Sri Lankans between the ages of 15 and 49 are affected by dengue more than those of other age categories: asserts most of the dengue deaths are also reported among the same age group.
- Medical Supplies Division of the Ministry of Health states that a total of 115 drugs have failed quality tests so far in 2023.
- Matter pertaining to the appointment of an Interim Committee at Sri Lanka Cricket to be taken up before the Court of Appeal today.
- President Ranil Wickremesinghe says in Parliament that a Parliamentary Select Committee will be appointed to probe the delays by the Constitutional Council in approving names to high posts.
- Chairman of the Human Rights Commission L T B Dehideniya sends letter to Minister of Justice Wijayadasa Rajapakshe advocating for the repeal or amendment of Sections 365 and 365A of the Penal Code: recommends measures aligning national laws with international human rights norms.
- Foreign funded Think Tank says SL’s hotel minimum room rates policy acts as a “price control” & is the worst course of action that can be taken by the Govt: asserts it places the industry at a considerable disadvantage against regional & global competitors at a time when a global slowdown looms.
- Central Bank cuts its policy rate at which money is injected into the banking system to 10% & the lower corridor to 9%: says sufficient monetary easing has been effected in order to stabilise inflation over the medium term.
- SL speedster Matheesha Pathirana, 20, set to miss the upcoming 2023 Abu Dhabi T10 Cricket season, due to an injury: apart from Pathirana, his SL pace mates Lahiru Kumara, Dushmantha Chameera & Dilshan Madushanka will also be skipping the T10 franchise leagues citing several reasons.
Central Bank Slashes Rates by 100 Basis Points, Aims to Steady Inflation Amid Global Economic Outlook
The Monetary Policy Board of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) recently announced a substantial reduction in both the Standing Deposit Facility Rate (SDFR) and the Standing Lending Facility Rate (SLFR) by 100 basis points each, setting them at 9.00% and 10.00%, respectively.
This decision, made during their November 23 meeting, stems from a comprehensive evaluation of the local and global economic landscapes. The primary objective remains stabilizing inflation at 5% over the medium term while aiding the economy in reaching its potential level.
Acknowledging potential inflationary pressures due to forthcoming domestic and global factors, the Board remains confident that these short-term risks won’t significantly alter the medium-term inflation outlook. This conviction arises from the public’s anchored inflation expectations and the anticipation of subdued economic activity in the near to medium term.
Having implemented multiple monetary policy measures since June 2023, the Board believes that sufficient monetary easing has been executed to stabilize inflation over the medium term. Consequently, they stress the urgency for financial institutions to swiftly and fully pass on these easing measures to market interest rates, especially lending rates, facilitating a rapid normalization of these rates in the foreseeable future.
The CBSL’s recent data highlights a persistently low headline inflation, with October 2023 figures indicating a marginal increase from previous months. Notably, food inflation remained negative for the fourth consecutive month. Core inflation, reflecting underlying demand pressures, further eased in October, aligning with the overall subdued demand in the economy.
Anticipating a temporary uptick in inflation due to upcoming changes in Value Added Tax (VAT) effective January 2024, the CBSL expects this rise to be short-lived, supported by subdued demand pressures. They reiterate confidence in inflation converging towards the targeted 5% level over the medium term, backed by appropriate policy actions.
Market interest rates are forecasted to normalize in the coming period, with noticeable adjustments already observed. With policy rate cuts, credit to the private sector expanded in September and October 2023, signaling a positive impact on market lending rates. This easing of rates is expected to stimulate further private sector credit, fostering the envisioned revival of domestic economic activity.
Ambassador M. R. K. Lenagala presents credentials in Austria
Ambassador M. R. K. Lenagala presented Letters of Credence accrediting him as the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Sri Lanka to Austria to the Federal President of the Republic of Austria Alexander Van der Bellen at the Hofburg Palace in Vienna on 21 November 2023.
The presentation of credentials was followed by a courtesy call on the Federal President of Austria and an inspection of the Presidential Guard of Honour.
During the courtesy call, Ambassador Lenagala conveyed to the Austrian President Van der Bellen greetings and best wishes from President Ranil Wickremesinghe, which were warmly reciprocated. Avenues for further strengthening of bilateral relations were discussed particularly in view of the important milestone of 70th Anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 2024. Counsellor Charitha Weerasinghe of the Embassy was also present at the meeting.
Ambassador Lenagala is a career diplomat with over 25 years of experience. Prior to this appointment he served as Additional Secretary (Multilateral Affairs) at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Colombo. In his previous diplomatic assignments he has served at the Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka to the United Nations in New York and as the Deputy High Commissioner of Sri Lanka both in London and in New Delhi. At the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Colombo he has served in several capacities at the Political Affairs West and the UN & Human Rights Divisions, the latter of which he has headed twice as the Director General. He has also served as Personal Assistant to four consecutive Ministers of Foreign Affairs. A past student of Ananda College Colombo, he holds a Bachelor of Science degree and a Masters of International Relations degree from the University of Colombo. He is an Attorney-at-Law of the Supreme Court of Sri Lanka.
The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Austria is concurrently accredited to Bosnia & Herzegovina, Czechia, Hungary, Serbia, Slovakia and Slovenia and also serves as the Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka to the United Nations Office and Other International Organisations in Vienna.
Embassy and Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka
Vienna
23 November 2023
Parliament’s Committee on Ways and Means Addresses “Aswasuma” Program and Grama Niladhari Officials’ Concerns
Led by Chairperson Patali Champika Ranawaka, the 18th meeting of the Committee on Ways and Means convened in Parliament on November 22, focusing on crucial discussions regarding the “Aswasuma” benefit program and the involvement of Grama Niladhari officials in its implementation.
Representatives from various entities, including the Welfare Benefit Board, Director Generals of Institutions, Grama Niladhari officials Trade Unions, and several associations representing Grama Niladhari officials, were summoned for this pivotal session.
Central to the discussions was the necessity for the Ministry of Public Administration, Home Affairs, Provincial Councils, and Local Government to address concerns pertaining to the service constitution of Grama Niladhari officials. This is crucial for the successful engagement of Grama Niladhari officials in executing the appeal process of the “Aswasuma” benefit program and facilitating its second phase. The Committee on Ways and Means expressed readiness to facilitate discussions and provide necessary coordination to resolve these issues.
Key points highlighted by the Grama Niladhari officials included the need for specific written authorizations defining their roles, the appointment of administrative Grama Niladhari officials as supervisory officers, clarity on legal protection, work responsibilities, stipends aligned with the cost of living, and defining their roles precisely.
Chairperson Patali Champika Ranawaka stressed the importance of a cohesive program for “Aswasuma,” drawing parallels to previous government initiatives such as ‘Vidatha’ centers and the Central Bank’s loan scheme. He recommended engaging 332 Administrative Grama Niladhari officials and representatives from trade unions to address accountability, technical modifications, allowances, and agreements pertaining to the “Aswasuma” program.
Additionally, suggestions were made to delineate the responsibilities of Grama Niladhari officials in writing, review punitive sections of relevant acts concerning their authority delegation, and consider grassroots opinions while setting program criteria.
Furthermore, the meeting touched upon the human-elephant conflict in the Irudeniya area, showcasing the committee’s broad range of concerns.
State Minister Hon. Shasheendra Rajapaksa and several Members of Parliament including Hon. Ashok Abeysinghe, Hon. Sanjeeva Edirimanna, Hon. Nalaka Bandara Kottegoda, and Hon. Wasantha Yapabandara actively participated in this consequential Committee meeting.
Few showers may occur at some places in Northern province
Showers or thundershowers will occur at a few places in Sabaragamuwa, Central and Western provinces and in Galle and Matara districts.
A few showers may occur at some places in Northern province and in Trincomalee district.
The general public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimize damages caused by temporary localized strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.
Legislative Assembly not akin to UNP agenda!: Opposition Leader (VIDEO)
Colombo (LNW): Leader of the Opposition, Mr. Sajith Premadasa highlighted the shortcomings of the Legislative Assembly in its failure to appoint an Inspector General of Police (IGP) and several judges.
He underscored that despite the President’s statements in Parliament, the Assembly is not akin to the working committee of the United National Party, nor does it function at the President’s sole discretion.
Regarding the appointments of the IGP, while the Assembly approved and appointed nominees on two occasions, the President later declined temporary appointments, insisting on a permanent appointment for the third submission.
This rejection led to confusion, for which the Legislative Assembly bears no responsibility, as stated by the Opposition Leader.
Mr. Premadasa also criticised the President for allegedly misrepresenting facts concerning the IGP appointments.
He clarified that during the tenure of previous Speakers, such as Mr. Karu Jayasuriya, emergency appointments such as this were not made, highlighting the disparity in the President’s claims.
Furthermore, Mr. Premadasa emphasised that attributing decisions to the country’s failure based on the Assembly’s actions is unwarranted, affirming that the Assembly isn’t a passive entity but holds its autonomy.
Additionally, he pointed out the disparity in the government’s response, noting the absence of a select committee to investigate the Easter attack, contrasting it with the swift establishment of a committee to address the economic crisis.
Parts of Colombo to experience 16-hour water suspension tomorrow (Nov 24)
Colombo (LNW): A 16-hour water supply suspension will occur for certain areas of Colombo, effective from 5:00 p.m. tomorrow until 9:00 a.m on Saturday, the National Water Supply & Drainage Board (NWSDB) announced.
The affected areas include Colombo 11, 12, 13, 14, and 15.
The interruption is necessary for essential maintenance work as part of the Ambatale Water Supply System Improvements and Energy Saving Project.
China’s pursuit of greater IMF role creates complexity for debtor nations: President
Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka President Ranil Wickremesinghe has highlighted the challenges posed by China’s distinct approach to the island nation’s debt treatment, during an interview with India’s FirstPost.
The President emphasised that Sri Lanka’s economic situation remains complex. Acknowledging China as the largest bilateral creditor to Sri Lanka, Wickremesinghe underscored that the primary creditors are the international sovereign bonds held by private entities.
He explained that negotiations with China are conducted separately, reflecting China’s dissatisfaction with the terms offered by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank. China seeks a more significant role in the IMF and has chosen to pursue a separate path, complicating matters for debtor nations, the President noted.
He clarified that the challenges arising from China’s independent stance are not unique to Sri Lanka but impact all nations grappling with debt. Wickremesinghe also characterised this situation as an issue to be addressed by major players on the international stage.
In essence, the Sri Lankan President conveyed that China’s actions signal a message to the IMF and other entities, leaving it to them to navigate and resolve the complexities arising from this distinctive approach.
SL engages in 6th International Tourism and Travel Fair at Travel Expo Ankara
Colombo (LNW): The Sri Lankan Embassy in Ankara actively participated in the 6th Travel EXPO Ankara 2023 at ATO Congresium from November 16 to 19.
The event, inaugurated by Deputy President Cevdet Yilmaz, Minister of Culture and Tourism Mehmet Nuri Ersoy, and Ankara Chamber of Commerce Chairman Gursel Baran, featured the Sri Lanka stall showcasing the country’s cultural richness through art, handicrafts, and sculptures.
Nearly 2000 visitors were captivated by the display, enjoying Ceylon tea while learning about its unique flavours.
The Ambassador of Sri Lanka, S. Hasanthi Urugodawatte Dissanayake, engaged in interviews, promoting tourism, Ceylon Tea, and cultural diplomacy.
With over 70,000 attendees, the Travel EXPO provided a platform for diplomatic engagement and cultural exchange among Turkish nationals and expats in Türkiye.
The event was organised by Atis Fair, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Türkiye, Turkish Republic Ankara Governorship, and various Chambers of Commerce and Tourism Sector Associations.