Colombo (LNW): The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, raising concerns about the proposed increase of the Value Added Tax (VAT) to 18%, says the move could lead to a further decline in consumption.
While recognizing the government’s commitment to revenue enhancement in alignment with International Monetary Fund (IMF) obligations, the Ceylon Chamber said it is imperative to evaluate the broader economic ramifications of such a decision.
The current economic landscape, characterized by escalating income taxes, elevated electricity tariffs, and rise in fuel prices, suggests that an additional VAT increment will further strain consumers purchasing power, the Ceylon Chamber noted in a statement issued today (Nov. 03).
“As consumer spending plays a pivotal role in our GDP growth, there’s a significant risk that this tax increase could lead to a further decline in consumption. Household consumption expenditure growth has been contracting since the end of 2021.”
The Ceylon Chamber pointed out that at a time when Sri Lanka’s focus should be on reviving economic growth through reform measures, such hikes stands to inadvertently lead to further economic contraction, potentially offsetting the intended revenue gains.
On that account, the Ceylon Chamber has recommended that the government explore alternative fiscal strategies, such as expenditure rationalization.
By refining budgetary practices and reducing undue borrowing, a more balanced and sustainable fiscal path can be charted, the statement read further, adding that the pressing need to modernize the revenue collection mechanisms is evident.
““Challenges, such as the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) issuing tax default notices spanning several decades, highlight the inefficiencies of our current system.
The Revenue Administration Management Information System (RAMIS) demands further enhancement for maximum efficacy. A thorough digital transformation, leveraging systems like RAMIS, is crucial for streamlining processes and optimizing revenue collection.
The Ceylon Chamber assured that it remains committed to constructive dialogue with the government on these crucial matters, aiming to achieve a fiscal approach that ensures robust and sustainable economic growth for the entire nation.
Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s hope for Indian firms to take over the national carrier has become dim following the denial of prospective Indian bidders earmarked by the authorities, Indian news agency reports revealed.
“Interest is being shown by both aviation and non-aviation companies. They are based in many countries, including India,” Suresh Shah, Director General of Sri Lanka’s state-owned enterprise restructuring unit said
Tata Sons, Adani group and Emirates have been cited as possible suitors for SriLankan Airlines.
However Air India’s Managing Director and CEO Campbell Wilson denied that the airline is looking at buying SriLankan Airlines, the Hindu Business Line reported.
The Adani group too has denied interest in its emailed reply. InterGlobe Enterprises which owns IndiGo did not respond to a query, it added.
The Government has called for Expression of Interest (EOI) for the proposed divestiture of SriLankan Airlines three days ago as the island nation looks for at least U$ 500 million capital injection to make the airline viable, Aviation Minister Nimal SIripla De Silva said.
A prospective financial institution must have available investible funds and/or capital of at least US$ 300 million.
Subject to satisfying the stated criteria, the government invites body corporates, companies, firms, and any other legal entity or consortiums to apply.
SriLankan Airlines has 23 Airbus aircraft and flies to 39 destinations globally. It flies 77 weekly flights to nine cities in India.
Sri Lanka government has highlighted the access to the rapidly growing Indian aviation market to attract investors.
An investment opportunity teaser accompanying the bid document details the airline’s strengths such as its diversified network and dominant position in Lanka’s international traffic.
It pitches the Indian aviation growth story. Investment in SriLankan Airlines would give its owner’s access to India which is the third largest domestic aviation market in the world. It also highlights the potential of Sri Lanka as a hub for connecting India with South East Asia and Australia.
“A SriLankan Airlines hub could be established in Colombo airport to serve this purpose.
The development of this hub would be feasible based on the already existing critical mass of origin and destination traffic to and from Sri Lanka, which could cross-subsidise lower-yield connecting traffic.
The airline could be able to achieve larger economies of scale, which in turn would reduce its operating costs per passenger,” the teaser said.
“The air services agreement between Sri Lanka and India is highly liberal, allowing Sri Lankan designated carriers’ unrestricted frequencies to the majority of Indian cities, including metros, along with fifth freedom traffic rights connecting SAARC countries,” it said.
India is the largest source market for Sri Lankan tourism. Over two lakh Indians have visited the island nation till September accounting for 20 per cent of overall tourist arrivals, the Hindu Business Line claimed.
The ‘INFOTEL Information Technology Exhibition,’ organized by the Federation of Information Technology Industry Sri Lanka (FITIS), kicked off at the Bandaranaike International Conference Hall (BMICH) yesterday (03).
This event, aptly themed ‘Fuelling the Digital Economy,’ aligns with President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s visionary initiative to modernize Sri Lanka through digitization. It is being conducted under the auspices of the State Ministry of Technology and will be held till November 05th.
Acknowledging that the shift to the digital economy was a necessity rather than a choice, President Ranil Wickremesinghe outlined two key areas of focus. Firstly, he highlighted the need for enhancing human resources, especially in the education sector. He called on all stakeholders to address these challenges, particularly in the areas of education and market strategy, recognizing that time is of the essence to prevent technology from overtaking the nation’s progress. Mainly collaborative efforts are needed to supplement the school system and improve teacher training, implementing a crash program to address immediate educational needs. Secondly, the President stressed the importance of post-school training at both technical and graduate levels. He suggested that the industry should play a role in offering training programs, whether for-profit or not-for-profit. He encouraged the establishment of institutions that could help meet the growing demand for skilled professionals.
The President also urged the industry to devise a strategy for market penetration, recognizing the importance of reaching a $16 billion market goal. He stressed that achieving market penetration required a well-thought-out plan and called upon industry associations to collaborate in formulating such a strategy.
President Wickremesinghe outlined the significance of the Aadhaar system, the world’s largest biometric ID system and its integration into the Sri Lankan digital landscape. He stressed the need to streamline the distribution of government funds to beneficiaries, mentioning on-going discussions with India to adopt the entire Aadhaar system.
During the event, FITIS Chairman, Indika De Zoysa, presented a commemorative memento to the President, while in turn, conferred awards to recognize the innovative contributions made by schoolchildren.
The distinguished gathering included the presence of the Minister of Education, Susil Premajayath, State Minister for Technology Kanaka Herath, Secretary to the Prime Minister Anura Dissanayake, Secretary to the Ministry of Technology Prof. N. D. Gunawardxhena and prominent leaders from the IT industry.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe issued a gazette notification,Nov- (02) appointing a 10-member commission of inquiry headed by retired CJ Priyasath Dep PC to obtain and submit information, investigate, inquire into and examine all existing election laws and regulations and make necessary recommendations for the amendment of election laws.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe issued the Gazette notification to establish a commission with the mandate to propose revisions to electoral laws that align with contemporary requirements and uphold the integrity of political parties. This commission operates in accordance with the stipulations outlined in Sections 2 and 3 of the Commission of Inquiry Act No. 17 of 1948 and is chaired by the retired Chief Justice, President’s Advocate Vevage Priyasath Gerard Depp. The other commissioners serving on this commission include Sundaram Arumanayagam Senanayakesa Alindralage, President’s Advocate Nalin Jayantha Abeysekera, Rajitha Naveen Christopher Senaratne, Ahmed Lebbe Mohammed Salim, Sagarika Delgoda, Esther Sriani Nimalka Fernando, and Vitarana’s Deepani Samantha Rodrigo.
The primary tasks of this commission encompass a thorough examination of existing election laws and the formulation of recommendations for their improvement. These recommendations extend to guidelines on the responsible utilization of media by political parties and independent groups. Furthermore, the commission is entrusted with gathering information, conducting investigations and delivering recommendations regarding the implementation of a code of conduct that governs the conduct of political parties, enhancing the regulations concerning party registration and ensuring their actions are transparent and accountable to the public.
In addition to these responsibilities, the commission is also tasked with addressing several critical issues. These include augmenting the representation of women and youth in political processes, reducing the time between the announcement of an election and the release of results and exploring the possibility of electronic voting using modern technology as an alternative to traditional paper ballots. Finally, the commission is called upon to provide recommendations related to the proposed constitution.
Furthermore, in recognition of the imperative to establish and uphold mutual trust between Sri Lankan voters and political parties, various globally renowned organizations, including the Inter-Parliamentary Union, have diligently focused on delineating criteria for enhancing the transparency and accountability of political parties.
This heightened scrutiny stems from the notable escalation in the financial expenses associated with election campaigns, encompassing elections. The role of financial resources in shaping political landscapes and the potential for undue influence on policy decisions have garnered considerable concern. Additionally, there has been a growing awareness of individuals with criminal backgrounds infiltrating political parties, supplanting stable political organizations with short-term political entities, consequently contributing to political instability. These issues have been of particular concern.
Further, the commission is expected to produce its report within a timeframe of six months.
In a significant event held in Colombo, the exchange of bilateral documents took centre stage, marking the initiation of projects supported by a generous USD 15 million grant from the Government of India.
This grant is specifically allocated to bolster the longstanding Buddhist connections between India and Sri Lanka, underscoring the deep historical and cultural ties that bind these two nations together.
The signing of the bilateral agreements took place at the President’s House in Colombo, Nov- (02). President Wickremesinghe and Hon Finance Minister of India Ms Nirmala Sitaraman engaged in lengthy bilateral discussions during this event.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s announcement of this substantial grant underscores the significance of strengthening Buddhist linkages between the two countries. The grant could be allocated towards various initiatives, including the construction and renovation of Buddhist monasteries, capacity development, cultural exchange, archaeological cooperation, reciprocal exhibition of relics and other areas of mutual interest.
In recognition of the evolving economic landscape in Sri Lanka, both countries have agreed to recalibrate the grant amount from Sri Lankan Rupees to Indian Rupees, aligning it with the prevailing market conditions. This adjustment is being formalized through diplomatic Letters of Exchange and Acceptance, signifying a shared commitment to further enhancing these ties.
High Commissioner of India, Gopal Baglay and Secretary of the Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, Somaratne Vidanapathirana, played pivotal roles in exchanging these documents, and this momentous occasion was witnessed by President Ranil Wickremesinghe and the Hon Finance Minister of India Ms Nirmala Sitaraman. The first project to be initiated under the USD 15 million grant is the solar electrification of religious sites across Sri Lanka, with an allocation of USD 10 million. The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for this significant project was jointly finalized by the governments of India and Sri Lanka.
This historic moment was captured with a photograph featuring all distinguished participants, celebrating a significant milestone in the bilateral relations of India and Sri Lanka.
This event was graced by the presence of Minister of Foreign Affairs Ali Sabry, Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs Vidura Wickramanayaka, Minister of Water Supply and Estate Infrastructure development Jeewan Thondaman, Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka HE Gopal Bhaglay, Senior Advisor to the President on National Security and Chief of Staff to the President Mr. Sagala Ratnayaka, Secretary to the President Mr Saman Ekanayake, Governor of the Central Bank Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe, Dr. R.H.S. Samaratunga, Senior Economic Advisor to the President, Secretary to the Treasury and the Ministry of Finance Mr. K. M. Mahinda Siriwardana, Secretary to the Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs Mr. Somaratne Vidanapathirana, Members of the Indian High Commission, members of the visiting Indian delegation, Foreign Ministry officials and High level Government officials.
Following the national cricket team’s significant defeat against India in ODI 33 of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, the Secretary of Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC), Mohan de Silva, has tendered his resignation. This decision came in the wake of mounting criticism surrounding the team’s performance.
On November 3rd, Sports Minister Roshan Ranasinghe called upon the Executive Committee (ExCo) of the cricket governing body and the Selection Committee to step down from their positions or face severe consequences in light of the team’s consecutive losses.
In a press release, the lawmaker emphasized that both the cricket board’s ExCo and the Selection Committee should take responsibility for the recent defeats suffered by the national team.
Meanwhile, SLC has demanded an immediate and thorough explanation from the entire coaching staff and selectors after India’s resounding 302-run victory over Sri Lanka in Mumbai on November 2nd. The Sri Lankan team was dismissed for a mere 55 runs, marking the second successive lowest score against India, following a previous 50 all-out in the Asia Cup final leading up to the World Cup.
While acknowledging that losses are part of the sporting journey, SLC expressed deep disappointment with the recent defeats. The organization aims to initiate a constructive dialogue to identify areas for improvement and enhance competitiveness in future matches.
SLC further emphasized its expectation of a swift and comprehensive response from the coaching staff, demonstrating a strong commitment to improving the team’s performance in the remaining matches of the 2023 World Cup and in future competitions.
In the rich tapestry of life, there are those who shine with compassion and resilience, leaving an everlasting imprint on our hearts. Matthew Perry was one of these exceptional souls, whose impact reached well beyond the movie screens. His life was a moving story of how one person can touch many lives, providing comfort, hope, and a helping hand to those in times of trouble. In the quieter moments of his life, away from the spotlight, Matthew Perry’s legacy was a testament to boundless kindness and the art of giving back.
(She’s talking about Matthew Perry but she doesn’t talk about Friends??? Did she really know who Matthew Perry is? – Well, Reader, keep reading, you’ll find out soon!)
Matthew Perry’s journey through life began in a quaint town in Massachusetts on August 19, 1969. From a young age, it was evident that he possessed a natural flair for humor and an innate ability to make people laugh. However, his childhood was not without its challenges, which ultimately contributed to shaping the remarkable individual he would become.
At the heart of Matthew Perry’s early years was a family marked by both creativity and adversity.
His father, John Bennett Perry, was an actor, and his mother, Suzanne Morrison, was a Canadian journalist and press secretary to the former Prime Minister of Canada, Pierre Trudeau.
“My mom’s job therefore meant that she was away at work a lot — and I was left to compete with the ongoing concerns of a major Western democracy and its charismatic swordsman leader if I wanted a little attention,” .
Matthew wrote in his memoir
During that time, Matthew elaborated, he felt like a “latchkey kid” and started having “bad behavior.” “I got s—– grades, I started smoking, I beat up Pierre’s son,” he wrote, referring to current Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
Yet, his childhood was also marked by the turmoil of his parents’ divorce when he was just a child. The separation brought with it a degree of instability and upheaval, which undoubtedly left a profound impact on the young Matthew.
In 1981, when Matthew was 12, Suzanne Morrison and Keith Morrison became husband and wife, and later they had 4 kids – Caitlin, Emily, Will and Madeline. “I think it’s because I was 10 years old when my sister Caitlin was born,” he wrote in his memoir. “Then came Emily, then Will, and then finally Madeline. I loved playing with them all, babysitting them, playing dumb games with them. There is no greater sound on the face of the planet than a child’s laughter.”
In 1997, Matthew developed a dependency on Vicodin after he was prescribed the pain medication following a jet ski accident. Four years later, during a low point in his decades-long struggle with addiction, Matthew called his parents from a Dallas hotel room, asking for their help to get him sober.
“I was in fear of losing my life,” he told PEOPLE in 2002. “There’s a moment of clarity where you have to prioritize your life. I listened to it.”
Keith and Suzanne were by his side and got him into a rehabilitation facility following the call.
“It was scary. I didn’t want to die,” he said. “But I’m grateful for how bad it got. It only made me more adamant about trying to get better.”
Matthew Perry’s journey through addiction was marked by periods of relapse and recovery. Despite the immense challenges, he never lost sight of his desire to overcome his demons. His determination to seek treatment and face his addiction head-on illustrated his unwavering commitment to recovery.
Matthew Perry’s memoir, “Friends, Lovers, and the Terrible Big Thing,” which he dedicates to ‘For all the sufferers out there. You know who you are’, served as a lifeline and a source of inspiration for countless individuals battling addiction. Its impact was profound, offering a unique window into the struggles, resilience, and redemption of a well-known figure who had faced his own demons.
For those grappling with addiction, reading Matthew Perry’s candid account of his personal journey was like a beacon of hope. The memoir provided a sense of camaraderie and understanding, reassuring them that they were not alone in their struggles. It was a reminder that even someone in the spotlight, like Matthew Perry, could face and conquer the same challenges they were experiencing.
The thing that I’m most proud of in my life is that if a stranger came up to me and said, ‘I can’t stop drinking. I can’t stop drinking. Can you help me?’ I can say, ‘Yes, I can help you.’
Matty writes in his memoir
The memoir doesn’t just focus on the darkness of addiction; it also sheds light on the complexities of recovery. Readers get a comprehensive view of how addiction can affect every aspect of a person’s life, from personal relationships to one’s emotional well-being. This portrayal is both heart-wrenching and inspiring, illustrating the arduous journey to sobriety.
Within the pages of this memoir, Matthew Perry does not hold back. He shares the most intimate details of his life, from the heights of his success to the depths of his battles with addiction. His honesty is both refreshing and raw, allowing readers to connect with his journey on a profound level.
In the pages of his memoir, “Friends, Lovers, and the Terrible Big Thing,” Matthew Perry takes a moment to reflect on the profound impact that his time on the iconic TV series “Friends” had on his life. He extends heartfelt gratitude to the friends who became like family both on and off the screen, as well as the devoted fan base who made the show a cultural phenomenon.
Matthew Perry’s portrayal of Chandler Bing was not just a role; it was a deeply personal journey that intertwined with his own experiences and personality. He shares the profound connection he had with the character and the camaraderie he felt with his fellow cast members, who became lifelong friends.
In the memoir, he thanks Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, and David Schwimmer for the laughter, support, and friendship they shared during their time on the show. Their genuine bonds extended beyond the scripted lines, and he acknowledges how their off-screen friendships helped create the authentic and enduring chemistry of the characters on “Friends.”
He expresses his gratitude for the show’s writers, producers, and the entire crew who worked tirelessly to bring the magic of “Friends” to life. Their collective effort made the series a beloved part of television history.
“Before that final episode, I’d taken Marta Kauffman to one side,” Perry wrote in “Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing.” “‘Nobody else will care about this except me,’ I said. ‘So, may I please have the last line?’ That’s why as we all troop out of the apartment, and Rachel has suggested one last coffee, I got to bring the curtain down on ‘Friends.'”
One of Matthew Perry’s most prominent ventures on the big screen was in the year 2000 when he took on the role of Nicholas “Oz” Oseransky in “The Whole Nine Yards.” This dark comedy introduced Perry as a hapless dentist caught up in a tangled web of crime alongside Bruce Willis. His performance showcased his ability to add a unique charm to the movie through his comedic timing.
A few years later, in 2004, Perry reprised his role as Oz in the sequel, “The Whole Ten Yards.” The film continued the comedic misadventures of the characters, and Perry’s return added to the film’s lighthearted charm.
In 1997, Perry ventured into the realm of romantic comedy with “Fools Rush In.” Here, he starred alongside Salma Hayek, playing the role of Alex Whitman, a straight-laced New Yorker who found himself in a whirlwind romance and unexpected pregnancy with a spirited Mexican-American woman. Perry’s performance skillfully combined humor with emotional depth.
The year 2009 saw him in the supporting role of the older version of Zac Efron’s character, Mike O’Donnell, in “17 Again.” The film explored themes of second chances and the consequences of life choices.
Perry’s presence extended to the realm of television as well. In 2006, he took on a leading role as Matt Albie in “Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip,” a series created by Aaron Sorkin. The show delved into the behind-the-scenes drama and politics of the entertainment industry, and Perry’s performance added depth to the series’ dynamic.
In “The Good Wife,” a critically acclaimed legal drama series, Perry made guest appearances as Mike Kresteva. His recurring role brought layers of complexity to the show’s political and legal dynamics, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
From 2015 to 2017, Perry starred as Oscar Madison in “The Odd Couple,” a TV series adaptation of Neil Simon’s classic play and film. The show provided a modern take on the beloved story and allowed Perry to display his comedic skills once again.
And in “Go On,” which aired from 2012 to 2013, Perry took on the role of Ryan King, a sports talk radio host who joins a support group to cope with the loss of his wife. The show humorously explored themes of grief and personal growth.
‘Friends’ was a magical thing, and no one’s going to ever have anything like that again.
Matthew Perry’s journey through the world of entertainment extended well beyond the confines of Central Perk and his beloved character, Chandler Bing, in “Friends.” As he navigated the highs and lows of his acting career, he left a lasting impact on the realms of both television and film.
Chandler Bing, the lovable character from the iconic TV series “Friends,” was not just a role that Matthew Perry portrayed; he was a character deeply intertwined with the actor’s own personality. The closeness between Chandler and Matthew Perry was palpable throughout the show, and it’s this remarkable connection that made the character so authentic and endearing.
One of the most striking similarities between Chandler and Matthew was their shared sense of humor. Chandler Bing was known for his razor-sharp, sarcastic wit and his knack for delivering perfectly timed one-liners. Similarly, Matthew Perry possessed an impeccable comedic timing and a remarkable ability to infuse humor into every scene he graced. It’s almost as if Chandler’s humor was an extension of Matthew’s own personality.
Matthew’s portrayal of Chandler also carried a depth of vulnerability and complexity that made the character incredibly relatable. Chandler grappled with issues of commitment, self-esteem, and family dynamics, and Matthew Perry’s own personal journey added an authentic layer to the character’s evolution. Matthew had his own battles and struggles, including his well-documented battles with addiction, and these experiences undoubtedly lent depth and authenticity to Chandler’s character.
Furthermore, the chemistry between Chandler Bing and his best friend, Joey Tribbiani, portrayed by Matt LeBlanc, was a central element of the show’s dynamics. The camaraderie and friendship between these two characters were both heartwarming and hilarious. Matthew Perry and Matt LeBlanc’s genuine friendship off-screen undoubtedly played a role in creating the genuine and enduring bond between Chandler and Joey on-screen.
I loved playing Chandler. I grew up playing that part.
The close connection between Matthew Perry and Chandler Bing extended beyond the scripted lines and onto the set. Perry’s portrayal of the character felt so authentic because it wasn’t just acting; it was a reflection of his own personality and experiences. His ability to seamlessly blend his own qualities with those of Chandler Bing made the character relatable, lovable, and enduring.
In many ways, Chandler Bing became a part of Matthew Perry, and their closeness was evident in every episode of “Friends.” The character’s journey, growth, humor, and vulnerability were a testament to the remarkable connection between actor and character. Chandler Bing remains one of the most beloved characters in television history, in no small part due to the authentic and heartfelt portrayal by Matthew Perry, a portrayal that was deeply personal and close to his heart.
And why did I take so long to talk about Friends and Chandler Bing so far behind? It’s because that’s what Matty wanted!
Matthew Perry was buried on Friday at a Los Angeles cemetery in a service attended by relatives and castmates from Friends.
All five Friends co-stars – Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc and David Schwimmer – were there, TMZ said. Page Six said Perry’s father, John Bennett Perry, and his stepfather, Keith Morrison, were also there.
Matty’s story reminds us that in the face of adversity, there is hope.
That friendship can heal wounds, and redemption is possible for anyone willing to take the first step. He leaves behind a legacy that is more than just the characters he portrayed; it’s a reminder that within each of us, there’s the potential for transformation, resilience, and the capacity to touch the hearts of others.
Reading Friends, Lovers, and the Terrible Big Thing will never be the same again, watching Friends will never be the same again! Goodbye Mattman, The Man, The Myth, The LEGEND, you’ll be missed but never forgotten.
In a recent raid conducted in Denagama, Hakmana, law enforcement authorities apprehended seven suspects, one of whom is a police constable, for possession of heroin. The raid resulted in the seizure of 3 grams and 150 milligrams of heroin from the suspects, including the constable.
The arrested individuals are slated to appear in court on Saturday, the 4th of the month.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe says the UN is treating the Gaza issue in one way while SL is judged in another way: urges the UN to come with clean hands at the UNHRC sessions next September so that SL could answer: questions as to why SL should answer if there is no fairness.
Litro Gas Chairman says the price of a 12.5kg domestic LP Gas cylinder will be increased by Rs.70-90 with effect from today.
Police Media Spokesperson says another 3-week service extension has been granted to IGP C D Wickramaratne.
Sports Minister Roshan Ranasinghe says Sri Lanka Cricket coaching staff is paid close to USD 120,000 per month: this sum is inclusive of USD 30,000 to Head Coach Chris Silverwood, USD 20,000 to Consultant Coach Mahela Jayawardane & USD 14,000 to Assistant Coach Naveed Nawaz.
TMTK Leader and Jaffna District MP C V Wigneswaran says they are extremely disappointed with President Ranil Wickremasinghe’s behaviour: claims that none of the promises made by the President with regard to the Tamil community, particularly in the North and East, have been fulfilled,
Opposition leader Sajith Premadasa accuses the Govt of “shrinking” the economy through its proposal to increase VAT to 18%: claims it will reduce spending & investments: also says Sri Lanka’s problem can only be resolved through economic growth and not through economic shrinkage.
Financial & Commercial Crimes Investigation Division arrests 5 directors of “OnmaxDT” for an alleged fraudulent pyramid scheme: the arrested directors remanded until November 16.
Helicopter carrying President Ranil Wickremesinghe reportedly forced to land at a school playground in the Wellawaya area: the helicopter reportedly had to make an emergency landing as a precaution against a sudden change in weather.
SJB MP Hesha Vithanage says the Sports Minister should get rid of everyone directly connected with Cricket even if Sri Lanka loses ICC membership.
Sri Lanka Cricket calls for an urgent explanation from the coaching staff & selectors after the recent massive defeat at the hands of India in the 2023 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup: expresses deep disappointment over the performance of the team during the ongoing World Cup 2023.
The National Dengue Control Unit has raised concerns about the increasing number of high-risk zones for dengue. According to its Director, Dr. Nalin Ariyaratne, the number of high-risk zones has surged to 36. Disturbingly, dengue breeding spots have been identified not only in homes but also in public areas, government institutions, and private facilities.
To combat the threat of dengue, the National Dengue Control Unit is urging school students to avoid wearing clothing that exposes their skin in order to protect themselves from dengue mosquitoes.
In 2023, a total of 69,0008 dengue cases have been reported across the island, with 4,000 cases reported in October 2023 alone. Alarming statistics reveal that almost 500 child dengue cases were reported in just the last three days of November.
