If the JVP or SJB in its current policy vacillation, form a government in the future , I would bet my two cents that the Rajapaksas would sweep back to power not before long.

By Ranga Jayasuriya If the elections are held now, the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP)-led National People’s Power (NPP) is the likely winner. However, none of the political parties would manage to secure a majority, according to an opinion poll by a local think tank. The findings of the Institute for Health Policy Sri Lanka survey …

Continue reading ‘If the JVP or SJB in its current policy vacillation, form a government in the future , I would bet my two cents that the Rajapaksas would sweep back to power not before long.’ »

President Ranil Wickremesinghe needs to show the statesmanlike approach he is capable of by assuring the people that the govt will indeed find the money to hold the local govt elections soon.

by Jehan Perera Government supporters appear to be satisfied at the masterful manner by which they believe they have had the local government elections postponed. They deny there was to be an election to be postponed, at all! They find fault with the Election Commission for not having minutes of the meeting they had to …

Continue reading ‘President Ranil Wickremesinghe needs to show the statesmanlike approach he is capable of by assuring the people that the govt will indeed find the money to hold the local govt elections soon.’ »

Tale of two Break-up Books; “The Break -up of Britain”by Tom Nairn and “The Break-up of Sri Lanka: The Sinhalese-Tamil Conflict” by A.Jeyaratnam Wilson

By Rajan Philips Tom Nairn, widely known for his 1977 book, The Break-up of Britain, considered by many as “the most significant book on British politics of the past half-century,” passed away on January 21, in Edinburgh, Scotland. He was 90 years old and had become a “guru figure” for Scottish Nationalists over the last …

Continue reading ‘Tale of two Break-up Books; “The Break -up of Britain”by Tom Nairn and “The Break-up of Sri Lanka: The Sinhalese-Tamil Conflict” by A.Jeyaratnam Wilson’ »

Indian Business Leaders Based in Colombo say Despite Challenges there is “enormous scope” for foreign direct investment in Sri Lanka in a host of sectors such as information technology, tourism, and renewable energy.

By Meera Srinivasan Sri Lanka is reeling under last year’s crushing economic meltdown and consequent political turmoil, but it is still a good time to invest in the cash-strapped island nation, according to Indian business leaders in capital Colombo. While acknowledging the many challenges facing the business community in Sri Lanka, the CEOs of Indian …

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“We have set the goal of transferring power from the corrupt elite class to the people within the next year and a half. We are working towards that goal. we will rally the people peacefully and democratically till the end.”- JVP Leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake

By Buddhika Samaraweera Emphasising that it is not difficult for the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP)-led National People’s Power (NPP), having waited patiently for 75 years, to wait patiently for another week or a month, NPP and JVP Leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake stated that their goal is to transfer political power, which has been limited to …

Continue reading ‘“We have set the goal of transferring power from the corrupt elite class to the people within the next year and a half. We are working towards that goal. we will rally the people peacefully and democratically till the end.”- JVP Leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake’ »

JVP led NPP Launces Massive Protest in Colombo Despite Restrictive Court Order; March Blocked by Police Personnel Lining up on Road; Water Cannon and Tear Gas used to Disperse Protesters, Several Injured; Army Deployed

By Buddhika Samaraweera The National People’s Power (NPP) led by the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) held a massive protest in the Town Hall area in Colombo against the postponement of the Local Government (LG) elections by current President and Finance, Economic Stabilisation, and National Policies Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and the Government led by him, which …

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Ranil Wickremesinghe Discloses in Parliament that MPs of the SJB and FPF Requested him to Postpone Elections to Prevent JVP Performing well at the Polls.”They told me that they would shout a bit in the House and then sit down”Reveals the President

(Excerpts drom the “Ceylon Politics”Column by Gagani Weerakoon in the “Ceylon Today”of 26 February 2023) President Wickremesinghe was in the Parliament Chamber on Thursday (23), all set to make a statement on Local Government Election 2023 and the conduct of the Election Commission. In order to hold one, there was no election to begin with, …

Continue reading ‘Ranil Wickremesinghe Discloses in Parliament that MPs of the SJB and FPF Requested him to Postpone Elections to Prevent JVP Performing well at the Polls.”They told me that they would shout a bit in the House and then sit down”Reveals the President’ »

Sri Lanka needs to be rescued from her conscienceless if not venal politicians, not limited to the Government benches alone.That may well be the greatest humanitarian operation of all

. By Kishali Pinto -Jayawardene What is the message that President Ranil Wickremesinghe conveys to Sri Lankans when he asserts (as he did in Kandy a few days ago) that the date of the local government elections can be ‘decided by court but you cannot save the economy by going to court even if all …

Continue reading ‘Sri Lanka needs to be rescued from her conscienceless if not venal politicians, not limited to the Government benches alone.That may well be the greatest humanitarian operation of all’ »

Two birds that most Sri Lankans are familiar with are the white-breasted waterhen (Korawakka/Neer Koazhi) and the red-wattled lapwing (Kirala/Aatkaati)

By Chandani Kirinde Bird watchers living in urban surroundings are often struck by the presence of several species of birds who remain undeterred by the rapid increase in human settlements in areas, which were once large marshy lands, paddy fields, swamps, or thickets. In most suburbs, a keen bird watcher can easily spot at least …

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Former Pakistan Ruler Gen Pervez Musharraf was a Good Friend of Sri Lanka;his Timely assistance and Personal Intervention Enabled the Armed Forces to Defend Jaffna from an LTTE onslaught

By Rajasinghe From its inception in 1947, Pakistan has been a close friend of Sri Lanka. Perhaps it was because, with its friction with the new India, a friendly country located in the southern tip of its adversary was a vital strategic advantage. Also, Pakistani rulers were aware that Sri Lankan Muslims identified themselves with …

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Iconic Cultural Centre is a Thoughtful Gift From India to the war-battered, emotionally bruised people of Jaffna

by D.B.S.Jeyaraj Jaffna City the capital of Sri Lanka’s predominantly Tamil speaking northern province was described as the cultural capital of the Tamils of Sri Lanka during its halcyon days. The escalation of the ethnic conflict along with the advent of armed conflict transformed life for Jaffna residents as it did for most Tamils of …

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Sri Lanka’s Election Commission Announces Postponement of local govt elections scheduled for March 9 due to reasons “beyond” its control;new date for the local body polls will be announced on March 3, says the EC in a media statement.

By Meera Srinivasan Sri Lanka’s Election Commission on Friday said the country’s local government elections, scheduled for March 9, stands postponed due to reasons “beyond” its control. The new date for the local body polls will be announced on March 3, the Election body said in a media statement. Further, the Election Commission has sought …

Continue reading ‘Sri Lanka’s Election Commission Announces Postponement of local govt elections scheduled for March 9 due to reasons “beyond” its control;new date for the local body polls will be announced on March 3, says the EC in a media statement.’ »

President Wickremesinghe states that the Opposition’s accusations of postponing the elections are baseless as the Election Commission has not “officially” announced a fixed date for the election; Provides Detailed Explanation about the LG Election Fiasco to Parliament

(Full Text of Press Release Issued by the President’s Media Division on February 23rd 2023) Participating in the parliamentary debate held today (23), President Ranil Wickremesinghe stated that the Opposition’s accusations of postponing the elections are baseless as the Election Commission has not officially announced a fixed date for the election. He further stated that …

Continue reading ‘President Wickremesinghe states that the Opposition’s accusations of postponing the elections are baseless as the Election Commission has not “officially” announced a fixed date for the election; Provides Detailed Explanation about the LG Election Fiasco to Parliament’ »

Sri Lankan Govt Approves $442 Million Wind Power Project of India’s Adani Green Energy; Board of Investment says two wind power Plants to be set up in Mannar and Poonagari in the Northern Province likely to Create 2000 Jobs and Generate 350 MW of Power

By Meera Srinivasan Crisis-hit Sri Lanka has approved a $442-million wind power project of Adani Green Energy, barely a month since the Indian multinational conglomerate’s stocks plummeted following U.S.-based short-seller Hindenburg’s damaging report on the Group. “Adani, a leading Indian company” received the project approval “to start two wind power plants in Mannar and Pooneryn …

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Colombo Royal College Reputed for Its Proud Secular Tradition is Being Gradually Turned Into an Ultra-Buddhist Institution

By Padmasena Dissanayake When the Colombo Academy was launched in 1835, we were under the British Empire. Despite many of its earliest principals being Anglican priests, Royal College (RC) was kept strictly secular throughout its existence. Until very recently! During the 450 years under European rulers, the earliest schools started by the missionaries were clearly …

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Upali Wijewardene: Much-loved Business Magnate with the “Midas” Touch.

by D.B.S.JEYARAJ 40 years ago on 13 February 1983, a privately owned Lear Jet plane flew out of Malaysia’s Subang Airport at 8.41 PM with six persons on board.It was expected to reach Colombo by 9.45 pm that night. 15 minutes after taking off, the plane lost radio contact with the airport.The final message received …

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President Wickremesinghe Reveals that Sri Lanka has Completed all 15 Tasks set by the IMF on Feb 15 after the Original Deadline was Exxtended ; the Delay was due to One man in the Country opposing the increase in Electricity Tariffs Says Ranil in Kandy

(Text of Press Release Issued by the Presidents Media Division) During a meeting with businessmen and lawyers in the Kandy district, President Ranil Wickremesinghe emphasized the importance of having a proper plan to strengthen the country’s economy. He praised the current government’s economic program, which has helped reduce recent economic difficulties. The President also acknowledged …

Continue reading ‘President Wickremesinghe Reveals that Sri Lanka has Completed all 15 Tasks set by the IMF on Feb 15 after the Original Deadline was Exxtended ; the Delay was due to One man in the Country opposing the increase in Electricity Tariffs Says Ranil in Kandy’ »

Would the LG elections help solve the country’s twin economic and political crises? The answer is a resolute ‘NO’. Worse still, it would make both worse!

By Ranga Jayasuriya The local government elections ran into not-so-unexpected troubles last week. As things stand now, they will most likely be postponed indefinitely after the government withheld funds to print polling cards. The government printer refused to print the polling cards without the full payment of Rs. 400 million, citing a circular issued by …

Continue reading ‘Would the LG elections help solve the country’s twin economic and political crises? The answer is a resolute ‘NO’. Worse still, it would make both worse!’ »

“Joining the IMF Program is the only way out for Sri Lanka; Agreement Reached with the IMF will be Submitted to Parliament for Approval.If it is Rejected the parties concerned will have to come up with Alternative Proposals”- President Wickremesinghe Tells Tax Forum

(Text of Press Release Issued by the President’s Media Division ) According to President Ranil Wickremesinghe, the current tax policy in Sri Lanka is not a normal tax policy, but rather a rescue operation. He warned that if this process is disrupted, Sri Lanka will not be able to join the International Monetary Fund (IMF) …

Continue reading ‘“Joining the IMF Program is the only way out for Sri Lanka; Agreement Reached with the IMF will be Submitted to Parliament for Approval.If it is Rejected the parties concerned will have to come up with Alternative Proposals”- President Wickremesinghe Tells Tax Forum’ »

Gaadi: Children of the Sun is a highly simple film with a highly complex take on social liberation

By Harrish Thirukumaran Auteur theory is considered a school of thought in filmmaking that considers the director as the major creative force behind a motion picture or film. This is something that immediately pops into the mind based on the feel and commentary on the film, Gaadi: Children of the Sun. Released in 2023 and …

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“After Ceylon got Universal Adult Franchise, the Ceylon National Congress was hijacked by a group that forged Sinhalese nationalism based on hazy ancient history and modern-day market capitalism.” – Rajan Hoole

By Meera Srinivasan Sri Lanka’s crisis last year was unprecedented on many accounts. But, it was not entirely unrelated to the country’s tumultuous past, marked by discriminatory laws and policy targeting the island nation’s minorities, especially the Malaiyaha Tamils, according to Rajan Hoole, Jaffna-based mathematician, best known for his human rights activism during the civil …

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Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe states that the debt-ridden island nation hoped to receive the IMF’s $2.9 billion package by March to set the country’s economy on a path of recovery after last year’s painful financial crash.

By Meera Srinivasan China must agree to take a haircut on its loans to poor countries and assist their economic recovery, India’s G20 Sherpa has said, in a rare, direct reference to Chinese debt of developing nations. “China needs to come out openly and say what their debt is and how to settle it,” said …

Continue reading ‘Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe states that the debt-ridden island nation hoped to receive the IMF’s $2.9 billion package by March to set the country’s economy on a path of recovery after last year’s painful financial crash.’ »

Sri Lanka’s present crisis is too serious to be left in the hands of the political class alone. The reactivation of the aragalaya in a new and more viable form would be fundamental to keeping the political class in check and sustaining popular hopes for change.

By Jayadeva Uyangoda Sri Lankans entered 2023 with an unwelcome gift from the government – a new income tax policy. This was meant to bolster empty public coffers as the government tries to navigate the country’s economic crisis, but for ordinary people already facing difficulty on every front it was one more blow from the …

Continue reading ‘Sri Lanka’s present crisis is too serious to be left in the hands of the political class alone. The reactivation of the aragalaya in a new and more viable form would be fundamental to keeping the political class in check and sustaining popular hopes for change.’ »

Nedumaran’s claim about LTTE’s Prabhakaran being alive could not have come at a better time for the Rajapaksas, who are desperately looking for a bogey in the run-up to a crucial election to instill fear in the Sri Lankan public and offer to protect them against evils such as terrorism.”-The Island

(Text of Editorial Appearing in “The Island” of 15 February 2023 under the heading “If wishes were Tigers”) P. Nedumaran, who leads a fringe group in Tamil Nadu, has got grabbing headlines down to a fine art. He used to ride on the tiger tails of the LTTE, as it were, when Prabhakaran was around, …

Continue reading ‘Nedumaran’s claim about LTTE’s Prabhakaran being alive could not have come at a better time for the Rajapaksas, who are desperately looking for a bogey in the run-up to a crucial election to instill fear in the Sri Lankan public and offer to protect them against evils such as terrorism.”-The Island’ »

“LTTE leader Velupillai Prabakaran is still alive and would emerge in public soon.” Claims Tamil Nationalist Movement Leader Pazha Nedumaran on February 13 2023 — News Report in “The Hindu”

Tamil nationalist movement leader Pazha Nedumaran claimed, on February 13, 2023, that the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Elam (LTTE) leader, Velupillai Prabakaran was still alive, and would emerge in public soon. Reading out a statement at a press conference in Thanjavur at Mullivaikkal Mutram, Mr. Nedumaran said the time was now appropriate for the LTTE …

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Rising Resentment Within the Army and Police Top Brass Led to the 1962 Coup Attempt.

By D.B.S. Jeyaraj The 1962 Coup Conspiracy – Part Two This is the second in a new intermittent series of articles by this column about the 1962 coup conspiracy. Last week’s article provided an outline of the coup conspiracy that aimed at seizing power through a well coordinated exercise codenamed “ Operation Holdfast”. A large …

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“Culture is the bridge of reconciliation and development.Let’s join hands to rebuild the fallen country”- states President Ranil Wickremesinghe at the ceremonial opening of the Jaffna Cultural Centre (JCC) on Nov 11;thanks Indiam Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the Wonderful Gift

(Text of Media release Issued by the Presidents Media Division) President Ranil Wickremesinghe expressing his views at the vesting ceremony of the Jaffna Cultural Centre (JCC) in the people of Sri Lanka called on everyone to join hands in brotherhood to rebuild this fallen nation. The JCC was completed with funds of Rs 13,500 million …

Continue reading ‘“Culture is the bridge of reconciliation and development.Let’s join hands to rebuild the fallen country”- states President Ranil Wickremesinghe at the ceremonial opening of the Jaffna Cultural Centre (JCC) on Nov 11;thanks Indiam Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the Wonderful Gift’ »

President Wickremesinghe states in Jaffna that The Northern Province would be developed systematically so that it could make a significant contribution to the country’s national economy;also points out that the economy could not be built through reconciliation alone.

(Text of Media release Issued by the Presidents Media Division) President Ranil Wickremesinghe said that the economy could not be built through the reconciliation alone and the economic development rate of the country depends on the attitude and commitment of the people. The President said that the Northern Province had made extensive contributions to the …

Continue reading ‘President Wickremesinghe states in Jaffna that The Northern Province would be developed systematically so that it could make a significant contribution to the country’s national economy;also points out that the economy could not be built through reconciliation alone.’ »

The President and his Govt lacking a popular mandate to govern, face off against a people bitterly refusing to bite with good grace on the bitter pill of deprivation while the privileged prosper.

By Kishali Pinto -Jayawardene In truth, President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s admonition that, ‘the future cannot be built on falsehood’ this Wednesday (February 8th, 2023) as he formally opened the fourth session of the ninth Parliament, must be addressed to the political leadership (himself included), not the nation as such. Quaint Throne Speeches and Presidential promises In …

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The Jaffna Cultural Center (JCC), constructed with grant assistance of the Indian Govt dedicated to the people by President Ranil Wickremesinghe in the presence of Indian Minister of State Dr. L. Murugan; Ranil Thanks Indian PM Modi for Gift.

(Text of Press Release Issued by the High Commission of India in Colombo on February 11th 2023) T..he iconic Jaffna Cultural Center (JCC), which was built with grant assistance of Government of India (GOI), was dedicated to the people on 11 February 2023 at a colourful event in the gracious presence of President of Sri …

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President Wickremesinghe Depends on Energetic Man of Action Harin Fernando to Revive the Tourism Sector to Earn Desperately Needed Foreign Exchange for the Country

By Rajasinghe It was R.G. Senanayake, a Minister of Trade and playboy, who first promoted tourism in Sri Lanka. He would spend weekends in the old rest houses in Bentota and Hikkaduwa with his friends and talk about the beauty of the sea and the fabulous beaches there, which he compared favourably to resorts in …

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Ranil Wickremesinghe’s opponents do not want to see him succeed. To deprive Ranil of his success, which might lead to a very credible presidential candidacy, they are ready to let the country fail. This is cringeworthy opportunism that does not make you a patriot or a social justice worrier, but a scumbag.

By Ranga Jayasuriya During the weekend, when Sri Lanka marked the 75th anniversary of its independence, it was a sober, sad, and indeed a bitter affair. Most of the public was bitterly critical of the celebrations. The police confronted silent protests. National flags were conspicuously missing in the city corners and houses. The police obtained …

Continue reading ‘Ranil Wickremesinghe’s opponents do not want to see him succeed. To deprive Ranil of his success, which might lead to a very credible presidential candidacy, they are ready to let the country fail. This is cringeworthy opportunism that does not make you a patriot or a social justice worrier, but a scumbag.’ »

“World’s Third Richest Man Gautam Adani Cut down to size in 7 days with tens of billions being wiped out from the Tycoon’s personal wealth; It is also a political embarrassment for Narendra Modi, the prime minister of India and a close associate of Mr Adani.” -The Economist

It took a little over seven days for a corporate titan to be cut down to size. Only weeks ago Gautam Adani was the world’s third-richest man and the self-proclaimed Rockefeller of India. Then a short-seller questioned his company’s finances, investors took fright and $100bn in market value evaporated. Tens of billions have been wiped …

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Toronto Mayor John Tory steps down from his post after admitting to an affair with with a former member of his staff that ended early this year by mutual consent

Popular Toronto Mayor John Tory has stepped down from his post in an unexpected turn of events. Tory resigned after admitting to an affair with with a former member of his staff. John Tory, who has been married to his wife Barbara Hackett for 45 years, blamed the affair on a “serious error of judgment” …

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The Jaffna Youth Congress Made History by Calling for “Poorana Swaraj”(Complete Independence) from Colinial Rule and Enforcing the 1931 Boycott Of State Council Elections in Jaffna.

By D.B.S.Jeyaraj The resplendent Island of Sri Lanka celebrates her seventy-fifth anniversary of Independence from Britain today – February 4th 2023. Earlier there was some hope in the air that the contours of a political settlement to the Tamil national question would be publicised by President Ranil Wicremesinghe on this 75th freedom day. It was …

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Memories of Pro-China Communist Party Leader Comrade “Shan”

By D.B.S.Jeyaraj (“Unrepentant Maoist” Nagalingam Sanmugathasan known to all as “Comrade Shan”passed away on 8th February 1993. This article written in July last year is reposted without any changes to denote the Communist party leader’s 30th death anniversary) Mao Zedong widely referred to as Chairman Mao was the revolutionary communist who played a pivotal role …

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“We are not asking for a separation of the County. We are for a united undivided even indivisible country. Don’t divide the country, but share power in a meaningful way, maximum devolution of power cannot happen in a unitary model”- M.A.Sumanthiran MP

(Text of Speech made by TNA Jaffna District MP Mathiaparanan Abraham Sumanthiran in Parliament during the adjournment debate on 09th February 2023) Thank you presiding officer for the opportunity to say a few words on the adjournment debate. On the Throne speech made by the President yesterday in this house, I am saying throne speech …

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“Let’s unite consensually and move forward democratically to support the recovery of the nation from the current crisis. If anyone wishes to have a political agenda, let’s consider it after we rescue the nation.”-President Ranil Wickremesinghe

(Full Text of Government’s Policy Statement delivered by President Ranil Wickremesinghe at the inauguration of the fourth session of the ninth Parliament on 6 February 2023) The moment the school children sang the National Anthem and Jayamangala Gatha during the last Independence Day Celebration, I was convinced of the need to secure their future. Are …

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“Introducing new tax policies is a politically unpopular decision. I’m not here to be popular. I want to rebuild this nation from the crisis situation it has fallen into. I’m ready to make unpopular decisions for the sake of the nation,” Declares President Ranil Wickremesinghe in Govt’s Policy Statement to Parliament.

By Chandani Kirinde President Ranil Wickremesinghe yesterday said there would be no change to the Government’s newly introduced tax policies insisting he is ready to take unpopular decisions on behalf of the country. “Introducing new tax policies is a politically unpopular decision. I’m not here to be popular. I want to rebuild this nation from …

Continue reading ‘“Introducing new tax policies is a politically unpopular decision. I’m not here to be popular. I want to rebuild this nation from the crisis situation it has fallen into. I’m ready to make unpopular decisions for the sake of the nation,” Declares President Ranil Wickremesinghe in Govt’s Policy Statement to Parliament.’ »

Despite Court Order Forbidding Protests near Parliament Entrance, Mob of Buddhist Bhikkus Stage Demonstration and Burn Copy of 13th Constitutional Amendment; no Tear gas or Water Cannon used by Cops to Disperse Illegal Protest

Despite a Court injunction preventing protests near the entrance to Parliament, a section of the Buddhist clergy marched towards the Parliament entrance yesterday (8) during President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s Statement of Government Policy speech following the inauguration of the fourth session of the ninth Parliament, protesting against the full implementation of the 13th Amendment to the …

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Police Riot Squads and Military Reinforcements Brought in to Control Massive Trade Union Demonstration Protesting in Colombo against Taxation

Pandemonium reigned on the streets of Colombo yesterday as trade unions across all sectors took to the streets to protest against the Government’s new tax regime forcing the Government to call for Police riot squads and military reinforcements to maintain law and order. At least 2000 Sri Lanka Port Authority workers marched towards the Fort …

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“The Government spent only Rs.11,130,011.29 for the 75th National Independence Day celebrations this year,” Claims the President’s Media Division (PMD) and refutes what it termed “false news” circulated on social media regarding the expenses of the state ceremony.

The Presidential Secretariat claimed that a sum of approximately Rs. 11 million had been spent for the 75th Independence Day, despite Secretary to the Ministry of Public Administration, Home Affairs, Provincial Councils and Local Governments Neel Bandara Hapuhinna confirming to The Daily Morning on 1 February that the expenses for same was Rs. 196 million. …

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The hysteria surrounding the full implementation of the 13th Amendment is the clearest possible indication that Sinhala-Buddhist supremacism is not a spent force. How can a truly Lankan nation be born when the majority extremists remain wedded to the idea of a Sinhala-Buddhist nation?

By Tisaranee Gunasekara “Our challenge is to devise some arrangement which enables us to coexist if not in amity then at least in forbearance.” Jawaharlal Nehru (quoted in Andre Malraux’s Anti-Memoir). During Black July, marauding mobs, when uncertain about the ethnic identity of a potential victim, would order him/her to recite the five precepts in …

Continue reading ‘The hysteria surrounding the full implementation of the 13th Amendment is the clearest possible indication that Sinhala-Buddhist supremacism is not a spent force. How can a truly Lankan nation be born when the majority extremists remain wedded to the idea of a Sinhala-Buddhist nation?’ »

When the State pits itself against the collectivity of its citizens, the State cannot win.We need to realise this truth, even at this late stage

By Kishali Pinto -Jayawardene I wonder what a mother, struggling to find medicine for her child in Colombo (one does not have to go into rural areas to witness the abject desperation of those caught up in Sri Lanka’s spiralling financial crisis) would have thought of the pomp and glamour paraded at the Galle Face …

Continue reading ‘When the State pits itself against the collectivity of its citizens, the State cannot win.We need to realise this truth, even at this late stage’ »

D.S.Senanayake disenfranchised estate Tamils and thereby created a human tragedy for a group of people who had helped in ensuring prosperity for the country through their labour.

By Rajasinghe On Independence Day 1948, all eyes of the people were on Prime Minister D.S. Senanayake (DS) and his Deputy, S.W.R.D. Bandaranaike. Both were leaders of the recently-constituted United National Party (UNP). DS in top hat and tails hoisted the Sri Lankan National Flag on Galle Face Green on 4 February while the Union …

Continue reading ‘D.S.Senanayake disenfranchised estate Tamils and thereby created a human tragedy for a group of people who had helped in ensuring prosperity for the country through their labour.’ »

“India is going to be the fastest growing large economy in the next decade; I think if we want to get out of the situation we are in now, one option that is there for us to take as a country is really latching on to what is happening in India. Greater integration with India and this is not just for the Northern Province, it’s for the whole of Sri Lanka.” – Dr.Indrajit Coomaraswamy

(Text of Sangarapillai Memorial address, “Reviving the Northern Economy in Sri Lanka” by Dr. Indrajit Coomarasamy, delivered on January 21, 2023 at the Colombo Tamil Sangham, Wellawatte, Sri Lanka) Good evening I think Naga has made I think excuses for my lack of ability to speak in Tamil. Let me say that it’s a great privilege …

Continue reading ‘“India is going to be the fastest growing large economy in the next decade; I think if we want to get out of the situation we are in now, one option that is there for us to take as a country is really latching on to what is happening in India. Greater integration with India and this is not just for the Northern Province, it’s for the whole of Sri Lanka.” – Dr.Indrajit Coomaraswamy’ »

Ranil Wickremesinghe has a choice.He can hang onto the Rajapaksas and let the Rajapaksas hang onto him. Or he can begin a serious process of reform that by its very definition will require ditching the Rajapaksas and their ilk.

By Ram Manikkalingam (Ram Manikkalingam is Director of the Dialogue Advisory Group. He was an adviser to then President Kumaratunga and was a Visiting Professor at the University of Amsterdam) On its 75th birthday Sri Lanka is divided. There is a stand-off between the people and the political institutions. The people reject Parliament and the …

Continue reading ‘Ranil Wickremesinghe has a choice.He can hang onto the Rajapaksas and let the Rajapaksas hang onto him. Or he can begin a serious process of reform that by its very definition will require ditching the Rajapaksas and their ilk.’ »

“Fresh initiatives needed urgently to form a broad democratic movement that can eventually build a robust and inclusive democratic alliance between the politically awakened citizens, political parties and the civil society movements.”- -JUSTICE FOR ALL.

(Text of media release issued by “JUSTICE FOR ALL” on 5th February 2023 under the heading “ An Independence Day of Reflection, Reckoning and Reform 5th February 2023) Sri Lanka is yet again at cross roads when marking 75 years of independence. A spiralling economic crisis has resulted in over 9 million fellow citizens slipping …

Continue reading ‘“Fresh initiatives needed urgently to form a broad democratic movement that can eventually build a robust and inclusive democratic alliance between the politically awakened citizens, political parties and the civil society movements.”- -JUSTICE FOR ALL.’ »

Objective of 1962 Coup Conspiracy was Overthrowing the SLFP Govt Overnight.

By D.B.S. Jeyaraj The 1962 Coup Conspiracy – Part One Sri Lanka formerly known as Ceylon is about to celebrate its 75th anniversary of independence from Britain on February 4th. The Island nation has in its 75 year post-independence period experienced several troubles and upheavals ranging from communal pogroms to internal civil wars.In spite of …

Continue reading ‘Objective of 1962 Coup Conspiracy was Overthrowing the SLFP Govt Overnight.’ »

“Politicians who spoke the truth were rejected by the people. Those who pointed out the real situation of the country and sought related remedies were hardly given a place. Yet, those who satisfied people with their lies gained greater acceptance.We got trapped in a consensual political culture.”- President Ranil Wickremesinghe

President Ranil Wickremesinghe said regardless of the obstacles the anarchist political forces seek to create, he will continue the new reform program with the majority of people who love this country. “We can become a developed country by 2048 if we work and move forward in a united and planned manner envisioning peace and reconciliation. …

Continue reading ‘“Politicians who spoke the truth were rejected by the people. Those who pointed out the real situation of the country and sought related remedies were hardly given a place. Yet, those who satisfied people with their lies gained greater acceptance.We got trapped in a consensual political culture.”- President Ranil Wickremesinghe’ »

Key Reasons as to why the ‘thesis’ of ‘independence without bloodshed’ is hardly admired in Sri Lanka

By Jayadeva Uyangoda (Jayadeva Uyangoda is Emeritus Professor of Political Science, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka) Controversy looms over Sri Lanka’s celebration of the 75th anniversary of its Independence (February 4, 1948), with a question having been raised on whether it is worth wasting Sri Lankan rupees 300 million on this event. Why has the …

Continue reading ‘Key Reasons as to why the ‘thesis’ of ‘independence without bloodshed’ is hardly admired in Sri Lanka’ »

It is clear that the President has left the decision to implement or scrap the 13A on political leaders from all parties. it might be a political ploy to tide over a tricky political issue for a short time. But, his credibility as President is likely to be tested when he attempts to implement 13A.

By Col R Hariharan Sri Lanka will be celebrating its 75th Independence Day on February 4, 2023. As a republic the country has come a long way from the dominion it was at the time of independence. The shaky step with which President Ranil Wickremesinghe steps into the 75th year of independence, tells that his …

Continue reading ‘It is clear that the President has left the decision to implement or scrap the 13A on political leaders from all parties. it might be a political ploy to tide over a tricky political issue for a short time. But, his credibility as President is likely to be tested when he attempts to implement 13A.’ »

Who Dressed up the Statue of King Dutugemunu’s Legendary Mother Queen Viharamahadevi at Ruwanweliseya in a White Kandyan Saree(Osariya) and Jewellery?More pertinently, why do it? Why now, in January 2023?

By Tisaranee Gunasekara “I saw them erect the guillotine again tonight” – Alejo Carpentier (Explosion in a cathedral) Call it a no brainer. Whatever Queen Viharamahadevi, the legendary mother of King Dutugemunu, wore, it wouldn’t have been a Kandyan sari (osariya). So why dress up her statue in that garb, jewellery included? Not just any …

Continue reading ‘Who Dressed up the Statue of King Dutugemunu’s Legendary Mother Queen Viharamahadevi at Ruwanweliseya in a White Kandyan Saree(Osariya) and Jewellery?More pertinently, why do it? Why now, in January 2023?’ »

Jeevan Thondaman Sets a Record as Sri Lanka’s Youngest – Ever Cabinet Minister

By D.B.S.Jeyaraj Ceylon Workers Congress (CWC) and Nuwara-Eliya district MP Jeevan Kumaravel Thondaman was inducted as cabinet minister into the Government headed by President Ranil Wickremesinghe last week. He was sworn in as the minister in charge of Water Supply and Estate Infrastructure Development by the President on 19 January 2023.Known popularly as Jeevan, the …

Continue reading ‘Jeevan Thondaman Sets a Record as Sri Lanka’s Youngest – Ever Cabinet Minister’ »

“Did you know Tamil is the oldest language of the whole world, not just of India? Shouldn’t such a country be proud? We have such a big treasure, a big source of pride. Our chest should swell with pride and we must tell the world this,” – Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi

By Jagriti Chandra Tamil is the oldest language of the world, and is a big treasure and source of pride, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in his address to students at the sixth edition of the Pariksha Pe Charcha event held on Friday, while urging them to learn languages other than their mother tongue. “Did …

Continue reading ‘“Did you know Tamil is the oldest language of the whole world, not just of India? Shouldn’t such a country be proud? We have such a big treasure, a big source of pride. Our chest should swell with pride and we must tell the world this,” – Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’ »

On February 20, President Wickremesinghe will acquire the power to dissolve parliament at his discretion. By proroguing p’ment, the president has sent a message to parliamentarians and society that he will soon have the power to dissolve parliament with the same suddenness that he prorogued p’ment.

by Jehan Perera By proroguing parliament President Ranil Wickremesinghe has given the parliamentarians, and the country at large, a reminder of the power of the presidency. There was no evident reason for the president to suddenly decide to prorogue parliament. More than 40 parliamentary committees, including important ones concerning public finances, enterprises and accounts have …

Continue reading ‘On February 20, President Wickremesinghe will acquire the power to dissolve parliament at his discretion. By proroguing p’ment, the president has sent a message to parliamentarians and society that he will soon have the power to dissolve parliament with the same suddenness that he prorogued p’ment.’ »

It must not be assumed that President Wickremesinghe’s declared intention to implement the 13th Amendment could be put into practice easily.

by Dr Jayampathy Wickramaratne PC The 13th Amendment to the Constitution (13A), which introduced devolution of power to the periphery, is again in the news, this time on the need to fully implement it. President Ranil Wickremesinghe first raised the issue in Parliament, asking the various parties whether they are for 13 Plus, meaning improving …

Continue reading ‘It must not be assumed that President Wickremesinghe’s declared intention to implement the 13th Amendment could be put into practice easily.’ »

US Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Victoria Nuland Advises Parties Representing the Tamil Speaking People to Prepare Joint Roadmap and work Together to Resolve Issues Faced by Minorities

By Mirudhula Thambiah During a discussion with Tamil and Muslim political parties yesterday (1), Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs of the US Victoria Nuland had suggested that the parties resolve their issues based on a joint roadmap, especially when addressing land-related issues with President Ranil Wickremesinghe. Speaking to The Daily Morning, Tamil National …

Continue reading ‘US Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Victoria Nuland Advises Parties Representing the Tamil Speaking People to Prepare Joint Roadmap and work Together to Resolve Issues Faced by Minorities’ »

After doggedly refusing to acknowledge responsibility for any part of the 2019 Easter Sunday bombings that killed and maimed hundreds and ruined many families, Maithripala Sirisena wants to be forgiven.

By Kshama Ranawana At long last, he is begging for forgiveness. After doggedly refusing to acknowledge responsibility for any part of the 2019 Easter Sunday bombings that killed and maimed hundreds, and ruined many families, Maithripala Sirisena wants to be forgiven. Why this sudden about-face, nearly four years later? Clearly, there are two issues on …

Continue reading ‘After doggedly refusing to acknowledge responsibility for any part of the 2019 Easter Sunday bombings that killed and maimed hundreds and ruined many families, Maithripala Sirisena wants to be forgiven.’ »

MA Sumanthiran MP states the plan to resolve the national issue before the 75th Independence Day celebrations on 4 February has failed.”That is why we have said that we are opposed to the celebration of the Independence Day as we have not got our independence.”says TNA Spokesperson

BY Mirudhula Thambiah Following President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s assertion on Thursday (27) that he is opposed to federalism in Sri Lanka, the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) stated that there can be no meaningful power sharing under a unitary model and that if President Ranil Wickremesinghe has taken the stance that there is no federal solution, then …

Continue reading ‘MA Sumanthiran MP states the plan to resolve the national issue before the 75th Independence Day celebrations on 4 February has failed.”That is why we have said that we are opposed to the celebration of the Independence Day as we have not got our independence.”says TNA Spokesperson’ »