Category: News

Government briefs diplomats on draft Anti-Terrorism Bill

Posted on | by TELO Admin

The Sri Lankan Government briefed diplomats on moves to amend the draft Anti-Terrorism Bill.

A Diplomatic briefing was convened at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the Colombo-based diplomatic corps on current developments related to the draft Anti-Terrorism Bill.

Minister of Justice, Prison Affairs and Constitutional Reforms Dr. Wijeyadasa Rajapaksa and Minister of Foreign Affairs Ali Sabry addressed the briefing.

State Minister of Justice Anuradha Jayarathna, Foreign Secretary Aruni Wijewardane, Secretary Ministry of Justice, Prison Affairs and Constitutional Reforms Wasantha Perera and Additional Solicitor General Nerin Pulle were associated with the briefing.

At the outset, Minister Sabry recalled that the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) was amended in 2022 following extensive deliberations with all relevant stakeholders including the civil society, taking into consideration the constructive comments and concerns expressed by domestic and international stakeholders.

Minister Sabry outlined the steps taken by the Government to ensure that the draft anti-terrorism legislation addresses national security requirements while upholding international standards and best practices.

He highlighted the transparent and open consultative process that was followed in in evolving the latest draft, including the consideration of views expressed by the public, civil society and international partners. The Minister informed that, following discussions on the suggested amendments, the Bill will be presented to the Cabinet for approval, and that once it is re-gazetted, any person will be able to petition to the Supreme Court with regard to the constitutionality of the Bill.

Minister Rajapaksa briefed the participants on the initiative taken by the Ministry of Justice to actively reach out to the public to receive further views, pursuant to the decision of the Cabinet. He said that concerns relating to the admissibility of confessions, detentions orders and the definition of terrorism were considered during the deliberations. The Minister explained as to how these concerns have been addressed in the draft legal framework.

Additional Solicitor General Pulle presented the salient features of the draft legal framework and said that the Counter Terrorism Bill of 2018, the report of the Commission of inquiry on Easter Sunday as well as observations made by the Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) and the international community, were among the elements considered in developing the framework. He said the new draft seeks to ensure protection of Fundamental Rights such as freedom of expression and will not include the death penalty, while judicial oversight will be ensured throughout detention. The draft Bill will be subject to approval of the Cabinet and subsequent procedures as per the Constitution.

Following the briefing, the members of the diplomatic corps engaged in a constructive discussion and appreciated the regular briefings to the diplomatic corps on relevant developments in Sri Lanka.

Posted in Uncategorized

Jaffna, Mullaitivu and Mannar districts form Sri Lanka’s second Coconut Triangle

Posted on | by TELO Admin

Jaffna, Mullaitivu and Mannar included to form Sri Lanka’s second Coconut Triangle
Sri Lanka’s second Coconut Triangle was launched in the Northern Province on Saturday (02 Sep.), in view of World Coconut Day.

Accordingly, the Jaffna, Mannar and Mullaitivu districts formed the country’s second Coconut Triangle, which was officially launched at a ceremony held at the Palai Coconut Model Garden in Jaffna.

Sri Lanka’s coconut export revenue has significantly increased in recent years.

Owing to the wide range of benefits associated with Sri Lankan coconuts, an evident increase in demand has been observed, thus, this year, it is anticipated that exports of coconut-based goods will bring in a total of USD 700 million.

Meanwhile, it is anticipated that exports of goods related to coconuts would generate a revenue of USD 2 billion over the next ten years.

The move to develop a second Coconut Triangle was fueled by the fact that local consumption accounts for two thirds of coconut production., while only one third is used for export.

Thus, in order to increase export potential, this situation needs to be altered, which initially prompted the development of the novel Coconut Triangle.

Posted in Uncategorized

Remembering The Disappeared

Posted on | by TELO Admin

On the International Day of the Disappeared, 30 August, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has called our attention to a deeply-human crisis that persists in Sri Lanka, despite the passing of time and the hope for resolution.

This reminder, coupled with the peaceful protest by the Unity of Families of Missing Persons on Thursday (31 August), serves as a stark wake-up call. It is a call to action, urging us to acknowledge the plight of those who continue to live in the shadows of uncertainty and to demand answers and justice for those who have disappeared.

In Sri Lanka, the issue of missing persons is a heartbreaking reality that transcends ethnicity, community, and time. The ICRC’s message reminds us that families across the country are still grappling with the painful ambiguity of not knowing what has happened to their loved ones. The disappeared individuals were not just numbers; they were fathers, mothers, siblings, and breadwinners and their absence has left a void that cannot be filled.

A recent report, titled ‘Mass Graves in Sri Lanka: History and Legal Framework,’ authored by Sophie Bisping, sheds light on a troubling discovery. Between the years 1992 and 2022, a total of 32 mass grave sites have been identified in Sri Lanka. However, it is disheartening to note that only seven of these sites have undergone excavation thus far. Among the excavated sites are those located in Sooriyakanda, Chemmani, Jaffna, Matale, Kalavanchikudy, as well as two sites in Mannar.

Sri Lanka is sadly renowned for having the world’s second-highest number of cases registered with the United Nations Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances. Shockingly, it is estimated that between 60,000 and 100,000 people have suffered the harrowing experience of enforced disappearances since the commencement of the war in 1983.

The pain of enforced disappearances is an indescribable anguish that transcends words. It is a wound that festers deep within the hearts and minds of families who have been thrust into a nightmarish journey of uncertainty, fear, and despair.

The pain is not just emotional; it’s economic, social and psychological. The disappeared often play vital roles in their families, serving as breadwinners, caregivers and emotional pillars. Their absence leaves a gaping void that cannot be filled. Families are left to grapple with financial instability, legal complications and the stigma associated with having a missing relative.

The pain extends to the broader community and society as well. Enforced disappearances undermine trust in institutions, erode the rule of law and breed a culture of fear. They perpetuate a cycle of violence and impunity that reverberates through generations.

International humanitarian law is clear on this matter: people have the right to know what happened to their missing relatives, and authorities have an obligation to provide information and assist in ascertaining the fate and whereabouts of missing persons. This is not just a legal mandate; it’s a moral imperative that transcends borders.

The search for missing persons should be continuous and their families deserve individualised answers. Strengthening national frameworks, improving medico -legal processes and enhancing mechanisms dedicated to establishing the fate and whereabouts of missing persons are crucial steps in this journey. Equally important is the collection and processing of information on missing persons and related events, as well as sites containing human remains or possible remains.

As we reflect on the International Day of the Disappeared, let us not forget that behind every statistic, every protest, and every call for justice, there are individuals with stories that deserve to be heard. Let us honour the memory of those who have disappeared by redoubling our efforts to uncover the truth, provide answers and ensure that the families left behind can finally find closure and live in dignity.

As September has dawned, let it be a reminder that the search for answers and justice for the disappeared in Sri Lanka should never end until every family finds the closure and solace they so desperately seek.

Singapore elects Tharman Shanmugaratnam, descendant of Sri Lankan Tamils, as President

Posted on | by TELO Admin

Former deputy PM and ruling party candidate Tharman Shanmugaratnam, 66, a descendant of Sri Lankan Tamils, swept to a landslide victory in the Singapore presidential election with 70.4% of the vote, becoming the first non-Chinese to win a presidential election, Singapore media reported Saturday.

He is a fourth-generation Singaporean of Sri Lankan Taml ancestry from the 19th century. He is the son of Emeritus Professor K. Shanmugaratnam, a medical scientist known as the “father of pathology in Singapore”, who founded the Singapore Cancer Registry and led a number of international organisations related to cancer research and pathology.

He easily defeated the two other candidates, both from the majority Chinese community, who polled 15% and 14% respectively.

A highly regarded and distinguished political leader, he made the baffling decision to quit the People’s Action Party (PAP) that has ruled Singapore since independence and run for the largely ceremonial post of president. An economist by profession, he has distinguished himself over two decades as a cabinet minister since 2003, serving as Finance Minister (2007-15) and Deputy Prime Minister (2011-19). Many considered him a likely successor to current Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, and believed that he would one day become the nation’s first non-Chinese PM.

He will succeed President Halimah Yacob, who did not run for re-election. The first woman to become President, Yacob, who is from the minority Malay community, stepped in to the presidency uncontested in 2017 as Singapore’s constitution requires that members of the country’s two minorities must serve as president at least once every five terms. President Ranil Wickremesinghe met with President Yacob during his recent visit to Singapore.

Singapore has had two ethnic Indian presidents before – Devan Nair and S.R. Nathan – but they had both been elected in uncontested polls.

Posted in Uncategorized

Sri Lanka pays another $ 100 Mn to Bangladesh; Balance $50 Mn to be paid within this year

Posted on | by TELO Admin

Sri Lanka has paid another $100 million in the second instalment out of $200 million loan given by Bangladesh in a currency swap, a Bangladesh Bank spokesperson said on Friday, reported the Dhaka Tribune.

Last month, Colombo paid $50 million in the first instalment of the loan repayment.

Bangladesh lent $200 million from its foreign exchange reserves to Sri Lanka during its economic crisis.

The remaining $50 million is due to be repaid within the current year, said Bangladesh Bank Executive Director and Spokesperson Mesbaul Haque.

Bangladesh extended the dept repayment time to let Sri Lanka time to revive its economy.

Indian warship in Colombo ahead of Defence Minister visit to Sri Lanka on Saturday (2)

Posted on | by TELO Admin

The Indian Naval Ship (INS) ‘Delhi’ arrived at the port of Colombo on a formal visit this morning (01st September 2023). The visiting ship was welcomed by the Sri Lanka Navy in compliance with naval tradition.

INS ‘Delhi’ is a 163.2m long Destroyer manned by a crew of 450 and the ship is commanded by Captain Abhishek Kumar.

The Commanding Officer of the ship called on Commander Western Naval Area, Rear Admiral Suresh De Silva at the Western Naval Command Headquarters this morning.

During the ship’s stay, the crew will take part in several programmes organized by the Sri Lanka Navy, with a view to promoting cooperation and goodwill between two navies. They are also expected to visit some of the tourist attractions in the country.

In addition, INS ‘Delhi’ has made arrangements to open the ship for the visit of school children. Further, training exchanges are scheduled to be held aboard, involving naval personnel from both navies.

The ship is expected to depart the island on 03rd September and she will conduct a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with a ship of Sri Lanka Navy, off Colombo.

At the same time, the Defence Minister of India, Shri Rajnath Singh is scheduled to visit Sri Lanka on 02-03 September 2023 to review bilateral defence ties.

During the visit, Shri Rajnath Singh will hold talks with President and Defence Minister of Sri Lanka Ranil Wickremesinghe and Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena.

The entire gamut of India’s defence ties with Sri Lanka will be reviewed during these meetings. The Defence Minister will also visit Nuwara Eliya and Trincomalee.

​This visit of Shri Rajnath Singh reiterates India’s continued commitment in furthering the existing warm and friendly relations with Sri Lanka. The visit is an important landmark in deepening the enduring bonds of friendship between the two countries in the defence sphere.

Posted in Uncategorized

Sri Lanka Freedom Party’s Sirisena open to running for president again

Posted on | by TELO Admin

The Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) invites MPs from all parties to form a common alliance, former president and SLFP chairman Maithripala Sirisena said, also suggesting that he is open to running for president again.

Speaking to reporters in Colombo on Thursday August 31 after a party meeting, Sirisena said there is a chance he might be asked to contest a presidential election in 2024.

Asked if he would accept a call to run for president once again, Sirisena said, with a hearty laugh: “There is a chance it might happen.”

His entourage, too, appeared to find his response amusing.

“Can’t I work as president? I have shown that I can.

“Let’s see how it goes. We’re ready for anything,” he said, getting into his official vehicle.

At a press conference held earlier Thursday, the former president said the ruling Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) does not pose any challenge to his SLFP.

“The SLPP is now in shambles. No one knows what even happened to the president [Gotabaya Rajapaksa] in the end,” he said.

“The SLPP Is barely a party. It has no formal structure, no one even knows what their constitution is,” he added.

Asked if members of the SLPP offered to work together with the SLFP, Sirisena said: “We invite everyone, not the SLPP but all parties and MPs to come together to form an alliance for a good government.”

“We won’t give nominations to anyone with corruption allegations,” he said.

Sirisena went on to say that there is speculation that a provincial council election will be held first to test the waters.

“We’re ready for any election,” he said.

Meanwhile, SLFP general secretary Dayasiri Jayasekara responded to reports that sections of the party are conspiring to have him removed from the position. This is following a last-minute decision to shift the SLFP’s 72nd anniversary celebrations from Kurunegala, his electorate, to Colombo.

Speaking to reporters after Thursday evening’s party meeting, Jayasekara said he only learnt Thursday evening about the decision. Asked if it is true that the party’s general secretary doesn’t know what’s going on in his own party, he said: “I didn’t know before. But I know today.”

If Sirisena and the SLFP central committee no longer wishes to have him on board, Jayasekara said, he is happy to leave.

“I’ll remain in the party, though,” he said.

“There is no pushback against me from the bottom. It’s a few at the top level who want me out so they can go and plug this party to [President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s United National Party (UNP)],” he said.

Notable among the attendees at the party meeting on Thursday ahead of the anniversary event was Agriculture Minister Mahinda Amaraweera whom, among others in the SLFP who had joined President Wickremesinghe’s cabinet of ministers, had been on the receiving end of criticism from the party for going against a party decision to not accept President Wickremesinghe’s invitation to support the government.

Party leader Sirisena denied that there is any rift in the party. He explained the decision was made taking into account the rainy weather now prevailing in the country, despite heavy rains in Colombo.

“We have all been like brothers. I have no idea where you’re finding these false reports,” he said to reporters questioning him.

Asked if there were attempts to remove Jayasekara as general secretary, Sirisena said: “Says who? That’s an absolute lie.”

India increases financial allocation by 50% for projects in Sri Lanka

Posted on | by TELO Admin

Responding to rapid changes in the economic landscape of Sri Lanka, the Government of India has increased the financial allocation for various grant projects being implemented across the island.

Accordingly, financial allocation has been increased by upto 50% for nine ongoing projects which are currently being executed under the India-Sri Lanka High Impact Community Development Project (HICDP) framework.

The overall financial commitment for these nine projects currently stands close to LKR 3 billion, after the increase. These projects cut across sectors ranging from education and health to agriculture, among others, the Indian High Commission in Colombo revealed.

The Government of India has completed more than 60 grant projects under the HICDP framework, covering all the 25 Districts of Sri Lanka, while 20 other projects are under different stages of implementation.

The HICDP framework was signed between the two countries in 2005 and subsequently renewed thrice, for a period of five years each time.

India’s overall development cooperation partnership portfolio in Sri Lanka is currently around USD 5 billion, of which USD 600 million is grant.

Demand-driven and people-centric projects carried out by the Indian Government span across areas such as infrastructure development, housing, livelihood assistance etc.

As such, the 1990 Emergency Ambulance Service, Railway Track rehabilitation, Integrated Water Plants, Indian Housing Project and Jaffna Cultural Center are among

Indian defence minister visits Sri Lanka amid Chinese request to dock second research vessel

Posted on | by TELO Admin

Indian Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh is scheduled to visit Sri Lanka during the weekend (September 2) to review bilateral defence ties, the Indian High Commission in Colombo said.

The Indian defence minister’s visit comes amid a Chinese request to dock its research vessel Shi Yan 6 at the ports of Sri Lanka from October 26 to November 10. India has already raised security concerns with the Sri Lankan government over the Chinese ship.

Sri Lanka has yet to officially approve the Chinese request, government officials say.

“During the visit, Shri Rajnath Singh will hold talks with President and Defence Minister of Sri Lanka Ranil Wickremesinghe and Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena,” the Indian High Commission said in a statement.

“The entire gamut of India’s defence ties with Sri Lanka will be reviewed during these meetings. The Defence Minister will also visit Nuwara Eliya and Trincomalee.”

“The visit is an important landmark in deepening the enduring bonds of friendship between the two countries in the defence sphere.”

Last year, China was allowed to dock its first research vessel in the deep southern port of Hambantota amid Indian concerns, Foreign Ministry officials have said.

As per the 13th amendment of the Sri Lankan constitution incorporated after a 1987 Indo-Lanka accord, Sri Lanka has to keep New Delhi informed if there is anything that could have security concerns for India.

The Chinese ship has requested to dock at Colombo Port and Hambantota Port and be involved in research operations in the ocean around Sri Lanka. According to the Chinese state broadcaster CGTN, the Shi Yan 6 is a “scientific research vessel” crewed by 60 that carries out oceanography, marine geology and marine ecology tests.

Defence analysts say India is worried over increasing Chinese activities in the ocean surrounding the country and sees it as a security threat.

India has been interested in the mineral-resource rich eastern port district of Trincomalee since the mid 1970s. It already is handling the island nation’s only oil tank farm in this district while it has also been given approval to construct a renewable energy plant.

In 2014, Sri Lanka’s then president Mahinda Rajapaksa allowed two Chinese submarines to be docked in Colombo port, disregarding Indian concerns.

A few months later, Rajapaksa was defeated in the presidential poll when he sought a third term by his own party secretary Maithripala Sirisena. India and its intelligence agency RAW denied its association with Rajapaksa’s defeat though the former president accused India of being behind his defeat.