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President Ranil Wickremesinghe visited the Sri Lanka Ramanna Sect in Narahenpita this morning (27), where he met with the Mahanayake of the Ramanna Sect Aggamaha Panditha Most Ven. Makulawe Wimala Thero, and received blessings.

The President engaged in a brief discussion with the Maha Sangha of the Ramanna Sect led by the Mahanayake and he updated the Maha Sangha on the country's economic recovery and outlined future plans.

Additionally, President Wickremesinghe addressed issues related to education, land concerns in sacred areas, and also briefed the discussions held with Tamil MPs concerning the development of the Northern and Eastern Provinces.

Sri Lankan females have also now been provided with the opportunity to seek employment in South Korea’s fisheries sector, according to the SLBFE.

The Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE) announced that 120 individuals including three females departed for South Korea yesterday (25) to take up these employment opportunities in the fisheries sector in that country.

This was made possible through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) entered into between the South Korean and Sri Lankan governments.

The program is being implemented by the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE).

Cabinet approval has been granted to prepare a draft bill introducing a new law concerning the rights of the indigenous community in Sri Lanka.

Approval of the Cabinet of Ministers was granted in May 2024 to the joint proposal by the then Minister of Justice, Prison Affairs and Constitutional Reforms and the Minister of Buddha Sasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs concerning the introduction of the new law.

At that meeting, it was decided to further analyze the concept paper presented to prepare the draft bill with the participation of all parties concerned.

Accordingly, the relevant fundamental draft bill was further improved subsequent to several rounds of discussions with the participation of officers in the Ministries of Lands, Wildlife and Forest Conservation, Environment, and Finance, the Attorney General’s Department, the Department of the Legal Draftsman, and stakeholders interested in the relevant sector headed by the Secretary to the Prime Minister.

Based on the discussions, the Cabinet approved the joint proposal, instructing the Legal Draftsman to prepare a draft bill based on the aforementioned fundamental draft.

The transportation of solid waste by train commenced today (25), for the first time in the country’s history.

The waste, collected from the Wanawasala Garbage Exchange Center, was transported to the Aruvakkadu landfill project in Puttalam by train.

A total of 20 large containers were loaded onto train number 756, which completed the journey to Puttalam before the waste was transferred to the Aruvakkadu landfill.

Incumbent Ranil Wickremesinghe, who contests the presidential election as an independent candidate, has released his official theme song, ‘Puluvan Sri Lanka’.

It is now available on social media.

All postal workers' leave has been suspended until after the elections.

Deputy Postmaster General Rajitha Ranasinghe said that this decision was made due to the crucial responsibilities associated with the presidential election.

He added that if leave is necessary for essential reasons, it can be requested through the Provincial Deputy Postmaster General.

Commissioner General of the Excise Department M.J. Gunasiri dismissed claims of significant arrears in three major government revenue sources—namely the Inland Revenue Department, Sri Lanka Customs, and the Excise Department—as myths.

Speaking at the press briefing titled “Collective Path to a Stable Country” held at the Presidential Media Centre (PMC), today (26), he clarified that the outstanding tax amount for these three institutions totals only Rs.90 billion. He also noted that it is typical for any country to have 3%-5% of its total tax revenue in outstanding taxes.

Commissioner General Gunasiri further highlighted that these three institutions achieved record revenue in 2023, surpassing Rs.3 trillion. Additionally, after 25 years, they succeeded in creating a surplus in the primary account.

Addressing the media personnel, Commissioner General of Excise further explained;

The three institutions under the Ministry of Finance—the Inland Revenue Department, Sri Lanka Customs, and the Excise Department—work within a legal framework to collect state revenue. Despite some groups spreading misinformation about large tax arrears, the actual total unpaid taxes for these institutions are under Rs.90 billion. Most of these arrears are from government entities, and legal actions are underway to recover the funds, meaning these amounts should be considered deferred taxes. Once the judicial process is completed, recovery is possible. Additionally, a tax deficit of 3%-5% of total tax revenue is typical for any country. Nevertheless, overall state tax revenue has seen a significant increase over the past two years.

In 2023, the Inland Revenue Department, Sri Lanka Customs Department, and Excise Department collectively achieved the highest revenue in history, surpassing Rs.3 trillion. Notably, after 25 years, they managed to create a surplus in the primary account.

Focusing on the Excise Department, it generated an income of Rs.179 billion in 2023, with a target set at Rs.232 billion for 2024. By August 22, 2023, the department had earned Rs.106.5 billion, whereas by August 2024, it had earned Rs.132.7 billion. This represents a growth of 24.6% compared to the previous year.

The Excise Department generates revenue through license fees: Rs. 15 million for a municipal council, Rs. 12.5 million for another municipal council, and Rs. 10 million for a Pradeshiya Sabha. Licenses for manufacturing plants are set at Rs. 25 million each. As of August 20 this year, the department has earned Rs. 132.4 billion. In 2023, the department had an outstanding tax amount of Rs. 1.04 billion, with Rs. 609 million collected by February of this year. The remaining tax arrears are currently under court proceedings.

Deputy Commissioner General (Tax Policy, International Affairs and Legal) of the Inland Revenue Department B.K.S. Shantha;

With the country’s recovery, tax revenue targets were surpassed last year. The Inland Revenue Department’s revenue target for 2024 is set at Rs.2, 024 billion, with plans to collect 40% of this amount in the first four months and the remaining 60% over the last six months.

To enhance efficiency, a Risk Management Unit has been established to streamline the tax revenue process. Currently, Rs.1, 066 billion in tax revenue is suspended due to on-going court cases. The department also had Rs.188 billion in tax arrears, of which Rs.104 billion are being recovered thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Excise Department’s employees. The remaining Rs.84 billion in outstanding taxes are in the process of being recovered through legal actions.

The Inland Revenue Department had Rs.188 billion in tax arrears, of which Rs.104 billion are being recovered thanks to the dedication of the Excise Department’s employees. Another Rs.84 billion in outstanding taxes remains, and the necessary legal processes to recover this amount have already been initiated.

In 2023, the number of tax files increased from 450,000 to 1.15 million. Additionally, 4.7 million new TIN numbers were issued this year.
Recently, social media has been spreading rumours that Inland Revenue Department officers are visiting institutions in disguise to collect taxes. However, department officials do not visit institutions to collect taxes; they only go for awareness purposes. Therefore, it is important to note that no one should give money to individuals claiming to be tax collectors in disguise. The police have been alerted to investigate any complaints related to this issue, and security forces have been notified.

Finance Officer of Sri Lanka Customs Department, Anura Muthukude;

The Sri Lanka Customs Department is expected to generate Rs.1, 533 billion in revenue for 2024. By August 25 this year, the department had already collected Rs.963.7 billion. Media reports indicate that the department has Rs.58.6 billion in outstanding taxes, with Rs.57.6 billion owed by government institutions, effectively rendering that amount non-recoverable. The department has taken legal steps to recover the remaining taxes, some of which have been pending for over a decade.

To enhance transparency, the Sri Lanka Customs Department has established a new “Smat Unit,” where the public can submit complaints. It is important to note that despite a workforce shortage of 940 employees, the department’s staffs have ensured that no tax revenue has been evaded.

Colombo, Sri Lanka – 24th August 2024– On the third anniversary of the passing of the late Minister Mangala Samaraweera, his family is honouring his memory by gifting portions of his extensive and cherished personal library to three esteemed institutions: the Bandaranaike Center for International Studies (BCIS), the Jaffna Public Library, and a public library in Matara.

Mangala Samaraweera, the distinguished Sri Lankan statesman who served as both Foreign Minister and Finance Minister, began his career as a fashion designer and teacher after his education at Central St. Martins in London. His appetite for learning and interdisciplinary interests are vividly reflected in his library, which encompasses a wide range of subjects including current affairs, international relations, development studies, historical novels, best-selling fiction, poetry, queer literature, travel, languages, art, crafts, and photography.

The Bandaranaike Center for International Studies, a leading institution in Sri Lanka’s knowledge-sharing in International Relations for over 40 years, will play a key role in the process. The BCIS will assist in inventorying the collection, and receive the books most relevant to their focus on diplomacy and international affairs. This donation is particularly fitting, as it supports the continued education of those engaged in the diplomatic service and representing Sri Lanka in various industries on the global stage.

The decision to contribute to the Jaffna Public Library holds special significance. Mangala Samaraweera was deeply committed to restoring the storied Jaffna Public Library following its burning which he regarded as a tragedy for all Sri Lankans. During former President Bandaranaike Kumaratunga's tenure, he was a proud organiser of the ‘A Brick or a Book’ campaign, which sought to mobilize Sri Lankans countrywide in rebuilding and restoring the Jaffna Library and its invaluable collection. This donation represents a continued effort to redress that historical loss.

Additionally, a portion of the library will be taken to Matara to form a public collection, particularly around the arts and travel benefitting youth in his beloved Southern hometown. This gifting is a tribute to Mangala’s lifelong dedication to knowledge and his belief in its power to bridge communities and foster understanding," said his sister Jayanthi Samaraweera.

"We hope this donation will inspire and educate future generations, continuing Mangala’s legacy of broad intellectual curiosity and commitment to public service."

The donation ceremony will take place in October following the inventory and selection of books by the libraries. A small portion of his collection will remain in the care of his family.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe has challenged Sajith Premadasa and Anura Kumara Dissanayake to participate in an open virtual discussion with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

This will allow the entire nation to assess the truthfulness of their public promises and statements, he said.

The President also highlighted that altering the agreement with the IMF is not feasible.

He emphasized that such changes could lead to another economic collapse, with Premadasa and Dissanayake’s “misleading promises” of reduced prices and taxes potentially worsening the country’s situation.

He stressed the need to prevent such deceptions.

President Wickremesinghe noted that while he wishes to reduce the prices of goods and lower taxes, such actions can only be achieved by strengthening the rupee and adhering to the agreements with the IMF.

He also urged Sajith Premadasa and Anura Kumara Dissanayake to immediately present any alternative solutions and seek their opinion during the discussion with the IMF.

The President made these remarks during the Special Convention of the United National Party (UNP), held yesterday (25) at the Party Headquarters ‘Sirikotha’, Pitakotte.

Recalling on D.S. Senanayake, the founder of the UNP, President Wickremesinghe said that he was dedicated to preserving Sri Lankan identity.

President Wickremesinghe, following the example of Dudley Senanayake, J.R. Jayawardene and Ranasinghe Premadasa, stated that his inspiration from working with these legends is to prioritize the country’s welfare above all else.

A large number of UNP members attended the special convention, expressing their support for President Ranil Wickremesinghe.

They endorsed his candidacy as an independent for the upcoming Presidential Election on September 21, with the aim of advancing Sri Lanka toward development.

The proposal to express the party’s agreement was presented to the conference by UNP General Secretary, Palitha Range Bandara.

The UNP National Organizer Sagala Ratnayaka confirmed the resolution; it was passed unanimously with all attendees raising their hands in agreement.

Additionally, the President inaugurated the newly renovated Sirikotha party headquarters.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe stated that the opposition aimed to halt the initiative designed to advance the country by providing relief to the people. Despite this, the government has focused on easing the burden on people‟s lives over the past two years.

By 2025/2026, the President assured, the government will have created better living conditions for all citizens.

The President urged all Sinhalese, Tamils, and Muslims to unite in working towards this goal.

He emphasized that ensuring the well-being of the people is not a violation of fundamental rights and affirmed his readiness to make any necessary decisions for their benefit.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe made this statement while addressing the “Puluwan Sri Lanka” victory rally at the Kallady Shivananda National School Stadium in Batticaloa today (24).

A notable presence at the event was Mr. Sivalingam, a teacher from Royal College who had taught President Ranil Wickremesinghe.

During his address, the President recalled a lesson from his teacher, attributing his success to a lesson from the Royal College regarding the Emperors of Athens, “We will not bring disgrace to our city, by any act of cowardice or desert our suffering comrades in the ranks” The President highlighted how he overcame the challenge of leading the country and advancing the economy when others were unwilling to take on the task.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe further remarked:

“Mr. Sivalingam, who taught me at Royal College, is on the stage today. He is not only my teacher but also that of Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena. Therefore, he deserves part of the credit for helping recover the country from the economic crisis.

He also taught Mr. Anura Bandaranaike and Mr. Malik Samarawickrama. At Royal College, we had the privilege of learning about the oath of the youth Athenian Empires.

“We will not bring disgrace to our city, by any act of cowardice or desert our suffering comrades in the ranks”, this inspiration guided me in 2022 when I took on the challenge of leading the country, a responsibility that no one else was willing to accept, and worked to advance the nation’s economy. I embraced the challenge of building a better future for the youth by advocating for the people and providing relief. This is why we confidently say, “Puluwan Sri Lanka.”

I took on this challenge during a difficult period. At that time, the opposition leader who had no such guiding teacher fled. Although the opposition Leader was the alternative Prime Minister, he abandoned the people in their time of need. Similarly, Anura Kumara Dissanayake was also missing.

Despite these challenges, we proceeded with our program in collaboration with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). We faced tough decisions, as printing money or taking loans from local banks was not an option. We reduced costs and increased VAT to generate revenue, which ultimately strengthened the rupee.

We also launched the Aswesuma‟ program, increasing allowances for kidney patients and disabled persons by 50%. We provided extensive relief, including a Rs.10,000 allowance for government employees. Currently, we are implementing measures based on the Udaya Seneviratne Committee report.

Starting from 2025, it has been proposed to provide a monthly living expense allowance of Rs. 25,000 rupees to government employees, which we accept. Following this, the starting monthly salary will be Rs. 55,000, inclusive of living expenses. Additionally, an interim pension allowance of Rs. 3,000 has been granted. The interest rate for senior citizen fixed deposits below 1 million has been increased from 8.5% to 10%. The allowance for pre-school teachers has been raised to Rs. 5,000.

Under the “Urumaya” program, we are granting free land rights to 2 million people. Furthermore, 250,000 individuals residing in government flats in Colombo have been fulfilling my responsibilities as President by addressing their needs, advancing the country, and securing a better future for generations to come.

Let us all move forward together. Sinhalese, Tamils, and Muslims must unite to propel the country ahead. By 2025, 2026, I aim to build a prosperous future for the people of this nation. On September 21, vote for the gas cylinder to safeguard your future and contribute to the nation’s development.

Veteran film director Sugathapala Senarath Yapa has passed away at the age of 89.

He was highly regarded for his contributions as the creative director behind numerous award-winning films, including “Hanthane Kathawa,” “Pembara Madhu,” and “Induta Mal Mitak”.

Former Chairman of the United National Party, Rukman Senanayake, passed away today at the age of 76.

Grandson of Sri Lanka's first Prime Minister D.S. Senanayake, UNP stalwart and former Cabinet Minister Rukman Senanayake entered politics in 1973, from the Dedigama electorate.

He re-entered Parliament in 1994, and won a Parliamentary seat in 2004 election, representing the Kegalle district.

Rukman Senanayake served as the Cabinet Minister of Environment and Natural Resources from 2002 to 2004.

He was then appointed as the Chairman of the United National Party in 2007.

His family told News 1st that details of his final rites will be announced soon.