News

President Ranil Wickremesinghe announced plans to ensure returning migrant workers can live with dignity after completing their service abroad. He thanked these workers for their vital contributions of foreign exchange during the recent economic crisis, acknowledging their crucial role in advancing the country’s economy.

The President made these remarks while addressing the inauguration ceremony of the “Wigamanika Harasara” initiative, held today (21) at the Sathyawadi Ground in Kurunegala. This initiative aims to recognize the impact of migrant workers on the Sri Lankan economy.

To assess the contribution of migrant workers to Sri Lanka’s economy, the “Wigamanika Harasara” program was launched across the country, beginning in the North West Province. Approximately 5,000 migrants from the Kurunegala, Puttalam, Anuradhapura, Matale, and Kegalle districts participated in this initiative.

During the event, the President also awarded Rs.50, 000 each to migrant workers as seed capital to support their self-employment ventures under a welfare benefits program managed by the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE). This initiative aims to empower the migrant community economically and socially, confirm their rights, and gather ideas and proposals for policy development. The President took the opportunity to personally engage with migrant workers, inquiring about their well-being and participating in friendly conversations.

Addressing the gathering, President Ranil Wickremesinghe further elaborated;

The government has provided support to migrant workers returning after earning foreign exchange to help them start a new chapter in their lives. This support is not a reward or grant, but a right earned through their dedicated service. Many returning individuals may find their old jobs no longer suitable for their aspirations, and this program is designed to assist those with the drive and determination to forge a new path. I encourage you to make the most of this opportunity.

During the country’s economic crisis, your contributions of foreign exchange were crucial for our recovery. Without such support, our economy would not have been able to stabilize. When I took over, the country was in severe decline, with shortages of fuel, fertilizer, and a bleak future ahead. In those early months, we faced numerous challenges. Without the money you sent, we would not have been able to navigate these difficulties.

Thanks to timely provision of fertilizers, we achieved a successful harvest in recent seasons, which has significantly advanced the economy of our country. Every dollar you sent was invaluable, and I extend my gratitude to all of you. Your contributions enabled us to celebrate the Sinhala New Year, Vesak, and Poson festivals with great success.

We must continue to advance and develop our country, as relying on loans alone cannot sustain our economy. While we have received concessions to help repay foreign loans, merely servicing the debt is insufficient. We need to boost our foreign exchange reserves, which require borrowing until we reach our target amount. However, this increases our debt, so efforts must focus on enhancing our foreign exchange inflow.

Formal training for those seeking foreign employment is essential. I have advised the minister to develop a program that equips returning workers with advanced professional skills. Additionally, we should shift towards an export-driven economy, attract foreign investments, and increase tourism. This new approach will guide our country toward further development.

We also need to focus on advancing agriculture in the country, particularly by increasing paddy production. To support this, we have initiated an agricultural modernization program. As a country, we must move forward with confidence.

While large-scale companies are attracting more investors, which are promising, my goal is to also uplift the common people. We have launched programs to address this.

The “Aswesuma” and “Urumaya” programs have been introduced to ensure that everyone in the country receives their rights. Additionally, Rs.50 billion has been allocated to provide essential loans for small and medium-sized businesses. This initiative is part of our broader effort to foster ground-level progress as the country develops.

In building an export-driven economy, it is crucial for individuals to focus on their village’s economic development as well. While we are committed to national economic growth, we are also providing support for local development. The future of our country is at stake, and there is no room for complacency. Politics should not be about false promises or superficial interactions; it’s about making informed decisions for the future. I remind you of the important responsibility you hold in this process.

Manusha Nanayakkara, Minister of Labour and Foreign Employment;

Sri Lanka has been able to stand strong as a country because of its foreign employees. In 2019, foreign workers sent USD 6.1 billion to Sri Lanka. By 2022, this amount had decreased to USD 3 billion. However, this year, these dedicated individuals have already sent USD 12 billion, bolstering the program led by President Ranil Wickremesinghe. Despite attempts by some political leaders to deter them from sending money for political reasons, these national heroes have remained committed.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s economic programs have successfully encouraged foreign workers to resume sending money to Sri Lanka, providing the necessary foreign exchange for the country’s basic needs. The government has introduced several special initiatives to support these workers, such as offering vehicle licenses, gifts, and certificates to those who have travelled abroad more than six times. These programs aim to recognize and honour migrant workers. Additionally, the government is working to provide the facilities needed to help migrant workers become entrepreneurs. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for your invaluable service.

Jagath Pushpakumara, State Minister for Labour and Foreign Employment;

There was a time when this country faced war, and the soldiers made great sacrifices to save it. In 2022, Sri Lanka faced another kind of war—an economic one. Farmers took to the streets due to a lack of fertilizer, there were fourteen-hour power cuts, and people protested in the streets without fuel and gas.

The struggle that began from there was exploited by opportunists, leading to the destruction of state property. Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa resigned, and groups from the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) invited Sajith Premadasa to become Prime Minister. Sajith Premadasa declined, citing his inability to accept those challenges after serving as president for five years. A parliamentary group then approached Anura Kumara Dissanayake, who said the President must also be requested to step down for him to take over.

However, President Ranil Wickremesinghe took over the country without any conditions, pledging to free the people from oppression. Your support as patriots in economically rebuilding the country today is highly commendable.

Look at Bangladesh today. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina won 224 out of 300 parliamentary seats in the last election. The defeated political groups and the student movement have begun a struggle together. A similar incident happened in Sri Lanka two years ago. Some people are trying to set the country on fire and seize power. People are urged to make informed decisions regarding this matter.

Governor of North Western Province, Naseer Ahamed Zainulabdeen;

Due to the severe economic crisis faced by the country two years ago, the future had become uncertain. President Ranil Wickremesinghe took charge, placing faith in the migrant workers and implementing an economic program.

Today, this program has made significant progress. Foreign reserves have increased to $20 billion, and efforts have been made to reduce inflation. Negotiations with creditor countries have successfully reduced Sri Lanka’s debt by USD 8 billion. President Ranil Wickremesinghe is the only political leader capable of achieving such a feat.

State Minister of Livestock, D B Herath;

The Ministry of Labour and Foreign Employment has worked diligently to align the foreign workforce in a way that benefits the country. The contributions of these migrant workers in helping the country navigate a severe two-year economic crisis are invaluable. When President Ranil Wickremesinghe assumed the presidency with 134 votes in the Parliament, the country was in a state of disarray.

These migrant workers, who believed in the President’s program, have been sending remittances back to Sri Lanka, significantly aiding the country’s economic recovery. We anticipate their continued support will strengthen our progress.

Former Minister Akila Viraj Kariyawasam;

Today, your family is living abroad for Sri Lanka. While your family is abroad, the government is implementing programs to support and strengthen you. A new initiative has been introduced to help you navigate the economic crisis. Efforts have been made to provide relief through the ‘Aswesuma’ and ‘Urumaya’ programs. I urge you to use this relief to improve your situation.

State Minister Shantha Bandara, Secretary to the Ministry of Labour and Foreign Employment R P A Wimalaweera, and other officials attended the event.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe stated that restructuring loss-making public institutions will enable the government to allocate more resources to education and healthcare in the future. He emphasized that the country’s true wealth lies in its youth, not in struggling state enterprises. The President noted that many state enterprises are now operating without burdening the government, and he expects that the financial obligations related to SriLankan Airlines will be resolved by the end of the year.

President Wickremesinghe made these remarks during the ceremony to hand over the newly built Faculty of Allied Health Sciences at the Ruhuna University, located in Walahanduwa, Galle, today (19). At the event, the President unveiled a plaque and formally transferred the college building to the students. He also took time for a tour and engaged in friendly discussion with the university staff. Additionally, Vice-Chancellor of the Ruhuna University, Mr. Sujeeva Amarasena, presented a commemorative plaque to President Wickremesinghe.

Marking the occasion, the President also planted a sapling in the Faculty of Science grounds and took a group photo with the university staff.

Addressing the ceremony, President Ranil Wickremesinghe further said;

“Minister Ramesh Pathirana dedicated himself to the establishment of this Faculty of Allied Health Sciences. I urge everyone to fully utilize this facility. Major universities in countries like the United States benefit from such buildings 24/7. When government funds are allocated for education, we must maximize their use. Disrupting classes will harm both you and the country.

It was noted that Rs. 700 billion was spent on SriLankan Airlines and other corporations, but this needs to be managed correctly. These funds should have yielded a tenfold return. Instead, this massive expenditure led to loans under three different governments, increasing our national debt. When the country’s economy collapsed, our first step was to stop borrowing, which was a difficult but necessary task. We had to find new sources of revenue and we informed every government agency that they must cover their own expenses.

This situation impacted every sector, and I faced severe criticism. I had to choose between letting the economy collapse or enduring the backlash. Despite the criticism, we remained committed to our responsibility, with all ministers rendering their support.

At that time, some people opposed the state enterprise restructuring program. Today, electricity and fuel prices are aligned with global prices, and we no longer subsidize them. Additionally, we have stopped providing funds to other corporations, with the only remaining financial obligation being SriLankan Airlines, which we expect to resolve by the end of this year. This will allow the country to redirect funds to education and health services in the coming years.

When these measures were introduced, they faced significant criticism. I posed a critical question: Is our national wealth found in failing corporations or in our youth? We must choose between sustaining loss-making corporations and investing in education and health. I invite everyone to help move the country forward by supporting a new economic transformation over the next two to three years with these new initiatives.”

Minister of Health and Industries Dr. Ramesh Pathirana:

“The people of Galle thank the President for taking the time, amidst his busy schedule, to inaugurate this university building, which is crucial for the future of our country’s children. I am pleased to have completed such an important project during a critical period.

Thanks to President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s sound economic policies, the Galle district has received several significant projects. In the 2024 budget, he allocated substantial funds for health and education, which is a positive step for the future of our children. This new college, inaugurated today, is a source of pride for the Southern Province.”

Chairman of the University Grants Commission Senior Professor Sampath Amaratunge;

“I thank the President for participating in this event. The non-academic staff who have been on strike for 75 days will report back for duty from next Monday. The President intervened to provide a solution to their salary disparity. The President should be thanked for that. The Treasury has allocated Rs. 4.2 billion to pay their arrears. I believe that if we can take our country to a state where there are no strikes, that is the development of the country.”

The Chancellor of the Ruhunu University Ven. Akuratiye Nanda Nayaka Thera, the Maha Sangha and other religious clergy, Southern Province Governor Lakshman Yapa Abeywardena, Members of Parliament Mr. Wajira Abeywardana, Sampath Athukorala and a group of former vice chancellors, deans, academic staff, students and others were present on this occasion.

The University Grants Commission announced an allocation of Rs. 4.2 billion to settle salary anomalies for university non-academic staff.

Chairman of UGC Prof. Sampath Amaratunga credited President Ranil Wickremesinghe's intervention with finding a solution to the salary anomalies that led to the strike.

The resolution follows a 75-day strike that significantly impacted all state universities and higher education institutions across Sri Lanka.

Senior DIG Nilantha Jayawardena has been placed on compulsory leave in connection to the investigations into the Easter Sunday attacks.

The National Police Commission said SDIG Nilantha Jayawardena has been placed on leave pending a disciplinary probe.

The move comes after the Supreme Court had questioned why the National Police Commission had not initiated action against the former Chief of the State Intelligence Service, as per its court order.

The Supreme Court last week instructed the National Police Commission to adhere to the court order and take action against Senior DIG Nilantha Jayawardena.

The SDIG, along with former President Maithripala Sirisena, is accused of failing to prevent the 2019 Easter Sunday terror attacks, despite receiving intelligence information.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe stated that the influence of threatening politics should be eliminated from the university system to ensure that students can pursue their education freely. He emphasized the need to reorganize the university system and transform the country’s schools and universities into formal educational institutions without disruption.

President Wickremesinghe made these remarks during a ceremony held today (20) to inaugurate the University of Science and Technology in the Poonani area of Batticaloa. During the event, the President unveiled a plaque and officially handed over the new university to the students. He also toured the facility and engaged in friendly conversation with the students.

Additionally, a Memorandum of Understanding was exchanged between the university administration and higher education institutions in Sri Lanka in the presence of President Wickremesinghe. To mark the occasion, a commemorative stamp was launched to celebrate the establishment of the University of Science and Technology as a student-owned institution.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe further stated,

“I first met Mr. Hezbollah in 1985. Today, he has established this international university, prioritizing technology and science. The university was created to provide our children with knowledge in these fields.

The government aims to advance science and technology in our country. We need people skilled in these areas, making this university is crucial for our nation’s development.

Thank you for your efforts in educating our children in science and technology. Mr. Hezbollah has made a significant contribution to this region. With this new university, the Eastern Province now has three universities.

This institution is not for profit. Any surplus funds should be used for its development. Around the world, there are many non-profit universities, including Harvard, Oxford, and Cambridge. Similarly, Kotelawala University and NSBM Green University in our country are also non-profit institutions.

However, some people refer to these institutions as “degree shops.” Does that mean Cambridge, Harvard, and Oxford are also degree shops? It is this mindset that has destroyed our public universities, and we need to change it. Today’s universities face new challenges, including groups that disrupt education and manipulate students. I commend the teachers who continue to educate under these conditions.

We should ignore derogatory terms like “degree shops” for universities. To ensure students can learn freely, we need to reorganize our university system. I may face criticism on social media for saying this, but universities should be free from political interference.

We must remove threatening politics from our universities and allow students to choose their courses freely. Our schools and universities should become formal educational institutions without disruptions.

If this university thrives, it will set a precedent for the development of other university systems, and we hope to see more universities like this in the future.

We also plan to establish an educational institution in honour of Mr. Lalith Athulathmudali, who made significant contributions to higher education in this country. Additionally, it should be noted that the government is working on launching four new educational institutions, including technical universities.”

Founder of the Batticaloa International University of Science and Technology and former Governor of the Eastern Province, Dr. M. L. A. M. Hezbollah,

“I would like to extend my gratitude to the President for inaugurating this university. I searched extensively for a suitable location to build it, and ultimately chose Uva, where many low-income families reside. This location, central to the North Central and Eastern provinces, will benefit the people of all three regions.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe directed that educational activities at this university should commence as soon as possible. Currently, around 1,200 students from nearly every province in the country are enrolled here.

This university is open to all children, regardless of race or religion. Our goal is to nurture well-rounded Sri Lankans.

Our country faced a severe crisis, and during that time, President Ranil Wickremesinghe took office and worked tirelessly to rebuild the nation. Thanks to his efforts, we can proudly declare to the world that we are Sri Lankans.”

The event was attended by the Maha Sangha, other religious leaders, Eastern Province Governor Senthil Thondaman, Northern Province Governor P. S. M. Charles, Ministers of State for Defence Pramita Bandara Thennakoon and Siripala Gamlath, Members of Parliament Rishad Bathiudeen, Rauf Hakeem, Ali Zaheer Maulana, Faisal Kasim, and Jagath Samarawickrama, former Minister Ravi Karunanayake, Vice-Chancellor of the International University of Science and Technology Professor Jayantha Lal Rathnasekera, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor K. M. Mubarak, Registrar P. T. M. Hassan, President of the Science and Technology International University Mr. and Mrs. Hiras Hezbollah, Saudi diplomatic officials, teaching staff, students, local residents, and other dignitaries.

Dr. IZUMI Hiroto, the head of the Japanese delegation visiting Sri Lanka, lauded the successful completion of the country’s debt restructuring process, noting that it has paved the way for the resumption of Japanese Official Development Assistance (ODA) projects. These projects, which include several initiatives that were suspended last period, are now poised to restart, signaling a renewed phase of cooperation and development.

Dr. Hiroto highlighted that the international community’s confidence in President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s leadership is strongly reflected in the expedited success of the debt restructuring agreements. This achievement, accomplished in partnership with the Official Creditors’ Committee and the International Monetary Fund, underscores a remarkable turnaround for Sri Lanka.

The high-level Japanese delegation, comprising representatives from the housing, construction, and urban sectors, met with President Ranil Wickremesinghe at the Presidential Secretariat this morning (18).

During the meeting, Dr. IZUMI Hiroto highlighted the successful completion of Sri Lanka’s debt restructuring process and announced that projects under Japanese Official Development Assistance (ODA), including those previously suspended, are set to resume.

The discussion also focused on new investment opportunities in Sri Lanka, emphasizing the potential for enhanced cooperation between the two nations. The delegation expressed their appreciation for Sri Lanka’s economic progress and the swift achievement of debt restructuring agreements in collaboration with the Official Creditors’ Committee and the International Monetary Fund. They praised President Wickremesinghe’s leadership in navigating the country through its financial challenges, which has restored international confidence and paved the way for renewed development initiatives.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe, recalling Japan’s invaluable support during Sri Lanka’s debt restructuring process, emphasized Sri Lanka’s commitment to deepening economic cooperation with Japan across various sectors, including education and agricultural modernization. The President stressed the importance of resuming stalled projects under Japanese cooperation to further strengthen bilateral relations.

Additionally, President Wickremesinghe highlighted the critical role of the Colombo Dockyard, underscoring its significance as a key institution in Sri Lanka s maritime and industrial landscape.

The Japanese delegation noted that several projects that are currently suspended, including the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) Development Project, the Colombo Port Eastern Terminal Development Project, the Central Expressway Construction and the Digital Broadcasting Project, can be promptly restarted.

Additionally, the delegation highlighted the potential to resume the Light Railway Transit (LRT), which was halted by the previous government. They are actively assessing locations to re-implement this project, recognizing its significant potential to alleviate traffic congestion in Colombo city.

Both sides emphasized the significance of Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) in executing housing for low-income earners and other urban development projects. It was also highlighted that the Government of Sri Lanka is committed to promoting environmentally friendly projects and renewable energy in line with its policies and international agreements.

The Japanese delegation expressed their willingness to the President to recruit Sri Lankan graduates in the field of technology for job opportunities in Japan’s private sector. This initiative aims to improve the electricity supply sector in Japan. The delegation also highlighted the Joint Credit Mechanism (JCM), which encompasses projects designed to promote environmental sustainability by utilizing advanced Japanese technology to reduce carbon dioxide emissions.

Chief of Presidential Staff and Senior Advisor to the President on National Security Sagala Ratnayaka, Japanese Ambassador to Sri Lanka H.E. Mizukoshi Hideaki, Chairman of the Board – Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) Mr. MAEDA Tadashi, Presidential Senior Advisor to the President on Economic Affairs Dr. R. H. S. Samaratunga, and the Managing Director/CEO of the Colombo Dockyard PLC Mr. Thimira S. Godakumbura, along with representatives from several leading businesses in Japan attended the discussion.

The Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) is yet to be intimated officially or in writing by incumbent Ranil Wickremesinghe or entrepreneur Dhammika Perera that either will contest for the presidency, said its national organizer Namal Rajapaksa, while stressing that he too, has not done anything of the sort.

He was responding to media queries with regard to the SLPP’s candidate.

The SLPP will name its candidate at the appropriate time, and that candidate is someone who can repay the country’s debts, and does not sell national resources, said Rajapaksa.

Several contenders are at talks with the party with regard to the candidacy, he added.

State Minister for Finance Ranjith Siyambalapitiya, stated that the effective economic program of President Ranil Wickremesinghe over the past two years has brought stability to the country despite difficult circumstances.

He also extended an invitation to opposition members and economic research experts who have made negative and unfounded claims to engage in an open dialogue on a suitable platform.

Addressing the press briefing themed “Collective Path to a Stable Country” held at the Presidential Media Centre (PMC) today (18), State Minister Ranjith Siyambalapitiya further explained;

A presidential election is one of the most significant democratic decisions made by the people. At such a time, it is essential to create a platform to compare the country’s situation two years ago with its current state. The government’s responsibility includes ensuring the safety, welfare, and development of the people, necessitating dialogue at this critical moment.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe, who accepted the challenge of recovering the country in very difficult circumstances, has managed to steer the country in the right direction through his positive actions over the past two years. Opposition MPs and economic research experts who have presented negative and unfounded claims should engage in an open dialogue on a suitable platform to address these baseless statements.

As the State Minister for Finance, I am always ready to detail the positive steps taken by President Ranil Wickremesinghe to recover the country from the recent economic crisis.

Today, under the leadership of President Wickremesinghe as the Minister of Finance, a new loan scheme for small and medium enterprises was introduced. This loan, provided at a subsidized interest rate of 7% based on a loan from the Asian Development Bank, has an allocation of Rs.50 billion. The main purpose of this initiative is to strengthen small and medium enterprises.

Under this scheme, small and medium enterprises can receive loans up to a maximum of Rs.10 million. Additionally, Rs.6 billion will be allocated for the development of small tea gardens, and Rs.2 billion will be designated for women entrepreneurs.

There is also a need for a debt security agency, which will be established in October. This agency will assist borrowers who are unable to provide guarantee.

A special committee has been appointed to address issues related to all sectors affected by vehicle import restrictions. The committee met in the first week of July, and their report will be submitted to the Cabinet by the second week of August. Plans are then being made to outline the process for resuming vehicle imports.

Additionally, the results of the examination for the recruitment of customs inspectors have been released. Interviews are scheduled for July 26 and 27. We also expect the results for the recruitment of Assistant Superintendents of Customs to be released this week. It should be noted that this recruitment process is being conducted transparently.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe urged that there should be no fear regarding the constitutional amendment.

He emphasized that when making constitutional amendments, he entrusts the responsibility to experienced professionals. He mentioned that in the past, lawyers like K. N. Choksi were involved in such matters.

However, since Mr. Choksi had passed away by the time of the new constitutional amendment in 2015, the task was assigned to lawyer Jayampathi Wickramaratne.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe acknowledged that the current issues have resulted from an oversight on his part and expressed his apology to the public for it.

He made this statement today (19) during the opening of the new court complex in Beligaha, Galle.

To enhance the efficiency of justice administration for the people of Galle, a new court complex was constructed at a cost of LKR 1600 million. The complex houses a Civil Appeal High Court, two High Courts, three District Courts, two Magistrate Courts, a Legal Aid Centre, a Community Corrections Office, a Probation Office, and a Debt Relief Board. It is fully equipped with necessary facilities for court proceedings, including administrative offices.

After unveiling the plaque and officially opening the new court complex, the President took an observation tour of the premises.

The Galle Bar Association also presented a commemorative gift to the President.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe further stated:

“I would like to extend my gratitude to Minister Wijayadasa Rajapakshe for overseeing the completion of this Judicial Complex. With plans to develop the area as a tourist destination, it was crucial to relocate the existing Court Complex, and I am pleased to say that this has been accomplished.

As we work to transform the Galle area into a tourist hub, we have identified locations outside the province for large hotel developments. Additionally, there are plans to move the Transport Board, Timber Corporation, Mahamodara Hospital, Nursing College, Prison and Post Office to the city centre. We also plan to build a similar court complex in the Hikkaduwa area.

The Galle District Court Complex holds historical significance. After Dutch rule, the Batavian Statutes introduced Roman-Dutch law to Ceylon, making Galle a jurisdictional centre with a judicial board, a civil board, and a land board. This marked the beginning of our judicial system. While the Galle judicial area was originally divided into the Matara and Galle districts, only the Galle district continues to operate as a judicial region.

During the Dutch period, the majority of the Land Board members were Dutch, while the minority were Sri Lankans from Ruhuna. The Sri Lankans learned the law from the Dutch and later emerged as lawyers during the English colonial period.

Over time, many Sri Lankans pursued careers in law and entered the Legislative Assembly. Lawyers became a cornerstone of the legislative system. Under the Donoughmore Constitution, they served in the State Council with significant voting power. The English system of governance was established through the Soulbury Constitution, and when India adopted a republican constitution, Sri Lanka followed suit with the English system.

Colvin R. de Silva introduced the first Republican Constitution, while J.R. Jayewardene presented the Second Republican Constitution. Sri Lanka has a rich constitutional history and a strong commitment to the rule of law.

In 1931, Sri Lanka became the first country in Asia and Africa to grant universal suffrage. Unlike in the United States, where some states did not extend voting rights to Black people, Sri Lanka is unique for maintaining democracy continuously since then. We should take pride in this achievement. Despite facing wars and rebellions, Sri Lanka has preserved its democratic system, and democracy has remained intact despite numerous challenges.

In Sri Lanka, power transitions smoothly and without conflict after elections, a testament to the strength of our democratic process. Despite various debates and issues, democracy has never been compromised.

Some critics argue that democracy is at risk during certain crises. However, our constitution, judiciary, and political system have worked to advance and protect it. The most significant threat to our democracy occurred in 2022, yet we have continued to progress through consensus.

While Parliament remains a venue for debate, protecting democracy is crucial. The upcoming election is on schedule, with the Chief Justice and the Supreme Court confirming that it should be held within the specified timeframe, and we support this directive.

In 2015, we proposed a new constitutional amendment. Typically, I would have assigned this task to K. N. Choksi, a lawyer. However, since he had passed away, the responsibility fell to lawyer Jayampathi Wickramaratne. He was unable to make the necessary revisions. This oversight is regrettable, and I apologize to the nation for it. There is no need for further discussion on this matter; our country has upheld democracy since 1931.

Additionally, the government will fund the compilation of a book on the heritage of Galle’s history”.

Mr. Wijayadasa Rajapakshe, Minister of Justice, Prison Affairs and Constitutional Reform;

As a citizen of Ruhuna, I am very pleased to celebrate the opening of the new modern court complex in the southern province. The lawyers in the Galle area have faced many challenges, and it took approximately 12 years to complete this project due to various obstacles. Thanks to the President’s intervention, we have successfully built this impressive facility.

Despite the national crisis over the past two years, the President ensured that the judicial process continued smoothly. The new court complex has faced some political accusations, but it is important to clarify that this facility was not constructed for political purposes. Our goal is to provide better access to justice and relief to the people, as we view the court as a temple of the people.

Minister of Health and Industries Dr. Ramesh Pathirana;

Thank you to everyone who contributed to making this court complex a reality. During the country’s economic crisis, continuing the construction was challenging, but President Ranil Wickremesinghe provided the necessary financial support to complete the project. Without his assistance, this achievement would not have been possible.

State Ministers Anuradha Jayaratne, Geetha Kumarasinghe, and Mohan Priyadarshana Silva, along with Members of Parliament Vajira Abeywardena and Sampath Athukorala, attended the event. Also present were Chief Justice Jayantha Jayasuriya, Attorney General Parinda Ranasinghe, Galle District Secretary W. Dharmasiri, Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Justice R. S. Hapugaswatta, High Court Judges, District Judges, Magistrates, Galle Bar Association President Ruwan Asiri De Silva, and other lawyers and government officials.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe announced plans to seek UNESCO’s support in a comprehensive modernization initiative for Sri Lanka’s education sector, alongside seeking assistance from the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank for these reforms.

Addressing the inaugural session of the Student Parliament of Buddhuruvagala Maha Vidyalaya, Monaragala, yesterday (17), President Wickremesinghe highlighted the goal of establishing an advanced education system incorporating modern technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI). His vision is to equip the youth with the skills needed to thrive in the contemporary world.

The inaugural session of the college’s student parliament took place at the Chamber Hall of the Presidential Secretariat following an invitation extended during President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s recent visit to Buddhuruvagala Maha Vidyalaya, Monaragala.

Fulfilling a promise to the students, a valuable collection of musical instruments was swiftly presented to the college, prompting gratitude from the students. The event saw 96 members of the student parliament in attendance, with certificates being distributed under the supervision of Secretary to the President Saman Ekanayake and Secretary-General of Parliament Kushani Rohanadeera.

Addressing the students, President Ranil Wickremesinghe emphasized that future leaders who will build the country will emerge from these student parliaments. He noted that the experience gained through these platforms will be invaluable and expressed his happiness that student parliaments are active in many schools.

The President also shared the historical and ancient background of the old Parliament Building, now the Presidential Secretariat, engaging in a friendly conversation with the students and informing them about the parliamentary system, including the Constituent Assembly.

Secretary-General of Parliament Kushani Rohanadeera explained the role of Parliament.

The principal of Buddhuruvagala Maha Vidyalaya, Monaragala H.M.U.B. Herath, along with several teachers and parents, were also present on this occasion.

The 22nd Amendment to the Constitution has been published via Gazette by order of the President.

The development comes just a day after Justice Minister Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe had instructed the Secretary of the Justice Ministry to halt the gazette publication until after the Presidential Election is held.

The Minister had made this call amidst allegations that the amendment is being used as a tactic to postpone the election.

The amendment proposes changing paragraph (b) of Article 83 by replacing the words “exceeding six years” with “exceeding five years”.

Minister of Water Supply and Estate Infrastructure Development Jeevan Thondaman, announced that the reduction of water tariffs is being studied alongside the new electricity tariff revision, with a decision expected by the end of this week.

The Minister also highlighted that the Water Supply Board, previously experiencing a monthly loss of LKR 2.8 billion, has now achieved a profit of LKR 6.2 billion.

Minister of Water Supply and Estate Infrastructure Development Jeevan Thondaman made these remarks during the ‘Collective Path to a Stable Country’ press briefing today (17) at the Presidential Media Centre (PMC).

Minister Jeevan Thondaman, elaborating further, also stated:

We commend Minister Kanchana Wijesekera for initiating steps to lower electricity tariffs. The water supply sector is closely tied to electricity tariffs, making it likely that this revision will also lead to reduced water tariffs.

Water availability is influenced by various factors. We previously committed to lowering water tariffs in tandem with reductions in electricity charges. Currently, the Ministry is not only focusing on electricity but also assessing the impact of reduced interest rates, down from 26% to 11%. Additionally, we are studying the potential reduction in water tariffs based on changes in the dollar exchange rate. It’s important to note that the cost of chemicals procured by the water supply board is influenced by the dollar exchange rate.

It is expected that by the end of this week, a decision will be made regarding the extent of the reduction in the water tariff. When I assumed office in January 2023, the Ministry faced challenges, unable to even provide 1,000 new water connections. Moreover, I inherited a Ministry burdened with an USD 800 million debt and a Water Supply Board experiencing monthly losses of approximately LKR 2.8 billion. The board’s monthly recurring expenses of LKR 4.5 billion had a significant national impact.

Since then, we have delivered on our commitments. The number of new water connections has increased to 113,000, with plans to add approximately 30,000 more connections in the coming weeks.

Furthermore, we have successfully transformed the Water Supply Board’s monthly loss of LKR 2.8 billion into a monthly profit of LKR 6.2 billion. It is noteworthy that with a recurring expenditure of LKR 4.5 billion, we have ensured the sustainability of the water supply sector by allocating the surplus towards debt servicing.

Through the Ministry of Power and Energy, we secured a USD 100 million policy-based loan from the Asian Development Bank (ADB). Similarly, preparations are underway for a sub-programme within the water supply sector. Cabinet approval has been obtained for the final two issues of the ADB’s reform proposals: the water tariff formula and the investment framework criteria. Upon approval by the Asian Development Bank Executive Board, an additional USD 100 million is anticipated.

Moreover, we are committed to safeguarding vulnerable and economically disadvantaged communities from the impact of water tariffs. Measures have been implemented to provide subsidies to hospitals, schools, and religious institutions classified as charitable entities.

We are also pleased with the success of the “Aswasuma” program and the President’s focus on increasing wages for plantation workers and granting land rights. The Upcountry communities have gained confidence in the President’s initiatives. Despite challenges faced by Upcountry communities, we are optimistic about the direction we are heading. Today, many longstanding issues affecting Upcountry communities have been resolved.

Next month, discussions will be held with the Ministry of Industries and Estate Companies aimed at finding a lasting solution to the plantation workers’ wage issue. Furthermore, in response to our longstanding request, the President submitted a cabinet paper on land rights last Monday. In Upcountry areas where numerous families reside, there is often only one Grama Sewa Officer, leading to inadequate distribution of government welfare benefits. This is exacerbated by historical land demarcation issues affecting Upcountry residents.

These challenges have impeded the development of Upcountry communities. To address this, the President’s cabinet paper proposes formally recognizing Upcountry areas as villages. Additionally, there is widespread agreement that priority should be given to providing housing rights to Upcountry people. Securing land rights enables individuals to build homes, fostering community development.