The detention and subsequent death of an individual for a phone ringing in court has ignited a firestorm of criticism, with Member of Parliament and President's Counsel Faizer Musthapha labeling it a "serious situation." Speaking in Parliament, he asserted that the misuse of the Contempt of Court Act in this manner poses a grave threat to citizens' rights and demanded immediate action.
Anuruddha Lokuhapuarachchi, Director of Communications for Sri Lanka’s Presidential Media Division, has ignited controversy by publicly questioning the long-accepted narrative that the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) were solely responsible for the 2006 Welikanda and Kebithigollewa massacres of Sinhala civilians.
Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe has warned that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) could withdraw from Sri Lanka because, as reported in the Sathi Aga Aruna newspaper, the government failed to implement the proposed electricity tariff revisions by the March 31 deadline.
Reports indicate that legal action is being prepared against six former ministers concerning allegations of bribery, corruption, and other criminal charges. According to reliable sources, investigations into these senior politicians, who held ministerial portfolios in past governments, have been concluded.
The detention and subsequent death of an individual for a phone ringing in court has ignited a firestorm of criticism, with Member of Parliament and President's Counsel Faizer Musthapha labeling it a "serious situation." Speaking in Parliament, he asserted that the misuse of the Contempt of Court Act in this manner poses a grave threat to citizens' rights and demanded immediate action.
Anuruddha Lokuhapuarachchi, Director of Communications for Sri Lanka’s Presidential Media Division, has ignited controversy by publicly questioning the long-accepted narrative that the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) were solely responsible for the 2006 Welikanda and Kebithigollewa massacres of Sinhala civilians.
Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe has warned that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) could withdraw from Sri Lanka because, as reported in the Sathi Aga Aruna newspaper, the government failed to implement the proposed electricity tariff revisions by the March 31 deadline.
Reports indicate that legal action is being prepared against six former ministers concerning allegations of bribery, corruption, and other criminal charges. According to reliable sources, investigations into these senior politicians, who held ministerial portfolios in past governments, have been concluded.
The detention and subsequent death of an individual for a phone ringing in court has ignited a firestorm of criticism, with Member of Parliament and President's Counsel Faizer Musthapha labeling it a "serious situation." Speaking in Parliament, he asserted that the misuse of the Contempt of Court Act in this manner poses a grave threat to citizens' rights and demanded immediate action.
Anuruddha Lokuhapuarachchi, Director of Communications for Sri Lanka’s Presidential Media Division, has ignited controversy by publicly questioning the long-accepted narrative that the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) were solely responsible for the 2006 Welikanda and Kebithigollewa massacres of Sinhala civilians.
Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe has warned that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) could withdraw from Sri Lanka because, as reported in the Sathi Aga Aruna newspaper, the government failed to implement the proposed electricity tariff revisions by the March 31 deadline.
Reports indicate that legal action is being prepared against six former ministers concerning allegations of bribery, corruption, and other criminal charges. According to reliable sources, investigations into these senior politicians, who held ministerial portfolios in past governments, have been concluded.
The detention and subsequent death of an individual for a phone ringing in court has ignited a firestorm of criticism, with Member of Parliament and President's Counsel Faizer Musthapha labeling it a "serious situation." Speaking in Parliament, he asserted that the misuse of the Contempt of Court Act in this manner poses a grave threat to citizens' rights and demanded immediate action.
Anuruddha Lokuhapuarachchi, Director of Communications for Sri Lanka’s Presidential Media Division, has ignited controversy by publicly questioning the long-accepted narrative that the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) were solely responsible for the 2006 Welikanda and Kebithigollewa massacres of Sinhala civilians.
Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe has warned that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) could withdraw from Sri Lanka because, as reported in the Sathi Aga Aruna newspaper, the government failed to implement the proposed electricity tariff revisions by the March 31 deadline.
Reports indicate that legal action is being prepared against six former ministers concerning allegations of bribery, corruption, and other criminal charges. According to reliable sources, investigations into these senior politicians, who held ministerial portfolios in past governments, have been concluded.
The detention and subsequent death of an individual for a phone ringing in court has ignited a firestorm of criticism, with Member of Parliament and President's Counsel Faizer Musthapha labeling it a "serious situation." Speaking in Parliament, he asserted that the misuse of the Contempt of Court Act in this manner poses a grave threat to citizens' rights and demanded immediate action.
Anuruddha Lokuhapuarachchi, Director of Communications for Sri Lanka’s Presidential Media Division, has ignited controversy by publicly questioning the long-accepted narrative that the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) were solely responsible for the 2006 Welikanda and Kebithigollewa massacres of Sinhala civilians.
Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe has warned that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) could withdraw from Sri Lanka because, as reported in the Sathi Aga Aruna newspaper, the government failed to implement the proposed electricity tariff revisions by the March 31 deadline.
Reports indicate that legal action is being prepared against six former ministers concerning allegations of bribery, corruption, and other criminal charges. According to reliable sources, investigations into these senior politicians, who held ministerial portfolios in past governments, have been concluded.
The detention and subsequent death of an individual for a phone ringing in court has ignited a firestorm of criticism, with Member of Parliament and President's Counsel Faizer Musthapha labeling it a "serious situation." Speaking in Parliament, he asserted that the misuse of the Contempt of Court Act in this manner poses a grave threat to citizens' rights and demanded immediate action.
Anuruddha Lokuhapuarachchi, Director of Communications for Sri Lanka’s Presidential Media Division, has ignited controversy by publicly questioning the long-accepted narrative that the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) were solely responsible for the 2006 Welikanda and Kebithigollewa massacres of Sinhala civilians.
Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe has warned that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) could withdraw from Sri Lanka because, as reported in the Sathi Aga Aruna newspaper, the government failed to implement the proposed electricity tariff revisions by the March 31 deadline.
Reports indicate that legal action is being prepared against six former ministers concerning allegations of bribery, corruption, and other criminal charges. According to reliable sources, investigations into these senior politicians, who held ministerial portfolios in past governments, have been concluded.
The detention and subsequent death of an individual for a phone ringing in court has ignited a firestorm of criticism, with Member of Parliament and President's Counsel Faizer Musthapha labeling it a "serious situation." Speaking in Parliament, he asserted that the misuse of the Contempt of Court Act in this manner poses a grave threat to citizens' rights and demanded immediate action.
Anuruddha Lokuhapuarachchi, Director of Communications for Sri Lanka’s Presidential Media Division, has ignited controversy by publicly questioning the long-accepted narrative that the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) were solely responsible for the 2006 Welikanda and Kebithigollewa massacres of Sinhala civilians.
Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe has warned that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) could withdraw from Sri Lanka because, as reported in the Sathi Aga Aruna newspaper, the government failed to implement the proposed electricity tariff revisions by the March 31 deadline.
Reports indicate that legal action is being prepared against six former ministers concerning allegations of bribery, corruption, and other criminal charges. According to reliable sources, investigations into these senior politicians, who held ministerial portfolios in past governments, have been concluded.
The detention and subsequent death of an individual for a phone ringing in court has ignited a firestorm of criticism, with Member of Parliament and President's Counsel Faizer Musthapha labeling it a "serious situation." Speaking in Parliament, he asserted that the misuse of the Contempt of Court Act in this manner poses a grave threat to citizens' rights and demanded immediate action.
Anuruddha Lokuhapuarachchi, Director of Communications for Sri Lanka’s Presidential Media Division, has ignited controversy by publicly questioning the long-accepted narrative that the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) were solely responsible for the 2006 Welikanda and Kebithigollewa massacres of Sinhala civilians.
Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe has warned that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) could withdraw from Sri Lanka because, as reported in the Sathi Aga Aruna newspaper, the government failed to implement the proposed electricity tariff revisions by the March 31 deadline.
Reports indicate that legal action is being prepared against six former ministers concerning allegations of bribery, corruption, and other criminal charges. According to reliable sources, investigations into these senior politicians, who held ministerial portfolios in past governments, have been concluded.
The detention and subsequent death of an individual for a phone ringing in court has ignited a firestorm of criticism, with Member of Parliament and President's Counsel Faizer Musthapha labeling it a "serious situation." Speaking in Parliament, he asserted that the misuse of the Contempt of Court Act in this manner poses a grave threat to citizens' rights and demanded immediate action.
Anuruddha Lokuhapuarachchi, Director of Communications for Sri Lanka’s Presidential Media Division, has ignited controversy by publicly questioning the long-accepted narrative that the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) were solely responsible for the 2006 Welikanda and Kebithigollewa massacres of Sinhala civilians.
Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe has warned that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) could withdraw from Sri Lanka because, as reported in the Sathi Aga Aruna newspaper, the government failed to implement the proposed electricity tariff revisions by the March 31 deadline.
Reports indicate that legal action is being prepared against six former ministers concerning allegations of bribery, corruption, and other criminal charges. According to reliable sources, investigations into these senior politicians, who held ministerial portfolios in past governments, have been concluded.
Industry experts at the Lanka Property Show 2025 expressed confidence in Sri Lanka’s real estate sector’s growth potential despite recent economic hurdles. While high interest rates, currency depreciation, and fluctuating taxes have impacted the market, experts believe that stabilizing monetary policy will create a favorable environment for investors and homebuyers.
The 9th edition of the Lanka Property Show attracted over 17,000 visitors, showcasing over 25 leading projects and demonstrating a strong recovery from the pandemic and economic downturn.
Panel discussions addressed key market issues. Former Central Bank Governor Dr. Indrajith Coomaraswamy emphasized that stable economic conditions are crucial for the sector. Prime Group Chairman Premalal Brahmanage highlighted high construction costs due to taxes and urged greater government support.
Attracting foreign buyers was also discussed. Kishore Reddy of Platinum Realty Investments called for prompt implementation of investor visas and reduced import duties on building materials.
Panelists on affordable housing stressed sustainable design and cost-effective solutions to reduce construction costs.
The event showcased a resilient property market with increasing buyer interest and investor confidence. Experts agreed that with continued policy stability and stakeholder cooperation, Sri Lanka’s real estate sector is poised for sustainable growth.
In a tragic incident early this morning (22nd March), two men, aged 28 and 29, were killed near the Devinuwara Dewalaya in Gandara. Police reports indicate that the victims were traveling on a motorbike when they were pursued by unidentified assailants in a van.
The chase ended violently as the assailants deliberately collided with the motorbike, causing the victims to lose control. The perpetrators then proceeded to shoot the victims at close range before fleeing the scene.
Law enforcement officials stated that the suspects later attempted to destroy evidence by setting the van on fire a distance away from the crime scene. The burnt-out vehicle has been recovered and is currently undergoing forensic examination.
Police have launched a full-scale investigation into the double homicide. They are appealing to the public for any information that may lead to the identification and apprehension of the suspects.
Heathrow Airport, the UK’s busiest airport, has been forced to close its doors for the entirety of Friday due to a major power outage. This disruption stems from a fire that broke out at a nearby electrical substation responsible for supplying power to the airport.
The incident has triggered significant travel chaos, with the airport issuing a stern warning to passengers, advising them against traveling to the airport “under any circumstances” until it can resume operations. The repercussions of the power outage extend beyond the airport itself, impacting thousands of homes in the surrounding areas, leaving them without electricity. Additionally, around 150 people residing near the substation have been evacuated as a safety precaution.
Emergency services were alerted to the fire at the substation in Hayes, west London, late on Thursday night. Social media platforms were abuzz with dramatic footage showcasing towering flames and thick smoke billowing from the substation during the overnight hours. The fire has had a substantial impact on flight schedules, with at least 1,351 flights to and from Heathrow being affected on Friday, according to flight tracking data. This figure includes approximately 120 aircraft that were already airborne when the airport closure was announced.
As of the latest reports, a part of a transformer within the substation remains ablaze, as confirmed by the London Fire Brigade (LFB). The cause of the fire is still under investigation. A significant response from the fire department has been deployed to combat the blaze, with ten fire engines and around 70 firefighters on the scene. The airport is working diligently to restore power and resume operations as quickly as possible, but significant disruptions are expected to persist in the coming days.
Menaka Amerasinghe’s journey into the world of bespoke wedding invitations and planning services began with a simple love for handwork and a desire to create. From a young age, she was drawn to the tangible beauty of handcrafted items, finding joy in transforming her creative impulses into physical objects. This passion initially found expression in the creation of birthday cards, but it wasn’t long before Menaka discovered her true calling: wedding invitations.
In 2021, Menaka was honored with the prestigious Sri Lanka Vanithabhimana Award, a testament to her exceptional talent and contribution to the industry.
Recognizing a gap in the market for truly unique and personalized wedding invitations, Menaka set out to offer couples an alternative to generic, mass-produced designs. Her vision was to create invitations that would encapsulate the essence of a couple’s love story, transforming their special day into an exquisite, handcrafted experience. This vision became the driving force behind Fairyhopes.lk, a brand that quickly became synonymous with originality, craftsmanship, and personalized service.
Menaka’s path to success was not without its challenges. As a self-taught artist, she had to rely on her resourcefulness and determination to hone her skills and develop her unique design aesthetic. “This was entirely a self-learning process as I don’t have any professional training,” she explains. “But I used to refer to videos online and create my designs.”
Through online resources and sheer dedication, Menaka mastered various design techniques and explored different materials, constantly pushing the boundaries of her creativity. Her innovative approach and commitment to quality quickly attracted a loyal clientele, validating her intuition that couples were seeking something more than just a generic invitation.
Each invitation tells a story, reflecting the unique personalities and preferences of the couple. The tactile experience of holding a beautifully crafted invitation, with its intricate details and personalized touches, adds a layer of intimacy and authenticity that mass-produced alternatives cannot replicate.
Fairyhopes.lk tapped into this desire for authenticity, offering couples the opportunity to express their individuality through exquisite, handcrafted designs. The brand’s tagline, “Get a unique wedding card designed for your big day,” perfectly captures Menaka’s commitment to creating invitations that are as special and unique as the couples they represent.
This commitment to craftsmanship has earned the brand a reputation for excellence, making it the go-to destination for couples seeking high-quality, personalized wedding stationery.
At Fairyhopes.lk, personalized service is at the heart of everything they do. Menaka works closely with each couple, taking the time to understand their vision and preferences. “I get many orders and requests online, and I usually discuss design ideas with clients,” she says. “Sometimes the brides want to match the invitation cards with their bridal outfits. Apart from invitation cards, I also make cake boxes as well.”
Balancing the demands of her business with her personal life requires a dedicated team, and Menaka is grateful for the support she receives from her family and colleagues. “I like to extend my gratitude to my parents for being constant pillars of strength without whom none of this would have been a success,” she says.
Like any entrepreneur, Menaka has faced her share of challenges, particularly during the pandemic. “There’s a huge competition in the market, and we need to have unique designs if we are to survive,” she admits. However, her unwavering commitment to quality and innovation has allowed her to navigate these challenges and emerge stronger than ever.
Looking to the future, Menaka’s hopes and ambitions for Fairyhopes.lk are deeply rooted in her desire to empower couples and create lasting memories. She envisions continuing to push the boundaries of creativity, exploring new design techniques and materials to offer even more innovative and captivating products.
“I want Fairyhopes.lk to be known as a brand that truly understands the importance of celebrating love,” Menaka says. “We’re not just creating invitations; we’re creating keepsakes, tangible reminders of a special moment in time.”
Menaka has created a legacy of love and artistry that will continue to inspire for years to come.
Sri Lanka’s burgeoning reputation in the global golfing arena is set to reach new heights as two of its most promising junior golfers, Reshan Algama and Kaya Daluwatte, prepare to participate in the prestigious Robert Rock Junior Masters. This esteemed tournament, scheduled from April 1st to 3rd at the renowned Al Hamra Golf Club in the United Arab Emirates, is a pivotal platform for showcasing emerging talent in the world of golf.
Algama, who currently holds a top position among Sri Lanka’s junior male golfers, and Daluwatte, the nation’s sole world-ranked female golfer, have secured their invitations to this distinguished event through their exceptional performances and commendable international rankings. Their selection underscores a significant stride for Sri Lankan golf, serving as a testament to the nation’s burgeoning potential in nurturing world-class golfing talent.
The Al Hamra Golf Club, a sprawling masterpiece designed by Peter Harradine, stretches across an impressive 7,325 yards and is celebrated for its challenging layout that artfully blends desert landscapes with serene open water lagoons. Having previously hosted major tournaments such as the DP World Tour’s Ras Al Khaimah Championship, the course offers an ideal setting for these rising stars to showcase their skills on a global stage.
Both Algama and Daluwatte are approaching the tournament with unwavering determination and focus. Algama expressed his enthusiasm and gratitude for the opportunity to compete against some of the world’s finest junior golfers, recognizing the invaluable experience that awaits him. Daluwatte echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the significance of her participation in inspiring other young Sri Lankan girls to pursue their golfing aspirations.
The participation of these two talented golfers in the Robert Rock Junior Masters is not only a personal achievement but also a collective triumph for Sri Lankan golf. It is a testament to the unwavering commitment and strategic vision of Golf Sri Lanka’s junior development program, which has been instrumental in fostering a generation of golfers capable of competing at an international level. As Algama and Daluwatte prepare to tee off in the UAE, they carry with them the hopes and aspirations of a nation eager to witness its golfing prowess shine on the global stage.
The Election Commission (EC) of Sri Lanka announced yesterday that the much-awaited 2025 Local Government Elections will be held on May 6th. This announcement was made during a special media briefing held immediately after the conclusion of the nomination acceptance period for the Local Government elections.
The acceptance of nominations for 336 Local Government institutions began on March 17th and concluded at noon yesterday. The deadline for placing deposits for the upcoming LG polls was midnight on Wednesday, March 19th.
A total of 17,296,330 voters have registered and are eligible to vote in the upcoming Local Government polls. Although nominations were initially submitted in 2023 for the holding of the LG Elections, the EC had to postpone the polls due to the previous government’s inability to allocate the necessary funds for the elections.
The EC Chairman has confirmed that the required funds have now been received, ensuring that the 2025 LG polls can proceed as scheduled. This announcement marks a significant step in Sri Lanka’s democratic process, allowing citizens to exercise their right to vote and elect their local government representatives.
The EC is expected to release further details about the election process, including campaigning guidelines, polling station locations, and security arrangements, in the coming weeks. All political parties and candidates are urged to adhere to the election rules and regulations and ensure a peaceful and fair election.
The 2025 Local Government Elections are crucial for Sri Lanka’s decentralized governance structure, as they will determine the leadership and direction of local government bodies across the country. These bodies play a vital role in providing essential services and implementing development projects at the grassroots level.
The Colombo Magistrate’s Court has directed the Illicit Assets Investigation Unit to conduct a thorough investigation into the business dealings of model Piumi Hansamali under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. The court has instructed the unit to submit its findings at a later date.
The case was presented before Colombo Additional Magistrate Manjula Ratnayake on March 21, 2025. The proceedings were initiated following a motion filed by Hansamali’s legal representative. During the hearing, Chief Inspector Sampath Rajakaruna, the Officer in Charge of the Illicit Assets Investigation Unit, informed the court that Hansamali was facing allegations related to the sale of high-end cosmetics at inflated prices. Additionally, the Chief Inspector revealed that there were potential connections between Hansamali and a prominent drug trafficker who was apprehended in November 2023.
Hansamali’s attorney, Sumudu Hewage, refuted the allegations against his client. He asserted that Hansamali operates a legitimate cosmetics business, catering to a customer base of over 34,500 individuals through courier services. Hewage vehemently denied the media reports that accused Hansamali of price gouging and stated that these unfounded claims had significantly damaged her business and led to customer attrition.
The police are currently investigating whether Hansamali’s luxury vehicle, which has been linked to the arrested drug trafficker, is connected to the sale of illegal drugs. The Chief Inspector of Police argued that a comprehensive investigation was necessary to ascertain whether Hansamali’s business was involved in the sale of cosmetics or illicit substances.
Acknowledging the necessity of the investigation, Magistrate Ratnayake emphasized that the police must conduct the inquiry in accordance with the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, ensuring that Hansamali’s business is not unduly affected during the process. The court has instructed the police to provide regular updates on the progress of the investigation.
The Sri Lankan Parliament successfully passed the Third Reading of the Appropriation Bill (2024) on March 21st, marking the end of the Committee Stage Debate and the conclusion of the entire Budget 2025 process.
The Bill was passed with a clear majority, securing 159 votes in favor and 45 votes against. The division was called by Chief Opposition Whip Gayantha Karunatileka, highlighting the contentious nature of some of the budget’s provisions.
The Budget 2025 proceedings, which commenced on February 17, 2025, with President Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as Minister of Finance, presenting the Second Reading of the Appropriation Bill (Budget Speech) to Parliament. This was followed by a seven-day debate on the Second Reading, spanning from February 18th to 25th.
The Appropriation Bill, also known as the Budget, outlines the government’s estimated revenues and expenditures for the fiscal year 2024. It encompasses a wide range of financial allocations for various sectors, including education, healthcare, infrastructure, defense, and social welfare.
The passage of the Bill allows the government to implement its budgetary plans and policies for the upcoming year. It provides the legal authority to collect taxes and allocate funds according to the outlined budget.
The successful passage of the Appropriation Bill (2024) signifies a crucial step in the government’s economic agenda. It demonstrates the government’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and its vision for the country’s economic development.
The Sri Lankan government has reaffirmed its commitment to reforming the country’s stringent abortion laws, which currently only allow termination of pregnancy when the mother’s life is at risk. Justice Minister Harshana Nanayakkara addressed Parliament today, assuring that steps are being taken to permit abortion in cases of rape, incest, and severe fetal deformities.
During the parliamentary session, SJB MP Ajith P. Perera questioned the government about the delay in implementing these reforms, pointing out that similar proposals had been included in previous policy statements but never enacted. Perera stressed the urgency of the issue, arguing that continued delays would only perpetuate the cycle of inaction.
“Many countries have already addressed this issue. It’s not something that requires endless debate,” Perera stated. “Our government and previous administrations have attempted and failed to enact these reforms, but they are essential in a society that values medical science and rational decision-making. We must take bold action instead of seeking more opinions.”
Justice Minister Nanayakkara acknowledged the urgency of the matter and confirmed that the government is adhering to due process to enact the amendments. “We are not stalling or avoiding this issue. There’s a procedure to follow, and we’re taking the necessary steps,” Nanayakkara assured. “I can assure you that we won’t need the full four and a half years to implement this reform. We appreciate the Opposition’s support, and I’m confident that with their cooperation, we can make progress swiftly.”
When pressed for details on the specific measures taken thus far, Nanayakkara revealed that over 60 pending legal amendments, including abortion law reforms, are currently under review. He assured Parliament that the groundwork is being laid and that updates will be provided soon.
Sri Lanka’s current abortion law, which dates back to 1883, imposes a prison sentence of up to three years for anyone who intentionally causes a miscarriage, except to save the woman’s life. Attempts to introduce exceptions for cases such as rape, incest, and severe fetal abnormalities have faced opposition from religious and conservative groups. The government’s renewed commitment to amending these laws signals a potential shift in policy, but the path to reform is likely to be met with continued resistance.
