Three companies reportedly belonging to former State Minister Daya Gamage are scheduled to be publicly auctioned on July 2nd at 10:00 am, the Colombo Commercial High Court has ruled.
The Registrar and Deputy Fiscal of the Colombo Commercial High Court announced the decision through a public notice in newspapers.
The auction aims to recover 104,229,342 Sri Lankan Rupees owed to People’s Leasing and Finance PLC. While the outstanding amount was initially 108,309,342 Rupees, the respondents have paid approximately 4,080,000 Rupees. The auction is being conducted by a court order issued on November 10, 2022, to recover the outstanding debt.
The companies slated for auction are Daya Group Ltd, Daya Apparel Exporter (Pvt) Ltd, and Olympus Construction Private Ltd, as stated in the public notice.
A scheduled vote by the Constitutional Council on the nomination of Court of Appeal Acting President M.T. Mohamed Lafar for a Supreme Court vacancy was abruptly canceled today.
Sources reveal that Minister Bimal Rathnayake, representing the President in the Council, announced the withdrawal of the nomination just as the vote was about to commence.
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake had submitted Lafar’s name on June 9 for a Supreme Court vacancy expected on June 20, following the retirement of Justice Gamini Amarasekara. However, it is unusual for a nomination to be made before a vacancy officially occurs, legal experts noted.
Furthermore, questions arose as it emerged that Lafar is set to retire on June 18, two days before the Supreme Court vacancy, upon reaching the age of 63. Supreme Court judges typically retire at 65. Concerns were raised that the President’s swift nomination might have been an attempt to appoint Lafar before his retirement, a practice reportedly unprecedented in the judiciary.
Additionally, it was noted that the Chief Justice’s recommendation, typically required under Article 41(A) of the Constitution, had not yet been received for Lafar. Chief Justice Murdu Fernando had also not included Lafar’s name in previous nominations for Supreme Court vacancies in January, despite Lafar’s seniority. Junior judges had been appointed instead based on the Chief Justice’s recommendations.
The withdrawal of the nomination leaves the Supreme Court appointment process in uncertainty.
President Anura Kumara Dissanayaka has reportedly submitted the name of Court of Appeal Acting President M.T. Mohamed Lafar to the Constitutional Council for a Supreme Court Justice vacancy expected on June 20th.
The nomination, made on June 9th, comes before the official vacancy, which arises from Justice Gamini Amarasekara’s retirement. Legal experts note it is unusual to nominate a candidate before a vacancy occurs.
Adding to the complexity, Justice Lafar is set to retire on June 18th, two days before the Supreme Court vacancy, as he reaches the age of 63. Concerns arise that the swift nomination may be an attempt to appoint him before his retirement, circumventing the typical retirement age of 65 for Supreme Court Justices. Judicial sources indicate that such a precedent does not exist.
Furthermore, it is reported that Chief Justice Murdu Fernando’s recommendation regarding Justice Lafar has not been received. Previously, Justice Lafar’s name was not among the Chief Justice’s recommendations for four Supreme Court Justice vacancies in January, leading to the appointments of other, less senior judges.
Following the recent local government elections, opposition political groups, led by the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), have secured a majority in several councils.
Ranasinghe Wanigasekaralage Dharmadasa of SJB was elected Chairman of Kabithigollawa Pradeshiya Sabha, and Ajith Vipula Bandara Subasinghe of SJB became Chairman of Ududumbara Pradeshiya Sabha.
Furthermore, Lakshitha Aberathna of SJB was appointed Mayor of Kaduwanna Municipal Council, and Ifthikar Imamudeen of SJB was elected Chairman of Akurana Pradeshiya Sabha.
Secretaries of key opposition parties announced their intention to work as a united opposition to establish control in local authorities where they hold the majority. A press conference was held yesterday at the N.M. Perera Center in Borella regarding the establishment of power in these institutions.
Tissa Attanayake, National Organizer of SJB, stated that several political parties joined together as a common opposition for the local government elections. He stated that various political parties had decided to unite at the divisional level to fulfill public aspirations. He added that discussions are ongoing with estate political parties, Muslim political organizations, and independent groups. The process of establishing power in local government institutions began yesterday as a joint effort, with power being established as a united opposition.
In the vibrant halls of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, where youthful dreams meet ambition, a bold idea was born. What began in 2020 as a passion project by a group of spirited undergraduates has today blossomed into DEVENT Sri Lanka’s only event company solely dedicated to surprise romantic proposals. This June marks five years of a transformative journey that not only built a brand but also ignited a movement in the Sri Lankan tourism and event planning landscape.
Founded by a few visionary students with a shared dream of creativity, leadership, and impact, DEVENT was launched during a time when the world was grappling with uncertainty. Yet, their spirit remained unshaken. Balancing academics with ambition, they created a business that is now synonymous with breathtaking romance, unforgettable moments, and youthful innovation.
Young Hearts, Big Dreams
From their roots at Jayewardenepura University, the young founders brought together diverse knowledge in fields like engineering, law, and marketing to build something uniquely Sri Lankan. Their youth was never a limitation it was a driving force and a bold declaration that young people can lead, create, and make a lasting impact.
In 2024, DEVENT took a major leap forward by opening its very own office space, solidifying its presence as a professional and reliable brand. With hundreds of surprise proposals and a growing portfolio of high-end romantic events, DEVENT has placed an effort to quickly become the country’s most trusted name in bespoke romantic experiences.
Romance Reimagined: Making Sri Lanka the World’s Top Proposal Destination
The DEVENT vision is bigger than business. This young team dreams of placing Sri Lanka on the global map as the most affordable and enchanting romantic proposal destination in the world. From coastal sunsets to misty hilltops, they craft one-of-a-kind experiences for couples who want to begin their forever in a magical setting.
Whether it’s a surprise proposal with fireworks on a secret beach, a helicopter ride above breathtaking landscapes, or a yacht serenade with live music and candlelight DEVENT makes dreams come true. Their events span across Sri Lanka’s most picturesque landscapes, including beaches, gardens, rooftops, islands, and hill country hideaways. Each proposal is unique, curated with flowers, music, and unforgettable moments.
100% Customer Satisfaction and a Global Reach
What sets DEVENT apart is their unwavering dedication to perfection. With a 100% client satisfaction record since inception, they cater to both local and international couples, having handled over 50 global clients in the past year alone. Every celebration is crafted with love, ensuring that no two experiences are ever alike.
They work with top local and international vendors, ensuring premium quality while keeping Sri Lanka affordable and accessible for couples from around the world. Their efforts not only promote romance but also spotlight Sri Lanka’s natural beauty, heritage, and hospitality.
Creating Global Impact from a Small Island Nation
As young Sri Lankans, the DEVENT team is on a mission to change the world’s perception of their motherland. Through romantic tourism, they aim to uplift the local economy, support creative industries, and give back to the community. They believe in innovation, sustainability, and building a better image for their country, one magical moment at a time.
“We’re still small, but our dreams are global,” says the founders Supun & Maleesh. “We believe that with consistency, creativity, and a love for what we do, we can make Sri Lanka the top romantic destination in the world.”
The Road Ahead
As DEVENT celebrates its fifth anniversary, the journey is far from over. The team is exploring expansion to the Maldives and Australia, integrating more with the tourism industry, and developing exclusive partnerships with hotels, resorts, and travel agencies.
Their ultimate goal? To make every couple’s dream come true while turning Sri Lanka into a global hotspot for romance.
From university lecture halls to candlelit beaches, from virtual dreams to real-world impact, DEVENT is more than a business it is a love letter from a young generation to the world. And this is only the beginning.
A political uproar has erupted following the release of a prisoner on Vesak Poya day, with allegations of discrepancies and procedural lapses.
Opposition MP Ajith P. Perera claimed in Parliament that a convict with multiple charges was granted a presidential pardon, despite existing legal guidelines.
The Prison Department initially issued a statement clarifying that the release was due to standard Vesak pardons; however, the Presidential Media Division contradicted this, stating that the released individual was not on the approved list of pardoned prisoners.
The President’s office has ordered an investigation into the matter by the Criminal Investigation Department, promising disciplinary action against responsible officials.
The Sri Lankan government is seeking fresh investment to manage the Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport and establish direct and indirect aviation-related businesses there. This initiative includes a renewed consideration of a joint Indian-Russian venture proposal. The plan is reportedly structured to operate under seven distinct divisions.
This move follows a previous Cabinet decision in April of last year to grant Indian and Russian companies control of the Mattala airport for 30 years.
Meanwhile, recent disclosures have revealed a concerning financial situation for the national carrier, Sri Lankan Airlines. According to the Chairman of the Committee on Public Finance, Dr. Harsha de Silva, 31 out of the airline’s 45 destinations are currently loss-making. Sri Lankan Airlines incurred a loss of 3.4 billion Rupees in the first quarter of this year, despite a decrease in both passenger revenue and fuel costs.
Further details indicate that the airline is burdened with $978 million in liabilities and 51 billion Rupees in domestic debt. Additionally, approximately $200 million in outstanding interest payments led to a recent bond restructuring.
This parallel development of seeking new investment for Mattala Airport while grappling with significant losses at Sri Lankan Airlines raises questions about the future of aviation in the country.
Reports indicate a burgeoning internal crisis within the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), the main opposition party that aspired to gain national power. Several prominent members have reportedly resigned from their positions, and former Member of Parliament Imtiyās Bakīr Mākār has declined to accept the party chairmanship.
Bakeer Markar had previously resigned from the chairman post following the last general election but was subsequently reappointed by party leader Sajith Premadasa. However, sources within the party now suggest he has decided against taking up the position again.
Adding to the turmoil, Ashok Sepala, the ThalaWakele Co-Organizer for the Nuwara Eliya District, and Anura Buddhika, the organizer for the Horowpothana electorate, have also resigned from their respective roles. Sepala reportedly stepped down in protest over the alleged failure to distribute the promised list of member positions following the recent local government elections. Buddhika is said to have submitted his resignation letter to the party’s General Secretary, Ranjith Madduma Bandara.
Over the past few days, a wave of resignations has apparently begun within the SJB, led by Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa, with electorate organizers from several districts, including Matale, Galle, and Colombo, having reportedly stepped down.
Minister Bimal Ratnayake has been accused by Parliamentarian Dayasiri Jayasekara of authorizing the release of 323 containers without customs inspection, in what the MP claims is the largest corruption incident under the current government.
Speaking at a press conference in Colombo, Jayasekara stated that there is no information available regarding the fate of these released containers. He alleged that when information was requested, only the countries of origin were provided, and no relevant customs documentation was furnished. According to Jayasekara, customs officials have refused to provide further details, citing privacy concerns.
The Parliamentarian further announced that he is considering taking legal action to obtain the necessary information.
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has personally intervened to initiate a significant operation aimed at establishing power in local government bodies where no single party secured a majority in the recent elections.
Plans are reportedly underway to form administrations in councils where opposition groups hold a majority. While no discussions have been held with the main opposition parties, it is reported that government local leaders are engaging in discussions with elected councilors.
Independent groups have been given the opportunity to meet with the President and to hold discussions with senior members of the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) at their Pelawatta headquarters. The National People’s Power (NPP) government is reportedly determined to secure control of the Colombo Municipal Council at any cost.
NPP leaders view the failure to gain control of the capital city’s administration as a significant political embarrassment, despite securing the presidency and a two-thirds majority in Parliament. The NPP secured approximately 48 seats in the Colombo Municipal Council with 36.92% of the vote.
The Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) secured 29 seats, the United National Party (UNP) 13, the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) 5, the Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) 4, the United Peace Alliance 2, Sarvajana Bala 2, and other parties 1 each. The remaining 9 seats are distributed among five independent groups.
The President has reportedly commenced discussions not with the aforementioned political parties but with these independent groups. A former governor is also reportedly involved in mediating discussions with ‘independent’ members in support of the government.
Secret behind-the-scenes discussions are also reportedly taking place with the Sri Lanka Muslim Congress and the Tamil Progressive Alliance led by Mano Ganeshan.
