Colombo is poised to have a new Mayor as Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) municipal councilor Riza Sarook has reportedly secured the majority support needed for the post. Sources indicate that Sarook has already obtained the signed backing of 62 councilors, exceeding the 59 votes required to establish power in the Colombo Municipal Council.
A document containing the signatures of these 62 councilors has reportedly been prepared. However, it is noted that this number does not include the two members from the Janatha Balawegaya (JPB) and United National Party (UNP) councilor Tony Ramzi. The two JPB members have stated their neutrality, while Tony Ramzi had publicly announced his lack of support for Riza Sarook several days prior.
In the recent local government elections, the Janatha Jana Balawegaya secured 48 seats in the Colombo Municipal Council. At the same time, the Samagi Jana Balawegaya, the United National Party, and other opposition parties and independent groups collectively won 69 seats.
The mayoral election is scheduled for tomorrow (June 16th), and it is mentioned that an agreement has been reached to appoint Kithsiri Rajapakse of the United National Party, who has served the Colombo Municipal Council for the longest period, as the Deputy Mayor.
The National People’s Power (NPP) has secured the chairmanship of the Medawachchiya Pradeshiya Sabha, while the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) has been appointed to the position of vice-chairman.
This development follows the recent local government elections where the NPP emerged victorious in the Medawachchiya Pradeshiya Sabha but failed to secure a majority of seats.
In the election, the NPP won 10 seats, the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) secured 6 seats, the Podujana Eksath Peramuna and Sarvajana Bala Pakshaya obtained 2 seats each, and the United National Party (UNP) secured 1 seat.
With no single party holding a clear majority, the support of a single decisive member was crucial for forming the Sabha’s administration. Ultimately, the chairman was elected through a secret ballot.
The inaugural session of the Pradeshiya Sabha presided over by Provincial Councils Commissioner Ruwan Wijesinghe, witnessed a tense atmosphere. In the subsequent vote, Dhanapala Wimalathunga of the NPP was elected as the chairman. Ranga Somadasa, representing the SLPP, was appointed as the vice-chairman.
This outcome highlights a trend observed in several local government bodies where no party secured an outright majority in the recent elections. The independent stance of Sarvajana Bala Pakshaya members in councils such as Panduwasnuwara, Minipe, Medawachchiya, Madagama, and Kobeigane has provided an opportunity for the JVP to gain chairmanship positions.
However, this turn of events has drawn criticism and concern from other opposition parties within these local councils.
The Sri Lanka Human Rights Commission has delivered a landmark verdict, stating that the detention of a youth named Mohamed Rushdie under the Prevention of Terrorism Act violated his fundamental rights.
Rushdie was arrested and detained by the Terrorism Investigation Division for allegedly pasting an anti-Israel sticker in a waste bin at his workplace.
The commission concluded that the arrest and detention infringed upon Rushdie’s rights to freedom of expression, religion, conscience, freedom from arbitrary arrest and detention, and freedom of movement. The commission has issued a special statement in this regard.
The Human Rights Commission has ordered the Inspector General of Police to promptly formulate guidelines that include criteria for establishing reasonable suspicion when conducting investigations into terrorism-related offenses, based on this incident. These recommendations, comprising nine fundamental points, must be implemented and a report submitted by July 15, 2025.
Mohamed Rushdie was arrested on March 22 following an incident involving the placement of a sticker in a waste bin at the entrance of a supermarket complex in Kollupitiya, protesting against the killings in Palestine by Israel. Subsequently, a detention order was obtained under the Prevention of Terrorism Act, and he was held by the Terrorism Investigation Division.
Media and civil organizations have protested the arrest, asserting it poses a grave threat to the right to freedom of expression.
Meanwhile, President Anura Kumara, during an election rally in the Eastern Province, had stated that a Muslim youth arrested for pasting an anti-war sticker and held for 90 days under a detention order signed by himself was innocent of any criminal offense. Addressing the Muslim community in Samanthurai regarding the detention order he signed, President Anura Kumara claimed to have “rectified Rushdie’s mistake.”
“That young man was self-motivated. We arrested him. We took him and examined everything he had,” the President stated, seemingly vouching for the police under his purview. “We showed that young man to his parents. The parents were thankful for saving their child from that destruction. Is this wrong? Is that wrong?” he emotionally questioned, gesturing with his hands.
However, Mohamed Naseem, Rushdie’s elder brother, refuted the President’s claims, stating, “That’s a complete lie. His mother and father never thanked the President at any point. Not the President, we haven’t even met anyone from the government, let alone thank them.”
Naseem vehemently questioned the President’s public statements, asking, “Why is the President telling such lies? Why would we thank the government or the police? Wouldn’t that imply that we accept that my brother was wrong? My brother did not do anything wrong. So why would we thank the President or the police for saving him?” He further inquired, “How can the President tell such public lies when we haven’t met any government official at any point?”
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.
