Silencing the Press: The Misuse of Sri Lanka’s Prevention of Terrorism Act and the Call for Urgent Reform
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Silencing the Press: The Misuse of Sri Lanka’s Prevention of Terrorism Act and the Call for Urgent Reform

In a recent interview, Senior Journalist K. W. Janaranjana shed light on the long-standing issues surrounding the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA), initially enacted as a temporary measure in 1979 in Sri Lanka. Initially promised as a three-month ordinance, the PTA was made permanent in 1982 and has since been a subject of significant controversy….

Balance public interests and rights when bringing new laws, Journalists for Rights say
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Balance public interests and rights when bringing new laws, Journalists for Rights say

The government has recently passed many new laws, among which some are favourable to the public while others restrict the rights of the people, said Mr. Dulan Dasanayake, Attorney-at-law, Secretary of the Journalists for Rights trade union, during a press conference held on April 8, 2024, in Colombo. He further stated: “For the first time…

Launch of Myturn: Connecting Interns with Institutions
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Launch of Myturn: Connecting Interns with Institutions

The Myturn website, a voluntary service dedicated to bridging the gap between internship candidates and providers, has recently been launched. This initiative plays a crucial role in guiding students into their careers after tertiary education. Visit the website at Myturn. Internship seekers can post their details on the site, while companies offering internships can advertise…

The establishment of a development bank marks a significant turning point in the economy
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The establishment of a development bank marks a significant turning point in the economy

In a recent statement, Karu Jayasuriya, Chairman of the National Movement for Social Justice, advocated for the establishment of a development bank as a crucial turning point for the nation’s economy. Highlighting the challenges faced by small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) in securing loans due to stringent collateral requirements, Jayasuriya emphasized the government’s commitment to…

Strengthening Sino-Sri Lankan Relations: Prime Minister Gunawardena’s Official Visit to China
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Strengthening Sino-Sri Lankan Relations: Prime Minister Gunawardena’s Official Visit to China

During an official visit to China from March 25 to 30, 2024, at the invitation of H.E. Li Qiang, Premier of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China, Hon. Dinesh Gunawardena, Prime Minister of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, participated in the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference. Throughout the visit,…

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Radio Free Asia to close its bureau in Hong Kong following enactment of domestic national security law

Less than a week after domestic national security law known as “Article 23” came into effect in Hong Kong, US-funded broadcaster Radio Free Asia announced that it will close its bureau in the territory. Reporters Without Borders (RSF) denounces the growing pressure applied on the media by the Hong Kong government through the enactment of…

Former President Maithripala Sirisena’s Revelation Demands Immediate Attention, Says NMSJ
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Former President Maithripala Sirisena’s Revelation Demands Immediate Attention, Says NMSJ

Regarding the Easter attack, former President Maithripala Sirisena’s revelation demands immediate attention, says the National Movement for Social Justice. The translation of the full statement is as follows: The public statement made by former President Maithripala Sirisena, in which he claims to know the real individuals responsible for the Easter attack, arguably the most meticulously…

The Sri Lankan Collective Against Torture Denounces the Appointment of Mr. Deshbandu Tennakoon as Inspector General of Police
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The Sri Lankan Collective Against Torture Denounces the Appointment of Mr. Deshbandu Tennakoon as Inspector General of Police

The Sri Lankan Collective Against Torture (SLCAT) strongly condemns the appointment of Mr. Deshbandu Tennakoon as the Inspector General of Police (IGP). They argue that this decision directly contradicts democratic principles and the rule of law in Sri Lanka. The SLCAT highlights several concerns regarding the appointment process. Firstly, they point out that Mr. Tennakoon…

Opposition from SJB; Civil Society Split But Not Against the Appointment of Inspector General of Police
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Opposition from SJB; Civil Society Split But Not Against the Appointment of Inspector General of Police

In a decisive move yesterday, the Constituent Assembly gave its nod to confirm Acting Inspector General of Police, Mr. Deshbandu Thennakoon, as the Inspector General of Police. Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, MP Sagara Kariyawasam, Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva, and Dr. Anula Wijesundara (civil society representative) cast their votes in favour of Mr. Tennakoon’s appointment….