The Aswesuma Welfare Benefit Program has extended its special allowances for transitional and vulnerable categories, increasing the monthly payment to Rs. 5000 per beneficiary, effective June 2024. This decision, directed by President Ranil Wickramasinghe, aims to provide additional financial support in light of the current economic challenges. On June 27, the Welfare Benefits Board deposited…
In the annals of Sri Lankan politics, the name R. Sampanthan stands out as a beacon of Tamil nationalism and a paragon of moderate political discourse. This story traces the life of this remarkable leader, from his early days through his parliamentary career, and highlights his steadfast commitment to finding a political settlement amidst one…
by Arundathie Abeysinghe Colombo (AsiaNews) – India is trying to secure exploration rights for a cobalt offshore deposit that could fall under Sri Lanka’s jurisdiction. New Delhi is driven by competition with Beijing, but Colombo also wants to extract minerals that are crucial for modern technologies, including for the energy transition. Cobalt is in fact…
Sri Lanka is undergoing a significant debt restructuring process to stabilize its economy and meet fiscal targets set by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The restructuring is aimed at achieving a primary budget surplus of 2.3% by 2025. Below is a detailed feature with technical details on Sri Lanka’s debt restructuring efforts. IMF Bailout Program…
In observance of the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture on June 26, 2024, it is imperative to highlight the urgent need for the effective implementation of anti-torture rules and regulations in Sri Lanka. This necessity is underscored by the recent landmark judgment delivered by the Matara High Court under the Convention Against…
In a significant step towards enhancing maritime safety and coordination, Sri Lanka has launched a Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) established with a USD 6 million grant from India. This state-of-the-art facility is equipped to monitor vast ocean territories encompassing not only Sri Lanka but also the Maldives, India, Indonesia, and Australia. The MRCC, inaugurated…
Sri Lanka is poised to sign a significant debt restructuring agreement with a group of creditor nations on Wednesday, a crucial step in stabilizing the country’s finances following a severe economic crisis. President Ranil Wickremesinghe informed his cabinet about the debt restructuring on Monday, Foreign Minister Ali Sabry revealed in a phone interview. The cabinet…
In a landmark judgment under the Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment Act, the Matara High Court sentenced three police officers, including the former Officer-in-Charge (OIC) of the Tissamaharama Police, to seven years of rigorous imprisonment each for their involvement in the abduction and torture of five individuals, including…
WASHINGTON, June 24, 2024— The World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors has approved $150 million in financing for Sri Lanka to improve the quality and utilization of its primary healthcare services. The newly approved Sri Lanka Primary Healthcare System Enhancing Project will help improve the quality of care and increase the use of primary medical…
by Ajith Perakum Jayasinghe The term “judicial cannibalism” is more metaphorical than a formal legal term. It combines the word “judicial,” related to the court system, with “cannibalism,” which means eating one’s own kind. This term can be translated as “judicial self-destruction,” suggesting that the judiciary is undermining its own principles and precedents. President Ranil…
