Former President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga has lodged a written complaint with the Election Commissioner’s General Office, alleging that some candidates contesting the Attanagalla Pradeshiya Sabha election under the “Chair” symbol of the United People’s Front have been unlawfully using her name and photograph in their election campaigns.

She highlighted that certain candidates have been distributing pamphlets and pasting posters across the area featuring her photo alongside those of Lasantha Alagiyawanna and Sarana Gunawardena. Chandrika stated that she had not given permission for the use of her name or photograph in any campaign material or advertisements.

The former President emphasized that she had clearly instructed all candidates and organizers contesting under the “Chair” symbol not to use her name, image, or any audiovisual material linked to her for electioneering purposes. Despite these warnings, some candidates had continued unauthorized usage, falsely implying her support.

Chandrika pointed out that such actions violate election laws and urged the relevant leaders of the United People’s Front to immediately halt the misuse. She also requested the Election Commissioner General to take necessary actions to address the issue promptly.

Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe has given a three-hour statement today (28th) to the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption.

The statement was related to the withdrawal of fixed deposits from the National Savings Bank during the period when MP Chamara Sampath Dassanayake was serving as the Chief Minister of the Uva Provincial Council.

Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe arrived at the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption around 9:15 AM today and left around 12:25 PM.

The Dalada Vandana (ritual homage to the Sacred Tooth Relic) will conclude tomorrow (27th) as previously scheduled.

Nilanga Dela, the Diyawadana Nilame, stated that a higher number of devotees than expected have been arriving daily to participate in the Dalada Vandana.

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake also visited on the 24th, met with the Chief Prelates of the Malwathu and Asgiri Chapters, and held discussions with the Diyawadana Nilame.

Nilanga Dela further noted that the staff of the Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Tooth), along with the police, military, municipal council, Central Provincial Council, and the people of Kandy including areas like Ampitiya and Katugastota, have rendered significant support to this endeavor.

Three Sri Lankan nationals, including prominent businessman Ananda Pathirana and his wife Princi Pathirana, were rescued unharmed in a special joint operation by Bangladeshi police after being abducted in Dhaka earlier this week.

The Sri Lankans had arrived in Bangladesh on April 22 on a business invitation from Shahidul Sheikh of Bagerhat. They were abducted from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport shortly after arrival. A ransom demand of USD 20 million was made to their families.

Following a report by the Sri Lankan High Commission, President Anura Dissanayake instructed top defence and foreign ministry officials to work closely with Bangladeshi authorities. Defence Secretary Sampath Thuyiyakontha, Intelligence Chief Major General Ruwan Wanigasuriya, and Sunil Silva of the Foreign Ministry coordinated with Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Dharmapala Weerakkody.

The rescue operation was launched around 12:15 a.m. on April 24 in the Kodalia area of Mollahat upazila in Bagerhat district. All three Sri Lankans were rescued safely, and four suspects — Kazi Emdad Hossain, Shahidul Sheikh, Jony Sheikh, and SM Shamsul Alam — were arrested. The group had used a local phone number to make the ransom calls.

The victims are now under police protection and arrangements have been made to return them to Sri Lanka.

A five-member police committee has been appointed to study the full report of the Presidential Commission on the 2019 Easter Sunday terror attacks, which has been handed over to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) on the directive of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

The committee, chaired by Senior Deputy Inspector General and Attorney Asanka Karawita, was appointed by Acting Inspector General of Police, Attorney Priyantha Weerasooriya. Its purpose is to initiate prompt investigations and legal action based on findings in the report.

Other members include DIG P. Ampavila (CID), SSP Shani Abeysekara (Central Criminal Division), Director Imesha Muthumala (CID), and Director H.D.K.S. Perera (Counter-Terrorism Division).

The report spans over 66,300 pages across five volumes. According to a senior police officer, the review process began on April 22. Six sub-committees with about eight officers each have also been formed to analyze specific sections.

Despite the scale of the task, the teams are working around the clock to uncover any critical information that may have previously gone undetected and to take swift legal action where required.

Police Spokesman SSP Buddika Manatunga confirmed in a statement that relevant investigations and legal proceedings against those responsible will be carried out as soon as possible.

A voice recording has been released, allegedly featuring underworld gang leader Kanjipani Imran, hinting at his involvement in orchestrating the shooting and killing of social activist Dan Priyasad.

Dan Priyasad, who was known as an active member of several political and civil organizations and often appeared as a social activist, was shot dead last night (22). The incident occurred on the sixth floor of the Laksanda Sevana housing complex in Kolonnawa.

Two individuals arrived on a motorcycle, entered the apartment complex, and shot Dan Priyasad using a 9mm firearm while he was on the sixth floor. Police reports confirm that he sustained four gunshot wounds, while another person residing in the complex was also injured.

The gunmen reportedly escaped without confrontation.

Residents of the housing complex rushed Dan Priyasad and the injured person to the Colombo National Hospital, where Dan Priyasad was pronounced dead, according to Police Media Spokesman Senior Superintendent of Police and Attorney Buddika Manatunga.

Dan Priyasad had also been involved in court cases related to several accusations, including attacks on protestors. His brother was previously hacked to death in Orugodawatta on June 25, 2022.

Pope Francis has died at the age of 88, the Vatican has confirmed.

The Argentine-born pontiff, who became the 266th pope of the Roman Catholic Church in 2013 following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, passed away this morning at 7:35am, according to Cardinal Kevin Farrell.

“Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis,” the Cardinal stated. “His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His Church.”

Cardinal Farrell praised Francis for his unwavering commitment to Gospel values, especially his compassion for the poor and marginalized. “We commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God,” he added.

A Pontificate Marked by Reform and Compassion

Known as the “People’s Pope,” Francis was the first pontiff from South America and the first Jesuit to assume the role. He became globally recognized for his humility, progressive tone, and emphasis on social justice.

His papacy addressed issues such as climate change, global inequality, and the role of women in the Church. He also took historic steps toward inclusivity, famously remarking in 2013: “If a person is gay and seeks God and has good will, who am I to judge?”

Despite his progressive image, Francis upheld the Church’s conservative stance on issues like abortion, euthanasia, and gender reassignment, reaffirmed in the 2024 document Dignitas Infinita.

Declining Health in Recent Years

In his final years, Pope Francis faced numerous health challenges. He was hospitalized multiple times, most recently for bronchitis and pneumonia. In February 2025, he was reported to be in critical condition following a severe respiratory crisis. His condition required blood transfusions and long-term oxygen support.

Francis continued to engage with the public throughout his illness, including a brief Easter Sunday appearance and meetings with global leaders. His last public message came in March, thanking followers for their prayers and support.

Legacy of Leadership

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires in 1936, Francis had a long career in the Church before his election as pope. He was known for his down-to-earth nature and tireless advocacy for the marginalized.

He washed the feet of refugees, visited war-torn regions, and opened dialogues with other faiths and ideologies. His approach reshaped the image of the papacy in the modern era.

As the world mourns, preparations begin for the papal conclave—a centuries-old process to elect a new pope, expected to commence within the next 15 to 20 days.

An estimated 1.4 billion Catholics around the globe are now in mourning, reflecting on the life of a pontiff who redefined the modern papacy.

—SkyNews Report —

The Presidential Media Division announced that the report of the Presidential Commission of Inquiry into the Easter Sunday attacks was handed over to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) today (20), following the directive of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

The final report and accompanying documents of the Commission were submitted to the CID as per the President’s instructions, after the National People’s Power (NPP) government came into power.

The President has initiated a renewed and accelerated investigation into the 2019 Easter Sunday bombings, aiming for an independent and unbiased inquiry.

Marking six years since the attacks, the government emphasizes its commitment to ensuring a fair investigation and delivering justice to the victims, without allowing the crime to be buried over time.

April has gone down in Sri Lankan history as the month with the largest quantity of narcotics seized in a single month, with security forces confiscating over one metric ton of drugs so far.

According to the Police Narcotics Bureau, between April 1st and now, authorities have seized approximately 325.425 kilograms of heroin in 1,343 separate operations and 778.627 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine (commonly known as “ice”) in 1,915 raids.

Over 3,000 suspects have been arrested in connection with these drug-related operations.

Additionally, law enforcement has seized 25.523 kilograms of hashish in 17 raids, 553.094 kilograms of Kerala cannabis in 1,511 raids, along with 1,917 narcotic pills and 201 bottles of cough syrup abused as drugs in 75 incidents.

Authorities continue to intensify their crackdown on drug trafficking across the country.

A total of 19 candidates contesting the local government elections and 63 political supporters have been arrested by police as of 6:00 a.m. today (18), over allegations of election law violations and acts of violence.

These arrests stem from incidents reported between March 3 and this morning, involving breaches of election regulations and related violent activities.

During this period, police received 42 complaints of election-related violence and 142 complaints of legal violations. Authorities have also seized 15 vehicles allegedly used in committing these offenses.

Investigations are ongoing as law enforcement aims to ensure a free and fair election process.

The “Sri Dalada Vandanava”, which is being held after 16 years, begins today (18th April).

The inaugural ceremony is scheduled to take place today at around 12:30 p.m., with the participation of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

A number of foreign diplomats are also expected to attend the event, and special train arrangements have been made to transport them from Colombo to Kandy.

At the request of the President, the Sri Dalada Vandanava is being organized under the guidance of the Mahanayaka Theros of the Malwathu and Asgiriya Chapters and the direction of the Diyawadana Nilame of the historic Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy. The event will be held for ten days, from today (18th April) until 27th April.

On the opening day today (18th), devotees will be given the opportunity to pay homage to the Sacred Tooth Relic from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. According to the President’s Media Division, from tomorrow (19th) onwards, this opportunity will be available daily from 12:00 noon to 5:00 p.m.

Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal (Retd) Sampath Thuyacontha has instructed the Tri-Forces Commanders to implement a special security plan to ensure the safety of worshippers attending Christian services on Easter Sunday.

He emphasized the importance of working in coordination with the Ministry of Public Security to implement necessary measures effectively.

The Defence Secretary highlighted that the goal is to provide a peaceful and secure environment for worshippers, avoiding a repeat of the disruptions caused by the 2019 Easter Sunday attacks.

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake announced that 400,000 additional families will begin receiving Aswesuma (welfare assistance) starting from July.

He made this statement today (April 17) at a public gathering in Mannar as part of the “Victory is Certain, the Village is Ours” rally series.

He also revealed that discussions are ongoing with the Indian government to resume the ferry service between Mannar and Rameswaram. Additionally, the government is prepared to harness Mannar’s wind energy potential while consulting the public and minimizing environmental damage.

Addressing the rally, President Anura emphasized that during the last general election, people from the North, South, East—Tamils, Muslims, and Sinhalese—united in electing the National People’s Power (NPP) government. He called on the public to continue this unity and avoid division in politics moving forward.

He declared that the current administration is built on national harmony, rejecting ethnic divisions of the past. “This is a government of unity that respects the rights of all citizens and treats everyone equally,” he said.

The President reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s sovereignty over its territorial waters and condemned illegal fishing practices, particularly in areas like Pesalai. He said the Navy has been instructed to take action against all illegal activities at sea, and discussions have been held with the Indian Prime Minister to resolve related issues.

He also pledged to reopen the long-closed Mannar–Puttalam road, which would reduce travel distance by approximately 90 kilometers, improving regional connectivity.

Highlighting economic improvements, the President noted that Sri Lanka now holds its largest foreign reserves in over five years, the rupee has remained stable for six months, fuel prices have been reduced, and public sector wages and welfare benefits have been increased.

Recognizing a shortage of Tamil-speaking personnel in public service and the police, he announced plans to recruit 2,000 new officers this year, encouraging Tamil-speaking youth to join the police force. He described it as a dignified job that helps uphold law and peace, with competitive salaries and benefits.

The President emphasized that this is the first administration in Sri Lanka where no public money will be stolen or wasted. “We are building a government free from corruption. Those who stole in the past will be held accountable.”

He concluded by stating that justice will prevail regarding major incidents such as murders and the Easter Sunday attacks. “In every developed country, the law applies equally to all. That is the principle we are building this nation on.”

Leader of the National Freedom Front, Wimal Weerawansa, has voiced strong criticism regarding the absence of Sri Lanka’s Head of State from the Sinhala and Tamil New Year celebrations. He emphasized that such detachment from a deeply rooted cultural tradition, one that spans over 2,500 years, should be viewed with serious concern.

Issuing a public statement, Weerawansa noted that while the festival was not celebrated officially at the state level, a vast majority of citizens across the country participated with enthusiasm—despite economic hardships.

He also expressed concern over a sudden wave of online discourse undermining the value of the New Year celebration. Some on social media claimed it was celebrated only in Sri Lanka, dismissing its relevance, while others questioned its astrological significance or labeled it an outdated tradition.

Weerawansa argued that this cultural skepticism is not coincidental but a reflection of a broader ideological campaign. Referencing American political theorist Francis Fukuyama’s ideas, he warned that global liberal capitalist ideologies seek to dilute national cultural identities in favor of a uniform consumer culture. In that context, Sri Lanka’s traditional foods and customs are seen as incompatible with globalized norms.

He stressed that leaders of nations striving for true independence work to preserve and promote their unique cultural heritage in the face of growing external influence. According to him, cultural events like the Sinhala and Tamil New Year are vital tools in maintaining national unity and resisting cultural homogenization.

Therefore, the president’s decision to step back from publicly acknowledging such a significant cultural celebration deserves critical scrutiny, he concluded.

— Wimal Weerawansa, Leader, National Freedom Front (April 17, 2025)

The Department of Posts announced that the distribution of official poll cards for the upcoming Local Government Election has commenced today (16) and will be delivered door-to-door via postal service.

According to the department, this distribution process will continue until the 29th of this month.

Deputy Postmaster General Premachandra Herath stated that voters who do not receive their poll cards by post will be able to collect them from their respective post offices from the 30th of this month until May 6, the day of the election.

He further added that a special full-day distribution of poll cards will take place on the 20th.

A suspect who allegedly shot and killed a retired prison officer from the Boossa Prison has been arrested by officers of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) at the Katunayake International Airport while attempting to flee to Thailand using a fake passport.

The arrested suspect is 31-year-old Wijemuni Lalanta Preethiraja Kumara, a resident of Kuliyawatta, Ambalangoda. He is believed to be the main shooter working under the notorious underworld gang leader known as “Karandeniya Sudda.”

The suspect was identified and apprehended with the help of the facial recognition system installed at the Katunayake Airport.

He had tried to leave the country using a forged passport under the name Lakindu Sandeep Bandara Ekanayaka.

Wishing everyone a peaceful, healthy, and prosperous New Year!

As Sri Lankans across the country prepare to celebrate the Sinhala and Tamil New Year, we extend heartfelt wishes for happiness, health, and success in the year ahead.

To help you mark the occasion in accordance with tradition, here is the New Year Auspicious Times Table – 2025, translated into English for your convenience:

New Moon Observation
To mark the beginning of the new lunar and solar year, the new moon is to be observed on Thursday, May 1st.

Bathing for the Old Year
On Sunday, April 13th, it is customary to bathe using herbal oil mixed with juice of Dimbul leaves, while remembering the guardian deities.

Dawn of the New Year
The Sinhala New Year dawns on Monday, April 14th at 3:21 AM.

Auspicious Period (Punya Kalaya)
This begins at 8:57 PM on Sunday, April 13th, and continues until 9:45 AM on Monday, April 14th. It is advised to stop all work and engage in religious observances during this time. Between 3:21 AM and 9:45 AM on April 14th, observe the traditional customs including food preparation, work commencement, and other rituals.

Cooking of Meals
At 4:04 AM on Monday, April 14th, dressed in orange and facing south, light the hearth to prepare milk rice and sweetmeats using milk and jaggery.

Commencing Work, Transactions, and Meal Consumption
At 6:44 AM on April 14th, dressed in white and facing south, commence work, engage in transactions, and partake of meals.

Anointing the Head
On Wednesday, April 16th at 9:04 AM, wearing green and facing north, apply herbal oil (mixed with neem juice), place Kohomba and Kolon leaves on the head and feet, and bathe.

Leaving for Work (for Protection and Blessings)
On Thursday, April 17th at 9:03 AM, dressed in gold and facing north, enjoy milk rice and sweetmeats before setting out.

Planting of Trees
On Friday, April 18th at 10:16 AM, wear multicolored attire and face east to plant trees as a symbol of new beginnings.

A New Era of Stylish Menswear Begins

Arrow, the iconic American menswear brand with over 170 years of heritage, has officially launched in Sri Lanka through an exclusive collaboration with Softlogic. This landmark opening took place at ODEL, One Galle Face Mall, marking a new chapter in the island’s premium fashion scene.

Globally renowned for its authentic American style, Arrow is a trusted name among modern gentlemen who value sophistication and versatility. The newly launched store showcases a curated range of apparel, including classic shirts, tailored blazers, sharp suits, polished polos, chinos, and smart-casual staples designed for the evolving tastes of the urban man.

But this is more than just a retail outlet—it’s an immersive brand experience. The store’s interior has been meticulously designed to reflect Arrow’s premium identity, seamlessly blending contemporary design with subtle nods to the brand’s rich legacy. Clean architectural lines, elegant finishes, and thoughtfully arranged displays create an elevated and seamless shopping journey for customers.

The launch also underscores Softlogic’s continued commitment to enhancing the local retail landscape with world-class brands. Arrow’s arrival in Sri Lanka is another stride forward in bringing global style closer to home and delivering an international shopping experience to local consumers.

Visit the new Arrow store at ODEL, Level 3, One Galle Face Mall, and explore the latest in stylish menswear.

The Police Headquarters reports that 30 shooting incidents have occurred in the past three months, resulting in 30 deaths.

Out of these, 19 individuals were killed in underworld-related shootings during the same period.

Police sources indicate a noticeable rise in underworld activities in recent times.

A report by the National Audit Office reveals that 13 officials from the University of Sabaragamuwa, who went abroad on study leave between 2000 and 2020, have failed to repay over Rs. 92 million due to bond violations.

The report states that this amount had not been recovered as of April last year.

These findings are included in the university’s 2023 annual report, as highlighted by the National Audit Office.

The Sri Lankan Army will be deployed alongside the police to ensure the safety of devotees attending the Sacred Exposition of the Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha (Sri Dalada Dākma).

Under the guidance of the Army Commander, all army units under the Central Security Forces Command will be assigned to this duty.

The exposition is scheduled to take place from April 18 to 27.

Leader of the House, Minister Bimal Rathnayake, announced that Provincial Council elections will be held promptly after the upcoming Local Government elections.

He questioned the commitment of other political parties towards fostering national reconciliation and emphasized the importance of their contribution.

The Minister further stated that the government will soon implement a special program dedicated to promoting reconciliation and upholding democratic values.

The Sri Lanka Coast Guard (SLCG) has launched a 24-hour emergency hotline—106—to ensure rapid response to maritime emergencies.

Directly connected to the SLCG Operations Room, the new hotline aims to enhance coordination during distress situations at sea.

This initiative strengthens Sri Lanka’s maritime safety framework, offering seafarers, coastal communities, and the public a direct line to report incidents.

As the country’s primary maritime law enforcement agency, the SLCG plays a crucial role in search and rescue operations, environmental protection, and combating maritime crimes.

The Coast Guard urges all stakeholders to use the hotline 106 for immediate assistance in any maritime emergency.

The circular on public sector salary revisions, in line with the 2025 budget proposals, was issued today (25).

It was released under the signature of the Secretary to the Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils, and Local Government, S. Aloka Bandara.

The circular has been distributed to ministry secretaries, provincial chief secretaries, and department heads.

A proposal to remove Inspector General of Police (IGP) Deshabandu Tennakoon, who is currently on compulsory leave and in remand custody, was handed over to the Speaker by National People’s Power (NPP) MPs today (25).

The proposal, submitted to Speaker Jagath Wickramaratne, includes 27 allegations of misconduct against Tennakoon.

Deputy Minister Mahinda Jayasinghe stated that the Speaker will present the proposal to Parliament on the 8th of next month.

A total of 115 NPP MPs signed the proposal, which was officially handed over by Deputy Ministers Mahinda Jayasinghe and Eranga Gunasekara, along with MPs Kaushalya Ariyaratne and Upul Abeywickrama.

Three newly appointed foreign ambassadors to Sri Lanka presented their credentials to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake today (24) at the Presidential Secretariat.

The new envoys represent France, Palestine, and Nepal:

Mr. Remi Lambert – Ambassador of France

Mr. Ihab I.M. Khalil – Ambassador of Palestine

Dr. Purna Bahadur Nepali – Ambassador of Nepal

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism Vijitha Herath, along with Presidential Secretary Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayaka, attended the ceremony.