President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has appointed two new ministry secretaries.
The letters of appointment were handed over by Presidential Secretary Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake at the Presidential Secretariat yesterday (25).
Accordingly, President’s Counsel Ayesha Jinaseena has been appointed as the Secretary to the Ministry of Justice and National Integration.
Mrs. Malarmathi Gangadaran has been appointed as the Secretary to the Ministry of Empowerment.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) states that vehicle imports could serve as a “very good revenue source” for the government to achieve its financial targets for the coming year.
Peter Breuer, the head of the IMF senior delegation, mentioned that the removal of restrictions on vehicle imports has been discussed during this review as well as in previous discussions.
“We understand that lifting restrictions on vehicle imports could be an excellent revenue stream for the government in the coming year. It is one of the rare opportunities to increase state revenue,” he said.
However, the IMF emphasized that this should be managed prudently to avoid unnecessary pressure on the country’s foreign exchange reserves.
Sri Lanka aims to raise its state revenue to 15.1% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 2025.
Newly appointed Deputy Ministers of the National People’s Power (NPP) government was sworn in today (21) before President Anura Kumara Dissanayake at the Presidential Secretariat.
The list of Deputy Ministers is as follows:
Secretary to the President Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake was also present at the event.
The Department of Census and Statistics has reported that Sri Lanka’s inflation rate, which stood at -0.2% in September 2024, has decreased further to -0.7% in October. This marks a continuing trend of deflation in the country, indicating a reduction in the general price levels.
However, food inflation, which was recorded at 0.5% in September, saw an increase to 1.3% in October. This rise in food prices suggests that households are continuing to experience upward pressure in the cost of essential food items.
In contrast, non-food inflation, which was at -0.7% in September, dropped further to -2.3% in October. This suggests a decline in the cost of non-food goods and services, reflecting a reduction in expenses in sectors such as transport, utilities, and healthcare.
By Ramesh Warallegama
The principal of Mahinda College, F.G. Pearce, who laid the foundation for Sanghamitta and Rahula.
F.G. Pearce, who served as the principal of Mahinda College in Galle, was a trailblazer who laid the foundation for Sanghamitta Girls’ College in Galle and Rahula College in Matara. A renowned English educator, he was also instrumental in establishing several notable schools in India.
Pearce introduced the Boy Scouts movement to Galle, inspired by Robert Stephenson Smyth Baden-Powell. Under the guidance of Annie Besant, the then-president of the Theosophical Society, he became a pioneer in promoting the Boy Scouts movement in India. Additionally, he was a founder of the public school movement in India.
From March 1945 to May 1950, F.G. Pearce served as an Assistant Secretary in Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Education, where he made significant contributions to broadening educational opportunities for children.
In commemoration of F.G. Pearce’s legacy, his son, Vikram Pearce, who currently serves as the chairman of the F.G. Pearce Trust, will arrive in Sri Lanka on November 19, 2024.
To honor the memory of F.G. Pearce, Vikram Pearce will visit Sanghamitta College in Galle, Rahula College in Matara, and Mahinda College in Galle over three days starting November 20, walking in the footsteps of his father’s remarkable journey. This brief note is dedicated to this occasion.
Frederick Gordon Pearce, widely known as F.G. Pearce, was an outstanding English educator born on March 24, 1892, in England. Intriguingly, his birth occurred just 24 days after the founding of Mahinda College in Galle.
A master of the English language from a young age, F.G. Pearce earned a Bachelor of Arts with honors from the University of London. During his university years, he was both a cricketer and a Boy Scout leader, showcasing his multifaceted talents and leadership abilities.
When it came to higher education, F.G. Pearce was a staunch theosophist. As a young man, he was well-versed in the principles and activities of the Theosophical Society and also deeply admired Buddhist philosophy.
This inclination inspired his desire to travel to the South Asia, and he soon received an ideal opportunity: an invitation to assume the role of Vice Principal at Mahinda College in Galle.
At the time, Mahinda College was under the leadership of another distinguished English educator, F.L. Woodward, who served as Principal from 1903 to 1919. Woodward remains a legendary figure in the history of Mahinda College.
It was Mr. Woodward who relocated Mahinda College from Peddler Street within the Galle Fort to a picturesque hill in Elliot Road (now Woodward Mawatha) known as Dhawatagahawatta. He laid a strong foundation for the school and established the enduring “Woodward tradition,” which continues to nourish Mahinda College to this day.
During his tenure as principal, F.L. Woodward introduced the position of Vice Principal at Mahinda College for the first time, specifically inviting F.G. Pearce to take on the role. This decision was part of Woodward’s vision for the revival and progress of Mahinda College.
Accordingly, F.G. Pearce traveled from London to Galle and assumed duties as Vice Principal of Mahinda College on October 25, 1913. From that point onward, Pearce, honoring the Woodward tradition, dedicated himself to the advancement of Mahinda College.
Though the Boy Scouts movement had been introduced to Sri Lanka under the leadership of Francis George Stevens, it was F.G. Pearce who, two years later, brought it to Galle. Despite having been at Mahinda College for only eight months, Pearce established the first Galle Mahinda Boy Scouts troop in June 1914.
In the book F. L. Woodward: Out of His Life and Thought by D.H. Pandita Gunewardene, the following is mentioned about Mr. Pearce:
The motto of the Scout movement worldwide is “Be Prepared”, which, among other things, signifies that Scouts must train themselves to always be ready and able to help others in times of sudden or unexpected need. Pearce introduced an additional motto for the Mahinda college Scout corps in Sinhala: “Loweda Pinisa Samagi Weemu”, which translates to “We have joined together for the service of the community.” Pearce stated that Scouting aimed at achieving three objectives:1. Discipline,2. Observation,3. Usefulness
Under Pearce’s leadership, by 1916, the Mahinda Scout troop produced its first King’s Scout, S. Tennyson De Silva, and in the same year, S. Ginege also earned the same title.
Having initiated the first Boy Scouts troop at Mahinda College, Pearce did not stop there. He actively led efforts to introduce the Scouts movement to other schools in the Southern Province, becoming a pioneer in spreading this important initiative.
F.G. Pearce played an outstanding role as the Secretary of the Southern Province Boy Scouts Association and later as the first Boy Scouts Commissioner for both the Galle District and the Southern Province.
Under Pearce’s leadership, the first Mahinda Boy Scouts troop in Galle was established. Regarding its progress, Mahinda College Principal F.L. Woodward sent a report published in Mahinda Magazine to Lord Baden Powell, founder of the Scout Movement.
Impressed by these developments, Baden-Powell expressed his delight in a reply letter to Woodward on October 10, 1916, wishing to visit Sri Lanka for a scouting tour if invited.
The Theosophical Society of that era also recognized Pearce’s ability to expand the Boy Scouts movement. Following Henry Steele Olcott, Indian National Congress leader Annie Besant, who had become the first female president of the Theosophical Society, invited F.G. Pearce to assist in establishing the Boy Scouts movement in India.
Accepting this invitation, Pearce, in 1916, sent G.P. Ariyaratne (later known as Galappaththi Ariyaratne), the Patrol leader of the first Galle Mahinda Scouts troop, to Madanapalle in Madras. In June 1916, a scouting group inspired by Mahinda’s troop activities was established at Madanapalle College. However, official recognition from the central organization for this troop was delayed.
According to the Woodward tradition, the Mahinda Hostel was opened on October 1, 1917, for long-term service to Mahinda students, through the intervention of F.G. Pearce.
In December 1916, F.G. Pearce, who had gone on vacation to Madurai, had the opportunity to deliver a lecture at the Madurai Gokale Hall, where he met with young leaders, including G.P. Ariyaratne and others from Madanapalle. During this visit, he provided necessary guidance for organizing the scouts group and also participated in training the scout leaders.
While engaged in this significant work for Mahinda, F.G. Pearce resigned from the position of vice-principal of Mahinda College and traveled to Madurai, India, in May 1918. His aim was to establish the Indian scout movement and ensure its proper organization.
Later, many distinguished individuals, including Dr. S.A. Wikramasinghe, the founder of the Sri Lanka Communist Party, and senior journalist D.B. Dhanapala, who is considered a pioneer in modern journalism, demonstrated exceptional skills while representing the first Galle Mahinda Scout group under F.G. Pearce’s leadership at that time.
F.G. Pearce, who went to India, expressed his views on the founding of the Indian Scout Association at the Gokale Hall in October 1918, where he served as the Chief Commissioner of the Indian Scout Association. His speech was also included in the 1918 report of the Madurai National Education Promotion Society.
Although not in the form of a directory, many Mahinda Scouts, under Pearce’s guidance, contributed to the establishment of the Scout movement in India.
Jinadasa Vijayatunga, a media professional who worked for newspapers such as the London Times, New York Times, Manchester Guardian, The Spectator, and New Statesman, and who authored Grass for My Feet, was also a Mahinda Scout who went to Bombay (Mumbai) in 1918. He became the first London correspondent for the Lakehouse organization, appointed by D.R. Wijewardena. At that time, S.W. de Silva, a Mahinda scout, was in charge of the first group of scouts in the city of Adyar, India.
By this time, a close relationship had developed between F.G. Pearce and Muhandirum F.A. Wikramasinghe, and on June 27, 1915, Muhandirum F.A. Wikramasinghe laid the foundation for the first science laboratory at Mahinda College.
During this period, F.G. Pearce, the Vice Principal of Mahinda College, and Mrs. Pearce, proposed to Muhandirum F.A. Wikramasinghe to establish a school in the South suitable for Buddhist girls to learn English.
Accordingly, on March 19, 1919, the renowned philanthropist and social worker, Muhandirum F.A. Wikramasinghe (Manager of Mahinda College in 1920), started the Sanghamitta Vidyalaya in Galle with his charitable donations. At its inception, the primary section of Sanghamitta School operated alongside the primary section of Mahinda College.
After going to India in 1918, F.G. Pearce returned to Sri Lanka and took over as the Principal of Mahinda College on February 22, 1921. At that time, 446 students were enrolled at Mahinda College, and 21 teachers were serving. Additionally, 28 students were receiving education as boarders.
The Pearce era is also an immortal period in the history of Mahinda College. The Woodward Memorial Library, the Weaving Department, the Infant Department, the fellowship of teachers, the second hostel, and the College Parliament (student parliament) were established and maintained by him in 1921. By 1922, the number of students at the school had increased to 650.
F.L. Woodward (1903-1919) returned to Mahinda College on June 9, 1922, at the invitation of the then-principal F.G. Pearce. During his visit, Mr. Woodward laid the foundation stone for the Hendrick de Silva Hostel Shrine Room.
Due to his association with India and his significance in the Theosophical Society, Mahinda College, during F.G. Pearce’s tenure, became a place touched by renowned Theosophists and prominent Indians.
Among the distinguished figures who visited Mahinda College in 1922 were Annie Besant, the president of the Theosophical Society; Sarojini Naidu, a well-known Indian political activist and poetess; Dr. Rabindranath Tagore, a pioneer in modern Indian literature and arts; Charles Freer Andrews, an activist for Indian independence; and C. Jinarajadasa, who served as the Vice President of the Theosophical Society since 1921.
During his tenure as principal of Mahinda College, Galle (1921-23), F.G. Pearce initiated another significant endeavor: the establishment of Rahula College in Matara.
In collaboration with D.T.W. Rajapaksha Ralahamy and the esteemed R.A.D. Gunawardena Maha kulathunga, F.G. Pearce founded the Matara Buddhist Society in 1921 while serving as principal of Mahinda College.
On May 1, 1923, this society established Parakramabahu College on Matara Main Street, which later became Rahula College. According to the history of Rahula College, F.G. Pearce is credited with delivering the first lesson to its students.
After returning to India, F.G. Pearce was appointed the founding principal of the Scindia School in the Gwalior Fort region of central India. Serving as principal for nearly 15 years, from 1929 to 1943, he elevated the school to become a leading institution that harmonized with Indian culture.
Drawing on the inspiration he gained during his tenure as principal of Mahinda College, F.G. Pearce went on to establish Scindia School, which is now one of India’s leading schools. The section about Pearce in the school’s history unveils an intriguing hidden story.
It notes that Pearce was renowned as “Mahatteya” among the schools he served and his contemporaries.
Upon his return to Sri Lanka from India, F.G. Pearce began serving as an Assistant Secretary at the Ministry of Education.
During this period, Rahula College in Matara celebrated its silver jubilee. Coinciding with this, in 1949, F.G. Pearce and his wife attended the opening of Rahula College’s Jubilee Hall, which was also the first science laboratory in the Matara district. This event underscored the strong bond between Pearce and Rahula College, where he made significant contributions as one of its founders and worked tirelessly for its future development.
Through his contributions to Mahinda, Sanghamitta, and Rahula Colleges, F.G. Pearce played a vital role in advancing education in southern Sri Lanka. Following his appointment as Assistant Secretary at the Ministry of Education, he made another remarkable contribution by initiating the establishment of the Educational Research Council, leaving a lasting impact on Sri Lanka’s education sector.
In 1949, F.G. Pearce returned to India to begin his role as the principal of Rishi Valley School in South India. During his tenure, he implemented numerous innovations, including involving students in agriculture, creating individualized curricula for students, and abolishing the system of annual examinations.
After serving as the principal of Rishi Valley School for nearly a decade, he played a key role in establishing the Netarhat Residential School in Jharkhand, North India.
The history of the school states:
“F. G. Pearce’s scheme finally received the general approval of the Bihar Govt. in 1952, and the Residential School was opened on 15th November, 1954, at Netarhat with Sri Charles Napier as its First Principal.”
Additionally, in 1961, he founded the Blue Mountains School in Ooty, Tamil Nadu.
For his contributions to Indian education, F.G. Pearce was recognized and appreciated by Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the first President of India.
F.G. Pearce also contributed numerous articles to Theosophical magazines. He was a poet and author as well. His published works include:
F.G. Pearce, who dedicated his life to a great mission, concluded his selfless journey in 1962.
Following in his footsteps, his son, Vikram Pearce, worked towards the noble goal of providing education for all by establishing schools. Later, through the F.G. Pearce Foundation, Vikram became deeply involved in remarkable social service initiatives.
F.G. Pearce, a distinguished educator who played a significant role in shaping the future of three renowned educational institutions in Sri Lanka—known for producing globally recognized scholars and intellectuals—left a lasting legacy. In 2024, his son, Vikram Pearce, will honor his father’s memory by retracing his life and achievements.
This journey, which began recently at Scindia School in India, will continue with visits to Sanghamitta Girls College and Rahula Colleges, concluding at Mahinda College on the 22nd of this month. At Mahinda College, he will be on hand to celebrate the 110th anniversary of the First Galle Scout Troop and the 25th Anniversary of the Mahinda College Old Scouts’ Association.
This initiative is expected to serve as an inspiring milestone for the current and past students of Mahinda, Sanghamitta, and Rahula Colleges, as well as for the entire community.
The Ministry of Education has announced that there is no possibility of postponing the 2024 G.C.E. Advanced Level Examination at this stage, as all preparatory work has been completed.
The dates for the 2024 G.C.E. Advanced Level Examination have been set from November 25, 2024, to December 20, 2024.
Requests have been made from various parties to postpone the examination, and these requests have been taken into consideration by the Ministry of Education, Higher Education, and Vocational Training.
The Department of Examinations of Sri Lanka announced the dates for the 2024 G.C.E. Advanced Level Examination through a media release dated March 1, 2024. Preparatory activities, including the printing of question papers, setting up regional collection centers, coordination centers, and examination centers, have all been completed.
Furthermore, according to the schedule of this examination, dates have also been decided for several other upcoming examinations, including the 2024 G.C.E. Ordinary Level Examination. If this examination is postponed, it would disrupt the entire upcoming examination schedule.
Considering the above practical circumstances, the Ministry of Education has announced that there is no possibility of postponing the 2024 G.C.E. Advanced Level Examination, as all preparatory work has already been completed.
Dr. Ashoka Ranwala has been elected as the new Speaker of the Tenth Parliament.
Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya proposed his name, and the nomination was seconded by Vijitha Herath.
Additionally, Dr. Rizvi Saali has been chosen as the Deputy Speaker.
The nomination was proposed by Member of Parliament Nalinda Jayatissa and seconded by Member of Parliament Saroja Savithri Paulraj.
Hemali Weerasekara was also appointed as the Deputy Chairperson of Committees.
Her name was proposed by Minister Sunil Handunnetti and seconded by Member of Parliament Samanmalee Gunasinghe.
Live below is how the Ninth Executive President Mr. Anura Kumara Dissanayake, who was elected by popular vote, conducting the inaugural session of the Tenth Parliament.
Sajith Premadasa, the leader of Samagi Jana Balawega, has been appointed as the leader of the opposition in the 10th parliament.
It is based on being the leader of the political party with the largest number of MPs representing the opposition.
President Anura Dissanayake had also informed the Parliament through an announcement that he would accept Mr. Sajith Premadasa as the leader of the opposition.
Mr. Sajith Premadasa also held the position of Leader of the Opposition in the Ninth Parliament.
The first session of the 10th Parliament begins.
The new Speaker was elected by the Secretary General of the Parliament as usual this morning.
Later, all the MPs elected in the general election including the Prime Minister took oath here.
After taking the oath and signing the list of members, the new Speaker, the new House of Councilors and the President’s announcement were presented.
The House adjourned until 11.30 am today, when the President’s policy statement will be held next.
The New Democratic Front has decided to conduct an independent inquiry regarding the incident of sending the name of Mr. Ravi Karunanayake to the Election Commission for one of the two National List MP positions belonging to the party.
During a discussion held today (20), it was stated that the coalition members’ trust has been broken regarding the illegal appointment of Mr. Ravi Karunanayake to the National List.
During the discussion, it was decided to conduct an independent inquiry into this incident.
The committee members are as follows:
Committee Secretary: Lawyer Yasas De Silva
It was decided that the report of this inquiry would be handed over to the leader of the United National Party, Mr. Ranil Wickremesinghe, within three weeks.
Subsequently, the report is to be submitted to the Executive Committee of the United National Party.
According to the survey conducted this year for 2023, it has been revealed that 96 government schools have closed over the past five years, and the number of students has decreased by 178,965.
In addition, the number of teachers has also decreased by 8,803 during this five-year period.
According to the survey conducted for 2023, the total number of government schools in the country is 10,096, consisting of 396 national schools and 9,700 provincial council schools. The total number of students in the school system this year is 3,882,688, with 830,021 students in national schools and 3,052,667 in provincial schools. In the overall school system for 2023, there are 1,923,591 male students and 1,959,097 female students.
According to the survey conducted by the Ministry of Education, there are 237,789 teachers employed in the total government school system for 2023. Of these, 56,570 are male teachers and 181,217 are female teachers.
According to data from the 2019 survey, there were 10,165 active government schools. In these schools, there were 2,019,005 male students and 2,042,648 female students, totaling 4,061,653 students.
In 2019, there were 246,592 teachers employed. Among them, 184,125 were female teachers.
According to the 2022 survey report, there were 10,126 active schools in the country’s school system. These included 396 national schools and 9,730 provincial council schools. Accordingly, it is seen that out of the 96 schools that closed in the past five years, 20 closed during 2022, all of which were provincial schools.
In 2022, a total of 3,969,597 students received education in government schools, with the majority of 3,135,011 students studying in provincial schools. During this period, 236,731 teachers were employed in government schools, among which 179,921 were female teachers and 56,817 were male teachers.
According to the 2023 school census report, among the active government schools in that year, 1,506 schools had fewer than 50 students. The number of schools with between 51 and 100 students was 1,638, while the number of schools with between 101 and 200 students was 2,128. There were also 2,638 schools with between 201 and 500 students.
Accordingly, out of the 10,096 active schools in the country for 2023, 7,910 schools have fewer than 500 students.
In addition, according to the 2023 survey, 33 schools with fewer than 4,000 students were identified, while there were 67 schools with between 3,001 and 4,000 students.
The survey also revealed that there are 1,309 schools with 501 to 1,000 students, 379 schools with 1,001 to 1,500 students, 200 schools with 1,501 to 2,000 students, and 198 schools with 2,001 to 3,000 students.
The name of the party’s general secretary Mr. Ranjith Maddumabandara has been forwarded to the Election Commission for a position as a member of the Samagi Jana Balawega National List.
Accordingly, the Election Commission has taken steps to publish his name through the Gazette today.
The Samagi Jana Balawegaya won 5 seats in the national list, of which only one seat has been filled so far. A spokesperson of the party said that steps will be taken to appoint the rest of the MPs in the future.
Former Member of Parliament Mr. Harin Fernando has been arrested.
It is related to a case of violation of election laws.
It is reported that he was arrested when he was called to the Badulla police to obtain a statement.
Recently, he was called to give a statement regarding a heated incident with the police during an election campaign in Badulla.
The Supreme Court has today granted permission to hear a petition filed seeking to annul a Court of Appeal decision that nullified a private complaint filed against Deshabandu Tennakoon, who served as the Senior Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of the Western Province.
The complaint alleged that Mr. Tennakoon supported and abetted the breach of public trust by instructing the funds exceeding Rs. 17.85 million, found by a group of protesters who stormed the President’s House in Colombo Fort in 2022, to be handed over to the then Minister of Public Security.
The petition was filed by Mahinda Jayasinghe, a teacher union leader who was elected to Parliament from the Gampaha District with the highest number of votes in the last general election, representing the National People’s Power. After considering preliminary submissions related to this appeal petition, the Supreme Court granted permission for the hearing.
The relevant petition is scheduled to be heard on June 12 next year.
The government states that Rs. 1,292 million has already been disbursed under the program to provide fertilizer subsidies to rice farmers.
The Director General of Agrarian Services, U.B. Rohana Rajapaksha, stated that 109,000 rice farmers from 22 districts have already received these funds.
He also mentioned that today an additional Rs. 540 million was requested from the Treasury for the fertilizer subsidy program, and this amount is planned to be allocated for 47,553 farmers across 22 districts.
He further emphasized that farmers should not have any concerns about the fertilizer subsidy.
The appointment of new secretaries for 16 ministries, including the Prime Minister’s Secretary and the Cabinet Secretary, was conducted today (19) at the Presidential Secretariat under the leadership of Presidential Secretary Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake.
The list of appointments is as follows:
The positions of Speaker of the House and Chief Organizer of the Government Party have been appointed in the tenth Parliament.
Minister Bimal Ratnayake has been appointed as the Leader of the House.
Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa has been appointed as the chief organizer of the ruling party.
Mr. Bimal Ratnayake also serves as the Minister of Transport, Highways, Ports and Civil Aviation in the new government.
Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa is the Minister of Health and Media.
The Criminal Investigation Department has started an investigation regarding an obscene video created by AI technology using the faces of Anushki and Kanushki, two of the most popular young models in recent times, and released on social media.
These twin sisters came to the art industry through a reality TV show and became popular stars.
These two came before the Criminal Investigation Department and submitted the complaint to the Computer Crime Investigation Unit today.
Senior Superintendent of Police Mangala Dehideniya, Director of the Criminal Investigation Department, said that investigations have been started in this regard today.
It is said that necessary steps are being taken to remove this video from social media.
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake stated that ministers who have been entrusted with unlimited power must handle it with responsibility.
The President also pointed out that while their victory is significant, the weight of responsibility handed over by that victory is equally substantial, and they must work together for the common good.
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake made these comments while addressing the swearing-in ceremony of the newly appointed Cabinet Ministers of the National People’s Power Government held at the Presidential Secretariat this morning (18).
In his speech, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake further said:
“We all know that September 21 marked a crucial turning point in Sri Lankan politics. The people decided to change the direction our country had been following for a long time, taking a decisive step on September 21. Subsequently, the general election strengthened this decision even further, and the general public of this country has placed their trust in us.
The people of our country have participated in this transformation with enthusiasm and determination. Historically, the political landscape of Sri Lanka has always been divided, with the politics of the South opposed to that of the North, and vice versa. Alternatively, politics that fostered suspicion, mistrust, and animosity among different communities prevailed. However, this election has completely shown that the politics of division is no longer valid for our country.
The aspirations of the common people of the North, South, East, and West have been united through this general election.
We are grateful to all the people who participated with interest and effort to give a strong mandate to the National People’s Power. Even those who did not vote for us and voted for other political movements, we are confident that their goals are also aligned with the objectives we hope to achieve. I do not believe that any Sri Lankan citizen trusts the politics of division. Nor do I believe that any politician in Sri Lanka would trust the degradation of democracy. These are fundamentally noble things embedded in every citizen. Those who voted for us have expressed these positive expectations through their votes, and we firmly believe that those who did not vote for us also share the goals we envision.
Therefore, there are no two groups in this country: one happy with the election outcome and one fearful of it. When fulfilling the expectations that the National People’s Power set for this country, we need the support and trust of all the people. Therefore, even after winning the presidential election, we have shown how to establish democracy peacefully, respecting the political rights of others.
I think this is a new experience for the people of this country. But we believe that this experience is one that every citizen of our country has hoped for. We were also able to hold the most peaceful election in Sri Lankan history during the election period and thereafter. This is their right. Moreover, this is a historic election, with several unique features. Quantitatively, it was the largest victory ever secured in a general election in Sri Lankan history, the first time a political movement has taken power, and on the other hand, it is a victory the people can be happy about. Such a victory belongs to us and our citizens because these changes are necessary for our country.
We have seen that every time our country gained different types of victories, our natural tendency was to treat the defeated side, or the other side, with harm or oppression. However, following this election, we have firmly established a new political culture for our country. We have safeguarded its continuity even after the general election.
Events may happen. At one point, peaceful democracy may prevail, and at another, there may be times of conflict. However, these will only remain transient if we continue to safeguard democracy. Therefore, our responsibility lies in continuously protecting the democratic rights of citizens and elevating them to a higher qualitative level. This is an important responsibility of the government.
Especially during this election campaign, Sri Lankans abroad provided us with tremendous support and encouragement. The participation of Sri Lankans abroad was unprecedented, surpassing any previous interest shown in an election in our history. We know that they celebrated the election results from outside Sri Lanka with great joy and enthusiasm. We are very grateful to them.
We know that, generally, the most important aspect of an election in politics is conveying our beliefs and ideas to society. In doing so, we performed our duty as a political movement, but there was also a new generation that voluntarily took on that responsibility through social media. We must understand the special expectations of that young generation. They did not merely use social media as a battleground to divide winners and losers. Instead, they demonstrated the aspirations and objectives of a new young generation. Therefore, we must be committed to that. I believe it is important. So, at this moment, we extend our thanks to everyone who helped achieve this victory in various ways.
However, we need to understand something. What was the secret behind the people’s resurgence, filled with great hope? For a long time, the citizens of our country faced different kinds of suffering. It was common to see citizens left helpless and oppressed in front of the law. Economically, there were groups that were ignored. They were treated like human dust in the economy. Groups faced economic hardship without a proper meal, house, or opportunity to lead a healthy life.
Professionals also faced struggles to use their knowledge and abilities freely in their fields. Furthermore, people were subjected to hardship based on their language, religion, and culture, and constantly felt isolated, discriminated against, or deprived of equal rights. Thus, these groups faced various struggles.
If we look at each sector, there were specific struggles unique to each group. I know that even state officials trying to implement the law faced this hardship. That is the reality. Thus, the election result is an invitation to freedom for the oppressed people. They needed this freedom. They needed relief from the diverse hardships they faced. This need for freedom is what the election results invite. Therefore, we have no right to grant freedom that divides citizens. Therefore, we must guarantee complete freedom in every sector.
We must reaffirm freedom for professionals to carry out their duties based on their knowledge, freedom for officials to establish law and peace, freedom for people to claim a fair share of the economy, and freedom to live according to one’s religion, language, and culture. These are fundamental rights we must reaffirm. This is why we say Sri Lanka should move towards an era of revival.
We must create a freer environment for the people of this country. We know that there was massive public participation in achieving this victory. Many people, unconnected to our political mechanism, whom we did not meet or talk to, worked for us. They worked on buses, trains, workplaces, and celebrations. They all contributed to our victory. We must also remember that we fought long and hard for this victory. We fought for decades.
I know that many here have dedicated themselves to this dream since their youth. During this struggle, they dedicated not only their time and effort but even their lives for this victory. Moreover, during the very challenging initial phases, we intervened to protect this movement. Some abandoned us halfway. Even then, we have had their support to achieve this victory, in the beginning, halfway, and whenever necessary. This has been a great support for this victory.
Therefore, we have twofold responsibilities: responsibility towards the aspirations of the common people and responsibility towards the movement. We believe power is something special. Power produces more power, expands itself, and grows again. However, it has been seen throughout history, and some have said, “Power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” It is true. Power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely. It has been proven. There were several instances in our country where such powers were created. However, if we look at the final outcomes of those powers, they never delivered just results to the people. They were always used against the people, in ways harmful to the country. Some may think that unlimited power has been given. There was a question in society about where that power would be directed.
For anyone who has even the smallest doubt, I say: yes, we do have power. However, we also know the limits and boundaries of that power and the extent to which we can play with or manage it. We all must understand that there are limits to our power, and that power has a purpose. For a long time, the good intentions and expectations we made to the people have been entrusted to this power.
The key thing is that this power comes with responsibilities. To whom? On one hand, it is a responsibility to the citizens, and on the other, it is a responsibility to the movement. Therefore, I believe that, regardless of the powers granted to us by the constitution or in any other manner, we must act with accountability when handling this power. Accountability to the citizens on one side and to the movement on the other. It is at this point that it becomes impossible to wield power recklessly. We are bound by responsibilities. Therefore, I think a minister has an even greater responsibility than an ordinary citizen.
All of you must understand. I do not need to tell you anew. You have your limits, your responsibilities, your commitments, and I believe you will safeguard these. There is also another discussion happening here. Many of you are new not only to the Cabinet but also to Parliament. However, for a long time, we worked on different objectives at different levels. You worked professionally and acted as political activists. Therefore, while you may be new to the Cabinet and Parliament, you are not new to politics or the work.
Thus, we believe that many new kinds of examples can be set for the people through this Cabinet. I also believe that this Cabinet, selected by the people, will be capable of achieving the victories the country expects. If we conduct our work well, you have that ability, that desire, and we personally know that you are uncorrupted, honest, and have the courage to carry out this duty.
Therefore, we have full confidence that you will carry out this duty honestly. It is with that confidence that we work. In politics, there was a time when our political movement had the goal of inviting people to build a movement for good purposes. We had a set of good objectives. To successfully accomplish those objectives, we worked to acquire power. At that time, our methods, our slogans, and our activities were all aimed at gaining power. We fought and struggled until this need was conveyed to the people, which led to this result. Politics has been victorious. Moving forward, we will no longer measure our success only by political slogans.
Before September 21 and before November 14, we were measured based on our slogans and beliefs. But after November 14, we will be measured by whether our governance is good. Previously, we were measured based on our political actions. From here on, we will be measured by the quality of our governance.
Therefore, the good governance required to achieve our long-term goals, meet the people’s expectations, and guide our aspirations to success is important. We will no longer be measured by slogans and ideologies. From today onwards, we will be measured by how well we can breathe life into those slogans through effective governance.
Thus, while our victory is vast, the responsibility handed to us by that victory is equally heavy. At times, it was said that we would fight for victory, and those capable of taking the next step would do so after the victory. However, whether we like it or not, we were forced to fight for that victory and, after the victory, we were appointed as the stewards responsible for carrying out that duty successfully.
Therefore, everything lies with you. You are at the center. How effectively can you manage your areas and fulfill your assigned responsibilities? How capable are you of adhering to your personal commitments? It is upon these that our next success or failure will be determined.
September 21 and November 14 have brought about a two-stage success. Moving forward, the determination of whether we succeed will greatly depend on your role. We can only end this journey successfully with your responsibility and commitment to good governance. Therefore, let us work together for that. Let us raise our voices together for that.”
The New Democratic Front has decided to appoint Mr. Ravi Karunanayake, a former minister, for one of the two national list MP positions according to the results of the general election.
That has been informed in writing to the Election Commission.
A container storing medicines and surgical items caught fire this morning on the premises of Nawagamuwa Hospital.
Upon learning about the fire, the Nawagamuwa Police and officers from the Kotte Fire Brigade arrived at the scene and took measures to control the fire.
By that time, many of the medicines and other items inside the container had already been damaged by the fire. A forensic expert has been summoned to the site to determine the cause of the fire.
The LNG (liquefied natural gas) dual-fuel RORO vessel Glovis Selene made its maiden call at the Hambantota International Port (HIP) last week, unloading 627 CEUs (Car Equivalent Units) and loading 934 CEUs bound for the Persian Gulf. This marks the second time a dual-fuel LNG vessel has docked at HIP, highlighting the port’s capacity to accommodate next-generation vessels.
The Glovis Selene, measuring 200 metres in length, 38 metres in width, and a draft of 8.6 metres, features 12 vehicle stowage decks with a carrying capacity of 7000 CEU’s. Commissioned in September 2024, this vessel is part of the latest addition to the LNG dual-fuel fleet of South Korean shipping giant Hyundai Glovis, ranked amongst the 3 Largest RORO Shipping Companies in 2023 by Daily Logistics. Apart from being a key RORO volume contributor to Sri Lanka overall, Glovis plays a vital role in sustaining high volumes at HIP.
LNG-powered vessels are increasingly central to sustainable maritime operations, blending environmental responsibility with fuel efficiency and modern resource management. Many LNG carriers now rely on LNG fuel for both propulsion and auxiliary power, aligning with international environmental standards such as the IMO’s global sulphur cap. This transition significantly cuts emissions of sulphur oxides (SOx), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter (PM), enabling shipowners to meet stringent environmental regulations and support global decarbonization efforts. Additionally, LNG tankers utilise boil-off gas—naturally evaporated LNG during transport—as fuel, efficiently managing this byproduct and minimising its atmospheric release. Equipped with dual-fuel engines, these vessels can run on either LNG or heavy fuel oil (HFO), offering flexibility and improved fuel efficiency. As the use of LNG-fueled tankers expands, they will become more central to sustainable and efficient maritime operations worldwide.
Following its call at HIP, the Glovis Selene will continue on to Port Jebel Ali in Dubai, UAE.
According to police records, Mr. Ananda Wijepala, who was appointed as the Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs, had previously served in the police force for some time.
It is stated that he served in the police as a Sub-Inspector from 1985 to 1987 while pursuing his university education.
Retired Senior Deputy Inspector General of Police, D.R.L. Ranaveera, who is currently serving as an advisor to the Ministry of Public Security, was a contemporary of the Minister during his time in the police service.
Today, the Supreme Court (18) issued an interim order preventing the release of the results of the recently concluded five-year scholarship examination, which led to controversy.
This order was issued after considering the fundamental rights petitions submitted by a group of students and their parents, challenging the manner in which the scholarship examination was conducted.
This order has been issued by the Supreme Court bench comprising Mr. Prithi Padman Surasena, Mr. Achala Vengappuli and Mr. Mahinda Samayawardena.
The first cabinet of the National People’s Power (NPP) government officially took their oaths today (18) in a ceremony held at the Presidential Secretariat, with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake presiding.
In line with the President’s earlier commitment, the cabinet includes 21 ministers, among them the Prime Minister.
The list of cabinet ministers and their respective portfolios is as follows:
A 15-year-old boy who sells flowers to tourists has been arrested by the Kandapola Police for allegedly hugging and sexually harassing a Dutch woman who was travelling in Sri Lanka with her boyfriend.
The 30-year-old Dutch woman was travelling with her boyfriend in Nuwara Eliya and had arrived in the Kandapola area, where the 15-year-old boy, who was selling flowers, reportedly gave her a flower, according to the police. Then, that child hugged her and touched her genital area, and she came to the police with her boyfriend and complained.
Following an investigation, the police identified and arrested the boy. After being presented to the court, he was ordered to be detained at the Werellawatta Juvenile Detention Center.
The Commissioner General of Examinations, Mr. Amith Jayasundara, has announced that the G.C.E. Advanced Level Examination 2024 will commence on November 25 and continue until December 20.
The admission cards and timetables for school candidates have been sent to the respective school principals, while those for private candidates have been sent via post to their respective residential addresses, according to the Commissioner of Examinations.
Private candidates who have not yet received their admission cards by post may download them from the official website of the Department of Examinations, www.doenets.lk, starting from November 18. If there are any corrections needed regarding subjects, mediums, or names on the admission cards, all applicants can make those corrections through the website http://onlineexams.gov.lk/eic until midnight on November 18. The Commissioner General of Examinations also noted that examination centers will not be changed.
Stockpile of Timber Discovered Hidden at Sri Lanka Cashew Corporation Warehouse and Workers’ Quarters in Kondachchi
A stock of timber has been discovered by the Silavathura Police hidden in a warehouse and two workers’ quarters belonging to the Sri Lanka Cashew Corporation located in Kondachchi.
The estate officer in charge of the Kondachchi Cashew Plantation was arrested by the police yesterday on suspicion of storing the timber without proper permits.
The Silavathura Police reported that the timber discovered included 338 pieces of satinwood, 80 pieces of ebony, 1138 pieces of teak, and 266 pieces of Palu wood.
The warehouse and the two houses were searched based on information received by the police.
Fifty-nine suspects have been arrested in connection with an internet fraud incident at a luxury apartment complex located in the Wellawatte area of Colombo.
The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) arrested the suspects yesterday (08) evening, and it has been reported that 23 of them are women.
It has been revealed that those arrested are individuals residing in various parts of the country.
The raid was carried out by the Computer Crimes Investigation Unit based on information received from a foreign diplomatic mission located in the country regarding an illegal activity taking place at that location.
The Criminal Investigation Department took into custody 167 computers and 61 mobile phones from the location during the raid.
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