By Dushni Weerakoon (East Asia Forum) Nearly two years after announcing a debt default in the middle of a severe social and political crisis, the Sri Lankan economy is showing the first signs of recovery. Year-on-year inflation dropped sharply to a low of 1.5 per cent in October 2023 from its peak of 70 per…
In a recent educational workshop organized by the We Have a Dream Collective on January 19, 2024, Mr. Sarath Jayamanne, President’s Counsel and former Director General of the Bribery Commission, shed light on the main features of the groundbreaking Anti-Corruption Act No. 9 of 2023. The Act, designed to combat bribery and corruption, introduces several…
State Minister Ranjith Siyambalapitiya provided insights into the Government’s fiscal strategy regarding the proposed Rs. 10,000 salary increase outlined in the 2024 Budget. The overall expenditure on Government employee salaries is expected to rise to around Rs. 14 billion following the proposed Rs. 10,000 salary hike which was originally slated for April. “At present, around…
Colombo Port Experiences Surge in Traffic Amid Red Sea Crisis Sri Lanka’s Colombo port has witnessed a significant increase in container volumes in recent weeks as vessels seek alternative routes to avoid the tensions in the southern Red Sea. Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels’ attacks on ships in this vital shipping route prompted some shipping companies…
Asia Internet Coalition (“AIC”), a body comprising internet and technology companies in the world, and its members, expressed concern about the Online Safety Bill and called for extensive revisions and overhaul of it. Managing Director AIC Jeff Paine said in writing to Public Security Minister Tiran Alles that while his office appreciates the efforts made…
Telecom giants Reliance Industries and Lycamobile are among three potential buyers vying for a stake in Sri Lanka’s state-owned Sri Lanka Telecom (SLT), setting the stage for a high-stakes bidding war. The island nation’s State-Owned Enterprises Restructuring Unit confirmed initial interest from Jio Platforms, a subsidiary of Reliance, and Pettigo Comercio International, linked to the…
Sri Lanka’s anti-corruption commission must prioritize high-profile cases and move beyond petty infractions to regain public trust, Transparency International Sri Lanka (TISL) said. The Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) now has broader powers under the Anti-Corruption Act, but faces mounting pressure to deliver results. The public frustration stems from the deep-rooted…
Get ready for breathtaking hikes, pristine beaches, and elephant encounters – all at a fraction of the price! Sri Lanka has grabbed the spotlight, landing a coveted spot among the top 13 most affordable vacation destinations globally, as recognized by Fox News. This prestigious recognition isn’t just a feather in Sri Lanka’s cap; it’s a…
Kantale, Sri Lanka (January 4, 2024) – In a move likely to ignite further debate on public service recruitment, President Ranil Wickremesinghe has decided to confirm the appointments of the multi-purpose development assistants (MPDAs) given by the Gotabaya Rajapaksa regime. Current President Ranil Wickrmasinghe has approved the permanent appointment of 219 MPDAs in Anuradhapura district….
Sri Lanka has ignited a geopolitical firestorm by imposing a one-year ban on Chinese research vessels entering its ports and conducting research in its exclusive economic zone (EEZ). This move, announced on January 1st, comes after months of mounting pressure from India and the United States, both wary of China’s expanding research fleet in the…
