Category: Daily Financial Times

The Prime Minister and the Opposition Leader have reached a consensus on the appointment of three civil society representatives to the Constitutional Council, following discussions prompted by the expiry of the terms of the current civil society members of the Legislative Council.

Accordingly, Prof. Wasantha Seneviratne, Austin Fernando, and Ranjith Ariyaratne have been agreed upon as nominees to represent civil society in the Constitutional Council. The terms of office of the outgoing civil society members; Dr. Anula Wijesundara, Dr. Prathap Ramanujam, and Prof. Dinesha Samararatne expired on the 16 January, leading to consultations between the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition on new appointments.

Under constitutional provisions, civil society members representing the Legislative Assembly are appointed by the Speaker with the consent of both the Prime Minister and the Opposition Leader. In line with this requirement, the agreed nominations have now been forwarded for appointment.

Prof. Wasantha Seneviratne currently serves as Senior Professor of Public Law and International Law at the Faculty of Law, University of Colombo. She is also the Director of the Centre for the Study of Human Rights (CSHR), a leading research institute affiliated with the University, and is widely recognised for her academic and policy contributions in the fields of constitutional law and human rights.

Austin Fernando is a seasoned public administrator with extensive experience in senior leadership roles. His previous appointments include Secretary to the Ministry of Defence and Secretary to the President, in addition to holding responsibilities in private sector and multinational organisations.

Ranjith Ariyaratne is a Special Grade Officer of the Sri Lanka Administrative Service and a distinguished public servant who has served as Secretary to several ministries, bringing decades of administrative experience to the Constituent Assembly.

The overall composition of the 10-member Constitutional Council comprises the Prime Minister, the Speaker, and the Leader of the Opposition as ex officio members, along with one Member of Parliament appointed by the President. Five members are nominated and appointed by the President, including one Member of Parliament nominated with the consent of the majority of Government Members of Parliament, one Member of Parliament nominated with the consent of the majority of Members of Parliament belonging to the Opposition Leader’s party or independent group, and three persons nominated jointly by the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition with their mutual consent.

In addition, one Member of Parliament is appointed by the President upon nomination by Government Members of Parliament and with the agreement of Members of Parliament who do not belong to the political party or independent group of the Leader of the Opposition.

Law enforcement authorities recorded the largest volume of drug seizures in recent history in 2025, according to Police Media Spokesperson Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) F.U. Wootler.

Addressing a special media briefing at the Government Information Department yesterday to outline progress under the ‘A Nation United-National Drive’ program, ASP Wootler said Police seized 23,692 kilograms and 307 grams of narcotics in 2025, more than double the 10,871 kilograms seized in 2024.

The seizures included heroin, cannabis, ice, hashish, and cocaine. Cannabis seizures alone rose sharply, increasing from 8,359 kilograms in 2024 to 17,189 kilograms in 2025.

ASP Wootler said that during 2024 and 2025, authorities repatriated 21 drug traffickers who had been evading arrest overseas. Red Notices have been issued against a further 96 suspects currently abroad, with steps under way to secure their extradition.

He added that preliminary legal action has been initiated to confiscate 354 gold sovereigns, while 77 vehicles purchased using illicit funds have been seized. Police have also taken custody of 30 houses, frozen 1,197 perches of land, and restrained assets valued at Rs. 353.9 million.

In addition, 65 special investigations have been launched in connection with the operations, the Police Media Spokesperson said.

Former Speaker of Parliament Karu Jayasuriya has written to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, urging him to reconsider the proposed abolition of pensions for Members of Parliament, warning that such a move could have far-reaching consequences for democratic representation in Sri Lanka.

In a letter sent in his capacity as Patron of the Former Parliamentarians’ Caucus, Jayasuriya reflected on the country’s political evolution since independence.

He noted that in the early years after 1948, politics was largely dominated by an educated and affluent elite, but a significant social transformation after 1956 opened the doors of Parliament to ordinary citizens and individuals from modest backgrounds.

Jayasuriya cautioned that abolishing parliamentary pensions under current circumstances could reverse these gains. He warned that politics could once again become the preserve of the wealthy, business interests, those who accumulate money through illicit means, and well-funded political parties, thereby discouraging honest social workers and capable individuals without financial backing from entering public life.

He further observed that while a small number of former MPs, including himself, channel their pensions towards social and charitable activities, the majority of former parliamentarians rely on the pension as their primary source of income after leaving office.

Against this backdrop, Jayasuriya urged the President to give due consideration to the issue and take appropriate action, particularly as the Government moves toward drafting a new Constitution in the future. He emphasised that decisions taken now would shape the inclusiveness and integrity of Sri Lanka’s political system for generations to come.

Sri Lanka Customs has exceeded its January 2026 revenue target within the first 22 days of the month, according to official data.

Customs had set a revenue target of Rs. 160.2 billion for January. However, collections had reached Rs. 175.4 billion by the 22nd of the month, surpassing the target by around 9.5%.

Revenue performance has been supported by an acceleration in container clearance since December, following disruptions caused by Cyclone Ditwah, which affected normal port and Customs operations for several days in November. Higher import volumes recorded in December also contributed to the stronger collections.

In 2025, Sri Lanka Customs recorded its highest-ever annual revenue, collecting Rs. 2,551 billion. This exceeded the revised annual target of Rs. 2,241 billion and represented a 64.2% increase compared to revenue of Rs. 1,553 billion recorded in the previous year.

For 2026, Customs has set an annual revenue target of Rs. 2.2 trillion, reflecting a 13.5% reduction from last year. The lower target is based on expectations of a significant decline in motor vehicle imports.

The Jaffna International Trade Fair (JITF), opened yesterday for its 16th consecutive year, running until Sunday at the Muttraweli Ground, Jaffna.

Organised by Lanka Exhibition and Conference Services (LECS) in association with the Chamber of Commerce and Industries of Yarlpanam (CCIY), JITF has become one of the country’s most anticipated annual trade events. With strong national visibility and extensive promotional reach, the fair attracts businesses, investors, and institutions seeking access to the rapidly developing Northern market.

JITF attracts a diverse visitor profile, including importers, exporters, SMEs, chamber members, financial institutions, technical professionals, and development agencies, making it a key catalyst for long-term trade and investment in Northern Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka Customs has exceeded its January 2026 revenue target within the first 22 days of the month, according to official data.

Customs had set a revenue target of Rs. 160.2 billion for January. However, collections had reached Rs. 175.4 billion by the 22nd of the month, surpassing the target by around 9.5%.

Revenue performance has been supported by an acceleration in container clearance since December, following disruptions caused by Cyclone Ditwah, which affected normal port and Customs operations for several days in November. Higher import volumes recorded in December also contributed to the stronger collections.

In 2025, Sri Lanka Customs recorded its highest-ever annual revenue, collecting Rs. 2,551 billion. This exceeded the revised annual target of Rs. 2,241 billion and represented a 64.2% increase compared to revenue of Rs. 1,553 billion recorded in the previous year.

For 2026, Customs has set an annual revenue target of Rs. 2.2 trillion, reflecting a 13.5% reduction from last year. The lower target is based on expectations of a significant decline in motor vehicle imports.

Surgical services have now resumed at the District General Hospital, Chilaw, following emergency repairs supported by UNFPA in the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah.

The rapid restoration of critical sections of the operating theatre has enabled the hospital to safely recommence sterilisation procedures and resume surgeries, ensuring continued access to life-saving maternal and newborn care for hundreds of patients each month.

In the immediate aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah, severe flooding caused extensive damage to health facilities across Sri Lanka, disrupting essential and life-saving services. Among the facilities affected was the Operating Theatre of the District General Hospital, Chilaw, a critical referral hospital serving thousands of patients each month, including a high volume of pregnant women and newborns requiring urgent care.

During an inspection visit to the hospital in December 2025 to assess the extent of damage post-disaster, hospital staff, led by Director Dr. Sumith Attanayake, highlighted the urgent need to restore the operating theatre premises. Floodwaters had damaged the wall cladding panels, doors, and internal structures, severely compromising the sterile environment required for surgical procedures. Without immediate repairs, the hospital faced delays in resuming surgeries including essential obstetric and neonatal care.

‘In November, our hospital was severely affected by flooding. Our main operating theatre was among the hardest hit, and we were unable to carry out any surgical procedures. At that time, a team from UNFPA visited the hospital and saw firsthand the condition of the theatre. The side walls and internal partitions were badly damaged, putting our ability to safely resume surgeries at risk,’ said Dr. Attanayake.

Responding swiftly to this urgent request, UNFPA mobilised immediate support as part of its emergency humanitarian response to ensure continuity of life-saving critical health services. In close coordination with the the Government of Sri Lanka and Ministry of Health, UNFPA facilitated the rapid restoration of the operating theatre, enabling the hospital to safely recommence sterilisation procedures to resume surgeries.

By 30 December 2025, restoration efforts were successfully completed. The intervention included the replacement and repair of operating theatre wall cladding panels, repairs to doors, locks, hinges, floor fittings, and the renovation of internal cabin structures using cladding boards and glass. These improvements helped restore the sterile condition of the operating theatre, a prerequisite for safe surgical and obstetric care.

The timely restoration was especially critical given the hospital’s caseload. According to hospital staff, approximately 500 pregnant women receive treatment at Chilaw District General Hospital each month. Even at the height of the flooding, over 150 patients, including pregnant women, were receiving in-house care, underscoring the urgent need to restore services without delay.

‘UNFPA responded immediately and supported us directly. Thanks to their prompt action, within just a few days we were able to repair the damaged sections of the operating theatre. We have now resumed surgeries. I sincerely thank UNFPA for standing with us at a critical moment,’ Dr. Attanayake noted with gratitude.

This rapid turnaround, from assessment to completion within less than three weeks, reflects UNFPA’s role as one of the most trusted and active partners on the ground, supporting national systems to respond, recover, and rebuild in times of crisis. By prioritising essential health infrastructure, UNFPA helped ensure that women, girls, pregnant women, and newborns are empowered with access to life-saving care during a critical period.

As Sri Lanka continues its recovery from Cyclone Ditwah, UNFPA’s humanitarian response remains focused on protecting the health, safety, and dignity of women and girls, through the restoration of essential services, the provision of critical supplies, and sustained support to frontline health systems.

Havelock Sports Club pulled off a hard-fought 29-17 victory over Police Sports Club in their Inter-Club Rugby League first-round encounter concluded at Police Park last evening, securing a vital berth in the Cup segment of the Super Round.

Despite pre-match expectations favouring a comfortable Havies win, Police produced a spirited display before eventually yielding to sustained second-half pressure. Police will now feature in the Plate segment.

The home side stunned the visitors with an energetic first-half performance, showing urgency and purpose in both attack and defence. Capitalising on early opportunities, Police took a deserved 17-12 lead at the short breather, leaving Havies searching for answers after being repeatedly tested in open play.

The complexion of the game changed dramatically after the interval as Havies tightened their structures and asserted dominance through their forward pack. Control at the breakdown and greater efficiency in contact situations allowed the Park Club to build sustained pressure and gradually wear down the Police defence.

The relentless work rate of the Havies forwards proved decisive, consistently winning collisions and generating quick ball. This platform enabled Havies to convert territory into points during a commanding second-half spell. Several forwards were influential throughout, though occasional lapses in ball security prevented an even wider margin. Their forwards were top class with Abdullah Faiz, Azmir Fajudeen and Chatura Dilshan.

Despite the victory, Havies will be concerned by an off-night with the boot, missing multiple straightforward chances at goal that denied them at least ten additional points reliable Samuel Maduwantha.

Police can take heart from a courageous showing, particularly in the first half, where their attacking intent and defensive commitment troubled Havies. However, an inability to finish promising movements ultimately proved costly. Their Fijian, KaliovaMocetadra was outstanding both in defence as well in attack. He split the Havies defence all over the Park with his powerful play.

Havies scored tries through Harusha Perera, Udara Lakshan, Azmir Fajudeen, Abdullah Faiz and Sachintha Waidyanatha, with two conversions added by Samuel Maduwantha. Police replied with two tries by fijian, Kaliova Mocetadra and additional points from the boot through Prince Chamara.

Referee Jeewaka Fonseka controlled the game.

With this result, CR and FC, Kandy SC, CH and FC and Havelock SC qualify for the Cup segment, while Air Force, Police, Army and either Navy or Sri Lions will contest the Plate segment in Round Two.

AirAsia continues to strengthen connectivity between Sri Lanka and Thailand with the introduction of three additional weekly flights (Wednesday, Friday, Sunday) between Colombo (CMB) and Bangkok (Don Mueang – DMK) for the Winter 2025/26 season.

The new services are in operation providing travellers even greater flexibility and choice when planning their trips.

With the addition of these frequencies, AirAsia now operates 10 weekly flights between Colombo and Bangkok. The new flights will operate as FD142/143 with an A320, complementing the existing FD140/141 daily service, which has been upgraded to an A321 to meet growing capacity demand on the route, especially as Sri Lankan passport holders are eligible for tourist visa on arrival in Bangkok.

The enhanced connectivity will further support tourism, trade, and cultural ties between Sri Lanka and Thailand. AirAsia’s convenient connections further support seamless onward connectivity from Bangkok to AirAsia’s extensive route network including Chiang Mai, Phuket, Bali, Da Nang and Narita (Tokyo).

The added flights also provide increased accessibility for Thai visitors to Sri Lanka, encouraging exploration of the island’s diverse cultural, historical, and natural attractions-from ancient heritage sites and wellness retreats to scenic hill country escapes and world-renowned beaches.

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, together with Economic Development Deputy Minister Dr. Anil Jayantha Fernando, held meetings with members of the Swiss business community as well as Sri Lankan business leaders and professionals based in Switzerland on the side-lines of the World Economic Forum in Davos.

The engagements focused on strengthening partnerships, building confidence, and exploring practical avenues for collaboration to support Sri Lanka’s economic recovery and long-term development.

During discussions with Sri Lankan business and professional representatives in Switzerland, the Prime Minister highlighted the important role they play in fostering business linkages, facilitating investment opportunities, enabling market access, mentoring entrepreneurs, and strengthening Sri Lanka’s engagement with international business networks.

In her meeting with members of the Swiss business community, the Prime Minister outlined Sri Lanka’s current economic direction, reform priorities, and key sectors for investment. She emphasised the Government’s focus on economic stability, predictable policy frameworks, and governance reforms aimed at rebuilding investor confidence.

The discussions explored opportunities for collaboration in areas such as services-sector growth, capital markets, financial technology, and other priority sectors, with an emphasis on translating engagement into tangible outcomes, including investor interest, sector-specific partnerships, and long-term cooperation.

The Prime Minister said the Government was committed to sustained economic recovery driven by reform, stability, and international partnership, while welcoming continued engagement with Swiss and Sri Lankan business stakeholders.