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Sri Lanka pays for contempt of human rights alleging they are Western Christian concepts |
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2009-10-20 | 9.20 PM |
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Areas of concern identified by the EU's ‘Committee investigating the effective implementation of Human Rights in Sri Lanka’ are mainly related not to the government's 'war against terror' as said in most cases but to the overall human rights and democratic situation of the island.
As reported by media EU sources had told the report showed evidence of police violence, torture and breach of labor laws, notably the use of underage children.
Police violence is wide spread in the country and in the most recent incident residents of a coastal village in the outskirts of Colombo city pelted stones at a police station since two village youths that were arrested for a minor incident were brutally killed and their bodies were dumped in the area.
In another incident, the wife and son of a senior Deputy Inspector General were arrested for torturing an IT student in connection with a student clash in a campus where the police officers son studied. |
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Rupavahini Corporation to produce film “Matha” utilizing public funds amounting to Rs. 500 lakhs |
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2009-10-20 | 8.15 PM |
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Minister Rohana Kumara Dissanayake’s wife and children worship the General in front of the President |
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2009-10-20 | 8.15 PM |
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Minister Rohana Kumara Dissnayake’s wife and children have worshiped Chief of Defence Staff General Sarath Fonseka on bended knee when he accompanied the President and other VIPs to the Minister’s residence in Matale after attending the felicitation ceremony of the forces at the Aluviharaya in Matale. Neither the President nor the other VIPs had reportedly received such a welcome.
A similar situation had occurred even at the felicitation ceremony where the people had welcomed the General on stage with loud applause that lasted for about 10 minutes. The President had reportedly not received such a response. |
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President mixes up small boy at Hela Maha Seya ceremony |
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2009-10-20 | 8.15 PM |
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Lanka News Web learns that the media ploy to capture the President kissing a small child at the ceremony in Anuradhapura to launch the construction of Seyas (dagabos) in every province to mark the military victory had failed when the President had mixed up the children.
The President arrived at the venue after the ministers dug the ground at the auspicious moment and unveiled the name board of the Hela Maha Seya. Drummers were used to play the magul bera and a small boy was used to blow the conch shell. Organizers were ordered by higher authorities to use a small boy from the South to blow the conch shell. The plan was for the President to kiss the small boy from the South and inquire his hometown and upon hearing a name of a Southern town, the President was to say that heroes were born from the South. |
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Dilith Jayaweera spearheads media campaign about Gotabhaya not entering politics |
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2009-10-20 | 8.15 PM |
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Sources from the Presidential Secretariat say that the statement about Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa not entering politics is part of a media campaign spearheaded by Managing Director of Triad advertising agency, Dilith Jayaweera to drown the opposition raised by senior SLFP members against the Rajapaksa family.
Sources said Triad’s media campaign was launched following the mud slinging campaign carried out against Gotabhaya by senior SLFP members in the Kurunegala District as well as members of the UNP following news that he was planning on contesting at the next general |
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Attempt to intimidate the General by accusing him of assassinating individuals |
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2009-10-20 | 8.15 PM |
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Reliable sources say that the President has launched a secret operation to prevent Chief of Defence Staff General Sarath Fonseka from entering politics by instilling fear in him through charging him with assassinating individuals in Colombo during the period of the war against the LTTE.
Retired Major General Lawrence Fernando has been tasked with preparing the necessary groundwork. The publicity work has been handed over to Vijayananda Herath from the President’s Media Unit and Presidential Coordinator and Secretary to the Office of the Leader of the House in parliament, Attorney Sumith Wijesinghe. |
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Basil appointed leader of the Northern Task Force by President overlooking ministers |
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2009-10-20 | 8.15 PM |
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The President has appointed Basil Rajapaksa as the leader of the task force to resettle the displaced people in the North even amidst protests by senior ministers saying it was not proper for an ordinary parliamentarian to sit at the head chair at meetings.
Other members of the task forces headed by Basil Rajapaksa are Ministers Milroy Fernando, Mahindananda Aluthgamage, Rohitha Abeygunawardena, Premalal Jayasekera, Mahinda Amaraweera, S.M. Chandrasena, Hussein Bhaila, Suresh Vadivel, Lasantha Alagiyawanna, Duminda Dissanayake, Jayaratne Herath, Jagath Pushpakumara, Rohana
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Basil launches US$ 300 million project to receive nuclear power from Korea |
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2009-10-20 | 8.15 PM |
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Sources from the Power and Energy Ministry say that senior Presidential Advisor Basil Rajapaksa is planning on presenting a project of receiving nuclear power from Korea to solve the energy crisis in the country to the Cabinet through the Finance Ministry.
The project is estimated to cost US$ 300 million. Sources said that although the project is to be a joint venture between the Power and Energy Ministry and the Finance Ministry, the Power and Energy Minister has not been clearly briefed about the project.
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Statement issued by Karu Jayasuria, Deputy Leader of the UNP
The denial of GSP concession sound the death knell for the industry |
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2009-10-20 | 8.15 PM |
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We are greatly perturbed by the release of the EU’s final report tied to the all important GSP plus concession for Sri Lanka’s apparel industry and its overwhelmingly negatives prospects. As the UNP has constantly said, the GSP Plus tariff concession scheme granted by the European Union has been a lifeline to the Apparel and Garment Industry in Sri Lanka, which directly employs over 300,000 persons and nearly a half a million persons indirectly. The denial of this concession will severely compromise Sri Lanka’s competitiveness and perhaps sound the death knell for the industry.
It is nothing short of despicable that in the face of this grave national crisis, the government continues to be obsessed with imaginary coups, conspiring about conspiracies and neutralising its opponents rather than getting on with the work of governance. The UNP demands at least now, when so much has been lost, that the authorities begin to conduct itself like a government of the people, representing their interests instead of nursing petty political ambitions. |
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Basil spoke of resigning to bring General into parliament |
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2009-10-20 | 2.00 PM | BRUSSELS, October 19, 2009 (AFP) |
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A senior Presidential Secretariat official told Lanka News Web that parliamentarian Basil Rajapaksa made a statement in Matale last week of resigning from his national list slot in the House following instructions from the President who had at the time decided to bring General Sarath Fonseka into parliament.
The President it is learnt had decided on bringing General Fonseka into parliament and appointing him the Cabinet Minister of Highway Development and had informed one of the General’s friends to get his consent for it. However, the President and Basil had been faced with a difficult situation when General Fonseka had declined the offer. |
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Gotabhaya avoids participating in Army Tattoo that was attended by General Fonseka |
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2009-10-19 | 4.45 PM |
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Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa was a notable absentee at the Army Tattoo organized at the Kettarama Stadium to mark the 60th anniversary of the Sri Lanka Army, which was attended by the President and the Chief of Defence Staff General Sarath Fonseka.
A senior Presidential Secretariat official told Lanka News Web that the Defence Secretary left the country on a tour to Singapore to avoid participating at the event. |
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First Lady puts pressure on the President to distance Basil and Gotabhaya from political activities |
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2009-10-19 | 4.45 PM |
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Sources from Temple Trees said that First Lady Shiranthi Rajapaksa has requested the President to keep Basil Rajapaksa and Gotabhaya Rajapaksa away from political activities in order to resolve some of the political issues currently faced by him.
Sources added that the President’s eldest son Namal Rajapaksa and Presidential Secretary Lalith Weeratunga have agreed with the First Lady’s decision. |
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Lake House Chairman trying to take over members of the Workers Association through perks and privileges |
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2009-10-19 | 4.45 PM |
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Lake House sources said that the Chairman was trying to take over the power of the Workers Association at Lake House by trying to remove its current Secretary Dharmasiri Lankapeli at the Association’s election on the 27th.
At the election of the SLFP trade union at Lake House held recently, the group put forward by the Lake House Chairman was defeated by a group supportive of Media Minister Anura Priyadharshana Yapa. However, the Chairman managed to gain control of the union by giving various perks and privileges to its President W.M.P.A. Dassanayake, Vice President Dhammika Kulasiri and Assistant Secretary Leslie Andrew. |
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Rajapaksas set to buy Swarnavahini |
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2009-10-19 | 4.45 PM |
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It is reliably learnt that the Swarnavahini channel under the EAP Group is to be purchased by a close relative of the President and the deal is to be finalized shortly.
Lake House Chairman Bandula Padmakumara had played a key role in the deal. The Rajapaksa relative had agreed to the price quoted by EAP Group Director, Jeevaka Edirisinghe.
Although the EAP Group has decided to sell the Swarnavahini TV channel due to financial difficulties, the Company is to continue with its radio channels including Sri FM.
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Tamil youth arrested at the age of 14 detained without being charged for 15 years |
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2009-10-19 | 4.45 PM |
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A leader from the People’s Movement for Freedom and Democracy told Lanka News Web that a Tamil youth arrested at the age of 14 has been detained without being charged for the past 15 years. The Tamil youth who is currently in prison is 29 years old.
The Organization had come across this detail when they were collecting data to use for a planned protest campaign calling for the release of journalist J.S. Tissainayagam and other political prisoners who are being held under the Prevention of Terrorism Act. |
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Tamils demand Sri Lanka’s pledge to be upheld |
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2009-10-19 | 4.45 PM |
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Despite the October chill, over 30,000 British Tamils and supporters took to the streets, on Saturday 17 October
2009, to highlight the desperate situation faced by Tamils in Sri Lanka who remain detained in “concentration
camps” and in protest against UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon’s failure to protect these innocent civilians. As
the Sri Lankan government continues to pledge release of the imprisoned civilians within 180 days, the
protesters marched through central London highlighting that over 280,000 Tamils continue to endure arbitrary
detention as we approach within 30 days of the promised deadline.
Tens of thousands congregated at Victoria Embankment, chanting slogans and harrowing placards, calling for
the immediate release of the imprisoned civilians, initiation of an international independent probe into war
crimes and categorically highlighting the UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon’s inaction. |
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Tamils have lost confidence in Ban Ki Moon |
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2009-10-19 | 4.35 PM |
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Unlock the “Concentration camps” and free the innocent people
More than 150 days have now elapsed since the Sri Lankan government announced that it
will release 80% of the 300,000, detainees within 180 days. Over 280,000 Tamil civilians
are still arbitrarily detained in the camps and with no accountability. Many have
disappeared in the camps - it is widely acknowledged the Sri Lankan armed forces are
responsible for these disappearances. We the British people are extremely concerned for
the safety and wellbeing of our kith and kin in Sri Lanka.
We urge you as our prime
minister to actively seek the release of the innocent people held against their will. |
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‘Lanka Irida’ editor released – questioned for 3 hours |
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2009-10-18 | 4.15 PM |
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The Chief Editor of ‘Lanka Irida’ weekend Sinhalese newspaper Chandana Sirimalwatta, who was arrested yesterday (17th) evening by Homagama Police and taken to Criminal Investigation Department, was released after he was questioned for nearly 3 hours.
CID officers had questioned Mr. Sirimalwatta regarding the sources from which the main headline of ‘Lanka Irida’ to be released was compiled from. The newspaper was released to paper stands on Friday. Mr. Sirimalwatta has been released after taking a statement from him. |
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Funds collected for Uthuru Mithuru project missing |
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2009-10-18 | 4.15 PM |
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Funds collected for the Uthuru Mithuru railway project has not been deposited in any bank account, it is learnt. The issue came into light with Sri Lanka Rupavahini donating Rs. 50 lakhs for the Uthuru Mithuru project.
It is reliable learnt that the Rupavahini officials are faced with a great difficulty in giving the cash for the project as there was no bank account to deposit the funds. Money was even collected from students island wide for the project.
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Basil’s resignation a Presidential election gimmick |
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2009-10-18 | 4.15 PM |
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Reliable sources say that Basil Rajapaksa’s deicison to resign from parliament is a Presidential election gimmick.
Many SLFP seniors are displeased with the President’s move to appoint his relatives and friends to important positions. Several other tactics like this are to be adopted to ensure the support of all SLFPers for the President during the next Presidential election. |
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Changes to take place among state media heads |
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2009-10-18 | 4.15 PM |
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The government is looking at making changes among state media heads before elections. The need to make the changes had reportedly come about due to the government’s inability to secure the anticipated percentage of votes at the recently concluded Southern Provincial Council election.
One of the main reasons for the changes is due to the loss in people’s confidence on political debates and other programmes on the President and the government telecast on Rupavahini and ITN. |
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Money spent on e-ID cards a waste |
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2009-10-18 | 4.15 PM |
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The project launched in 2006 incurring a large sum of money to provide Sri Lankan citizens with a new electronic ID card (e-ID) has come to an abrupt standstill. The reason is the inability of the officials to resolve the issues that have cropped up following an Indian and Pakistani company submitting bids for the project.
Sources from the Department said that money had been allocated to set up a state of the art office complex to handle the project and another 300 offices at divisional secretariat level. Six officials attached to the Department for the Registration of Persons and seven other officials had been employed to carry out the work. |
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CID arrests Editor of Lanka newspaper |
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2009-10-17 | 8.15 PM |
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The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) has arrested the Chief Editor of Lanka newspaper, Chandana Sirimalwatte at around 5 p.m. today. The CID accompanied by several police officers from the Homagama Police had arrested Sirimalwatte while he was taking part in a cricket tournament at the Homagama Sea Hawks ground.
A CID inspector, one Gajasinghe along with four other police officers in uniforms had taken Sirimalwatte to the Homagama Police saying they needed to record a statement from him and had told him he could be accompanied by a friend if he had any doubts. An employee of the Lanka |
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Wimal scolds the US ambassador to Sri Lanka since General Fonseka was to meet with her |
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2009-10-17 | 4.30 PM |
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A NFF member from the Nandana Gunathileka faction told Lanka News Web that NFF Leader Wimal Weerawansa reprimanded the US ambassador to Sri Lanka at the press conference held at the party headquarters on the 15th due to a tip off given by the Defence Secretary that General Sarath Fonseka was to meet with the US ambassador.
The source also said the press conference was called for the purpose following instructions from Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa. |
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Government ministers and media continue to attack Fonseka
No rift between government and General Fonseka says Military Spokesperson |
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2009-10-17 | 4.30 PM |
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Military Spokesperson Brigadier Udaya Nanayakkara in a media release said that an organized group of people were carrying out a conspiracy to create a rift between the Army and the government through stories in newspapers, websites, posters and media conferences claiming of a clash between Chief of Defence Staff General Sarath Fonseka and the government. The Spokesperson further said that legal action would be taken in future against such persons.
The media release issued last evening by the Military Spokesperson stated that General Fonseka is currently the most senior member of the Army and there was no rift in the relationship between him and the government.
Although the Military Spokesperson has made such a |
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Group claiming to be from the CID forcibly enter into Lanka office at night |
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2009-10-17 | 4.30 PM |
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Chief Editor of the Lanka newspaper, Chandana Sirimalwatte said that a group of people claiming to be from the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) had forcibly entered into the newspaper office at around 9.30 p.m. last night.
The group of four had been led by one Police Inspector Gajasinghe. Sirimalwatte said that although no outsider is allowed in to the office premises after 6 p.m., this group had forcibly entered into the premises after threatening the security officer. |
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Sampath to be sent overseas for medical treatment for burn injuries sustained when setting Range Bandara’s house on fire |
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2009-10-17 | 4.30 PM |
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2009-10-17 | 4.30 PM |
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President Mahinda Rajapakse has reportedly fallen on his way to attend the conference of Asian ministers held at the BMICH on the 15th.
The Presidential Security Division and the Presidential Media Unit have taken charge of all photographs and video recordings that have captured the moment. A similar situation occurred when the President fell at the Presidential Secretariat at an earlier occasion.
A well known astrologer said that the President’s second fall that happened a month after his first fall in public was a result of the bad effects of the planet Saturn.
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President did not fight the war!
General will become the common candidate! Southern Provincial Councilor Nishantha Mutuhettigama says |
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2009-10-17 | 3.30 AM |
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UPFA Southern Provincial Councilor and SLFP Akmeemana organizer Nishantha Mutuhettigama says that although the credit for ending the war was with the government, the war was not fought by the President or his family members and the General who truly fought the war, but was treated unfairly, would come forward as the common candidate.
Councilor Mutuhettigama had made this statement during a discussion with the Irida Lanka newspaper.
“Our leaders are now in the jungles. We are trying to take them on to the right path. The war was fought by the people in the South. President Rajapaksa did not fight in the war. None of the President’s family members also fought in the war. But we have the respect for
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House owner responsible for Tamil tenants |
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2009-10-17 | 3.30 AM |
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Many Police OICs it is learnt are following a mechanism where the police acquire a letter from house owners who have rented annexes to Tamils claiming they would take the responsibility for any wrong doing of the Tamil tenants.
When inquired if the letters are taken from house owners following a legal requirement, Police Spokesperson, DIG Nimal Mediwaka said it was an action adopted due to the conditions that prevailed in the country in the past by Police OICs who felt it was a requirement. |
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Fonseka tried to outsmart me but I acted before him – President |
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2009-10-17 | 3.30 AM |
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The President had told an owner of a private media institution that following the end of the war, then Army Chief, General Sarath Fonseka tried to outsmart him and Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa and upon hearing this, he acted fast and removed the General from the Army to prevent any chance of him trying to capture power through a military coup.
The President had also said that he has showed gratitude to Fonseka and members of his family for his contribution to defeat the LTTE and given vehicles amounting to millions of rupees but would not be given an extension of service come December 18 when General Fonseka has to
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Government quick to forget heroism of Lanka Armed Forces - Mangala |
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2009-10-16 | 12.15 PM |
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Major General Shavendra Silva to be appointed as SLFP organizer for Matale |
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2009-10-15 | 10.40 PM |
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The President has decided to retire Major General Shavendra Silva who served as the Commanding Officer of the 58th Brigade during the military operations in the north in order to appoint him as the SLFP organizer for Matale, sources from temple Trees said.
The President had arrived at this decision to make this appointment following a proposal made by Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa that it is the best step to be taken to fight the political challenge posed by General Sarath Fonseka. |
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President stops consuming meat to fulfill vow |
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2009-10-15 | 10.40 PM |
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Military sources say the President has stopped consuming meat to fulfill a vow undertaken by him to invoke the blessings of God to overcome any ill effects. However, it has also been reported that the vow has excluded the consumption of liquor.
The President who attended the banquet held at Hilton Hotel to mark the 60th anniversary of the Sri Lanka Army had told several army heads that he was a vegetarian these days.
Although the President was supposed to address the gathering, he had made an early departure without making any speech due to ill health.
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Media campaign against General Fonseka assigned to President’s Media Secretary Vijayananda Herath |
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2009-10-15 | 10.40 PM |
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Sources from Temple Trees said the President has assigned his Media Secretary Vijayananda Herath to carry out the media campaign against General Sarath Fonseka and Mahinda Illepperuma from the Presidential Media Unit has been tasked with finding relevant stories for the operation.
Vijayananda Herath had recently shouted and threatened a journalist loyal to General Sarath Fonseka who had arrived at Temple Trees to cover one of the President’s events. Vijayananda had asked the journalist to watch closely to what his boss would be faced with in future. |
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Port employees’ agitation intensifies due to failure in talks |
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2009-10-15 | 10.40 PM |
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Port employees’ agitation has intensified due to various measures taken to suppress trade union activists by Port officials following the failure in the discussion between the Port administration and the newly formed trade union alliance. The discussion was based on six demands forwarded by the trade union alliance on behalf of the employees.
The demands included the increase of employee salaries; repay the 20% allowance that has been slashed, repay overtime that has been slashed; stop services belonging to the Port from being handed over to the private sector and stop corruption. |
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T.R. Baalu to be given an honorary citizenship in Sri Lanka? |
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2009-10-15 | 10.40 PM |
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Local and foreign human rights organizations and civil society organizations have expressed their displeasure to the Central Indian government over the manner in which T.R. Baalu, who headed the delegation of Indian parliamentarians to Sri Lanka on a observation tour, handled the task assigned to him and his biased actions, Lanka News Web learns.
The delegation that arrived in the country on the 10th had commenced their tour by visiting Jaffna to witness the present situation in the area. They had then visited the Menik Farm camp in Vavuniya and Vavuniya District Secretary P.S.M. Charles had assisted them during their visit to the camp. |
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Alok Prasad instills fear among Indian officials of a possible military coup |
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2009-10-15 | 10.00 PM |
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Diplomatic sources revealed that former Indian High Commissioner in Sri Lanka Alok Prasad had warned of a conspiracy to launch a military coup in Sri Lanka and had called on Indian officials to be prepared for such an eventuality during a discussion held yesterday (14) evening.
Although a new Indian High Commissioner has been appointed to Sri Lanka, Alok Prasad continues to stay in Colombo in order to look after his business interests in the country. |
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Statement of clarification by INSD
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2009-10-15 | 2.05 PM |
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In August 2009, a video film showing some armed men summarily executing unarmed, naked victims, was aired by British television Channel 4. It was described that this killings happened in Sri Lanka, and was committed by the members of the Sri Lankan Armed Forces. This video film was provided by the Journalists for Democracy in Sri Lanka (JDS), as it was reported by Channel 4.
This film drew immediate reaction from the Sri Lankan government in general and you in particular as the Minister of Human Rights and Disaster Management, as soon as it became public. While speaking in the Sri Lankan Parliament in mid of September you held me, my wife Barbara Lochbihler, who is a Member of the |
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We will put forward a real war hero at the Presidential election – Lalkantha |
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2009-10-15 | 12.05 PM |
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JVP politburo member K.D. Lalkantha said, “People in government say there is a plan to bring General Sarath Fonseka as the common candidate of the opposition. Mahinda is trying to contest this time on the basis that he brought about the military victory. Therefore, this time around, we will put forward some one who can take more credit for the military victory than the President. A true hero who has defeated terrorism and brought freedom to the country. We challenge Mahinda to try and fight it.”
Lalkantha made this statement at a meeting organized by the Organization to Safeguard the Rights of SLTB Workers at Shalika Hall yesterday (14). |
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Basil to resign from Parliament |
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2009-10-14 | 10.20 PM |
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Very reliable sources have reported that President Mahinda Rajapakse’s brother and his senior advisor Parliamentarian Basil Rajapakse has decided to resign from his Parliamentary seat.
According to information ‘Lankatruth’ has received Mr. Basil Raajapakse will make a special statement on the 20th October when Parliament meets next and tender his resignation. ‘Lankatruth’ would bring you more information regarding the reason for taking such a decision soon.
- LankaTruth |
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Sri Lankans could be summoned before war tribunal even if it is not a signatory to the relevant convention – Foreign Minister |
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2009-10-14 | 5.15 PM |
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Foreign Affairs Minister Rohitha Bogollagama says the statement made by Opposition Leader Ranil Wickremesinghe that Sri Lanka could not be summoned before a war tribunal because he did not sign the relevant convention during his tenure as Prime Minister is incorrect and that there were other means to summon people before such a tribunal regardless of whether they have signed the treaty or not.
He made this statement at a public meeting held in Avissawella on Monday (12). Although the Minister said the country would not be summoned before a war tribunal since neither the forces chiefs nor soldiers have committed any war crimes, he refrained from mentioning the other methods that could be used to summon people before a war tribunal.
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Mervyn warns General Fonseka that military chiefs should not overstep their limits |
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2009-10-14 | 5.15 PM |
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Labor Minister Mervyn Silva says it was the President and the Defence Secretary who steered the forces to win the war against the LTTE and forces chiefs who are trying to take personal credit for the task should therefore not overstep their limits.
The Minister made this statement at a meeting held yesterday to mark the opening of a road development project in Dematagoda. Western Province Chief Minister Prasanna Ranatunge also attended the meeting organized by Western Provincial Councilor Thilanga Sumathipala. |
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President and Defence Secretary gave credit and made General Fonseka a hero – Media Minister |
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2009-10-14 | 5.15 PM |
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Media Minister Lakshman Yapa Abeywardena says it was President Mahinda Rajapaksa who appointed military officers in hiding at the time to important positions and gave them recognition and that it the President and Defence Secretary who made General Sarath Fonseka a hero in society. Therefore, he said General Fonseka would lose the respect he has so far earned if he suddenly retired.
The Media Minister made this statement at a media briefing held at the National Development Center.
“War heroes were degraded and humiliated in our country. It is this government that gave them their lost glory. It is this government that made forces personnel heroes in society… |
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Signs of Hayleys-Arpico-Richard Peiris being taken over by the Rajapaksas |
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2009-10-14 | 5.15 PM |
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The Rajapaksa brothers are in the process of taking over majority shares at companies like Hayleys, Arpico and Richard Peiris under other names and Central Bank Governor Ajith Nivard Cabraal performs the role of chief coordinator in these transactions, it is really learnt.
The Rivira Media Company, which was under Arpico, was earlier brought over by several close relatives of the President.
It is also revealed that the Rajapaksas are looking at buying several well established business institutions including an advertising agency.
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Doubts over quality of Rubella vaccine – Dr. Dhammika Pathirana |
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2009-10-14 | 5.15 PM |
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Secretary of the Government Medical Officers Association (GMOA), Dr. Dhammika Pathirana told the media that there were serious doubts over the standard and quality of the Rubella vaccines imported from an Indian company. The media briefing was called to comment on the death of a student at the Kurunegala Hospital due to the Rubella vaccine.
Dr. Dhammika Pathirana further said that the doubts have been confirmed due to the fact that the Rubella vaccine that killed the student from Kurunegala was from the same batch as the vaccine that caused the death of a student in Matara in an earlier occasion. |
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Sangeetha planning on becoming a mother |
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2009-10-14 | 3.00 AM |
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Lanka News Web learns that popular actress Sangeetha Weeraratne is planning on entering motherhood. It is reported that she is now more involved with her family business, Voice of Asia Company, in which she is a director and is taking some time off acting.
Sangeetha is married to Roshan Kariyapperuma, who is a close confidant of the President. Roshan is the brother of Priyantha Kariyapperuma, who is the Director General of the Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (TRC).
The TRC allocates radio and TV frequencies to broadcast companies. Priyantha Kariyapperuma is the real owner of Voice of Asia. In a clear case of abusing powers vested with the head of the TRC, he has illegally allocated frequencies to the Voice of Asia company, which operates private radio stations under his brother’s name.
Before Priyantha Kariyapperuma assumed office at the TRC, Voice of Asia was allocated only three radio frequencies. However, after he became director general, the company has been allocated 13 radio frequencies and five TV frequencies.
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Wimal accuses SLFP candidates of stealing NFF preferential votes |
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2009-10-14 | 3.00 AM |
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NFF Leader Wimal Weerawansa has accused SLFP candidates of stealing preferential votes from the three NFF candidates at the Southern Provincial Council election.
Wimal had made this statement to a journalist from a national newspaper who had contacted him through his wife’s mobile phone to receive a comment on the defeat of the three NFF representatives at the Southern Provincial Council election. The journalist had to contact Wimal through his wife’s mobile phone since Wimal’s mobile phone has been switched off since the preferential vote results of the election were released. |
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Gotabhaya had included his name in list of Sri Lankan representatives to the UN due to fear of being arrested in the US |
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2009-10-14 | 3.00 AM |
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Foreign Ministry sources said Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa had included his name in the list of Sri Lankan representatives attending the UN General Assembly during his visit to the US recently due to the fear that he might be arrested in the country on war crimes charges.
It is learnt that although an international Tamil organization attempted to seek legal intervention to call for the arrest of Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapakse when he arrived in the US on the charge of alleged war crimes committed by a US citizen, the group had to reverse the decision upon hearing the Defence Secretary had diplomatic immunity under the UN. |
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President orders Film Corp. Chairman to immediately reinstate his relative |
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2009-10-14 | 3.00 AM |
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The President has ordered Film Corporation Chairman Jayantha Dharmadasa to immediately reinstate General Manager Dharmananda Wijesinghe who was suspended from his post by Jayantha a few months back.
Dharmananda Wijesinghe is a close relative of the President.
The Film Corporation Chairman suspended the General Manager for allegedly defrauding Corporation funds when purchasing computers.
However, Presidential Secretary, Lalith Weeratunge had written to the Film Corporation Chairman to reinstate the General Manager following a Presidential directive.
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Lalith Kotelawela to be released following agreement to hand over majority Ceylinco shares to the Rajapakses |
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2009-10-14 | 3.00 AM |
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Justice Ministry sources said Ceylinco Chairman Lalith Kotelawela is to be released from jail following an agreement reached with Senior Presidential Advisor, Basil Rajapaksa to hand over majority shares of Ceylinco to a relative of the Rajapaksa’s.
Central Bank Governor Ajith Nivard Cabraal and Attorney General Mohan Peiris have acted on behalf of Basil Rajapaksa in arriving at this agreement. Following months of secret discussions, Lalith Kotelawela had given his consent to Basil’s proposal.
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Pulithevan and Nadesan were killed on the directions of Gotabhaya |
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2009-10-13 | 9.15 PM |
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The leaders of the LTTE’s political Wing, who came out of their bunkers with white flags, intending to surrender, were killed by the Sri Lankan soldiers responding to an order by the Secretary of Defence Gotabaya Rajapaksha to shoot them, it is reported. Leader of the Tiger political wing B. Nadesan, Head of the Tiger Peace Secretariat S. Pulithevan and some other prominent leaders who were unarmed and carrying white flags, were reportedly killed when they tried to surrender to the Army. |
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Speech by Gen.Fonseka at the 60th Army Anniversary Parade |
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2009-10-13 | 9.15 PM |
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General Fonseka not to seek further extension |
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2009-10-13 | 9.15 PM |
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AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL WRITES TO INDIAN DELEGATION |
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2009-10-13 | 9.15 PM |
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Dear Mr T. R. Balu, MP and Leader of the parliamentary delegation to Sri Lanka,
On the occasion of your upcoming visit to Sri Lanka commencing 10 October 2009, Amnesty International calls on you to urge your Sri Lankan counterparts to act immediately to address serious problems affecting the safety and dignity of some quarter of a million Sri Lankans held in government-run camps in northern and eastern Sri Lanka.
India has announced generous support to the Sri Lankan government to provide for the humanitarian needs of Sri Lanka’s displaced people, and has vowed to provide sustained assistance for rehabilitation, resettlement and |
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MUTHUHETTIGAMA FORCIBLY KEPT IN GALADARI HOTEL |
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2009-10-13 | 9.15 PM |
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We are reliably informed that newly elected Southern Provincial Councillor Nishantha Mutuhettigama is being kept in Room No.238 at Galadari hotel in Colombo on the orders by President Mahinda Rajapaksa.
After the yesterday's controvesial intervew with sirasa TV, the president has -through Basil Rajapaksa- ordered Mutuhettigama to come to Colombo. |
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Sri Lanka refugees plead for freedom |
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2009-10-12 | 9.20 PM |
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Nandana Gunathileka organizers protest against himself |
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2009-10-10 | 9.30 PM |
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The protest held by several employees of the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority on Tuesday (6) outside the Tourism Ministry calling for the re-establishment of the Sri Lanka Tourist Board and to repeal the Tourism Act No 38 of 2005 was organized by Tourism Minister Nandana Gunathileka, sources from the Presidential Secretariat said.
It is learnt that the banners and placards held by the protestors had been given to them by Nandana Gunathileka’s driver.
Like in all other ministries, there is a conflict between Tourism Minister Nandana Gunathileka and non Cabinet Tourism Promotions Minister Faizer Mustapha.
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President extorts money from businessmen in Armor’s Street |
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2009-10-10 | 9.30 PM |
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Lanka News Web has learnt of a story where the President has taken a sum of Rs. 50,000 from every businessman who attended a party hosted by him for all main businessmen in Armor’s Street.
Sources from Temple Trees said that arrangements were made to collect the money from the businessmen at the event.
The money had been collected claiming it was for the nation building fund, but no receipt had been issued for the payment. |
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CJ discusses reforming Sri Lanka’s Roman Dutch Law with his Dutch counterpart |
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2009-10-10 | 9.30 PM |
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Chief Justice (CJ) Asoka de Silva who was sent to the Netherlands by the President to visit his daughter and son in law has met with his Dutch counterpart Prof. Grimm J.M. Corstent and discussed the possibility of reforming Sri Lanka’s Roman Dutch Law. The Dutch Chief Justice had reportedly agreed to help Sri Lanka in the matter.
The discussion had been organized by Justice and Law Reforms Minister Milinda Moragoda who visited the Netherlands with de Silva and Court of Appeal Judge K.T. Chitrasiri had also attended the discussion.
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Lakbima’s Christy banned from covering Presidential media events for insulting the President |
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2009-10-10 | 9.30 PM |
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The Presidential Media Unit has informed the Presidential Security Division not to permit Christy Mahesh de Silva from the Lakbima newspaper to cover any future events of the President for allegedly insulting the President by writing an article for Irida Lakbima quoting Ports and Aviation Minister Chamal Rajapakse that Medamulana politics was 75 years.
However, it is learnt that the respective article had been written for Irida Lakbima by Manjula Pradeep and a correction had been carried in the newspaper the following day.
The President had however summoned the Managing Director of Lakbima newspapers and Western Provincial Councilor Thilanga Sumathipala and scolded him about the article. |
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President sponsors trip for members of the clergy to visit Brussels |
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2009-10-10 | 9.30 PM |
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Foreign Ministry sources said the President has decided to send several members of the clergy like Ven. Bellanvila Wimalaratane Thero, Ven. Kamburugamuve Vajira and Bishop Malcolm Ranjtih to Brussels to request members of the EU to renew the GSP+ facility to Sri Lanka.
The trip is scheduled to take place between November 2 and 8 and the President has ordered the Foreign Ministry to provide the necessary facilities including five star accommodation to the members of the clergy during their visit. |
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General Fonseka tells Sports Minister that accepting any other post other than the Presidency would insult the military |
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2009-10-10 | 9.30 PM |
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Chief of Defence Staff General Sarath Fonseka had told Sports Minister Gamini Lokuge that accepting any post that is lower than the current post held by him would be an insult to the Sri Lanka Army and that he had no intention of accepting any post other than the Presidency, Sports Ministry sources said.
Fonseka had made the comment when Sports Minister Gamini Lokuge had telephoned the General to congratulate him and ask if he was accepting the position as Sports Ministry Secretary given to him by the President. |
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Over Rs. 200,000 spent each day during the First Lady’s jogging session |
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2009-10-10 | 9.30 PM |
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The security provided to First Lady Shiranthi Rajapksa every morning between 6 and 7 a.m. during her walks on the Galle Face Green costs over Rs. 200,000 each day, Police Department sources said.
Two policemen on white horses and many police dogs are deployed to Galle Face every morning during the First Lady’s exercise regime. Hundreds of security personnel are also assigned to the area during the time the First Lady is engaged in her walks and the roads are also closed when she arrives at the venue and leaves it.
Police sources also said that other people are not allowed to jog in the area when the First lady commences jogging.
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Second row seat not insulting says Matara Mayor |
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2009-10-10 | 9.30 PM |
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Matara Mayor Upul Nishantha in an e-mail to Lanka News Web has said that the story carried on the website on October 5 about the Matara Mayor being ignored at the President’s rally in Matara had placed him in a difficult position and that certain details in the story were false as there was no insult in sitting in the second row.
He has said that the rally on the 4th was not an official meeting but a political meeting where ministers and parliamentarians are given first row seats and that he therefore sat right behind the President in the second row.
Editor’s note:
We published the Mayor’s clarification considering his right of reply. However, his response has further clarified our story. We are in possession of details to prove complaints made by the Matara Mayor to several organizers of the rally where he had said not offering him a front row seat was an insult to the mayoral post.
We also say with responsibility that in such a backdrop, the Mayor has sent this response due to the insistence of Minister Dullas Alahapperuma.
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Referendum to extend term of parliament by three years after Presidential election |
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2009-10-10 | 9.30 PM |
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Sources from the office of the Leader of the House said the President has decided to hold a referendum to extend the term of parliament by three years after the Presidential election in January and the Defence Secretary is also supportive of such a move.
The term of the current parliament ends on April 22, 2010. The decision to extend the term of parliament without holding a general election has been opposed by several ministers including Nimal Siripala de Silva and Dinesh Gunawardena. |
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