CEYLON TODAY - 22 May 2022

Finance Today Sunday
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ECHO Vol: 11/27
Future of the
world’s best cuppa Nine more
Cabinet Ministers
Glamour sworn in
The Zahra
Collection

Teen Inc oRIanrsndr2SiiBauvnnwedsaoairdyth Nimal Siripala de Silva – Minister of Ports, Shipping and Aviation
Still following A massive humanitarian grant assistance commitment worth Rs 5.5 billion consisting of
his heart… consignment worth over Rs 2 billion from Tamil 40,000 MT of rice, 500 MT of milk powder and Susil Premajayantha – Minister of Education
Nadu, India is scheduled to reach Colombo on medicines by the Tamil Nadu Government.
Scribbler Sunday (22). Keheliya Rambukwella – Minister of Health
Cayman Islands The consignment was flagged off from
in Brief The Indian High Commission in Colombo said Chennai Port by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe – Minister of Justice, Prison Affairs and
the consignment, which consists of 9,000 MT of Stalin on 18 May 2022. Constitutional Reforms
Global Politics rice, 50 MT of milk powder, and over 25 MT of
India mosque row drugs and other medical supplies, will be The incoming consignment shall be Tiran Alles – Minister of Public Security
could become a handed over by High Commissioner Gopal distributed among beneficiaries islandwide
religious flashpoint Baglay to the senior leadership of the Sri Lankan including Northern, Eastern, Central and Harin Fernando – Minister of Tourism and Lands
Government. Western Provinces by the Government. These
Unrest on 9 May beneficiaries cover diverse sections of the Manusha Nanayakkara – Minister of Labour and Foreign
This is the first consignment under a larger society. Employment
Namal provides
five-hour Continued on Page 2 Nalin Fernando – Minister of Trade, Commerce and Food
statement to CID Security
COPE recommendation to Litro
The Criminal Investigation Ramesh Pathirana – Minister of Plantations Industry
Department (CID) recorded a more Distribute 60% gas
than five-hour long statement from to Colombo and Gampaha Continued on Page 2
MP Namal Rajapaksa with regard to
the unrest that unfolded on 9 May. BY Gagani Weerakoon and
Methmalie Dissanayake
Statements were obtained from
MP Pavithra Wanniarachchi, her The Committee on Public (Pic by Amitha Thennakoon)
husband Kanchana Jayaratne,... Enterprises (COPE) recommended that
Litro distribute 60 per cent of the daily
Continued on Page 2 Gas Cylinders to the Colombo and
Gampaha Districts for next week,
For accepting Ministries where the public are facing difficulty in
under current Govt using alternative sources.

SJB brings down Litro officials were summoned on
hammer on Friday (20), before COPE, following...
Harin, Manusha
Continued on Page 2
By Nabiya Vaffoor
‘The national G7 backs debt
Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) has taken steps to flower is
seek disciplinary action against MPs Harin Fernando Water Lily’ relief efforts
and Manusha Nanayakkara.
COPA wants authorities to for Sri Lanka
Speaking to Ceylon Today on Friday (20), SJB educate public
General Secretary Ranjith Madduma Bandara noted The Group of Seven economic powers support
that the party has decided to suspend their party Continued on Page 2 efforts to provide debt relief for Sri Lanka, G7 finance
memberships as well. chiefs said on Thursday (19), in a draft communiqué
from a meeting in Germany after the country
Continued on Page 2 defaulted on its sovereign debt.

Murder of Amarakeerthi, bodyguard The once-booming island country has suspended
debt payments as it grapples with its worst economic
Key suspect crisis since it won Independence in 1948, facing
arrested shortages of essential goods that have triggered
social unrest.
By Keerthi Mendis
G7 countries said, in their statement they were
The Homicide and Organised Crime Investigation committed to finding long-term solutions for the
Division arrested the key suspect in connection with Indian Ocean nation and urged it to...
the murder of Mahajana Eksath Peramuna MP
Amarakeerthi Athukorala and his bodyguard. Continued on Page 2

Officers also found a Smith & Wesson M&P22
firearm that had been stolen by the assailants near...

Continued on Page 2

A2 NEWSSunday 22 May 2022

No proper programme to Shooting incident in Rambukkana
stop child abuse - COPA
By Methmalie Dissanayake Sabaragamuwa Province
second session of the Ninth Parliament. COPA importance of having the Department of Social SDIG summoned to CID
The Department of Probation and Childcare Chairman Prof. Tissa Vitharana tabled the report Services’ contribution, as there is a need for a
lack of proper programme to rehabilitate drug on Friday (20). formal course of action to rehabilitate drug The Senior DIG in charge of the Sabaragamuwa Province was
addicts and prevent child abuse, both of which addicts. All the relevant activities related to the summoned to the CID to provide a statement about the shooting incident
are common at present, Committee on Public The Committee emphasised a method to rehabilitation of drug addicts should be in Rambukkana.
Accounts (COPA) noted. rescue children from cyber abuse and avoid coordinated through one regulatory body such
irregularities in reporting cases of crimes against as the National Dangerous Drug Control Board, According to internal sources, an Assistant Superintendent of Police
This was noted in the COPA Report of the children through mass media. the report observed. from the CID obtained a statement from him.

Meanwhile, the Committee emphasised the Senior DIG Mahinda Gunaratne was recently appointed in charge of
the Sabaragamuwa Province.
Over imminent pay cuts & privatisation of State health service
Other high-ranking officials in the Sabaragamuwa Province are
GMOA threatens to strike again expected to be summoned to the CID in the near future to provide
statements. On 19 April, a man was killed when Police used force to
By Dilanthi Jayamanne causing a collapse of the health system by was called in which representatives of all disperse a crowd at the Rambukkana Police Station.
discouraging health workers, reducing funding branches of the GMOA participated. He said that
While salaries of the newly appointed Cabinet for its maintenance and slashing the salaries of a unanimous decision had been taken to resort IGP C.D. Wickramaratne directed the CID’s DIG to conduct an impartial
Ministers are waived off, the doctors of the the entire health staff. “We observe that the to stern Trade Union action against any move to full investigation in this regard.
Government Medical Officers’ Association breakdown of the free health service would only privatise Sri Lanka’s free health service which is
(GMOA) are on the war path, threatening a strike lead to the breakdown of people’s confidence in recognised globally as well as reduce salaries of Thus, four officers, including the SSP in charge of the Kegalle Division,
against the Health Ministry’s move to slash their the State health service. State health employees. were arrested and remanded after being produced in Court.
salaries and privatise the State health service.
The GMOA Secretary said that a decision had However, the Union had also made a request (TR)
GMOA Secretary, Dr. Senal Fernando on Friday also been taken to resort to strike action after to the Prime Minister, the Secretary to the Prime
(20) accused the health authorities and the Tuesday (25) sans prior warning in case of pay Minister, the Secretary to the Ministry of Finance Premier remote
government of avoiding the pressing issue in the cuts. and Health Ministry officials for discussions on controlled – AKD
State health service. The current regime is these matters of grave concern.
An emergency General Committee meeting BY Aloka Kasturiarachchi

Continued from page 1 Jathika Jana Balawegaya (JJB) Leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake
alleged that even though the country sees Ranil Wickramesinghe as
the current Prime Minister the remote control that operates him is
with the infamous ‘Kaputa’.

He made this comment while addressing a gathering in
Hambantota where the JJB appointed a district Executive Committee.

He also said Ranil Wickrmesinghe will always be ‘Rajapaksa
Protector’ and the people would never be able to experience a
government sans corruption if they do not get rid of the current rulers.

He said if the country has to become prosperous the political
culture has to be changed completely and all should be united
towards this endeavour.

Distribute 60% gas... Rs 2B worth... SJB brings down...

...a request by Prime Minister Ranil prices. This caused huge losses and “The assistance from people of India complements multi- SJB has taken the said the eight points we
Wickeremesinghe. The PM said he owing to this, the company is in debt to pronged efforts undertaken by Government of India by decisions against the two presented, first is the
needed a report on the delay of the tune of Rs 11 billion to the banks. standing with their brethren in Sri Lanka. Several private and MPs, as a result of them resignation of President
distributing gas this week despite social organisations from India have sent assistance to Sri accepting Cabinet Gotabaya Rajapaksa. The
instructions. The company will use USD120 Lanka to meet various urgent requirements. This outpouring portfolios in the safety of the GotaGoGama
million from the Indian credit line of of support for Sri Lanka among common Indians is apart Government, despite the protesters has to be
The officials told the COPE that the USD 160 million to purchase gas. With from the economic assistance by Government of India party’s decision to refrain assured. Politicians have
delay was caused by bad weather this arrangement the gas shortage in which has been to the tune of around US$ 3.5 billion since from accepting any posts to make sacrifices. There
conditions. As a result the buoy could the local market will be resolved and January this year. In addition, medicines, dry rations etc under the current has to be an anti-
not be connected to Muthurajawela gas supplies would be good enough for have also been sent by Government of India on grant basis,” Government. corruption legislation to be
plant and the shipment had to be taken three months. Litro Chairman Wijitha the Indian HC said. passed in Parliament. We
to the Colombo Port. However, the Herath said, the company expects to MP Fernando took oath request expatriates to
company would be able to restore the use USD 80 million loan from the World G7 backs debt... as Minister of Tourism and invest in Sri Lanka and we
supply without any further delay, they Bank for term tenders.  Land, whereas MP will do our utmost to bring
said. ...“negotiate constructively” with the International Monetary Nanayakkara was sworn in back tourists,” said
The COPE instructed the company to Fund on a potential loan programme. as Minister of Labour and Fernando.
It was also revealed during the take immediate steps to resolve the Foreign Employment.
meeting that apart from the forex crisis, current gas crisis and look into the “The G7 stands ready to support the Paris Club’s efforts, in Fernando added that he
halting of the term tenders to purchase possibility of obtaining financial line with its principles, to address the need for a debt Subsequently, the newly- will step down from his
gas on 28 February was the reason for assistance from Sri Lanka Insurance treatment for Sri Lanka,” they said, referring to the group of appointed Minister of post if the Prime Minister
the current gas shortage in the country. under which the company operates.  mostly rich creditor nations. Tourism and Land, Wickremesinghe fails to
Fernando claimed he did fulfil these demands.
The term tenders were halted It was also advised that the Litro The draft statement also called on other big creditor nations not betray his party.
following the instructions of the hotline 1311 be made a service that not in the Paris Club to coordinate with the group and urged Meanwhile, Nanayakkara
Finance Ministry. The Ministry operates 24/7. them to provide debt relief on comparable terms. Speaking at a media also assured that while
informed to halt the tenders as it was briefing on 20 May he said they continue to work as
working to purchase gas from another G7 finance chiefs also singled out China, which has become SJB supporters will ministers, they will also
company, the officials said. a major creditor to low-income countries, to actively understand the reasons criticise the Government, if
contribute to debt relief for such countries. behind his decision in time. they detect any wrong
It was discussed in-depth whether move, without hesitation.
the Finance Ministry gave this Chad, Ethiopia and Zambia have so far sought debt relief “Prime Minister Ranil
instruction in writing. The COPE said under a new G20 common framework, but progress has so far Wickremesinghe agreed to
that the company officials will be been slow with some officials accusing China of dragging its
summoned again to discuss this feet. ‘The national flower...
matter further.
(Reuters)
Furthermore, the officials told the
COPE that Rs 15 billion possessed by Namal provides...
the company has dried up as a result of
the failure to increase gas prices in ...and MP Indika Anuruddha on Thursday (19). The CID had
accordance with the global market recorded statements from them for over 5 hours.

BRINGING ABOUT Meanwhile, MPs Rohitha Abeygunawardena, C.B. The Committee on Public publicity to inform the
A NEW REVOLUTION Rathnayake, and Sanjeewa Edirimanna as well as Senior DIG Accounts (COPA) has institutions under the Ministry
in charge of the Western Province Deshabandu Tennakoon instructed the Ministry of and other government
IN JOURNALISM have also provided statements to the CID. Environment to make the agencies that the national
public aware of the national flower is the ‘Water Lily’ and
UP TO Nine more Cabinet... flower of Sri Lanka as the the committee observes that
‘Water Lily’ through the the national flower of Sri
DISCOUNT Nine more MPs, representing the SLPP, SJB, SLFP and the National Institute of Lanka is still identified as the
independent group, were sworn in as Cabinet Ministers on Education, the University ‘Blue Water Lily’ on many
Our budget packs Friday morning. They took their oaths before President Grants Commission and other occasions,” the Committee
3 months, 6 months & 1 Year Gotabaya Rajapaksa at the President’s House in Colombo. relevant agencies as well as report observed.
Our Categories through newspaper
Social service organization - 50% The new Cabinet Ministers include, Nimal Siripala de Silva advertisements. These matters were
Individual - 25% – Minister of Ports, Shipping and Aviation, Susil contained in the first report of
Private companies and Government Sector - 20% Premajayantha – Minister of Education, Keheliya The Committee observed the Second Session of the
Rambukwella – Minister of Health, Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe that although schools, Ninth Parliament of the COPA
– Minister of Justice, Prison Affairs and Constitutional government and non- Committee, which was tabled
Reforms, Harin Fernando – Minister of Tourism and Lands, government organisations in Parliament on Friday (20)
Ramesh Pathirana – Minister of Plantation Industry, have been made aware of this by COPA Chairman, M.P.
Manusha Nanayakkara – Minister of Labour and Foreign during awareness (Prof.) Tissa Vitarana.
Employment, Nalin Fernando – Minister of Trade, Commerce programmes conducted by
and Food Security and Tiran Alles – Minister of Public the Ministry of Environment, it This report contains
Security. has not disseminated information on the
adequately. investigations of seven
This is in addition to four other Cabinet Ministers government institutions
appointed on 14 May which included Prof. G.L. Peiris – “Therefore, as per the summoned by COPA and one
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dinesh Gunawardena – Minister Cabinet decision taken in Special Audit Report, from 4
of Public Administration, Home Affairs, Provincial Councils June 2015, the Ministry has August 2021 to 19 November
and Local Government, Prasanna Ranatunga – Minister of failed to provide adequate 2021.
Urban Development and Housing and Kanchana Wijesekara
Contact us – Minister of Power and Energy. Key suspect...

Deepal Chaminda Meanwhile, it is speculated that PM Wickremesinghe will ...a vegetable and fruit stall dragged the MP out of the
Tel : 070 7362662 / 011 7566 582 take responsibilities as Finance Minister, in the event former in front of the Nittambuwa jeep and attacked him with a
Email : [email protected] Minister Ali Sabry declines to accept the portfolio. Police Headquarters. stick.

Contact us for your Subscribtem Other than Wickremesinghe, the names of Dr. Harsha de Police have also arrested a Eight arrests were made in
Silva and Eran Wickramaratne were also proposed as former Army soldier who is connection with the murders
Sandaruwan Hettiarachchi possible contenders for the post. suspected of stealing the of MP Athukorala and his
Tel: 077 1120162 / 011 7566 581 firearm from the well-known bodyguard Sergeant
Email: [email protected] However, Dr. Harsha de Silva said he is ready to take on the Nittambuwa Textile Institute, Gunawardena.
role of Chairman of the Committee on Public Finance where the MP and his
General Manager - Circulation (COPF), stating that his joining the Cabinet as an bodyguard were seeking safe Investigations are being
Ceylon Newspapers (PVT) Ltd ‘independent MP’ will only worsen the political crisis. haven. conducted on the instructions
No. 101, Rosmead Place, Colombo 07. of SSP Hemal Prashantha,
Meanwhile, the Director of the Homicide and
Conditions Apply investigation has found that Organised Crime
this is the key suspect who Investigation Division.

NEWS Sunday 22 may 2022 A3

JUToaShep$lpat1idn.e5oavMernecfnonuoomnuicdcnriiscnisegsfor SL 1st Four Months of 2022

Tea Exports Fall 14%
to US$ 362 million

Japan on Friday (20 May), announced a US$ children through the provision of canned fish ensure children can continue receiving a By Paneetha Ameresekere of the year fell by 17.52 per cent (18.31
1.5 million (Rs 600 million) funding to help the made in Japan worth a total of US$ 10 million as significant portion of their daily energy and million kgs) YoY to 86.23 million kgs.
Government of Sri Lanka (GoSL) respond to the school meal programmes over the past 10 nutrition requirement through the free school Tea, Sri Lanka’s third largest foreign
ongoing economic crisis, the Japanese years. We hope that this humanitarian meals, it said. It will also enable WFP to exchange (FX) earner saw earnings fall The chief reason for the decline in
Embassy in Sri Lanka said. assistance will help improve food access and distribute ration packs comprising essential by 13.67 per cent (US$ 57,370,501) to tea production was President
nutrition for the people of Sri Lanka amid the commodities to vulnerable households. US$ 362,426,621 Year-on-Year (YoY) in Nandasena Gotabaya Rajapaksa
The funds will be used by the United Nations economic crisis.” the first four months of the year, Forbes banning the import of chemical
World Food Programme (WFP) to provide food “Getting the right nutrition to those who need & Walker Tea Brokers data released on fertiliser, weedicides and fungicides for
assistance to children and families in need of Sri Lanka has been severely impacted by a it the most will help mitigate the long-term Friday (20 May) showed. a seven-month period from April 2021
support. Charge d'Affaires ad interim of the weakening economy, which has resulted in effects of today’s economic downturn,” says to November. This ban was
Japanese Embassy Kotaro Katsuki said, “We are shortages of essential items, including food, and Abdur Rahim Siddiqui, WFP Representative and The fall in tea earnings is due to two subsequently rescinded, but too late to
pleased to announce that the Government of a spike in food prices, hindering families’ access Country Director in Sri Lanka. “WFP is grateful reasons. They are both the decline in tea undo the damage caused.
Japan (GoJ) will grant US$ 1.5 million to affordable, healthy meals, the Embassy said. for Japan’s contribution at this critical hour. We export volumes as well as in prices, YoY
emergency assistance through WFP to provide Even before the pandemic, malnutrition rates thank Japan for its generosity and solidarity with in the review period. Tea export volumes And the reason for the fall in tea
three months’ essential food supplies, including were high among children and women. Some the people of Sri Lanka. WFP will support the Sri in the first four months of the year prices, sanctions on Russia by the
fortified rice, dhal and oil, for approximately 40 per cent of primary-age children were too Lankan Government with emergency food decreased by 4.88 per cent (4.2 million global community, one of Sri Lanka’s
15,000 urban and rural people and 380,000 thin for their height. assistance based on assessments that identify kilos) YoY to 82 million kgs, while tea top tea importers, due to its invasion of
schoolchildren islandwide. the most pressing needs.” prices in the review period decreased by Ukraine and sanctions also on Iran, due
WFP will use the contribution to procure rice 9.24 per cent (US$ 0.45) to 4.42 per kg, to its nuclear programme. However,
Japan has been extending vital protein to for the national school meal programme to (PA) Free on Board (FOB). sanctions on Iran are currently being
phased out, if not being completely
Fall in tea export volumes was lifted, due to it falling in line to be
contributed by the fall in tea production. accommodative of the international
Tea production in the first four months community’s concerns.

Amid fuel crisis

Former
leaders
taking
helicopter
rides to
Parliament

–SJB

By Nabiya Vaffoor

The Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB)
claimed that some leaders of this
country and former leaders are coming
to Parliament by helicopters, while
there is a prevailing fuel crisis, causing
civilians to stand in queues for 8,10,
and 12 hours to pump petrol.

Speaking to the Media on 20 May,
SJB MP Harshana Rajakaruna said, the
law must be enforced even for those
who caused this economic crisis.

“Due to unnecessary expenditure
such as the Chinese fertiliser ship and
gym sets, the country does not have
money to buy essentials today.
Inconvenience caused to people has
increased during the last week. Petrol,
diesel queues have tripled and gas
queues have also tripled. We have not
been able to resolve any of these
issues that have arisen today,” he
added.

He further emphasised that Premier
Ranil Wickremesinghe has told the
newly-appointed Ministers to dedicate
themselves to the people and the SJB
can set an example by making that
sacrifice.

Rajakaruna also said, over ten days
have passed since the dark day on 9
May, but the law has not been
enforced, the Government and
President have failed to bring the
perpetrators to justice.

A4 ‘We the FOCUSSunday22may2022
people
By Methmalie Dissanayake are sick of
Parliament’
“We came here to join the kerosene With its ineptness exposed, Legislature’s purpose is questioned
queue at about 5:30 a.m. We do not have
gas to cook. That is why we are so pubic openly rejected Parliament. The MPs should come out, Weerasinghe made an impulsive comment phones to video the moment.
desperate to buy a bottle of kerosene, so SJB MPs Chaminda Wijesiri, Nalin on Thursday (20) pointing out that, if an MP SLPP MPs Indika Anuruddha and D.
we can cook something for our children. at least now, from their could possibly be killed by people if he
We waited for more than 10 hours without Bandara, Mujibur Rahuman and several goes new a fuel queue. Weerasinghe, are accused of harassing the
any shelter. Why cannot the Government other MPs noted, comfortable bubbles and Parliament correspondents and snatching
ensure us having our basic needs? Now “An innocent MP was killed. their phones too, as they were leaving after
they say, kerosene will not arrive today. “Wijerathna is the most suitable person truly understand and Amarakeerthi Athukorala was a person the meeting.
Why they make us suffer like this? It would for this post. The Prime Minister also said who has not wronged anyone. All the 225
have been better if they line up us and that a female MP should be appointed. empathise the people’s MPs who act like donkeys should take the According to the journalists, Anurudhdha
shoot. Death is better than this endless That is why we proposed her name. She is responsibility for that murder. The people and Weerasinghe assaulted them stating,
suffering. What did we do to deserve this?” a renowned lady, a children’s rights activist sorrows. The people send hate us. Every time Parliament meets that “You are the reason for everything.” They
and an active member of the House.” hatred grows. If we go near a fuel queue, later snatched the mobile phones of the
This is what a woman said, weeping in you to the House on behalf each and every one of us will be killed by two journalists.
front of her camera. Her comment went MP Dr. Sudarshini Fernandopulle also the people. They hate us that much. I
viral this week. This is not just one story. said that Wijerathna was suitable for the of them. You failed misera- warned you that MPs would have to face Commenting on the matter, Premadasa
Majority of Sri Lankans feel the same. post. this situation in about a month or two. This called on Speaker Abeywardena to conduct
People are forced to waste precious time in bly and it led the entire Parliament has been spreading hate for the an inquiry into the incident.
long queues to buy essentials like fuel and Following the arguments, the Speaker past few months. We are experiencing the
gas, just because of the inability of the announced that unless one of the country into this crisis. It is results now,” he said. He also urged the Speaker to instruct
leadership to take the right decisions at the proposed names may be withdrawn, a vote MPs to respect media freedom and not to
right time. has to be called for. high time for you to pull Moreover, many MPs tried to divert the obstruct the duties of journalists.
blame for recent riots on one political party
The public, once in every four years, elect Accordingly, a secret ballot was taken in yourselves together and do just like 1983. It is questionable whether MP Channa Jayasumana labelled the
MPs to represent them in Parliament. Parliament and 109 votes were cast in they are trying to repeat that blood stained journalists as ‘unidentified persons’ and
Parliament sittings are held two weeks favour of Ajith Rajapakse and 78 favouring your job right! history which led the country into three said filming MPs via mobile phones is a
every month. However, the recent Rohini Kumari Wijerathna. There were 23 decades of war instead of finding solid threat to their security.
behaviour of MPs has come under fire as invalid votes and 13 MPs were recorded as select a Deputy Speaker unanimously, solutions for the people’s problems.
the people clearly see their representatives absent. could they really get together and address The MPs had handed the phones over to
continuously failing to address their the crisis in the country, which is now Public has lost faith the Speaker’s Office later. The journalists
grievances. The public does not see Deputy Speaker of the Ninth Parliament becoming a time bomb? in Parliament managed to get their phones back after
genuine attempts to solve their problems Ranjith Siyambalapitiya recently resigned several hours. The relevant video footage
and as a result, they question whether from his position and was re-elected to the Furthermore, all the sitting days were Owing to this pathetic situation in had been deleted by then.
these ‘people’s representatives’ are post. Siyambalapitiya submitted his allocated to discuss the damages to MPs’ Parliament, where according to the public
actually capable of rescuing the country resignation again on 6 May, following wide property. Providing answers for the Oral and political analysts a crippled public The journalists lodged a complaint at
from the dark economic abyss it is in now. public criticism. Questions were postponed as a full representation is displayed, the people Welikada Police on the incident in the
Cabinet has not been appointed yet. have already lost their faith in their leaders. evening. It is alleged that the said MPs
The country is also witnessing a severe “When I was subjected to verbal sexual The perfect example for this is the long fuel demanded them to withdraw the complaint
medicinal drug shortage as well. People harassment back then, Rajapaksa was “These questions need to be asked. We queues. if they want their phones back. However,
are searching for drugs by posting chairing the sittings. It is sad that a woman need the answers and the public need the journalists who refused to obey the
prescriptions on social media for several cannot hold main positions in Parliament answers. But now, it has been postponed Minister of Power and Energy Kanchana demand said that they would not withdraw
weeks. Parents cannot even find children’s even now. The Constitution states that for two weeks. The Government has a Wijesekara requested the public several the complaint and if the MPs could have
syrup to treat fever. Doctors and medical gender equality must be ensured. But this responsibility to inform the House about a times not to line up at filling stations due to the phones if they want them.
professionals repeatedly warned about this Parliament is yet to adhere to that. The timeframe of appointing a full Cabinet and the shortage. He said that to normalise fuel
situation. However, the authorities did not Rajapaksa family called for my defeat when Parliament can follow original supply would take at least three days On Thursday (19), the Speaker indirectly
take enough action to solve the crisis. In because I spoke against their corruption. I agenda for the sitting days,” Jathika Jana following the arrival of several shipments. justified the assault claiming that the two
such a backdrop, the Government only thank all the MPs who voted for me. The Balawegaya (JJB) Leader Anura Kumara However, the people did not listen and lobby correspondents were in a restricted
appointed a Health Minister on Friday (20). Prime Minister also proposed a female MP Dissanayaka said. waited at filling stations day and night, area according to an internal circular. He
as the Deputy Speaker. His proposal was resulting in long queues. The situation was advised lobby correspondents not to film
What is the point of defeated. This is the first defeat of Ranil “This is hilarious. Actually we should same with the gas shortage. or interview MPs at that particular area
having a Parliament? Wickremesinghe after he accepted the blame ourselves for electing these people. again. He said that given the current
post of PM. He will experience lots of There are so many problems. We cannot Releasing frustration on circumstances, it is natural for MPs to
“It does not seem that the MPs care failures in the future. It is clear that eat properly. We cannot give our children journalists and Media react that way.
about our suffering at all. They waste our Rajapaksa family is still carrying out their what they need. It is okay if they discuss
money at Parliament. How many fruitful agendas without respecting the people’s about their property because we know the Two lobby correspondents were Many government MPs were seen
discussions they had since now? They are will,” Wijerathna, addressing the House pain of losing our belongings. But why assaulted and harassed on Monday (17), blaming the media, alleging that it is the
keener to engage in mudslinging and after the defeat alleged. allocate the entire week for discussing just by SLPP MPs while they were filming ruling media that sparked hatred’ against
speak about their own problems. No one that? Aren’t they have any shame?” a social party MPs coming out of the Parliament Parliament and MPs. Assaulting lobby
speaks on behalf of us in that place. If they This saga of electing a Deputy Speaker media activist queried. Committee Room after a group meeting in correspondents saying ‘you are the reason
fail to do that, what is the point of having a was vehemently condemned by the public. the morning of the same day. for everything’ clearly portray the hatred
Parliament?” a person at a petrol queue Electing Siyambalapitiya took several Meanwhile, several MPs also raised they have against media for reporting the
said. hours of the Parliamentary sitting. The similar concerns. Among them The journalists, Kasun Samaraweera country’s sad reality. Even the Prime
same scenario repeated this week independent MP Weerasumana and Prageeth Perera were using mobile Minister too, blamed the media for bringing
Illankai Tamil Arasu Katch (ITAK) MP prompting the question; if Parliament Gotabaya Rajapaksa as President.
Shanakiyan Rasamanickam also raised the cannot come to a common ground to
same question on Tuesday (17) in the However, it is not the media that make
House. decisions on the country’s economy. It was
not the media that ignored repeated
He raised this concern, following the warnings of experts. It was not the media
allegation that Leader of the House Dinesh that behaved arrogantly when the public
Gunawardena stopped him chairing the were expressing their agitations. Blaming
Parliamentary Sitting and instead invited the media for everything means Parliament
Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) MP has not understood the ground reality of
Shantha Bandara to preside, when he was Sri Lanka yet.
invited to the chair by the staff.
Gunawradena who refused to provide a Since the inception of the Ninth
clarification, said Rasamanickam should Parliament, many government MPs and
learn certain things in Parliament. ministers behaved arrogantly avoiding
advices given by experts and
“This is a matter of my privilege. Before professionals. When there were warnings
Shantha Bandara came to the Chair, a staff last year that the country could default and
member at Serjeant-at-Arms’ Department foreign reserves are drying, some ministers
called me and told me that the Speaker shot the messengers, saying the country
needs to leave his chair and requested me has enough foreign reserves. When the
to preside over the Sitting. Following that people started to express their frustrations,
request, I took the chair. some ministers said ‘if one crow is killed
and displayed, other crows would be
At that time, I saw Gunawardena sending silenced.’
several messages to the Secretary General
and then sent a message asking Shantha According to the Finance Division of
Bandara to take the chair instead of me. I Parliament, Rs. 2.2 billion had been spent
saw it very clearly. When I inquired, the in 2019 on Parliament operations. This is
Secretary General told me ‘Don’t ask me’. I public money. If Parliament cannot fulfil
am a member of the Speaker’s panel. I the true wishes of the public and spend
hope Parliament is an independent days talking only about themselves and
institution. This is not the SLPP’s their families, more severe public riots
Parliament. All MPs have equal rights.” would be inevitable. The MPs should come
out, at least now, from their comfortable
If you do not want me to preside over bubbles and truly understand and
because I speak against the Government empathise the people’s sorrows. The
and Ranil Wickremesinghe’s ‘deals’, what people send you to the House on behalf of
is the point of this Parliament?” he queried. them. You failed miserably and it led the
entire country into this crisis. It is high time
What happened in for you to pull yourselves together and do
Parliament this week? your job right!

This week’s Parliament sittings mainly
focused on expressing the agitations of the
MPs after the property of nearly 70
representatives came under arson attacks
by riots sparked on 9 May, following SLPP
supporters’ attack on peaceful protesters
at MynaGoGama and GotaGoGama the
same day. At least eight persons, including
MP Amarakeerthi Athukorala and his driver
were killed in the riots. Among the death
was a 19-year-old youth. Many persons
among the hundreds who sustained
injuries are still receiving treatment.
Conditions of several persons are critical,
according to doctors.

On Tuesday (17), a secret ballot to
appoint a Deputy Speaker was held as the
MPs failed to reach a common ground for
a single name.

The Opposition proposed Samagi
Janabalawegaya (SJB) MP Rohini Kumari
Wijerathna. Her name was nominated by
Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa and
was seconded by Chief Opposition Whip
Lakshman Kiriella. After that, the SLPP MP
Ajith Rajapakse was proposed by Prof. G.L.
Peiris and seconded by Samanpriya
Herath.

Wimal Weerawansa on behalf of the 10
coalition parties that became independent
in Parliament recently urged the House to
come up with one name for the post. SLFP
Chairman Maithripala Sirisena and MP
Chandima Weerakkody also expressed
similar sentiments. They said that this
election was being held at a huge expense
and urged to suggest only one name
without opting for a secret ballot. The MPs
said they would make the votes invalid in
protest of making the appointment of the
Deputy Speaker a soap opera while the

news Sunday 22 May 2022 A5

Country’s economy will continue to deteriorate - Suresh
By Eunice Ruth
He also said the Leaders and Public Unfortunately, upcountry people cannot not been resolved, and people are still communities, they are ashamed of the
 The country’s economy will continue to representatives in Parliament are still afford Rs 300 for one kilogramme of wheat waiting in long lines. Our people in the country’s current situation, and that if they
deteriorate due to poor leadership and planning on appointing people and that no flour, and they cannot survive on such a upcountry are suffering even more than cannot understand and fulfil the public’s
inappropriate appointments such as the steps have been taken to resolve the crises. low wage. A family requires approximately those in Colombo, and they can’t even requests, being in Parliament is pointless.
appointment of the deputy speaker, without five Kilogramme of flour per day, which afford milk powder for their children,”
meeting the demands of the public, SJB “Every day, the prices of essential now costs Rs 1,500, which is double the Suresh explained. “We obey the leaders but we do not trust
MP Vadivel Suresh said. commodities rise. However, the daily wage wage earned from plantation work. them. They need to do something to
of upcountry workers has not increased Furthermore, the country’s fuel crisis has Suresh went on to say that as resolve the problems of the people and
until today, and they are paid Rs 700. representatives of the Tamil and upcountry prove them to make us trust them,” he said.

N. Delhi-based Information Chathuranga,Printing book degrading The Buddha
Fusion Centre for IOR Sannasgala
enlarged
HC Moragoda attends on bail
induction of first SL
Int’l Liaison Officer By Hansi Nanayakkara

High Commissioner of Sri Lanka in ever-growing Indo-Lanka defence Colombo Chief Magistrate Nandana Amerasinghe on 20 May,
New Delhi Milinda Moragoda ties, Sri Lanka’s commitment towards ordered two suspects, K. Kapuge Srinath Chathuranga and Upul
attended the ceremonial Induction of safeguarding the common maritime Shantha Sannasgala, who were produced in Court on charges of
the first International Liaison Officer interest in the Indian Ocean Region, printing and distributing a book denigrating the image of The Buddha
appointed from Sri Lanka to the New and the progress the two countries and degrading Buddhism, to be enlarged on a surety bail of Rs 50,000
Delhi-based Information Fusion have made over the years in bilateral each.
Centre for Indian Ocean Region (IFC- relations which continue to expand
IOR). across a wide range of areas. The Chief Magistrate ordered the CID to obtain advice from the AG
and conduct inquiries into the case, ahead of making further
High Commissioner Moragoda The IFC-IOR was established in submissions to him at the next hearing.
presented a memento to Rear 2018 by the Indian Government and is
Admiral K.M. Ramakrishnan hosted by the Indian Navy to enhance The two suspects were present in Court, upon being noticed to
symbolising the 80th anniversary of maritime safety and security in the appear at the previous hearing, held on 29 April.
the appointment of Sir D.B. Jayatilaka Indian Ocean Region. The IFC-IOR
as the first representative of the then was envisaged to address the need to Chief Magistrate Amerasinghe fixed further hearing of the trial for 9
Government of Ceylon at the event promote collaboration for maritime September.
held at the IFC-IOR Centre. safety and security in view of the
region’s importance with respect to The CID had made submissions to Court, that the two aforesaid
Lieutenant Commander Indika world trade and security. suspects had printed and distributed a controversial book titled
Wijesinghe (Sri Lanka Navy), the first ‘Budunge Rasthiyaduwa’ and the AG had instructed to name them as
International Liaison Officer (ILO) suspects in the trial.
from Sri Lanka was ceremonially
inducted into the IFC-IOR in the They said former Minister of Cultural Affairs Dr. Wijeyadasa
presence of the High Commissioner Rajapakshe, PC had lodged a complaint with them on 20 August four
of Sri Lanka, Assistant Chief of Naval years ago, that the book printed and distributed by the two suspects,
Staff (Cyber Security and Network had disparaged Buddhism and degraded the image of The Buddha.
Centric Operations) Rear Admiral
K.M. Ramakrishnan, the Director IFC- The CID added that they had initiated a probe into it. The CID also
IOR Captain Soumyajit Mohanty and prayed the Court to issue notice on them to appear in Court on 20 May.
the ILOs representing Australia,
France, Japan, Maldives, Mauritius,
Myanmar, Seychelles, Singapore,
South Africa, United Kingdom, and the
US.

The High Commissioner delivering
his remarks highlighted the
importance of regional and global
partners coming together in finding
lasting solutions to issues in our
maritime domain through enhanced
cooperation, and by way of employing
seamless initiatives that effectively
safeguard the Indian Ocean Region.

High Commissioner Moragoda also
highlighted that the positioning of an
International Liaison Officer from Sri
Lanka at the IFC-IOR reflects the

US Envoy meets Navy Chief

United States Ambassador to Sri Ambassador and Navy Commander
Lanka, Julie Chung met Navy exchanged views on several matters
Commander, Vice Admiral Nishantha of bilateral importance and the event
Ulugetenne at Navy Headquarters on drew to a close with an exchange of
Friday (20). mementoes as a gesture of goodwill.

The occasion turned out to be the Senior Defence Attaché, Lieutenant
first official interaction between them, Colonel Travis Cox and US Naval
after Ambassador Chung assumed Attaché, Lieutenant Commander
office as US Ambassador to Sri Lanka. Richard Lister from the US Embassy
During the cordial meeting, the US in Colombo were also present.

To make up for drug shortage

France donates medicine
worth Euro 300,000

Following the request made by the maintains a dynamic cooperation with
government, France donates a stock Sri Lanka for decades. In 2005, in
of medicine worth Euro 300, 000 another emergency, the Agence
(around Rs 115 million). Française de Développement (AFD)
committed €89 million for rebuilding
France expressed its goodwill to infrastructures damaged by the
assist Sri Lanka at this crucial tsunami in December 2004.
moment as the crisis hit health
service is facing acute shortages of Since 2010, the AFD has been
drugs and essential medicine amid working in Sri Lanka under a clear
the worsening economic situation. mandate to promote green and
inclusive growth in the sectors of
This stock is expected to be flown water and sanitation, energy and
by our national carrier SriLankan over urban development. Over a period of
the weekend. Ambassador of France almost 10 years, the AFD group has
to Sri Lanka Eric Lavertu will hand committed EUR 626 million to
over the medicine to the Sri Lankan projects, becoming one of the most
health authorities upon its arrival. important bilateral donor partners for
Sri Lanka.
It is an emergency response to the
urgent needs of the country. France

A6 FocusSunday 22 may 2022

On 9 May 2022, Sri Lanka experienced Will PEPInsurance agencies and FIU of CBSL were emailed to the FIU, but they
a different kind of riot, with angry mobs watchdog responded it would take some time to
torching and damaging homes, offices, distinguish respond to the queries.
and vehicles of 76 MPs, as well as homes themselves?
and vehicles of hundreds of regional Sri Lanka is the primary regulatory There are plenty of laws that guide Sri
politicians who openly supported watchdog for the respective regulations regulations require insurers and other determine whether the policy was issued Lankans, however, some are not practiced
politicians and political parties accused which came into being in 2005 and 2006. financial services providers to clearly on a property which is valued far in excess and are unnoticed. When the FIU was
of routing the country and its people Regulations, in particular the Financial understand the socioeconomic profile of of the politician’s declared income. If the inquired (before the email went to the FIU
through economic mismanagement that Transactions Reporting Act (FTRA) of each of their clients and ensure that the values of the insured properties are Director) on whether they would play a role
could have been avoided. While no one 2006 and the subsequently gazetted activities they engage in conform within disproportionate in value to the politician’s in investigating the insurance claims of
condones these heinous acts such as regulations such as the Gazette 1951/13 reasonable boundaries close to the known income and other means, they are legally politicians, mainly those who lost their
torching and damaging palatial houses issued by the FIU require all financial profile. If and when any activity exceeds required to report their findings to the properties on 9 May, one of the officials
and hotels, it is also time to examine the institutions including banks, (non-bank) the known profile, financial institutions are regulator. said there should be some engagement
checks and balances in place to ensure finance companies and others such as required to inquire into these activities and with the CID over some complaints and the
that these politicians will at large claim insurance companies, real estate dealers report any that are not reasonably Ceylon Today spoke to officials at the need for suspicions of money laundering
their insurance in the coming months in etc., to exercise due diligence on their explained, or are cause for suspicion of FIU in terms of how the FIU would engage or bogus claims. This is not just only for
the backdrop of corruption claims by the clientele and report any activities that are money laundering. when politicians claim insurance and the the politicians, but under the regulations
masses. It is also possible that some of disproportionate or not in line with the execution of the FTRA of 2006. However, there are some special clauses that the
the corrupt politicians who lost their known profile of any customer. In the present case, the insurers should the Act has clauses that any insurance insurance companies have to comply with.
property will seek compensation from be required to check the original valuations company has to work in accordance within
insurance. Failure to do so can result in fines and conducted for the insurance cover, to as well. As requested, several questions Ceylon Today contacted officials at the
penalties against the institution including IRCSL and the information was that under
By Sulochana Ramiah Mohan cancellation of licence to operate, while the 2006 Act Section 23 , IRCSL acts as a
individual penalties include financial costs sub agent and insurance companies
Since the attacks, we have seen affected plus the aforesaid prison terms on being should check whether their clients’ claims
politicians frantically trying to explain convicted in a Court of Law. However, the comply with the FIU and the IRCSL can
away their losses. One such individual conviction rate in Sri Lanka so far has been also conduct on-site inspection on the
made a claim that he obtained loans from pathetically low, as per the FIU's published request of the FIU. The insurance
three banks. Irrespective of the obvious annual report data accessible on the companies also required to ‘Know Your
doubt on the claim, it is important to official Internet site (FIU Annual Report). Client’ (KYC) whether they are paying their
remember that banks engage in such regular premium, their income, and
group lending only in the case of These regulations have specific evidence.
consortium loans, which is generally for requirements for how financial
the large-scale institutions and that also transactions and activities of politically Central Bank's guidelines on
only when the size of the loan is of such exposed persons should be risk rated, Politically Exposed Persons
magnitude that the risk becomes monitored, and reported as needed. These
unsupportable for any one banking requirements are stringently audited by the The Central Bank's guidelines on
institution. This politician, like most others, FIU and the Central Bank of Sri Lanka on a identification of Politically Exposed
will lack credibility unless he can explain regular basis during periodic on-site Persons No. 3 of 2019 was brought into
exactly how he managed to obtain loans examinations. Violations and control force on October 2019 and it is read
from three banks for his personal shortfalls are often highlighted in audit together with the financial transactions
residence, when most of us ordinary reports as high risk events. reporting Act No. 6 of 2006 Financial
persons would not be able to do so. Not Institutions (Customer Due Diligence) Rule
that lacking credibility is likely to affect his Given all this drama, one should No. 1 of 2016 and designation to non-
standing in a vastly corrupt political circus naturally expect an environment in which finance business (CDD-Customer Due
which anyway exists at tremendous cost political corruption related money Diligence ) Rules No. 1 of 2018.
and suffering to the general populace. laundering stays at a low level, if at all.
However, the reality facing us today says a Guidance was issued to the CBSL
Finally, what matters is whether the different story and one would be naive to Supervision Department, Non-Bank
financial system which is regulated at believe that these checks and controls Financial Institutions of Central Bank of Sri
such high cost will perform its duty even at serve any useful purpose other than being Lanka, the Securities and Exchange
this sad end. Going by its history, it is hard an additional financial burden on the Commission of Sri Lanka, the National
to believe that the regulatory apparatus reporting financial institution, since we are Gem and Jewellery Authority of Sri Lanka
will distinguish itself even at this point by yet to see any politician or related party and compliance officers of all financial
holding those accountable. being successfully convicted in a Court of institutions and designated to non-finance
Law. business.
Insuring homes, is it
followed by all? Similarly, it is without a doubt that the The CBSL, in its guidelines, explains who
discrepancies in honest income versus the Politically Exposed Persons (PEPs) are
According to an insurance expert, most insured values of the properties that were and it says that rule 99 of the FIs Customer
educated city dwellers who have invested gutted in the recent arson attacks should Due Diligence (CDD) Rules and Rule 43 of
in large homes may have insured their raise eyebrows of the insurance carriers. the DNFBs CDD rules define PEPs, their
homes, and he estimates that around 15 Does this even happen, or are they simply immediate family members, and close
per cent of Sri Lankans may have insured happy to grab a high premium for high associates.
their homes. When a house is built with valued properties irrespective of not
bank loans, the bank makes it compulsory knowing how they were acquired, thinking As per these CDD Rules, ''Politically
that the newly built house is insured. The only of their bonuses? If the intentions of Exposed Persons” means an individual
occupant of a house worth Rs 25 million the respective regulations are respected by who is entrusted with prominent public
will have to pay a premium of Rs 35,000 a party, the regulator and the regulated, functions either domestically or by a
per year. This is for a basic insurance these shortfalls need to be looked into and foreign country or in an international
policy. those who failed to adhere to the organisation and includes a Head of State
regulations dealt with as per the applicable or Government, a politician, a senior
There is also an optional Riot and Civil Penal Code. government officer, judicial officer or
Commotion cover that can be taken. It is military officer, a senior executive of a
under this cover ordinary people including Some have grouped up in social media State-Owned Corporation/ Government or
politicians whose houses were charred on calling for Court action urgently to deal Autonomous body but does not include
9 May could claim. The Civil and with building homes with State funds or middle ranking or junior ranking
Commotion cover was introduced in Sri claiming insurance against their monthly individuals. The CDD rule is also applicable
Lanka after the 1983 Riots. The funds for income. Can that be checked? Yes. to family members and close associates
Riot and Civil Commotion are mostly of PEPs as well. They can be either PEP
obtained through the State-owned The FIU-Sri Lanka was set up in March members or socially or even professionally
National Insurance Trust Fund (NITF) that 2006, in terms of the provisions of the connected persons. These could include
comes under the Ministry of Finance. So, Financial Transactions Reporting Act No. 6 spouse present and past, siblings
there may be funds released for the of 2006 (FTRA) under the Ministry of including half siblings and their spouses,
politicians and others under this scheme. Finance and Planning and the overall children including stepchildren and
objective of the FIU is to combat money adopted children and their spouses,
Violence, torching of houses laundering, terrorist financing and related parents including stepparents and
crimes in Sri Lanka in line with grandchildren and their spouses.
On 9 May, a goon squad from Temple international standards and best practices.
Trees unleashed violence on two large Identification of PEPs
gatherings of young and peaceful Show the socioeconomic
protesters who had been expressing their profile of politicians Every FI/ DNFB (Financial Institutions/
displeasure with how the country is run Designated Non-Financial Businesses) is
and, in particular, the dire economic plight Current Anti-Money Laundering required to implement appropriate internal
it has fallen into. The mobs became policies, procedures and controls to
enraged and began attacking politicians' determine if the customer or the beneficial
homes islandwide. Whether or not it was owner is a politically exposed person. This
politically motivated, it was a colossal is applicable for all new and ongoing
damage. business relationships with customers.

The properties burned were undoubtedly The ability to determine if customers or
opulent homes, and some even owned beneficial owner is PEP fully depends on
multiple properties countrywide that were the effective implementation of CDD
set on flames. At a time when the country measures, including the identification,
is experiencing a severe economic verification, and ongoing due diligence
downturn, insurance claims on these lost requirements as set out in the CDD rules.
properties could be excessive, burden the The CDD measures are the indispensable
public, and also serve the ulterior purpose starting point, as these should be applied
of laundering inexplicable, ill-gotten gains to any type of customer.
through political corruption for which the
ruling party is widely presumed guilty. Key factors in the CDD process such as
principal occupation or employment would
Insurance claims is anyway a tedious be a good starting point in such
process and would take some years or determination. PEPs and related parties
even closer to a decade to process. On are considered high risk for laundering of
these grounds, the Government has stolen public property. Financial
decided to offer ‘temporary housing’ for institutions are required to have
those victimised politicians at a new mechanisms to tag them on their core
condominium location in Thalawathugoda. banking systems, so that effective ongoing
Ownership of the house will not be monitoring can be maintained on all their
transferred to the MPs and will remain with transactions, in particular those of higher
the State for these premises provided as a value.
‘temporary’ solution.
Financial Action Task Force
Present Sri Lankan and global laws on Money Laundering
recognise political corruption as a major
financial scourge and have laws and The Financial Action Task Force on
regulations enacted to require financial Money Laundering (FATF), defines the
institutions and other to report on any term “Money Laundering” briefly as “the
such activity. Voluntary or involuntary processing of criminal proceeds to
involvement in political corruption and disguise their illegal origin to legitimise the
laundering of stolen public assets carry ill-gotten gains of crime.” Although there
severe penalties including monetary fines are many more comprehensive definitions
and criminal liability leading to terms of of “Money Laundering” used by different
imprisonment with heavy labour. countries, the FATF definition adequately
captures the essence of the process.
The newly appointed Minister of
Housing Prasanna Ranatunga is alleged to Criminals involved need to find ways to
have said he would repair and restore all use illegal money without attracting
damaged properties of his own burnt attention to the underlying activity or
house as well as of his colleagues using people involved. This dictates the need for
public funds, though he does not have any a process to disguise the criminal origin of
authority to do so. It is also important to such money.
check how many houses of politicians
were in fact insured. One other way to look at the insurance
claims by the politicians is to check
The FIU whether they declared their assets before
they contested. Let's hope for the best
The Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) of when the State looks at each of the
insurance claims, even if reality seems
headed in the direction of pessimism.

([email protected])

focus sunday 22 May 2022 A7

By Dilanthi Jayamanne Has Covid-19Revoking declaration of pandemic in SL The Ministry was also set
ddeieadtha?natural
Has Covid-19 died a natural death, that to implement regulations
the competent authority under the curfew, while the Health Ministry was able the Covid-19 vaccine, there was an card mandatory in public places. It was also
Quarantine and Prevention of Diseases to amend work-related Covid regulations increased level of immunity that had built proposed that persons who had been making the Covid
Ordinance No. 3 of 1897 took measures to that had been in place for the past two up. It was what had helped Sri Lanka largely administered all three doses of the vaccine
revoke the declaration of entire Sri Lanka as years. Overall, people were asked to return during the past months of protests and were the ones to be considered fully vaccination card
a disease locality for Coronavirus (Covid- to duty after a lapse of seven days of being demonstrations where large numbers vaccinated.
19)? quarantined at home. gathered. So much so that the public even mandatory in public
suspected and opposed Health Minister Fourth dose
From March 2020, till the end of last year, According to the Deputy Director General Channa Jayasumana’s move to “unmask” places. It was also
the country was under the curse of various (DDG) of Health Services Disaster them. The Health Ministry has rolled out the
mutations of the coronavirus. Under long Management and Emergency Response, fourth dose – which is also a booster shot proposed that persons
periods of Police curfew due to the two Dr. Hemantha Herath, with a large section The Ministry was also set to implement or the fourth dose of the Covid-19 vaccine.
major outbreaks the country witnessed of the public having received two doses of regulations making the Covid vaccination According to Dr. Herath, the fourth shot who had been
following April New Year 2021 and the
subsequent Delta wave, the Health Ministry, administered all three
in collaboration with the Army, was able to
administer three doses of the coronavirus doses of the vaccine
vaccine.
were the ones to be
Vaccination situation
considered fully
Sri Lanka has received a total of
51,252,874 vaccines by 19 May 2022. They vaccinated
included 2,865,424 doses of AstraZeneca,
330,000 doses of Sputnik V, 26,000,000 could be obtained from the nearest Medical
doses of Sinopharm, 20,557,350 doses of Officer of Health (MoH) office or at the
Pfizer, and 1,500,000 doses of Moderna Viharamahadevi Army Vaccination Centre
Coronavirus vaccines. and the National Hospital of Colombo.

All vaccines were approved for Due to the present situation in the
emergency use even in Sri Lanka. The country however, the MoH offices
statistics issued by the Health Ministry administered the vaccine only at a limited
shows that of the total number of vaccines number of places that have been identified
the country received, 17,068,255 had by each office. “Those getting the vaccine
obtained the first dose, which amounted to could contact the MoH office to obtain a
97 per cent of the country’s population date and time to go for their jab,” he said.
eligible for the coronavirus vaccine. Of
them, 82 per cent of the population The decision was taken to give a fourth
amounting to 14,483,145 obtained the dose owing to the noted decrease seen in
second dose of the vaccine. the number of cases who obtained third or
booster dose of the jab, which is only 55 per
But as we all know, a majority of people cent of the target population. That is much
did not show enthusiasm in taking the third less than the numbers who obtained the
or booster dose of the Covid-19 vaccine. second dose of the Covid jab. He said the
The public developed fear, alleging certain Ministry was concerned of the possible
complications that some of them decline in immunity levels against the Covid
developed after taking the Covid vaccine, virus.
and this contributed largely towards
reducing the number of persons who Expiry date
received the booster or third dose of the
Covid vaccine. From the stock of Sinopharm vaccines
the country received, there were 1.8 to 2
On Thursday (19), a total 7,975,617 million vaccine doses remaining, according
persons amounting to 55 per cent of the to Health Ministry sources. They said there
target population had obtained the booster were 1.3 million to 1.5 million doses of
dose, according to statistics of the Health Pfizer-BioNTech jabs remaining.
Ministry’s Epidemiology Unit.
The Pfizer-BioNTech doses expire by the
Omicron variant and end of July this year, sources said. “But the
mandatory vaccine card fact is even if you get the fourth shot or not
the vaccine would expire. The fact is the
By December last year, the country saw Advisory Committee on Communicable
its first case of the Omicron variant in a Diseases only gave a green light for the
person who had returned from a Nigerian fourth shot of the vaccine at this juncture,
tour. However, although many persons when the vaccine is about to complete its
were infected (perhaps not like what was shelf life,” they added.
experienced during the Alpha and Delta
waves of the Covid virus) the country was
able to continue functioning sans Police

A8 editorialSunday 22 May 2022

Ceylon Newspapers (Pvt) Ltd. HOUSE BEMOANS PROP
PUBLIC WARNED OF TO
No: 101, Rosmead Place, Colombo 07. UNP Leader Ranil Wickremesinghe after being
Editorial Tel: 0117566522, 0117566526, 0117566527 sworn-in as the Prime Minister, for the sixth time, Minister about this. One came and inquired about Government to resolve current economic crisis in
assumed duties at the Prime Minister’s Office last the Ministry of Health and another about the the country, as well as to give leadership to prepare
Fax: 0117566545 Friday. The Prime Minister visited the Buddha Ministry of Finance. an All Party Economic Revival Plan as a
Marketing Manager: 0117566550, 0117566551 Shrine room at the Prime Minister’s Office and Parliamentary proposal that is approved by the
Circulation Manager: 0117566580, 0117566581 offered flowers. As he was coming out after “As it is, we have to give more than 100 majority, he said.
concluding religious activities an old employee at ministerial posts,” Abeywardena said following
E-mail : [email protected] the PM’s Office came and greeted the new Premier these discussions. The PM laughed and said, “We In a tweet, Dr. de Silva said, “Even though it is
and wished him well. said the Cabinet is only 20 including the President unknown to many, the COPF is the most powerful
Revival Needed and the Prime Minister.” committee in Parliament; with wide powers to
The Prime Minister accepted his well-wishes discharge the Constitutional provision 148 that
The current US dollar crisis in Sri Lanka resulting in with a smile and told the employee; “It will take a Prime Minister immediately responded to letters gives ‘full control’ of public finance. I feel I can play
further job losses has plunged more Sri Lankans into few more months for the country to have a good sent by SJB MPs Harin Fernando, Manusha a bigger role here than in a government that lacks
poverty. time. Let’s work together by giving up Vesak Nanayakkara and Champika Ranawaka, taking legitimacy. I am being criticised by some for not
holidays.” their proposals into consideration and the MPs taking up ‘Cabinet’ responsibility. Be realistic that
This has to be looked at in the context that prior to commended the swift responses. It was decided to the Sri Lankan economic crisis is a toxic
the dollar crisis, the World Bank (WB) estimated that During his first visit to the office, Prime Minister nominate four SJB members to the Cabinet. combination of economics and politics. The
over 500,000 Sri Lankans became poor consequent to Wickremesinghe summoned Secretary to the Wickremesinghe asked UNP Chairman and Deputy resolution depends on both and my joining Cabinet
the loss of employment caused by the first wave of the Prime Minister SamanEkanayake and Special Leader to handle the matter. as an ‘independent MP’ will only worsen the
Covid-19 pandemic that took place two years ago in Assistant Sandra Perera to obtain an expenditure political crisis.”
2020. report of the Prime Minister’s Office. The President and the Prime Minister then met
the SLPP, the SLFP and Leaders of the Independent Ironic competitors
This estimate comes in the backdrop that the After going through the expenses record, the Parliamentary Group at President House on
Census and Statistics Department said Sri Lanka’s Prime Minister instructed to reduce the number of Wednesday night. Before starting the discussion, SLPP MP Ajith Rajapakse was elected as the
poor totalled 3.04 million in 2019, according to its employees and the number of vehicles used and to the Prime Minister said, “Let’s start this discussion new Deputy Speaker, following a secret ballot, by a
latest data. An additional 500,000 will swell those reduce the expenses of the Prime Minister’s Office with 20 ministerial posts. The people of the country majority of 31 votes.
numbers to 3.54 million, comprising 16.1 per cent of by 50%. are going through a lot of hardships so we have to
the island’s total population of 22 million. make a sacrifice. Even those who take up He was proposed by Minister Prof. G. L. Peiris,
On the instructions of the Prime Minister, PM’s ministerial posts will not get ministerial salaries and seconded by SLPP MP Samanpriya Herath.
Meanwhile, NPR Media, USA, in a publication dated Secretary Saman Ekanayake took measures to and privileges.”
29 April, quoting Chayu Damsinghe, an economist return employees absorbed to thePrime Minister’s The Opposition proposed SJB MP Rohini Kumari
attached to Frontier Research (Pvt.) Ltd., Colombo said Office cadre, from other government agencies, Following the final decision on the Cabinet posts, Wijerathna for the post. Her name was nominated
there was a cooking gas shipment that required a back to those institutions and also returned the it was decided to appoint the Cabinet before next by Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa and was
mere USD 5 million payment to be cleared but was vehicles to the relevant institutions. Monday. seconded by Chief Opposition Whip Lakshman
sent back for the lack of it. “A ridiculously small Kiriella.
amount not to be able to pay, Sri Lanka should not Prime Minister Wickremesinghe on his first day Accordingly, nine more MPs were sworn in as
have come to this level.” at work appointed a special committee to seek Cabinet Ministers on Friday morning. They took Wimal Weerawansa, on behalf of the 10 coalition
proposals to provide relief to the people by oaths before President Gotabaya Rajapaksa at the parties that became independent in Parliament
Opposition SJB MP Eran Wickramaratne speaking in eliminating the shortages of essential goods and President’s House in Colombo. recently, urged the House to come up with one
Parliament on Thursday (19) said, in the South Asian services. name for the post. SLFP Chairman Maithripala
region, other than Afghanistan and Sri Lanka, all other The new Cabinet Ministers include; Nimal Sirisena and MP Chandima Weerakkody also
countries have seen their foreign reserves grow in the Accordingly, UNP Chairman Vajira Abeywardena Siripala de Silva – Minister of Ports, Shipping and expressed similar sentiments. They said that this
past two years despite the Covid-19 Pandemic. and General Secretary Palitha Range Bandara were Aviation, Susil Premajayanth – Minister of election was being held at a huge expense and
appointed to discuss with the relevant sections and Education, Keheliya Rambukwella – Minister of therefore to suggest only one name without opting
He further said that the request made by the seek proposals to provide essential food items to Health, Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe – Minister of for a secret ballot. The MPs said that they would
international community is to have a Government the people without any shortage. Justice, Prison Affairs and Constitutional Reforms, make the votes invalid in protest over making the
bereft of the Rajapaksas. That appears to be Harin Fernando – Minister of Tourism and Lands, appointment of the Deputy Speaker a soap opera
happening. On Friday (20), President Gotabaya UNP Deputy Leader Ruwan Wijewardena was Ramesh Pathirana – Minister of Plantation while the pubic openly rejects Parliament.
Rajapaksa (SLPP) appointed a few more Cabinet tasked with obtaining information on how to Industry, Manusha Nanayakkara – Minister of
ministers, some of whom he not only didn’t see eye to alleviate the medicine shortage, while UNP Labour and Foreign Employment, Nalin Fernando – SJB MPs Chaminda Wijesiri, Nalin Bandara,
eye, but also had a vituperative political relationship Assistant Leader Akila Viraj Kariyawasam was Minister of Trade, Commerce and Food Security Mujibur Rahuman and several other MPs noted,
with them. tasked with investigating and reporting on the and Tiran Alles – Minister of Public Security.
fertiliser crisis. “Wijerathna is the most suitable person for this
They included rebel SJB MP Harin Fernando as the This is in addition to four other Cabinet Ministers post. The Prime Minister also said that a female
new Tourism Minister; Susil Premajayantha, Education Party’s National Organiser Sagala Ratnayake appointed on the 14 May which included Prof. G.L. MP should be appointed. That is why we proposed
Minister and Dr Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe, Justice was given the responsibility of finding solutions to Peiris – Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dinesh her name. She is a renowned lady, a child rights
Minister. fuel related issues. Gunawardena – Minister of Public Administration, activist and an active member of the House.”
Home Affairs, Provincial Councils and Local
But Rajapaksa has to do much more than aligning The special committee is expected to identify the Government, Prasanna Ranatunga – Minister of MP Dr. Sudarshani Fernandopulle also said that
himself with Lord Palmerston’s saying, “In politics real issues faced by all stakeholders in the relevant Urban Development and Housing and Kanchana Wijerathna was suitable for the post.
there are no permanent friends or enemies, only fields, obtain their suggestions and report directly Wijesekara – Minister of Power and Energy.
permanent interests,” to win over the international to Prime Minister Wickremesinghe on the real Following the arguments, the Speaker
community, in whose hands the much needed dollars situation in the country. Meanwhile, it is speculated that PM announced that unless one of the proposed names
required to revive the Sri Lankan economy and to Wickremesinghe will take responsibilities as may consider withdrawing, a vote has to be called
regain at least part of the jobs loss, lie. They met on Saturday and Sunday and Finance Minister, in the event former Minister Ali for.
discussed with the relevant sections and presented Sabry declines to accept the portfolio.
The international community led by the West and Japan, all the information to the PM. On Saturday, Accordingly, a secret ballot was taken in
in whose hands those dollars lie, believe in the rule of law. Wickremesinghe also met representatives of the Other than Wickremesinghe, names of Dr. Parliament and 109 votes were cast in favour of
Asian Development Bank as well as the World Harsha de Silva and Eran Wickramaratne were also Ajith Rajapakse and 78 favouring Rohini Kumari
But hardly two weeks ago on 9 May, SLPP goons Bank. doing rounds as possible contenders for the post. Wijerathna. There were 23 invalid votes and 13
clubbed peaceful anti-Government protesters in broad Members of Parliament were recorded as absent.
daylight, in Colombo. The Prime Minister briefed the President on all However, Dr. Harsha de Silva said he is ready to
daily activities. A discussion was held between the take on the role of Chairman of Committee on Deputy Speaker of the Ninth Parliament Ranjith
Nonetheless, a positive development seen on Friday Prime Minister and President Gotabaya Rajapaksa Public Finance (COPF), stating that his joining the Siyambalapitiya recently resigned from his position
was that Rajapaksa’s nephew, Namal (MP), was last Sunday night. Cabinet as an ‘independent MP’ will only worsen and was subsequently re-elected to the post.
questioned by the CID over the 9 May violence. Already the political crisis. Siyambalapitiya submitted his resignation again on
a few SLPP politicos, including a State Minister and an Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena had 6 May, following wide public criticism.
MP have been arrested over these incidents, but there already informed the Prime Minister that a Deputy This is given the deadlock in creating an All-Party
are reports to say that there are other SLPP bigwigs Speaker would be appointed as the first duty on the After the results were announced, Wijerathna
too involved in the 9 May violence who are yet to be day when Parliament convenes. Prime Minister
questioned. Wickremesinghe met the President and informed
him that it was appropriate to appoint a woman to
The world is waiting for tangible progress in respect the post of Deputy Speaker. The President also
of the SLPP Government’s commitment to the rule of agreed and informed the Prime Minister that he
law, before the floodgates of aid would once more be would hold discussions with the SLPP
open to the country to revive its sick economy and Parliamentarians.
regain jobs lost as a result.
The Prime Minister also held discussions with
Central Bank of Sri Lanka’s (CBSL’s) 1977 Annual representatives of 10 independent parties in
Report writing about the economic changes that took Parliament on Monday and also held several
place that year said, “Unemployment appeared to be discussions with SLFP MPs. All these activities
growing, largely on account of the sluggish growth of were coordinated by the Party Chairman Vajira
the economy in recent years which was inadequate to Abeywardena.
absorb the growing work force. The new Government
reacted to this situation by adopting fundamental and Over the past week, Opposition MPs have been
far reaching economic reforms which almost reversed discussing with Prime Minister Wickremesinghe
the policies adopted since 1956, or perhaps since Sri the forming of a new Cabinet. Members of the
Lanka became an independent country in 1948. In that SLPP, the Sri Lanka Freedom Party and the Samagi
sense, the year 1977 was a watershed in the economic Jana Balawegaya continued to talk to the Prime
history of Sri Lanka.”

If Sri Lanka made revolutionary changes in policy to
revive the economy in 1977 not seen since
independence in 1948, fast forwards 45 years to the
present, what the country now needs is revolutionary
changes in its human rights history to once more
revive the economy.

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editorial Sunday 22 May 2022 A9

PERTY LOSSES AS Power and
OUGHER TIMES AHEAD privilege

SLPP MPs Sanath Nishantha and Milan By Harini Amarasuriya were unable to acknowledge their
Jayathilake were arrested by the Criminal
Investigation Department (CID) Tuesday evening own privilege in being provided a
(17) in connection with the attack on anti-
Government protesters by a group of SLPP One of the most frequently seen platform to speak about their
supporters.
slogans in the people’s ‘aragalaya’ experiences, to be heard and to be
The CID also recorded a statement from
Western Province SDIG Deshabandu Tennakoon is ‘we don’t want the 225’. Even a most probably compensated –
in connection with the incident.
cursory glance at social media, will things that have been denied to
Meanwhile, the CID informed the Speaker of
Parliament that statements would be recorded reveal the contempt and even many others who have been
from seven MPs in connection with the attack on
peaceful protesters in Galle Face and opposite hatred that is present among the through this same experience.
Temple Trees.
population against the 225. On 9 What could have become a
The Attorney General on Monday (16) directed
the IGP and CID Director to arrest 22 individuals, May 2022, after Mahinda moment for
including SLPP MPs Johnston Fernando and
Sanath Nishantha and produce them in Court as Rajapaksa and several
soon as possible, in connection with the attack
by SLPP supporters on peaceful anti-Government of his parliamentary
protesters, if there is reasonable suspicion for
doing so. colleagues,

SLPP MPs Milan Jayathilake, Sanjeeva unleashed violent
Ediramanna, Moratuwa Mayor Saman Lal
Fernando, Mahinda Kahandagama, Dan thugs on peaceful
Priyasad and Western Province SDIG
Deshabandu Tennakoon were also among those protesters outside
named in the letter.
Temple Trees and THROUGH
SLPP MP Dr. Ramesh Pathirana dropped a at Galle Face
bombshell in Parliament on Wednesday (18)
claiming Police did not prevent SLPP supporters Green, the homes
from attacking peaceful protesters on 9 May, on
the instructions of Public Security Ministry of around 70
Secretary Jagath Alwis and IGP Chandana
Wickramaratne. Members of

Dr. Pathirana said they were informed that Parliament were
former Premier Mahinda Rajapaksa would resign
and people from many areas flocked to Temple attacked – some
Trees to bid farewell to Rajapaksa.
torched. One MP was
“I was at Temple Trees on 9 May. We had been
informed that former PM would resign. killed. As one of the 225,
Therefore, I visited Temple Trees with a group of
supporters from Galle. Many innocent people it is hard to ignore the
who genuinely adore Mahinda Rajapaksa were
present to bid farewell. However, several MPs disapproval and outright anger us to reflect seriously on the
provoked the supporters to attack GotaGoGama.
This is the bitter truth and we have to accept directed at members of Parliament violence that our politics have
that,” he said.
during these times. engendered over the years was
Speaking further, Dr. Pathirana said that when
some people, who attended the meeting, were on Arguably, this slogan is not lost.
their way to attack the peaceful protesters he
phoned the Western province SDIG Deshabandu simply about individual members The fact that this debate was
Tennakoon and requested him to prevent the
attack. “SDIG Tennakoon assured me that the of Parliament, but a rejection of the taking place at a time when scores
Police would prevent the attack. He said the THROUGHestablished political culture in Sri
Police had placed road barricades. After that, I of Sri Lankans were experiencing
went to the President’s House for a meeting. Lanka that upholds a system of severe stress due to the ongoing
While I was at the President’s House, former MP
Ashu Marasinghe called me and said clashes power and privilege that has economic crisis was also largely
would be inevitable. He requested me to warn the
President and to ask for his intervention so as to created a huge chasm between ignored. That the anger and
avoid the imminent tragedy. I then informed the
President instantly,” Pathirana added. voters and the elected. Nowhere violence that was directed at MPs

However, when the President phoned SDIG else is the chasm as visible as in – however indefensible –
Tennakoon he claimed the IGP instructed them
not to prevent ‘attackers’ entering Galle Face. the parliamentary debates. Last stemmed from this stress, pain
“MP Anura Kumara Dissanayake is right. It was
the IGP and the Public Security Ministry week, when Parliament met for the and tension – was not
Secretary who instructed the Police to let the
goons attack the peaceful protesters at Galle first time since the incidents of 9 acknowledged. To the public,
Face,” he stressed.
May 2022, three days were watching the debate, what came
“The President then instructed SDIG
Tennakoon to prevent the attack. The SDIG had dedicated to a debate on the through was how Parliamentarians
informed the President that IGP Wickramaratne
had instructed the Police not to prevent the incidents of 9 May 2022 after yet spent three days arguing about
attacks. The President had then responded, “I am
the President and I order you to stop this.” It was another election for Deputy their own problems, completely
after that that the Police used force to disperse
the attackers,” Pathirana said. Speaker, which in itself provoked oblivious to the pain of their fellow

Dirty games? public anger. citizens. When news about special

A heated situation erupted in Parliament when There is no doubt that losing facilities for MPs to obtain fuel
Illankai Tamil Arasu Katchi (ITAK) MP
Shanakiyan Rasamanickam on Tuesday (17) one’s home, being the target of broke later in the week and what
alleged that Leader of the House Dinesh
Gunawardena stopped him chairing mob violence are traumatic was initially reported as at a
Parliamentary Sittings and invited SLPP MP
Shantha Bandara to preside, when he was invited experiences. I do not intend in any cheaper rate than what the public
to the chair by the staff.
wished Rajapakse saying that may the latter be way to dismiss that trauma or the paid, the fury was even greater.
able to act impartially in the House. Raising a Matter of Privilege in the House,
Rasmanickam said, when he was invited to chair anguish that my colleagues in While reports on a cheaper rate
“When I was subjected to verbal sexual the Sitting, Gunawardena sent messages to the
harassment back then, Rajapakse was chairing Secretary General of Parliament asking Bandara Parliament experienced. Yet, we proved to be incorrect, certainly
the sittings. It is sad that a woman cannot hold to be invited instead of him.
main positions in Parliament even now. The are not the first people in this special arrangements for MPs to
Constitution states that gender equality must be “This is a matter of my privilege. Before you
ensured. But this Parliament is yet to adhere to (Shantha Bandara) came to the Chair, a staff country to have experienced such obtain fuel from a different facility
that. Rajapaksa family instructed to defeat me member at Serjeant-at-Arms’ Department called
because I spoke against their corruption. I thank me and told me that the Speaker needs to leave violence. Till quite recently, such were correct. Even this – at a time
all the MPs who voted for me. The Prime Minister his chair and requested me to preside over the
also proposed to appoint a female MP as the The Parliament Sitting. Following that request, I took the chair. violence was experienced after when the public at large were
Deputy Speaker. His proposal was defeated. This week was entirely
is the first defeat of Ranil Wickremesinghe after spent on lament- At that time I saw Gunawardena sending every election; anti-Muslim spending hours in queues and
he accepted the post of PM. He will experience ing the property several messages to the Secretary General and
lots of failures in the future. It is clear that damages caused then sent a message asking you (Shantha violence in Digana and Aluthgama often being turned away without
Rajapaksa family is still carrying out their to the SLPP mem- Bandara) to take the chair instead of me. I saw it
agendas without respecting the people’s bers. There were very clearly. When I inquired, the Secretary left hundreds of homes destroyed, fuel – simply exacerbated anger
wishes,” she said. cross fires as well General told me ‘Don’t ask me’. I am a member
with several SLPP of the Speaker’s panel. I hope Parliament is an the 1983 riots destroyed the lives against elected representatives.
Parliament bemoans members and for- independent institution. This is not an SLPP
property damages mer government Parliament. All MPs have equal rights.” and homes of thousands in the It is essential that the political
allies directly and
The Parliament week was entirely spent on indirectly suggest- If you do not want me to preside over because Tamil community, the ethnic establishment takes this public
lamenting the property damages caused to the ing the 9 May riots I speak against the Government and Ranil
SLPP members. There were cross fires as well were instigated by Wickremesinghe’s ‘deals’, what is the point of conflict displaced thousands of sentiment seriously. We must
with several SLPP members and former their short-sight- this Parliament? I expect an answer from
government allies directly and indirectly ed, ignorant col- Gunawardena, he said. people – often multiple times, recognise that it is linked to the
suggesting the 9 May riots were instigated by leagues, while, the
their short-sighted, ignorant colleagues, while, SLPP members However, Gunawardena refused to make a Muslims were forcibly evicted from fact that people feel disconnected
the SLPP members were trying to frame the JVP were trying to clarification with regard to Rasamanickam’s
for country wide riots. frame the JVP for query. their homes in the North. There are from those in power and moreover
country wide riots
While insisting the 9 May attack was State “Rasamanickam is saying various things. I am many, many such incidents of loss, the strong feeling that those
terrorism, MP Udaya Gammanpila on Tuesday invitation. President of the BASL, Saliya Pieris PC not ready to answer his questions. He has to ask
(17) called for the arrest of all politicians who pointed out to the IGP and the senior officers of that from the Speaker. He needs to learn,” terror and violence in our country – elected to serve the public are
instigated the attack on peaceful GotaGoGama the CID the importance of maintaining public Gunawardena said.
protesters to restore public faith in law and order. confidence in the investigations by taking none of which can be justified – simply not delivering. Also, the
prompt and effective action. BASL Secretary Isuru Bandara who is presiding over the Sitting said
Speaking in Parliament, Gammanpila Balapatabendi said based on the statements that both he and Rasamanickam had received including the violence that was ostentatious displays of privilege –
extended his condolences to the family of MP made by the said officials in regard to the progress the invitation at the same time and he was given
Amarakeerthi Athukorala who was killed in of the investigations, there is nothing to complain the opportunity as his name was mentioned first unleashed in this country on the 9 whether it be the expensive
Nittambuwa and MPs whose properties were about the process adding that the BASL would as a Senior Member of the Committee of
damaged during the unrest. however monitor the same. Chairpersons. May. For many, the incidents of 9 vehicles, security, pomp and

“We have to condemn all kinds of terrorism He observed however that the investigations May recall memories of the past pageantry, during times of crisis
equally. The attack on GotaGoGama protesters and relevant actions should be independently
was State terrorism. Those who attacked the carried out by the authorities concerned and that we have collectively buried, stinks of insensitivity to the
protesters were summoned by government would not be interfered with adding that BASL
MPs. They instigated the supporters of the appeared for the case relating to the said incident but with which we have never hardships of the public. But this
former Prime Minister to carry out the attack. as an observer.
They met at Temple Trees and went to Galle come to terms. has become so much a part of our
Face from there. If this is not State terrorism, Meanwhile representations were also made by
what else can it be?” he queried. the BASL to the AG and the IGP on the attacks on What is most horrifying about political culture. Remember the
the protesters and the violence that followed.
“Why was the Government unable to these events, is that they were special arrangements made for
understand that a conflict would arise when pro- BASL previously demanded the immediate
government and anti- government forces arrest of all persons who instigated, conspired to deliberately provoked by those in MPs to obtain Covid vaccinations?
collide? There was plenty of time and unleash violence from the Temple Trees and were
opportunities to stop pro-government forces involved in assault and violence , irrespective of power. Often, there was complicity There is no doubt that MPs and
that were advancing from Temple Trees. But the the positions they hold in the Government or of
Police did not do anything. They let the attack to their family connections and for immediate travel from law enforcement and the other public representatives must
take place. Who gave instructions for this? The bans be imposed on such persons.
military and the Police were inactive during the military. We know today that there be compensated for their work and
attack. Who is responsible for that? Is that a part
of State terrorism? These are the question we were powerful Ministers and also provided with resources to
must ask.”
members of the ruling government carry out their work. But those
Meanwhile, MP Wimal Weerawansa also said
in Parliament that the attack on GotaGoGama behind the 1983 riots; that anti- resources and emoluments cannot
protesters was premeditated.
Muslim violence in recent times be privileges that place public
The Parliament took up the matter on Tuesday,
a day after IGP C.D. Wickramaratne informed the can be traced back to powerful representatives apart and above
Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) that a
number of arrests would be made in connection politicians. The attack on anti- other citizens. What has happened
with the attack on anti-Government protesters
by SLPP supporters opposite Temple Trees and government protestors on 9 May today is that those privileges shield
Galle Face within the next two days.
was also deliberately planned – elected officials from the public
This was during a meeting between President
and Deputy President of the BASL and the IGP with the blessings of no one less and place them in a separate,
and Senior officers of the CID at the Police
Headquarters on 16 May, upon the IGP’s than the former Prime Minister special category. Often, this

Mahinda Rajapaksa – and confines them within a hideously

statements from senior Police unrealistic bubble, distorting their

officers as well as members of the relationships with the public.

ruling party, point to the fact that However, none of this would be

law enforcement were ordered not questioned if the public felt that

to prevent clashes. In 1983, several they were being properly served by

left-wing political parties, including their elected representatives. The

the JVP were wrongly blamed for resentment today is that resources

the riots and banned. This time too, are being spent (lavishly) on

the JVP and to a lesser extent the elected representatives who are of

FSP are being blamed for the no use to the public.

violence. In both instances, the This is a central problem in our

scapegoating was political – in the political culture and it is right that

1980s, it was part of J.R. this is being questioned so

Jayewardene’s campaign against strenuously at this time. Rather

those challenging his political and than taking the public resentment

economic project and this time and anger personally (and I admit

around, certainly the JVP’s political it’s hard not to sometimes) it is

opponents are seizing the moment important that we make this an

to damage the growing popularity opportunity to make changes that

of the JVP and the NPP. ensure public representatives

Be that as it may, what I want to deliver to the public and to also

discuss in this column is the extent make them more grounded. For

to which politicians appear to be this, what is required is a change in

oblivious to the deep public the relationship between the voter

resentment towards them and and those elected and a change

particularly the privileges which not simply among elected

they take for granted. During the representatives but also voters.

debate in Parliament last week, Just as much as we question our

with few exceptions – most were elected representatives, as voters

unable to locate their own too we need to reflect seriously on

experiences of loss and violence how we elect those who uphold

with that of other Sri Lankans. They this system of privilege and power.

A10 FOCUSSunday 22 may 2022

By Sahan Tennekoon, Naufer are supposed to spend to earn for
Aloka Kasturiarachchi such repayment; we get stuck at
and Nabiya Vaffoor The Nazly these queues. We all have
families with children. Now we
Sri Lanka has been facing a Agonising cannot feed them. How can we
severe shortage of essentials Wait For Rukman give them a better life?” he spoke
during the past few weeks and Petrol Saman his heart out emotionally.
the short supply of petrol has
been one of the major causes Hariharan and his family Rukman noted that he joined
that have affected the whole the fuel queue by 8:30 a.m. He is
country due to crippling of the Ranjan and Shelton with the hope of getting fuel as
transportation sector directly. early as possible. He said, “Even
Meanwhile, either directly or since we are unable to cover the Flower road Shed Petrol queue by taxi is a mode of transportation;
indirectly the petrol shortage has 11 a.m. in the morning noted that we are doing a service to people.
affected the efficiency of the basic mount from the hires with he hasn’t had any meal for the There are 1.2 million people who
whole country in every sector. whole day, even when we spoke work as taxi drivers. Therefore,
What is witnessed countrywide is limited fuel for Rs.2000. We can to him by 4:30 p.m. in the we hope that the government will
long queues where fuel sheds are evening. give us some relief. We could
situated. Taxi drivers who spend time in the road waiting in petrol queues only travel 150-200 metres even have arbitrarily increased the taxi
after spending a whole day in the He who has been in this job for fare but we did not, because we
When Ceylon Today spoke to 10-years lamented that the taxi know that it is a difficult period
the taxi drivers, who are daily fuel queue,” he added. He further drivers cannot find their daily for all. One of my friends told me
wage earners , where their income with these restrictions that a petrol bowser has arrived
income solely relies on the though we juggle around with as that amount of fuel is hardly said that they will have to give up because they have no time to do to the shed near the Majestic City
availability of petrol we found out the job after being in long queues but I did not leave from the queue
that many of them line up in two jobs like a taxi driver, while enough for their job. their jobs in future if this crisis for hours. I was in. What if l reach there late
queues as early as 6 a.m. and on and fail to get fuel from that
most occasions they get to pump delivering goods too. Because “The adjustments in taxi fare continues. “People are waiting in these petrol station? “
fuel after 6 p.m. Taxi drivers claim queues even without taking food
they face great difficulties having the income that we make is only should be made immediately, Saman who has joined the and no water to drink. We are A person who does not want to
to pay monthly lease rentals and starving here on the road. We disclose his identity said that the
utility bills which they were able enough to eat and pay for the cannot afford to make ‘lease government should not be
to manage when they have been payments’ since, the time that we blamed for everything. “Many
working all the days of the month petrol to go on hire for the next Taxi services struggling people who are working in both
but now because of the petrol day. In this situation we will be public and private sectors are
shortage they are unable to have waiting in queues. We use
their vehicles up and running totally helpless if the government motorbikes in our day-to-day life
they could only work since one for various activities, but now our
half of the month. Obviously it is decides to keep increasing fuel Ceylon Today also spoke to a or the owner of the vehicle the whole life has collapsed with this
quite so because every other day crisis. I am very sad for my
they have to spend almost a prices,” he said. couple of transportation and rest. Fuel shortage has country.
whole day in queues to pump
petrol. This situation has made Responding to the taxi service providers who have adversely affected our services. Aruna who has been in the
their life highly miserable being queue since morning noted that
unable to make ends meet. government’s decision to limit been affected due to the While the drivers are in queues the public life has become a
great struggle.
21-year-old Hariharan who the supply of fuel to Rs. 2000, prevailing fuel shortage. we lose many bookings for
was in the queue with his whole “Meanwhile, we are aware that
family: Mother and two sisters there is no lack of fuel for
noted that they have been waiting vehicles owned by many private
in the queue since 12 p.m. When companies, public authorities
Ceylon Today spoke to one of his and certain bigwigs,” he said.
sisters, she said they came to
check whether they can find gas Nazly, a person who had been
somewhere to cook the next meal working in the tourism industry
for the family of four. for many years said with the
country’s crisis there is no way
“They did not give us any clear that the tourism industry and the
message; we have been standing individuals who rely on it have a
in this queue from 8 a.m. My future or way to earn a living out
sisters came to check whether of it.
there is gas but they have closed
the ‘Gas Shop’. So we continued “We all had done a big mistake
to stay inside our three wheeler when we casted our votes. We
chewing betel leaves for hours have never voted for the right
while in the queue. Just now we person. That is why we are
went to have our lunch,” noted suffering. If you are talking about
Hariharan, by 4. p.m. while talking the responsibility, systems
to Ceylon Today. change and so on, the political
hierarchy is so complicated and
He further claimed, “Though I unpredictable. You play a
fill the tank today it would not be cunning game, cheat and win.
a productive day since by the With such power given to an
time I get my turn to pump fuel it individual’s hands, how can we
would be after dusk and therefore not expect them not to misuse
I am left with a slim chance of it?” he questioned showing
getting hires for the day. anger.

“I did not take any bookings for Nazly claimed that, the fuel
hires for the last two weeks crisis was something created by
because of the scarcity of fuel. If the power given to the politicians.
this situation continues I will
have no choice but to keep the “Our authorities concerned do
three wheeler aside and look for not like to buy fuel from certain
another job,” he added. countries like Russia and Iran.
There are many countries ready to
Shelton, and a taxi driver who supply fuel. The authorities try to
has been waiting in the diesel buy fuel from the countries where
queue since 6 a.m. said that the they could earn a commission. Not
previous day he stayed for from the countries that we can get
12-hours in Mahabage but could it for a reasonable price or the
not get fuel. He further said their countries that we can get it easily.
livelihood is in a danger as there We should not buy fuel from one
are no fuel supplies anywhere. country; we must go for other
options.,” he alleged.
Ranjan , 36-years experienced
taxi driver said he has never seen Fuel shortage in the country
such a crisis in his lifetime, even has prompted fuel rationing. A
during the 30-years of Eelam war. person riding a motorcycle is
allowed to pump a maximum of
“Despite the 30-years of civil four litres, those with three-
war we had all the essentials to wheeled motorbikes five litres
function as a normal community; and cars are restricted to 19.5
there was no shortage of any fuel litres. Majority of the public who
then. The Government lies to the spend hours in queues are
public that there is no issue in wasting at least more than six
supplying fuel but in petrol sheds hours waiting to pump petrol
nothing can be found, and when limited to only Rs.2000, which
we get to the sheds all we can are 100-150 litres. For the taxis
see is long queues running into and ‘delivery’ vehicles, the said
several kilometres. During all amount of petrol can only last for
these hours that I’ve been a day and they are hence they are
waiting, two diesel-browser compelled to stand in these
trucks arrived but no queues again the next day.
petrol- bowsers,” he added.
This situation has crippled
He further noted that that many industries such as the
during the 1994-2005 Bakery and confectionery
Government a litre of petrol was businesses including ‘Choon
Rs.13.50. paan’. The efficiency of taxi and
delivery services efficiency was
“We were able to earn a living cut down by 50%. In the midst of
and lead a comfortable life, where the economic crisis the petrol
we were able to manage shortage has been pushing the
everything without any problem country from frying pan to fire.
while only doing this job, as a taxi
driver but now we can’t even pay (Pix by Manjula Dayawansa
for the essentials from the and Kelum Chamara)
income that we make, even
Nawfer, a taxi driver in Colombo A popular cab service, which hires. Our drivers wait in very
Sharing beverages
while waiting in queues said that they are in a huge crisis has been providing taxi and cab long queues for hours to pump

services since 2012, claimed fuel just like anyone else would

that their company cannot these days. Because the drivers

provide an adequate service to have hires during the day time.

meet the demand. Most of the On most occasion they are

vehicles which are contracted to queuing up at nights and waiting

the company are in fuel queues. till morning until they get their

Speaking with Ceylon Today a fuel supply. They also have

representative of the cab service social media groups including

noted that they receive calls WhatsApp groups to obtain

through the Call Centre but they instant notification regarding

cannot confirm the reservations fuel stations that supply fuel.

or times with the customers “It places the customers as

since they don’t actually know well as the transport agency in

an exact time when the drivers jeopardy. We have signed

will arrive after pumping fuel. contracts with some companies

“The hires we receive have to provide transportation so

been halved. Drivers reporting when something inconvenient

to work have also been highly like this happens it is very hard

irregular. From the fare we retain to maintain a business,” he

a percentage and pay the driver added.

focus Sunday 22 May 2022 RaAteCvGlooelatunatGEionoGenarmgyaA11

Celebrating World Inspiring manifestation of the power and inventiveness of Sri Lankans

Telecommunication & BY Thameenah Razeek Mahisanka Abeywickrama Sujeeva Premaratne

Information Society Day 2022 Second-hand automobile batteries are at the stop propelling zero-emission batteries, these However, the electricity wires for the private
centre of a revolution in a corner of the battery packs now work together to store solar tents have not been extended.
Digital GotaGoGama. electricity and discharge it in real time at
GotaGoGama, according to Premaratne. The contributors have now given Lithium iron
Technologies for Despite the fact that many electric vehicle phosphate batteries in addition to the used
batteries are still useable, they are currently Speaking about the possible breakthrough, batteries.
Older Persons and discarded in large quantities. However, as he said that many have attempted it in Sri
second-life and recycling models gain traction Lanka, but it has not yet reached the point Why second-life batteries?
Healthy Ageing in the future years, this is expected to change. where governmental action is required.
Energy storage is a critical growing area for
By Eunice Ruth Apart from political divisions and personal How the truck became a piece the Sri Lankan power industry. Battery
agendas, GotaGoGama, the protest site of art? manufacturing capacity expansion lowers
 The purpose of World Telecommunication and adjacent to the Presidential Secretariat, is a prices, making the technology more cost-
Information Society Day (WTISD) is to help raise fully-fledged, self-sufficient protest village Second-life batteries, according to competitive over time.
awareness of the possibilities that the use of the Internet powered mostly by the protesters. Abeywickrama, are a cheap source of grid
and other information and communication technologies storage and a solution to the electric vehicle Second-life batteries, according to
(ICT) can bring to societies and economies, as well as of GotaGoGama not only united the country industry’s recycling demands. He claimed that Abeywickrama, promise significantly lower
ways to bridge the digital divide. under one flag in less than a month, but they as a clean-energy option, the government costs. There is no need to spend money on a
also generated renewable solar energy 24/7 hasn’t worked it out yet. new battery when the original has already been
 17 May marks the anniversary of the signing of the even if they did not have access to electricity, paid for. Batteries in cars are normally replaced
first International Telegraph Convention and the creation water, telecommunications, or sanitary He explained that when he was given the when they reach about 80% of their original
of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). amenities. opportunity to build a solar power station in capacity, but they can still store electricity for
World Telecommunication Day has been celebrated less than 24 hours, he had plenty of hands to purposes other than driving.
annually on 17 May since 1969, marking the founding of GotaGoGama is an inspiring manifestation of assist him.
ITU and the signing of the first International Telegraph the power and inventiveness of the Sri Lankan He claims the truck’s solar power station
Convention in 1865. people, with its own medical clinics, library, The solar panels were delivered to the produces 1 kw of solar energy and 2.8 kw of
solar power station, and more. location in a truck. There are indeed a series of battery energy.
 The Telecommunication Regulatory Commission of sheds next to produce energy that are stocked
Sri Lanka (TRCSL) stated that the main purpose of They showcased their inventiveness with a with undamaged second-life battery packs. He stated that if the changed battery banks
WTISD is to help raise awareness of the use of ICT for Presidential Secretariat lighted up with music They store solar energy and discharge it to the are purchased, the inverter will cost roughly Rs
socio-economic development in tandem with bridging and light. When it was obstructed, they lifted the tents. 200,000, and four solar panels will cost around
the digital divide. The theme for 2022 is, ‘Digital banner high up with laser beams. The solar Rs 200,000.
Technologies for Older Persons and Healthy Ageing’ power station’s maximum output is 6Kw, solar The existing battery packs have a total
which emphasises the role of digital technologies in power generation is 2Kw, storage capacity is capacity of 2.8 kw, which is little in comparison Even electrical appliances in hospitals, such
achieving healthier ageing and addresses the importance 8Kw, and it works 24 hours. GotaGoGama to new batteries being built elsewhere, but work as nebulisers, are powered by the solar energy
of being prepared to respond to the future needs and exemplifies dynamism, tenacity, innovation, is underway to more than triple the storage truck.
requirements of the ageing population. resilience, and discipline, among other qualities. capacity on site.
Is solar energy stable?
 The ageing of the global population will be the defining A truck with four solar panels, two inverters, Meanwhile, Premaratne said that they recycle
demographic trend of the 21st century, yet our societies and a bunch of batteries was seen, when batteries that have been used for more than ten The question now is how much of an impact
struggle to see the opportunities that this trend can GotaGoGama was visited, with many lines from years. He confirmed, however, that those this method can have. When the chance arises,
unfold. Telecommunications and ICT have a role to play the vehicle connecting to roughly four to five batteries may be used as power storage for building minor utility-scale initiatives nudges
in achieving healthier ageing, but also in helping people tents. The solar panels on the truck illuminate another ten years before being recycled. Sri Lanka’s grid in a cleaner direction. However,
build smarter cities, combat age-based discrimination at some of the area’s most important landmarks. the revolutionary potential of the second-life
the workplace, ensure financial inclusion of older He explained that to light up the battery concept outweighs this.
persons, and support millions of caregivers across the What caused the truck to be GotaGoGama, they brought 16 old batteries
world. stranded at GGG? and connected them to a solar panel via an Is there a personal motive at
inverter, which then powered the library, phone work here?
 “Equitable access to digital technologies isn’t just a The concept was born in a simple Facebook charging station, two small hospitals, youth
moral responsibility, it’s essential for global prosperity community dedicated to assisting innovaters centre, and media centre. Both Abeywickrama and Premaratne, as well
and sustainability”. and inventions. When the GotaGoGama was as the university student in charge of the
having trouble providing electricity for the The Library vehicle, claim that the solar panel concept in
 “Population ageing is recognised as one of the global library, hospitals, youth centre, media centre, GotaGoGama has no hidden objective. They
demographic megatrends. The elderly population has and the phone charging centre, which charges claimed that all they need is for the government
always been considered an asset to their families, over 100 phones per day, Ushan Sakuntha, an to see what they’ve done with some discarded
communities and societies. However, they have activist, posted a message on the Facebook batteries.
sometimes been perceived as a vulnerable group group DIY Solar Energy – Off Grid Sri Lanka,
dependent on young generations. With the rapid stating that the GotaGoGama needed a power They stated that they want this approach to
advancement of cutting-edge technologies, this station. And that is where it all began. be emulated across the country, so that people
vulnerable group can be transformed into a valuable do not have to suffer from the ongoing 13-hour
group,” the TRCSL stated. Mahisanka Abeywickrama, who works in the power outages.
electric vehicle industry, came up with the idea
 Taking this fact into account, it is evident that digital of tucking a truck in GotaGoGama and giving They said that, despite the political and
technologies are versatile in enabling elderly people to solar energy with another activist, Sujeeva economic crises, they are committed to
contribute to the socio-economic development of the Premaratne, who works as a consultant. advancing President Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s
country. ICT plays a catalytic role in creating renewable energy concept, but that what is
opportunities for people in almost every aspect of their What made the battery packs lacking is political inventiveness and
lives. As everyday services move online and societies come back to life? government discrimination against different
become networked by means of ICT, the ageing sectors of society.
population tend to get sidelined in the digital era which Even when Sri Lankans were experiencing
embraces fast-growing innovation in digital technology. power outages due to a lack of capacity to meet PIX BY Kelum Chamara
demand, GotGoGama never went black. The
 The accelerated digital transformation during the solar panels were brought up and the truck was
Covid-19 pandemic has further highlighted the issues provided. The solar power station’s unique
relating to digital equity of all ages, as many elders feature is that the panel works both day and
struggled to access essential goods and services online. night. It’s more of a storage location for power.
Therefore, our dependence on ICTs brings out the
necessity to address the ‘digital divide’ between Instead of falling into obscurity after they
generations and to give policy priorities on the
importance of digital inclusion for older persons.

 Meanwhile, the ITU Secretary-General, Houlin Zhao
stated that humanity and technology are at a turning
point. During the pandemic, the world has seen what
digital technologies can do and how they can transform
our future. Emerging digital technologies in fields from
5G and the Internet of Things (IoT) to Artificial
Intelligence (AI) and cloud computing are pushing the
boundaries of what’s impossible.

“Great possibilities come with great responsibilities.
Close to three billion people are still unconnected, with
the majority of them living in developing countries. This
includes more than 1 billion people aged 60 years or
older. This group of the population, which is growing
larger and larger, has greatly contributed to the social
and economic achievements of our time. With the
passing of time, they are now facing new opportunities
and challenges. They deserve our care and help. Further,
I’m calling everyone to share what has worked and what
else can be done to help older persons become active
participants in, and valuable contributors to the digital
world,” said Zhao.

 “Nearly half of humanity still has no access to the
internet. We must connect everyone, everywhere by the
end of 2030, because leaving no one behind means
leaving no one offline. At the same time, we must take
action to prevent and reduce the dangers of information
technology, including the spread of misinformation and
the exploitation of personal data. This is the vision of my
Roadmap for Digital cooperation to embrace the promise
of digital technology while protecting people from its
perils. Let us commit to working together to ensure that
technology is equitable, safe, and affordable for all
people and all ages,” UN Secretary-General, Antonio
Guterres said.

The truck Battery setup A university student monitors the progress on
board the solar truck

A12 FocusSunday 22 may 2022

By Sulochana Ramiah Mohan SriLankan Airlines has been used, The loss for the year

National asset privatisation has its PM proposesabusedfortoolong! 2020-2021 alone
benefits and drawbacks, but in the privatising
SriLankan Airlines context, national assets debt-ridden amounts to Rs 45
have suffered numerous setbacks, primarily flag carrier
due to controversies, such as corruption billion. By 31 March
scandals, mismanagement, and political The statement of monthly salary of between Rs 1 million and million from an Airbus deal in 2014.
intervention particularly by the hierarchy facts issued on 31 Rs 2 million. The committee also revealed However, there is another case of a US$ 65 2021, the total loss
and Rajapaksa family members in top January 2020 as that SriLankan Airlines' daily loss was Rs million Airbus deal that Thirukumar
positions. SriLankan Airlines is an example part of the Deferred 84 million and that a systematic plan was Nadesan allegedly profited from, but was at Rs 372
of a high-flying industry that had nose- Prosecution needed to make the company profitable. because he had all the documents related
dived for years, unable to reap benefits. Agreement reached to the deal, he escaped bribery charges billion. Even if we
between Airbus and But COPE also commended SriLankan and the UK authorities did not register him
There were lapses on the part of the the prosecuting Airlines for reducing its costs by US$ 66.9 as a faulty man. privatise SriLankan
Government too. The Government should authorities, million in 2019/20 and 2020/21.
also create an environment conducive to indicates that It all came to light in the case of Airlines, this is a
businesses. According to an aviation expert, Airbus had agreed Corruption, scandals Chandrasena, where EADS HQ/ SSC
Sri Lanka was the only country in the world to pay out a sum of France (i.e., European Aeronautic Defence loss that we must
that refused entry to its own people during US$ 16.84 million SriLankan has been managed since and Space Company N.V.), the parent
the pandemic. Present Chairman, Ashok (Rs 2.5 billion 2008, but for over 15 years it was exposed company of Airbus SAS, paid a sum of US$ bear. You must be
Pathirage, is said to be pulling together the [2015]) to influence to mismanagement and corruption. 2 million as a bribe to an account bearing
airline industry by using his business model, the aircraft SriLankan had plans to buy aircraft and it the number 0107130602 under the name aware that this is a
but that isn’t enough. purchase, to a was heavily criticised, hence the idea was of Priyanka Neomali Wijenayake,
company registered scrapped. However, in the present climate, Chandrasena's wife. They were arrested in loss that must be
In 1998, the then Administration of former in Brunei under the they will continue to lose money, as many February 2020 and released on bail.
President Chandrika Kumaratunga had sold wife of an executive cancellations of reservations are Wijenayake had a Standard Chartered borne even by the
40 per cent of the equity of SriLankan worth at SriLankan occurring. Bank of Singapore account under the
US$ 70 million, later increased to 43.6 per Airlines name Biz Solutions, with account number poor people of this
cent, and given management to Emirates, In fact, two COPE reports exposed the 0107130602.
after it suffered years of losses. COPE also recommended to the corruption and misuse of funds when the country who have
Secretary to the Ministry of Tourism to Mahinda Rajapaksa regime leased Airbus Media reported that as aircraft
SriLankan Airlines fell from grace long study the present situation and submit a aircraft. manufacturer Airbus reached a record 3.6 never stepped on an
time ago and then it was entrusted to report at the Ministerial level within a billion Euro settlement with the US, UK, and
Emirates, but yet again the need for month. However, the corruption and scandals French authorities following a four-year airplane
privatising SriLankan has come up. involved with the top management officials investigation into allegations of bribery and
The Committee further recommended of SriLankan still stands tall. The cases are corruption, TISL wishes to highlight the serous flying mishaps involving Chief Pilot
Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe of that an Expert Committee be appointed to moving at snail’s pace and there is still no importance of paying compensation to the Druvi Perera and Captain U.A.V. Pathirana,
the Interim Government announced last conduct a comprehensive study and light at the end of the tunnel. Most of the countries who are the victims of corrupt the statement said. There were also
week that SriLankan lost Rs 45 billion (US$ submit a report as early as possible. cases involve the relatives of the deals involving Airbus. allegations of two staff engaged in human
125 million) in March 2021. “The loss for the Rajapaksas. SriLankan Airlines’ smuggling getting off lightly, raising
year 2020-2021 alone amounts to Rs 45 The Committee also observed that a management was once upon a time The statement of facts issued on 31 serious concerns whether a few
billion. By 31 March 2021, the total loss was senior Management Officer serving in handled by Mahinda Rajapaksa’s brother- January 2020 as part of the Deferred employees continue to support a criminal
at Rs 372 billion. Even if we privatise SriLankan Airlines as of 31 March 2021 in-law and another one closely connected Prosecution Agreement reached between human smuggling ring.
SriLankan Airlines, this is a loss that we receives a monthly salary of Rs 3.1 million was CEO Kapila Chandrasena. Airbus and the prosecuting authorities,
must bear. You must be aware that this is a and 82 pilots receive a monthly salary of indicates that Airbus had agreed to pay out Also, it was highlighted the appointment
loss that must be borne even by the poor over Rs 2 million, another 142 pilots, 12 Corruption in the Airbus deal began to a sum of US$ 16.84 million (Rs 2.5 billion of a retired Army Major General P.
people of this country who have never aeronautical engineers, 9 engineering rear its ugly head in early 2000. On 4 May [2015]) to influence the aircraft purchase, Chandrawansa, who did not have aviation
stepped on an airplane,” Wickremesinghe managers and three top management 2022, Transparency International Sri Lanka to a company registered in Brunei under security experience, on a salary of Rs
said. officers of SriLankan Airlines receive a (TISL) wrote a letter to the Bar Association the wife of an executive at SriLankan 450,000 without following recruitment
of Sri Lanka (BASL) requesting the BASL to Airlines. procedures and he was accused of
SriLankan Airlines Annual Report 2020/21 look into the legal proceedings against engaging in political activities while being
noted that amid the dramatic decline in air former Sri Lankan Airlines CEO Prior to these revelations, there were employed by SriLankan Airlines.
traffic demand coupled with international Chandrasena. instances where the former President of
border closures driven by the first, second, Sri Lanka Mahinda Rajapaksa also The statement also mentioned about the
and now the third wave of rising Covid-19 TISL requested the BASL to take misused SriLankan Airlines and benefited reports they obtained that there was also
cases, the recovery for the Airline has been necessary action including inquiring with from it. major fraud in the awarding of tenders and
slower than expected. Nevertheless, SLA the Attorney General of Sri Lanka and the singles out a duty-free deal and the sale of
managed to navigate through a period of Inspector General of Police to initiate There were local reports exposing that wine as one of the blatantly corrupt deals
suppressed revenues by concentrating on action or revive legal proceedings against he spent over Rs 785 million within three of SriLankan requiring a criminal
the cost-saving measures, cash burn this individual. years to charter SriLankan Airlines aircraft investigation. The BoI pointed out that the
reductions, selective flying mainly for his visits abroad and the Airbuses corrupt manner in which the General Sales
concentrating on cargo where revenue The letter said the case involving large would often remain idle in various airports Agents were appointed in many countries
opportunities prevailed and support from amount of public funds embezzlement in until he finished his tours. on behalf of the airlines and manipulations
the Government of Sri Lanka (GoSL). Cargo the case of SriLankan Airlines. The TISL made. The BoI concluded that the
revenue offered a lifeline to the Airline by said in respect to the Airbus-SriLankan In 2015, after the Rajapaksas were management culture was a major
exploiting the heavily reduced passenger case in 2020, the TISL identified the defeated, then Prime Minister Ranil contributing factor for abuse of power and
flight schedule resulting from the significant Serious Fraud Office in the UK regarding Wickremesinghe released a long external interference into the business of
reduction in passenger numbers. the Deferred Prosecution Agreement (DPA) statement relating to SriLankan Airlines SriLankan Airlines.
Consequently, a substantial portion of air raising issue of the need for victim and the corruption it is engulfed in.
freight was carried in the bellies of idling compensation. This DPA is on the public The BoI panel was headed by anti-
passenger aircraft during the year in review, record and contains a statement of facts In that statement, the PM Office noted corruption advocate and senior lawyer J.C.
making cargo revenue surpass passenger agreed upon by the authorities and Airbus that the Board of Inquiry (BoI) found that Weliamuna. In his statement, he said he
revenue for the first time ever. admitting to bribes paid to these SriLankan Chandrasena was paid a monthly salary of found instances of gross abuse of power
parties. Although SriLankan Airlines has Rs 1.5 million on top of other perks and he by former Chairman Nishantha
In 2018, the country revived a process of reportedly taken steps to make a claim had also enjoyed salaries simultaneously Wickramasinghe, whose penchant for
privatising the carrier after talks with TPG against the company Airbus SE for US$ 1 from his other appointments. young air hostess cost the debt-ridden
Capital collapsed following due diligence of billion in damages, the TISL demanded airline even more problems.
the airline. But two years later, that plan was that necessary action should be taken by The BoI also found that a London Station
taken off the table, Bloomberg reported. the SriLankan authorities for the loss of at Manager who tried to stop the illegal The BoI also said former President
TPG Capital, L.P. of United States operates least US$ 98 million inflicted on the practice of sending motor spare parts for Rajapaksa made management changes to
as an investment management firm. The citizens of Sri Lanka. the use of former President’s son Yoshitha carry out a refleeting of the airline with
Company manages investment funds had been suddenly transferred out on the brand new aircraft costing US$ 2.3 billion,
specialising in growth capital, venture It is still claimed that a Sri Lankan direction of former President Rajapaksa. despite the availability of more cost-
capital, real estate, private equity, hedge working as an agent laundered US$ 15 effective alternatives.
fund, and debt investments. TPG Capital The airline had also tried to hush up two
serves customers in the United States. Who is printing Ugandan
money?
According to Bloomberg, at least eight
parties had showed interest in a 2016 This is not all. There is more. Recently, a
attempt to sell the flag carrier, including US stack of parcels were sent to Uganda and it
buyout firm Blackstone Group LP. was alleged some of the items belonged to
the Rajapaksas that were transported by
Interestingly, Bloomberg quotes Shukor air. SriLankan denied all allegations.
Yusof, founder of aviation consulting firm SriLankan Airlines confirmed that Cargo
Endau Analytics in Malaysia as saying, flights left to Uganda in February 2021 with
“Sri Lanka is in a very bad shape, so anyone Ugandan currency notes from a global
thinking of buying its flag carrier is therefore security printer who operates several
taking a huge risk.” factories worldwide, including one in Sri
Lanka, exporting to global markets. “De La
The losses Rue provides bank notes for half of the
central banks around the world. We do this
The losses incurred by SriLankan have from our sites in Sri Lanka, Kenya, Malta
been on the rise mainly from the time the and the UK, with joint ventures in Sri Lanka
Easter Sunday Attacks that collapsed the and Kenya that contribute to the
travel industry. economies of those countries. We do not
comment on our customers.”
Losses of SriLankan Airlines incurred in
the recent past: Uganda, on the other hand, in 2018, signed
a deal with a German company to begin
The cumulative losses as of 31 March printing its own security documents such as
2021 was at Rs 371.734 billion and same bank notes, passports, and cheques. In 2018,
period in 2020 it was at Rs 326.34 billion. On Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni
31 March 2010, it was at Rs 2.72 billion, witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of
while on 31 March 2015 it was Rs 128.24 Understanding with Veridos Identity
billion. Solutions Group, a German firm. Uganda
can't afford to print its own currency,
In terms of the debt of non-aircraft it according to Bank of Uganda officials,
remains as of 31 March 2021 at Rs 203.62 because the "process is sophisticated and
billion, while as at 31 March 2020 it was thus contacting a local company would be
121.75.75 billion. As of 31 March 2010, it overly expensive." The question remains.
was at Rs 5.12 billion and in 2015 it was at Who prints Ugandan currency?
Rs 73.36 billion.
While SriLankan faced such challenges,
The non-aircraft debt as a percentage of the Government should try to privatise the
the revenue indicates that the growing debt airline for the second time. The benefit of
is unstable too. As of 31 March 2021, it was privatising SriLankan Airlines is that
271.50 per cent and same period in 2020 it politicians will be less likely to interfere,
was 76.58 per cent. and a fair deal should be struck, with Sri
Lanka benefiting more than the new
The net current assets have rapidly management that takes over.
deteriorated too. As of 31 March 2021, it
stayed at Rs 221.31 billion, while in the ([email protected])
same period in 2020 it was at Rs 211.64
billion.

A senior manager receives
Rs 3.1 M – COPE

In July 2021, Chairman of the Committee
on Public Enterprises (COPE), Prof. Charitha
Herath, directed the Chairman of SriLankan,
Ashok Pathirage to prepare a complete
business plan to make SriLankan Airlines
profitable and submit it to COPE within a
month.

FOCUS Sunday 22 may 2022 A13

huFpalparontmughegienrhigsrs
Yala season looking bleak with diesel, fertiliser shortages

By Thameenah Razeek tractors could be found before 31 May. People are suffering, that it was the only answer they had farmer moves away from paddy
People are suffering, he continued, he continued, and received from the Government. cultivation. As a solution to this, the
Farmers are now breathing harder to the authorities are present Prime Minister should focus on
start sowing and ploughing for Yala and the authorities are aware that the aware that the letter He also claimed that tractor owners solving the problems of the farmers,”
season in the light of a 40 per cent letter is being rejected by fuel stations. is being rejected by demand Rs 25,000 per acre. “We have to they said.
reduction in Maha season harvest. He claimed that they have no choice but fuel stations. He queue to get diesel from them. In this
Farmers are quitting due to the terrible to wait until 31 May and that if a solution claimed that they condition, the farmer is unable to work In response to the chemical fertiliser
crisis caused by the severe scarcity in is not found by then, there will be no have no choice but on his field freely. The Prime Minister shortage, the Dimbulagala Buddha
diesel and the government’s failure to harvest from the Yala season. to wait until 31 May claims that he is creating a country Sraavaka Sangha Sabha said that the
provide chemical fertiliser. Harvesting by the Mahaweli Authority and that if a solution where people can eat three meals a day. most pressing issue facing farmers
has also been halted. According to him, is not found by then, We have a legitimate concern about how now is a lack of fuel and chemical
On the other hand, the Mahaweli there are 100,000 hectares of paddy to there will be no the Prime Minister will proceed when the fertiliser. Farmers in the Mahaweli
Authority and the Agriculture plough, but only 5,000 hectares have harvest from the farmers are left with no options. There is zones want to produce paddy this year,
Department are up in arms over giving been ploughed and sowed. Yala season. doubt whether the Premier is possibly but they are concerned about the
chemical fertiliser and diesel to farmers Harvesting by the trying to sell areas of the country to absence of infrastructure, they say.
for Yala. “The situation is even worse in rural Mahaweli Authority import rice. Because if farmers are not
areas like Dehiaththakandiya and has also been provided with the necessities, that is the The Secretary of the Dimbulagala
Farmers complain that despite the Hambantota. Farmers are alarmed by halted. According to only way to offer three meals,” he noted. Buddha Sralavaka Sangha Sabha Ven.
fact that water has been available for the situation. If they are unable to find a him, there are Dimbulagala Rahulalankara Thera
cultivation for 21 days, approximately 30 solution, there will be no Yala harvest, 100,000 hectares of In response, Additional Director arrived at the conclusion that the Prime
per cent of paddy fields have been which means no rice. The situation is paddy to plough, but General of Agriculture (Development) Minister should be given more time to
cleared and around 30,000 acres of dangerous, putting the farmer and every only 5,000 hectares Department of Agriculture Peradeniya, administer the country, with the goal of
paddy lands are at risk owing to a lack of other ordinary person in a predicament,” have been ploughed H.M.J. Ilankoon Menike said that they ending the protests and growing the
fuel. he claimed. and sowed had no idea how to help the farmers who country, as well as finding solutions to
are unable to use diesel or chemical all of the farmers’ current problems.
Farmers need roughly 600,000 litres of Furthermore, Rajapaksha said there fertilisers.
fuel for cultivating paddy and around 60 will undoubtedly be a crop block, “Due to a scarcity of fuel, 60,000
litres of diesel to plough and prepare a causing the entire farming system to fail She added that the distribution of any acres of paddy in the Mahaweli B zone
hectare of soil for sowing. and farmers to suffer. document demanding that farmers be have gone barren. Prioritising fuel for
given priority for fuel will only be decided the farming community should
Chairman of the Farmers’ Rights Meanwhile, Divisional Chairman of at Divisional Secretariat meetings. “They motivate farmers to cultivate paddy
Protection Organisation, B. Gamini Angunakolapelessa P.G. Priyantha are in charge of coming up with a viable during the Yala season. We urge that
Kulatunga, indicated that the Walawa Naroshan noted that his division has method for providing enough diesel to incumbent Prime Minister expedite the
area, which is home to roughly 35,000 approximately 9,000 acres of paddy the farmers”. delivery of critical fertiliser and other
farming families, is divided into six fields. commodities.
sections; three on the left of the river When asked about chemical fertiliser,
and three on the right bank. “However, about ten per cent of the she said they are about to receive 65 Over 5,000 farmers have been
work has already started. The scarcity of metric tonnes of chemical fertiliser via displaced in another agricultural village
The three left bank divisions are diesel is the principal cause of the the Indian Credit Line, which is yet to in Thambalagamuwa Divisional
Kiri-ibbanwewa, Sooriyawewa, and reduced work. When we asked for arrive. Secretariat due to a lack of fuel.
Mayurapura. The three right bank organic manure for paddy fields last
divisions are Chandriwakawewa, season, we requested 50 per cent She also didn’t know when it will arrive Due to the frequent complaints from
Murawasihena, and Angunakolapelessa. chemical fertiliser. Then it was said that because the Ministry of Agriculture had farmers, Thambalagamuwa Divisional
if paddy fields were fertilised with not yet updated them. Secretary Gauri Sripathi said that all
Nearly 300,000 people are fed by these organic manure, the yield would be responsible parties had been informed
35,000 farmer households. However, lowered and compensation would be Politicians oblivious in writing about the fuel shortage.
due to the Government's poor provided. We farmers do not expect
management and discrimination, they anyone to compensate us. Bring the to issue She added that the main reason for
have been relegated to the diesel queues fertiliser and agrochemicals to the this is that there is only one diesel shed
rather than the field. market and the farmer will pay. Set a Meanwhile, Pemalal Kumarasinghe, in the Thambalagamuwa area, where
lower price for certain items. We will Kiriibbanwewa Divisional Chairman, farming is the main occupation.
Because of the great level of then return to our fields. We will provide remarked that politicians are still unable
mechanisation in farming, the tractor everybody with three meals per day,” he to comprehend why people are starving. A local farmer reported that they lost
has become one of the most important said. everything last season due to a lack of
farming tools. Tractor owners often “It is impossible not to eat and drink, fertiliser. This Yala season, he claimed,
charge Rs 25,000 per acre. However, When Chairman Mayurapura Division regardless of the facilities. After 1977, there will be no diesel. “My backyard is
tractor owners insist that fuel be Sudesh Gamage asked how to cultivate no politician could comprehend the 600 acres of paddy fields. 15 acres have
provided. A farmer bemoaned, “If the for the Yala season, officials were importance of the farmer. Now is the been cleaned as of today. The remaining
farmers give diesel, the tractor owners stumped. At the outset of the Yala time for current politicians to recognise paddy fields have not been drained due
say they would sow,” season, Gamage claimed, there were this. The ruse that the farmer is being to a lack of fuel. The scenario is similar
negotiations with the authorities. compensated, fertilised, and provided in other paddy fields,” he said.
However, in a significant development, relief is a waste of time. It deceives the
the Mahaweli Authority has written to He acknowledged receiving a letter entire population. We recommend that Mollipathana Chairman Subair,
fuel station owners to prioritise diesel from the Mahaweli Authority and stated the new Prime Minister provide help to another farmer, claimed he has 677
for farmers. The majority of farmers the farmer. Within six months, we will acres in his yard, of which only 50 acres
have received this letter. However, the have made the country self-sufficient in have been cleared so far. He said that
fuel stations seem unconcerned by this rice, vegetables and fruits,” he said. despite weeding some portions of the
request. land, they will have to re-weed.
Water was delivered for farming on
Approximately 35,000 acres of paddy 25 April for the Yala season, according “In Mollipathana 95 region, there is
lands in the Walawa region may become to officials from the Udawalawe only one fuel station. A fuel tank delivers
barren if this continues. Reservoir, and there is now enough around 6,660 litres of fuel, followed by
water. another fuel tank arriving in the area
Mahaweli Authority’s after a week. Diesel is only provided for
request Officials recommended farmers to essential service or needs according to
use rainwater. It was determined to the administration but isn’t agriculture a
When queried about the letter, cultivate 25,000 acres of paddy and necessary service? Isn’t rice a must-
Mahaweli Authority Director General 25,000 acres of other crops such as have food? All of these are pranks. We
(Agriculture) R. M. Nevil Rajapaksha bananas and vegetables for the Yala sincerely beg that the Government send
said that farmers wouldn’t be able to season. at least two diesel bowsers to the area
harvest crops this Yala Season unless a every week, without any sugar-coated
solution for delivering diesel for “We, the authorities, are always ready answers,” he said.
to assist the farmer. Unfortunately, no
Member of Parliament has raised the The paddy production has reduced by
issue of the farming community’s 40 per cent to over 50 per cent in the
position during Yala season this year. past Maha season due to the
Farmers should be given priority for fuel application of organic manure. If urea is
and chemical fertilisers during this not provided this time, the yield will
year’s Yala season. Otherwise, there undoubtedly decrease and farmers will
will we a huge shortage of rice and abandon their fields.
paddy in the country in the future as the

A14 Sunday 22 May 2022

Naomi Osaka DjokovicFrench Open
resumes quest
Athletes’ mental health a year on to boost Grand
Slam tally
Osaka’s French

Open exit blazes

path for debate Novak Djokovic was ready to skip Grand red-hot Carlos Alcaraz in the Madrid semis year as fuel for the remainder of the
Slams rather than take a Covid-19 vaccine this month. season after he dismantled Stefanos
The mental toll of professional tennis were equal to the challenge. following the Australian Open fiasco, but the Tsitsipas 6-0 7-6(5) in the Rome final.
will be in focus as the curtain rises at "We see already that the emotions are world number one has been building up But after capturing his first title in over six
Roland Garros next week, a year since steam in a stop-start season to peak in time months without dropping a set at the Italian "Anything I was really looking for in
four-time major winner Naomi Osaka really, really hard sometimes to handle for for his French Open title defence. Open last week, Djokovic showed he was Rome I got," said Djokovic, who also beat
sparked fresh debate around athletes' some players," she said. one of the top contenders ahead of his bid world number four Tsitsipas in last year's
mental health. The 20-times Grand Slam champion was for a 21st Grand Slam crown to move level French Open title clash.
Mauresmo, a former world number one unable to defend his Australian Open title in
The former world number one stunned and twice Grand Slam winner, said she January after being deported from the with Rafa Nadal. "It's the perfect preparation and lead-up
the tennis world when she withdrew from would be the first person to address country, having initially been admitted to "To some extent it's a relief to Roland Garros. I'm going to Paris with
the clay court major after boycotting complaints for players and that she had the tournament despite not taking the confidence and good feelings about my
post-match media duties, prompting a been in contact with Osaka's camp. vaccine. because after everything that chances. With the rankings and the way
row with tournament officials. happened at the beginning of the year, I've been playing in the last few weeks, I'd
"We are really prepared for what might Djokovic began his season late in it was important to win a big title," said rate myself as one of the favourites."
The Japanese player revealed she had or might not come on this side of the Dubai and was knocked off top
been suffering from depression for mental health part for this year," she spot following a shock loss to Djokovic, who won his sixth Nadal's foot injury before the year's
almost three years, setting off a ripple added. qualifier Jiri Vesely in the crown in Rome and sealed his second Grand Slam may reinforce
effect as top athletes like Olympic quarter-finals before pulling 1,000th tour-level win
gymnastics great Simone Biles put their MEDIA OBLIGATIONS out of Indian Wells and along the way. Djokovic's claims, but Spanish
well-being into focus. Miami as he was unable "Especially with Grand 19-year-old Alcaraz -- who beat
Additional measures have been to gain entry into the Slams coming up, where I both players en route to the
The saga also cast a spotlight on arranged to ease the burden of media United States. want to play my best and be at Madrid title and looks primed
tennis majors' pressure-cooker post- obligations. the level of confidence to for major success --
match media mandates, as Roland- The Serbian have a chance to win the represents a hurdle.
Garros organisers conceded they could Organisers plan to arrange mixed risked being title." "I don't obviously spend too
‘do better’ on mental health. zones for players who have not been frozen out of much time thinking who's
specifically requested for press Roland Garros 'PERFECT going to win it or who might
Osaka did not respond to a request for conferences and will reportedly instruct as well due to PREPARATION' have the best chance," Djokovic
comment this week. moderators to intervene if questions grow his vaccine said. "I always think about myself.
repetitive. stance but Djokovic reiterated "I go there with the highest
Tournament director Amelie earned a that he would use his ambitions. Obviously the draw is
Mauresmo told reporters in March that Osaka's stand a year ago sent reprieve hardship in a tumultuous not something you can affect, but
organisers were preparing ‘even weeks organisers and brands scrambling to when it's going to determine my
before’ the tournament to ensure they better support their athletes but progress France lifted Novak Djokovic trajectory to the later
has been incremental. (Reuters) restrictions in stages.
almost all public spaces "Best of five sets, you
Injury clouds Nadal’s in March. play every second
Roland Garros prospects day. It's a Grand
The claycourt swing in April Slam. It's different;
produced mixed results as the 34-year-old you have to
was stunned by Alejandro Davidovich approach it
Fokina early in Monte Carlo and Andrey differently."
Rublev in the Belgrade final, before he fell to (Reuters)

A chronic foot issue may be the Amid ‘zero-Covid’ policy IOC to address
biggest threat to Rafa Nadal's bid for a response to Russia’s
record-extending 14th French Open China invasion of Ukraine
trophy this month, with the injury retreats from
preventing the Spaniard from hosting int’l Two Russian members given permission to attend
rediscovering the kind of form he will sports events
need to see off a host of challengers. Rafa Nadal Yelena Isinbayeva and Shamil Yelena Isinbayeva
A few months after holding a Winter Olympics as Tarpishchev - the only Russian
Nadal, who is also looking for a 22nd difficult, honestly. Even like this, I am memorable for its extreme anti-Covid-19 measures members of the International Russian and Belarusian athletes
major title that would give him a little trying hard ... it can be frustrating that a as the competition, China has all but given up hosting Olympic Committee (IOC) - have from participating in events and
more breathing space ahead of Novak lot of days I can't practice the proper international sporting events while it battles fresh been given permission to attend preventing the two countries from
Djokovic and Roger Federer, had said he way." outbreaks around key cities. tomorrow’s Session, where the hosting competitions.
considered retirement after missing the organisation’s response to Russia’s
bulk of 2021 due to the problem. Any doubts about his participation in On Sunday, China surrendered hosting rights for invasion of Ukraine is set to be Sporting organisations have
the French Open, which starts on next year's Asian Cup, the continent's top soccer addressed. largely adhered to the IOC's
The 35-year-old did not look to have Sunday and ends with the men's final showpiece, a move which came little more than a recommendations, focusing Russia
lost a step at the Australian Open earlier on 5 June, were laid to rest when he week after it postponed the multi-sport Asian Games The IOC has reiterated that and Belarus to become pariahs in the
this year, however, his triumph on appeared on Court Philippe Chatrier on to 2023. Isinbayeva and Tarpishchev are "not world of sport, while the war in
Melbourne's hardcourts giving him a Wednesday for a practice session and representatives of their country" as Ukraine looks set to reach the three-
record 21st Grand Slam title to break a showed no signs of discomfort. Top-tier athletics, figure skating and an X Games they look set to participate in the month mark.
three-way tie with Federer and Djokovic. event have been moved or cancelled in recent months, third and final part of the 139th
Nadal had won the French Open four leaving China's once busy international calendar Session. The Russian and Belarusian
Injury issues struck again in March years in a row before losing to eventual looking threadbare. Olympic Committees have avoided
when he suffered a stress fracture in his champion Djokovic in the semi-finals Isinbayeva and Tarpishchev are sanctions to date over the widely-
rib during his run to the Indian Wells last year - just the third time he was Sports events still nominally on the calendar appear expected to access the hybrid condemned invasion of Ukraine.
final and the left-hander only returned beaten at the claycourt major since his on ever more shaky ground as China sticks to its meeting remotely along with the
to competition in Madrid this month. debut in 2005. (Reuters) ‘zero-Covid’ strategy while much of the rest of the majority of IOC members. There have The IOC’s response to the war was
world resumes normal life. been calls for the IOC to exclude due to be discussed by members of
In a further jolt to his French Open officials from Russia and Belarus in the organisation's Executive Board
hopes, Nadal was beaten by 19-year- The Zhuhai Open tennis tournament has been response to the war in Ukraine. during back-to-back meetings held
old Carlos Alcaraz in the Madrid cancelled the last two years, but remains scheduled on 17 and 19 May.
quarter-finals before losing to Canadian for late-September along with three other ATP events But the IOC has refused to take
Denis Shapovalov in the third round of in China. such action, meaning Tarpishchev insidethegames understands IOC
the Rome Masters. and two-time Olympic pole vault gold President Thomas Bach is set to
Peter Johnston, the Executive Tournament Director, medallist Isinbayeva - elected in address the situation during his
"I had my foot again with a lot of pain," said a decision would have to be made soon if it is to 1994 and 2016 respectively - are opening speech at tomorrow’s
a frustrated Nadal told reporters after go ahead. allowed to remain as members of the Session.
his loss to Shapovalov. "I am a player organisation.
living with an injury - it is nothing new. “It’s certainly getting to crunch time right now,” he Other items on the agenda include
told Reuters. “There’s a real sense of wanting us to "Under the Olympic Charter, IOC the IOC's Ethics Commission
"Unfortunately, my day-by-day is play after two years off, but there has to be a call made members are not representatives of elections and the appointment of
on it very, very soon." their country within the IOC," a Honorary Members.
Qatar World Cup statement from the IOC read.
China's withdrawal from hosting events jars with its The IOC's financial situation is set
to feature female ambitions to turn sport into a 5 trillion yuan ($747 "They are on the contrary elected to be unveiled when presenting the
billion) industry by 2025, a 70% increase on 2019 as individuals by the IOC and then organisation's annual report for
referees Mexico and American Kathryn Nesbitt levels. delegates them as ambassadors of 2021.(Reuters)
Women referees will officiate have all been called up. the IOC to the sports organizations of
matches at the men's World Cup for Last August, as China savoured a successful their country."
the first time in Qatar this year, the A total of 36 referees, 69 assistant Olympics for its athletes at the postponed Tokyo
sport's governing body FIFA referees and 24 video match officials Games, authorities issued a national fitness The IOC added that Isinbayeva "did
announced on Thursday. programme with objectives to build or renovate not participate" in the latest Athletes'
have been chosen by FIFA for the thousands of sports venues and training centres, and Commission calls but failed to give
Three women referees and three tournament. ‘strengthen international exchanges’. any reasons for her absence.
women assistant referees will
be part of the global "This concludes a long process TOO EXTREME The war in Ukraine has caused a
showpiece event in Qatar, that began several years ago with the huge impact on the sporting
which will be held from deployment of female referees at FIFA China showed it could host big events safely during landscape since the second part of
21 Nov. to 18 Dec. men's junior and senior tournaments," the pandemic at the ‘closed loop’ Beijing Winter the IOC Session was held in Beijing
Games, which kept athletes and Games personnel on 19 February.
Referees Stephanie said Pierluigi Collina, FIFA Referees sealed off from the public.
Frappart from France, Committee chairman. Shortly after the conclusion of the
Salima Mukansanga Authorities have not indicated a willingness to do Winter Olympics in the Chinese
from Rwanda and "They deserve to be at the FIFA the same for lower-profile events. capital, Russia - backed by Belarus -
Japan's Yoshimi World Cup because they launched a full-scale invasion of
Yamashita, as well constantly perform at a really high (Reuters) Ukraine on 24 February.
as assistant referees level, and that's the important
Neuza Back from Brazil, factor for us. The IOC responded by calling on all
Karen Diaz Medina from International Federations to stop
"As always, the criteria we have
used is 'quality first' and the

selected match officials
represent the highest level
of refereeing worldwide."
(Reuters)

sunday 22 May 2022 A15

Navjot Sidhu Gateway winsInternational Schools Netball
handed one-year crown for fourth
prison sentence successive year
for 1988 road rage

Navjot Sidhu has been handed a one-year prison sentence by the (Seated L to R): Madhubashi Wijerathne (Netball Coordinator),  Nauchali Rajapaksha (Netball Coach), Thilaka Jinadasa (Team Leader Sports Development of
Supreme Court of India which was reviewing a case involving the former Gateway Group/Netball Head Coach), Methuli Erahapola (Vice-Captain), Dr. Harsha Alles (Chairman, Gateway Group), Kaylee Kumarasinghe (Captain), Vinita
India batter in 1988 in which one Gurnam Singh died. Shenoy (Principal, Gateway Colombo), Kumarin Silva (Netball Coach), Iyenka Vidushini (Netball Coordinator)
(Standing L to R): Kavithme Gurusinghe, Yanira Cabral, Tiara Samarasinghe, Chanumi Nehansa, Onadhi Samarakoon, Mawrya Liyanage, Cloe Tillakarathne, Ritika
The verdict was announced on Thursday by the two-judge bench Sri Kanth, Tharuki Perera
comprising Justices A. M. Khanwilkar and Sanjay Kishan Kaul which was
reviewing its own order from 2018 when the court had reduced Sidhu’s Gateway College continued their Gateway beat Ilma in the final with a School Kandy 11-2, but lost to Gateway
sentence from three years’ imprisonment to INR 1000 fine. winning streak by winning the Inter comprehensive margin of 14-3. The Kandy 7-8 and received a walkover from
International Schools Under-20 Girls semi-final was a closer affair, but Lyceum Panadura. 
“We have allowed review application on the issue of sentence,” the court Netball Championship once again. The Gateway finally overcame Lyceum
said on Friday, according to legal media website livelaw.in. “In addition to prestigious tournament organized by Wattala 11-7. Gateway’s Onadhi Samarakoon was
fine imposed, we impose a sentence of imprisonment of one year to be Ilma International School was played at named Netball Queen, while Methuli
undergone by respondent 1 (Sidhu).” the Sugathadasa Indoor Stadium. Gateway won their preliminary stage Erahapola won the award for the Best
match against Colombo International Defensive Player.
The incident took place on 27 December 1988 in the north Indian city of
Patiala in Punjab when Sidhu pulled Gurnam, who was 65 years old, out of
his vehicle and assaulted him physically with his fists.

According to livelaw.in, Justice Kaul was also part of the two-judge bench
in 2018, along with Justice J. Chelameshwar, which had acquitted Sidhu of
culpable homicide. However, four years ago, the court did find Sidhu guilty of
‘voluntarily causing hurt’ to Gurnam.

The court back then had reversed the judgment of the Punjab and
Haryana High Court, which in 2006 had found Sidhu guilty of culpable
homicide and sentenced him to three years’ imprisonment. The Supreme
Court bench, though, thought the High Court’s verdict was based on
conjecture and not pure evidence.

“The conclusion of the High Court that Gurnam Singh’s death is caused by
subdural hemorrhage but not cardiac arrest, in our opinion, is not based on
any evidence on record and is a pure conjecture,” Justice Chelameshwar
had said, according to livelaw.in, “We, therefore, find it difficult to sustain the
conviction of the first accused and set aside the same, because to find a
man guilty of culpable homicide, the basic fact required to be established is
that the accused caused the death. But, as noticed above, the medical
evidence is absolutely uncertain regarding the cause of death of Gurnam
Singh.”

(Agencies)

NZ to compensate Netball Queen & Best Defensive player Netball Captain receiving the Championship trophy

Pakistan for 29th Singer-MCA Super Premier League 2022

aborted 2021 tour CDB Finance emerge league champions

New Zealand have come to an agreement to compensate Pakistan for team CDB
pulling out of a bilateral series last year. It involves New Zealand Cricket
(NZC) paying an undisclosed amount to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), as Citizens Development Business
well as agreeing to play extra games when the two sides meet in Pakistan Finance (CDB) led by Lahiru Madusanka
next year. New Zealand have also invited Pakistan to take part in a T20 tri- emerged the new winner of the
series at home ahead of the World Cup in Australia, which Pakistan have in 29th Singer-MCA Super Premier League
principle accepted. That series is understood to include Bangladesh as the 2022 conducted by Mercantile Cricket
third team. Association.

New Zealand pulled out of their scheduled white-ball tour of Pakistan  Unbeaten CDB finished on top of the
minutes before the start of the first ODI of the tour, citing a ‘specific and league points table with 4 wins and 1 no
credible’ security threat. The PCB made their displeasure plain over the days result. They accumulated 21 points,
that followed, and demanded financial recompense for broadcasting, including 3 bonus points, and had a net run
logistics and security expenses incurred. rate of 1.913.

ESPNcricinfo understands the issue has been resolved although neither
board has made any official public pronouncement on the matter.

New Zealand’s pull-out citing security reasons last September was
viewed as a major setback for Pakistan in their bid to ensure international
cricket returns home. It was followed by England pulling out of a short tour
the following month, though that decision generated significant blowback,
both in Pakistan and beyond. Pakistan has since undone much of the
damage those withdrawals caused, hosting West Indies in December, a full
Pakistan Super League season as well as a historic all-format tour of
Australia.

Pakistan are next due to host West Indies for the ODI leg of a bilateral tour
that had to be postponed due to a Covid outbreak in the West Indies camp
last December.

(ESPN)
 

 Path to the title: (Captain), Hasitha Perera, Sithara Gimhan,
CDB Finance beat Mode Engineering by Thehan Schafter, Angelo Perera, Thevindu
105 runs at CCC grounds in the first match, Senarathne, Laksitha Marasinghe, Keshan
beat HNB by 5 wickets at P. Sara Oval in the Wijerathne, Dhanushka Dharmasiri,
second match, beat John Keells by 18 runs Muditha Lakshan, Rohan Sanjaya, Tharindu
at Colts grounds in the third match and Rathnayake, Savin Gunasekara, Sachintha
Sampath Bank by 4 wickets at Dombagoda Pieris, Lahiru Udara, Chathuranga Dilshan,
in the fourth match. The fifth match was Shanuka Dissanayake (Head Coach),
abandoned without a ball being bowled Dinesh Chaminda (Asst. Coach), Sumith
against Hayleys Group at CCC Grounds. Gunawardhane (Scorer)
 CDB squad: Lahiru Madusanka
 (IR)

Real Madrid signs 360M euro Bernabeu deal

Real Madrid have reached a 360 Legends, a premium experiences would allow for multiple events to be  “Through this alliance, Sixth Street the management of the Santiago
million euro ($380.95 million) company that caters to sports and live hosted at the stadium throughout the acquires the right to participate in the Bernabeu stadium.”
agreement with Sixth Street to develop venue organisations.  year, was ratified at a meeting of Real’s operation of certain new businesses of
new businesses at the Santiago Board of Directors on Wednesday. the Santiago Bernabeu stadium for Real played last season at their
Bernabeu stadium, the LaLiga club said  Sixth Street, which has more than twenty years. Alfredo di Stefano training ground
on Thursday. $60 billion of assets under “As part of the long-term partnership, stadium as the Bernabeu was
management, has experience in Real Madrid will receive approximately  “In addition, Legends will contribute refurbished, returning to the Bernabeu
The Spanish champions, who won a infrastructure and sports. It has 360 million euros to be invested across its experience and knowledge in the for LaLiga matches in September last
record-extending 35th LaLiga title in invested a majority stake in Legends. any of the club’s activities,” Real Madrid operation of large stadiums and leisure year.
April, said the partnership included said in a statement centers, allowing for the optimization of
 The agreement, which the club said (Reuters) 

A16 sunday 22 may 2022 mDFSeaLvsetsliovoelpa‘m3u-enyncetharPlan’

SLC names provisional QFA and Aspire Academy to assist
squads for Australia tour

Sri Lanka Cricket named three provisional Chandimal, Niroshan Dickwella, Janith Football Sri Lanka (FSL) is planning to FSL president Jashwar Umar (M) addressing the media. Also in the
squads for Tests, ODIs and T20s for the Liyanage, Dunith Wellalage, Dhananjaya launch a well-structured ‘3-year picture head coach Andy Morrison (L) and Assistant Coach Keith Stevens (R)
forthcoming Australia tour. The Australian Lakshan, Sahan Arachchi, Wanindu Development Plan’ – a special project - in
National team will play a full series in Hasaranga, Chamika Karunaratne, Lahiru association with Qatar Football Association accompany the team to Uzbekistan from 4 to introduce this legacy project to the people of
Sri Lanka next month after a gap of 6 years Madushanka, Ramesh Mendis, Dushmantha (QFA) and world famous Aspire Academy of 14 June. They will also support the local Sri Lanka as part of my duty to uplift the
since their last tour in 2016. Chameera, Binura Fernando, Dilshan Qatar. coaches in preparing the game plans, game I loved throughout my life. I also thank
Madushanka, Lahiru Kumara, Kasun Rajitha, assessments of players and analyse the QFA President Shaikh Hamad bin Al Khalifa
Test: Dimuth Karunaratne (C), Pathum Jeffrey Vandersay, Maheesh Theekshana, This project will be a massive milestone in games as an interim arrangement. Al Thani, CEO of Aspire Academy and Aspire
Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Oshada Fernando, Praveen Jayawickrama the history of football, where all national Foundation and Tim Cahill for coming
Kusal Mendis, Angelo Mathews, Dhananjaya teams, including women’s teams, will be Upon completion of the AFC Asian Cup forward to support this project by covering all
de Silva, Kamindu Mendis, Niroshan T20: Danushka Gunathilaka, Pathum brought under one umbrella with uniform Qualifiers in Uzbekistan, both coaches will related costs. A special thank you goes to the
Dickwella, Dinesh Chandimal, Chamika Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Charith Asalanka, strategies of training plans to create a submit a comprehensive report on their people of Qatar for supporting the people of
Karunaratne, Ramesh Mendis, Mohamed Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Dasun Shanaka (C), Sri Lanka way of playing football in the future. findings to the management and to the QFA Sri Lanka during these difficult times in the
Shiraz, Shiran Fernando, Dilshan Ashen Bandara, Niroshan Dickwella, Dunith with their recommendations for the next country,” FSL President Jaswar Umar stated
Madushanka, Lahiru Kumara, Kasun Rajitha, Wellalage, Dhananjaya Lakshan, Sahan Two prominent figures in the world football stage of action. to the media.
Vishwa Fernando, Asitha Fernando, Jeffrey Arachchi, Wanindu Hasaranga, Chamika industry, Andrew Morrison, the Manchester
Vandersay, Lakshitha Rasanjana, Praveen Karunaratne, Lahiru Madushanka, Ramesh City legendary captain and Keith Stevens, The senior management of FSL, both “We warmly welcome Andrew Morrisson,
Jayawickrama, Lasith Embuldeniya, Mendis, Dushmantha Chameera, Binura Scottish player with over 547 professional coaches and an expert group from Aspire Keith Stevens and Marcus Ferriera to this
Suminda Lakshan Fernando, Matheesha Pathirana, Nuwan appearances in the English Football League, Academy, will take part in a review and beautiful country and a ‘big thank you’ to all
Thushara, Kasun Rajitha, Nipun Malinga, were appointed to take charge and execute planning meeting in Qatar in which the final for coming forward to assist in developing
ODI: Danushka Gunathilaka, Pathum Lahiru Kumara, Jeffrey Vandersay, Maheesh the national teams’ related components programme is set to be officially launched. Sri Lankan Football,” the President further
Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Charith Asalanka, Theekshana, Praveen Jayawickrama, within this massive project. Marcus Ferreira, added.
Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Dhananjaya de Silva, Lakshan Sandakan who was the fitness coach during the 1995 This will be a legacy project for Qatar
Dasun Shanaka (C), Ashen Bandara, Dinesh Gold Cup glory, has been appointed as the Football Association, Football Sri Lanka, A goalkeeping coach is set join the team
fitness coach for this project. Aspire Foundation and to the coaches who very soon during this period and an official
Committing $120 million to MLC are involved in the project, which will have a launch of the project is set to take place in
Another FIFA Legend Tim Cahill (former positive impact on football. Internationally, Sri July this year.
Microsoft CEO, Ross Perot Australian World Cup Captain), will oversee Lanka is ranked at 205 and will hope to climb
Jr among investors the entire project as the ‘Chief Football Officer up within a short period with this special The National Team will undergo an
and Project Director’ on behalf Aspire project. overseas training camp in Qatar before they
Satya Nadella, the CEO of Microsoft and a Academy, who will ensure the services of travel to Uzbekistan for the competition.
part-owner of the Seattle Sounders many experts are obtained for this project at “I am extremely proud and humbled to
franchise in Major League Soccer, has been various stages.
announced as a lead investor in a $44 million
Series A and A1 fundraising round by Major The project will comprise of many
League Cricket (MLC), the six-team components, including Development
franchise T20 competition sanctioned by Strategies, Reforms in Competition Structure,
USA Cricket through its commercial partner Elite Coach Education & Mentoring,
ACE, which is targeted to launch in 2023. establishing a vibrant Grassroot & Youth
Football Structure, exchange of expertise and
According to a press release issued by Scholarships to talented players to play in
MLC on Wednesday, another $76 million has overseas leagues.
been pledged by investors for a total of $120
million to be utilised primarily for stadium Morrison and Stevens are already in
infrastructure projects over the next several Colombo, observing and assessing the
years. players and training facilities of the current
national team. They are advising and
“The significant funding committed by an supporting the local coaching staff in the
outstanding group of investors will allow preparation of the team. Both coaches will
Major League Cricket to build first-class accompany the team to the Qatar Training
facilities and accelerate the sport’s Camp from 23 May to 3 June and will
development across the country, bringing
world-class professional cricket to the Satya Nadella Henry Nicholls Nayeem ruled
world’s largest sports market,” said Sameer out of second Test
Mehta and Vijay Srinivasan, co-founders of United States is incredibly high, with the Ahead of warm-up game Doubtful for WI series
Major League Cricket, through a press passion for the game at the grassroots level
release. “This investor group comprises I’ve observed in Texas proof of its potential,” NZ trio test positive Debashish Chowdhury, the Bangladesh
leading business executives and successful Jain said. “I am proud to be part of a group of for Covid-19 cricket team’s chief physician, confirmed
tech entrepreneurs who have led some of investors committed to rapidly accelerating that Nayeem Hasan has been ruled out of
the world’s most prominent companies. cricket’s progress through Major League New Zealand pair Henry Nicholls and Blair Tickner and the second Test against Sri Lanka due the
They bring tremendous experience and Cricket. The plans MLC have laid out to bowling coach Shane Jurgensen have tested positive for finger injury he sustained in the opening
expertise in support of MLC’s plans to develop infrastructure and build a foundation Covid-19 ahead of their warm-up match against county side game of the two-match series.
launch a transformative Twenty20 league for professional cricket to thrive nationwide Sussex, the country’s cricket board (NZC) said. Chowdhury also added that chances of
and establish America as one of the world’s put the sport on a tremendous trajectory and the off-spinner making the cut for the
leading homes for international cricket I am excited to support this vision.” The trio returned positive rapid antigen tests on Friday Test series against West Indies appeared
events.” morning, but the four-day practice game in Brighton will go slim, considering he’ll need three to four
Among the other headline investors ahead as planned. weeks to recover from the injury.
Nadella and S. Somasegar, also a part- recruited by MLC are Anand Rajaraman and
owner of Seattle Sounders and a former Venky Harinarayan, the founding partners at “Henry Nicholls, Blair Tickner and bowling coach Shane “Nayeem is certainly ruled out from the
long-time senior Vice President at Microsoft Millways Ventures and Rocketship VC; Jurgensen have begun five days of hotel room isolation after second Test against Sri Lanka as he
who is currently the Managing Director of Sanjay Govil, the founder of Infinite producing positive Rapid Antigen Tests on Friday morning,” fractured his finger. He will need at least
venture capital firm Madrona Venture Group, Computer Solutions and CEO of Zyter; the NZC said in a statement. three to four weeks to recover, and taking
are majority investors based out of Seattle. It Baheti Family, the owners of YASH that into consideration, it is unlikely he will
is there that a new stadium venue project is Technologies; and Tanweer Ahmed, the CEO The rest of the touring party have tested negative but will make it to the West Indies Test squad,” said
being spearheaded at Marymoor Park in the of PAK Foods and the owner of the Prairie continue to be monitored. Chowdhury. Meanwhile, Chowdhury is
Seattle suburb of Redmond, Washington. View Cricket Complex, the largest turf wicket hoping that Mehedy Hasan, who missed
When that venue is complete, it is expected complex in America located 50 miles New Zealand take on England in the first test of their the ongoing Test series against Sri Lanka
to be the home of one of the six anchor northwest of Houston which opened in 2019 three-match series at Lord’s starting 2 June. due to sustaining a finger injury during the
franchises for MLC. and has been regularly used to host USA last edition of the Dhaka Premier League,
Cricket national championship tournaments. (Reuters) will be available during the West Indies tour.
“I share the vision Major League Cricket As part of Ahmed’s PAK Foods brand, the
has for the launch of a world-class T20 entrepreneur and cricket enthusiast owns “We have opened his plaster three to
cricket league and the potential for the more than 200 KFC, Pizza Hut and Taco Bell four days back and now he is undergoing
United States to become one of the leading franchises spread between Texas, Colorado physiotherapy, and we are hopeful and
cricket nations in the world,” Somasegar and Las Vegas. confident that he will be available for the
said. “I am delighted to be part of a dynamic West Indies tour,” he said.
group of investors who will help the sport Although not listed in Wednesday’s
reach that level through an unprecedented release, the Knight Riders Group had (Agencies)
commitment of resources by MLC to previously been announced as one of the
developing the sport.” original lead investors in MLC. They have Shane Warne planned Andrew
recently pledged their commitment toward Symonds link-up at London Spirit
Ross Perot Jr and Anurag Jain, the helping to fund the development of a $30
founders of Dallas-based venture capital million facility at Great Park in Irvine, Shane Warne planned to pay Andrew found out there was no budget put aside for
firm Perot Jain, are also among the investors California, which will be the home of the Symonds out of his own pocket to be an Roy; there was nothing documented in the
listed in the latest round of fundraising. future Knight Riders franchise in MLC. assistant coach for London Spirit in the London Spirit set-up. Warnie was doing that
Airhogs Stadium, a former minor league Hundred in 2022. of his own accord and was going to pay Roy
baseball facility in the Dallas suburb of ESPNcricinfo has learned that the other the wage that he was going to get for being
Grand Prairie, Texas that was the first venue three MLC anchor franchise locations for the Warne, who died in March after a heart attack, over there.
acquired for redevelopment by ACE and MLC league’s targeted launch date in 2023 are coached Spirit in the first season of the
in 2020, will also become the home of expected to be in San Francisco, New York competition in 2021, though he spent most of it “Roy couldn’t believe it. That sense of
another MLC franchise. and Washington, DC. However, there are self-isolating after contracting Covid-19. mateship and friendship was everything that
currently no turf wicket venues located in the Roy built his whole life around - trust and
“The ceiling for cricket’s growth in the two east coast locations as MLC officials Spirit had already recruited a full team of loyalty. Here we are a few days later after him
continue to pursue options with regards to support staff for the 2022 season when he relaying that story to me and he’s disappeared.
land acquisition and venue development in approached Symonds, his long-time Australia He was loyal to a fault, he really was.”
those territories. team-mate and broadcast colleague at Fox
Sports, to ask if he was interested in becoming Darren Berry, Warne’s former Victoria team-
(ESPN) an assistant coach. mate, is still due to be an assistant coach at
Spirit this year, with Trevor Bayliss since
Australia ‘A’ team ESPNcricinfo understands that Symonds appointed as interim head coach for the 2022
to tour Sri Lanka later contacted Spirit about the role, but he was season. “Numbness descends as SKW [Warne]
Schedule not expecting to be involved in the Hundred Andrew Symonds and Shane Warne shake had arranged both Roy and I to be his trusted
Australia ‘A’ Team will tour Sri Lanka before his death in a car accident on Saturday. hands during the 2006-07 Ashes assistants at the London [Spirit],” Berry
during June 2022, while their National 08 June – 50 Over Match at SSC tweeted.
team will also tour Sri Lanka. Australia ‘A’ 10 June - 50 Over match at SSC Adam Gilchrist, who played with both men for week was that Warnie had been speaking about
will play two 50 over games and two 14-17 June - 1st 4-day game in Australia, told Triple M radio’s Rush Hour show: getting him over to be a fielding coach or an (Agencies)
4-Day Games against Sri Lanka ‘A’. Hambanthota “A little thing that Roy was telling me just last assistant coach at the London Spirit in the
21-24 June – 2nd 4-day game in Hundred competition over there in England
Matches will be played in Colombo and Hambanthota  which Warnie was coach of.
Hambanthota.
“It was only a couple of weeks ago that Roy

Published by Ceylon Newspapers (Pvt) Limited, 101, Rosmead Place, Colombo 7 and printed at its press at No. 302/1A, Minuwangoda Road, Ja-Ela.

Sunday 22 MAY 2022

Mistreated and
Underappreciated

When asked who the creator of our
national anthem is, both kids and adults alike
would be quick to mention the name Ananda

Samarakoon. While it is true that
Samarakoon was a gifted lyricist who
penned not just the song which was selected
to be our national anthem and also many
other popular classics we enjoy to this day...

See on page 4-5

wFuotrulrde’sobfetshtecuppa

Yesterday (21 May) was International Tea Day

By Shanuka Kadupitiyage Dr. Prasad Dharmasena growing regions; Nuwara Eliya, Dimbula, Sri Lanka was once the tea growing.” A 10-million-kilogram
Uva, Sabaragamuwa, Kandy, Ruhuna, and third largest tea decline compared to 2021.
Tea – although introduced by the British Udapussellawa.” manufacturer in the
purely as an industrial crop – has become world... 2013 was “But if we expedite the process of
an integral part of Sri Lanka’s cultural Numbers don’t lie when we produced the importing chemical fertiliser now, we
heritage. One of the country’s biggest most tea, which was might be able to increase our production
exports, tea is something Sri Lanka can’t Out of the roughly 300 million kilograms around 340 million by the end of the year to have a more
do without. Of course, that only makes of tea, a vast majority is exported overseas kilograms. Since then, favourable outcome.”
International Tea Day, which is celebrated to countries such as Iran, Iraq, Turkey, the the numbers have
on 21 May each year, ever the more United Arab Emirates (UAE), Russia and declined, but have Dr. Dharmasena stressed that even
important. many more, “Earning nearly US$ 1.3 never gone below 320 though producing 300 million kilograms of
billion,” Dr. Dharmasena explained. million kilograms a tea would be an achievement, this figure is
However, the tea industry as a whole is year, until 2020, where far from the country’s potential as a global
currently facing one of its biggest That of course, is a lot of money, but Sri we produced the tea supplier. With the demand for tea
challenges in history, braving the rough Lanka used to earn a lot more. lowest amount of tea calculated to grow by 2 per cent, Sri Lanka
waters of a country in an economic recorded since 1997, needs to ramp up production now, before
collapse, just after the crippling blow dealt “Sri Lanka was once the third largest tea producing only 278 Kenya, our main competitor, pulls the rug
to the industry as a result of the ban on manufacturer in the world,” he shared. million kilograms under our feet.
chemical fertilisers was resolved, Sri “2013 was when we produced the most
Lankan tea, (internationally renowned as tea, which was around 340 million the same period we have exported 69.89 “We are not in a position to address that
Ceylon Tea) is certainly in a precarious kilograms. Since then, the numbers have million kilograms.” increased demand, but Kenya is playing a
situation. declined, but have never gone below 320 significant role in grabbing the world tea
million kilograms a year, until 2020, where There are a number of factors that market. If things continue, the Kenyan tea
In commemoration of the International we produced the lowest amount of tea played to this drop in production, including industry is very likely to fill-in that
Tea Day, Ceylon Today reached out to the the ongoing economic crisis and fuel vacuum.”
Director and Chief Executive Officer of the recorded since 1997, producing only 278 shortages. “The existing political instability
National Institute of Plantation million kilograms.” also plays a massive role,” Dr. Dharmasena Livelihoods affected
Management Sri Lanka, Dr. Prasad He revealed that although there added.
Dharmasena to learn more about the was a slight recovery in 2021, As expected, the biggest culprit of the
current situation of the tea industry in Sri producing nearly 300 kilograms of Of course, there are other factors as decline in production was the lack of
Lanka, and the many challenges it has to tea that year, Sri Lanka had failed well. The war going on between Russia sufficient chemical fertilisers and other
face in the future. to produce to its full capacity or and Ukraine has caused a drastic drop in necessary agrochemicals, according to Dr.
potential due to the circumstances imports by Russia, according to Dr. Dharmasena’s data. And the dip in
The best of the world of the time, mainly being the ban Dharmasena. “Countries such as Iran, production has been a major blow
on the importation of chemical Azerbaijan and the UAE have significantly throughout the many thousands of
“Sri Lanka is the fourth largest tea fertilisers. increased their importation of Sri Lankan families that earn their living through the
producer in the world,” he revealed. Sadly, the Sri Lankan tea industry tea, while other countries such as Libiya, tea industry.
isn’t out of the woods yet, and its Saudi Arabia and Germany have
According to the data, first place in significantly reduced their imports.” “Only a small portion of Sri Lanka’s tea
terms of tea production is taken by China, record so far in the first quarter of 2022 industry is operated by major corporations,
which produces nearly 2,400 million has underperformed comparing the past All figures calculated, Dr. Dharmasena roughly 30 per cent,” Dr. Dharmasena
kilograms of tea a year, with India taking year’s first quarter in terms of tea doesn’t project a happy story for this explained. “Most of those in the tea
second place with approximately 900 production and exports. “From January to year’s future in the tea industry. “My industry are small-holders [small scale
million kilograms of annual tea production. March 2022, we’ve exported about 63.70 opinion is that we can probably achieve a cultivators]. Over 500,000 tea smallholders
Kenya comes in third place, overtaking Sri million kilograms whereas in 2021, during maximum of 290 million kilograms if operate in the country, and are responsible
Lanka by a small margin of 5 million favourable climatic conditions continue for for more than 70 per cent of the country’s
kilograms of tea, producing nearly tea production,” he continued.
305 million kilograms, leaving us in
fourth place with 300 million He explained that nearly 1.5 million
kilograms of tea produced in a people earn their living through the tea
year. industry, and have been directly affected
by the severe blow suffered by the industry
“Although Sri Lanka isn’t the past year. “Their standard of living,
the world’s largest tea health benefits and much more have been
producer, we still produce the significantly affected,” he shared. “People
world’s best tea in terms of are suffering.”
quality,” he continued, “with
seven world-famous tea Many problems, few
solutions

As expected, the previous year’s fertiliser
ban was the main culprit behind the
underperforming of the tea industry. “If it
weren’t for the favourable conditions that
we experienced last year, we wouldn’t have
been able to achieve a production of 300
million kilograms,” Dr. Dharmasena
revealed. Of course, that also means Sri
Lanka missed a golden opportunity to
boost its production, a major failure
caused by a poorly made decision.

Continued on page 2

C2 Cover Continued/POLITICS EchoSunday 22 May 2022
Hacomisnetsnotdrimtyueotnfitosnal
Part V of opinion and they had also submitted
By Ama H. Vanniarachchy separate proposals for constitutional
reforms.
Today, the Galle Face protesters
demand a constitutional amendment The second Manning
stating that it is a crucial need for the Constitution
country’s political stability. But what is a
constitutional amendment? Also, what is a The result was the formation of the
constitution? What is the role of a Second Manning Constitution in 1923. It
constitution in Sri Lanka? had 12 official and 37 unofficial members,
bringing the total number of members to
Looking back at the recent political 49, with the Governor presiding over the
history of Sri Lanka, we learned that there Legislative Assembly only on special
had been demands to make changes in occasions. Although the powers of the
the constitution a couple of times before, Governor were limited, the legislature did
which may suggest that the constitution not have full legislative powers. As the
which was a creation of the colonial rulers, Manning Constitution proved to be a
is not fully-localised and fitting to Sri failure, the Donoughmore Constitution

Lanka and does not address the needs of was formed.
the locals. The Donoughmore Commission

To know more about this, we contacted presented five major proposals.
n Granting of universal suffrage
In Retrospect of Sri Lanka’s recent political historyanexpertonthissubject,Kaushalya n Establishment of a State Council
Abeywickrama, who is a journalist, author, n Establishment of an Executive

and researcher on Political

Communication. She is also a woman and Committee System
n Maintaining the main functions of the
child rights activist, a motivational

speaker, and a life coach. She holds two government under three public officers
n Amendments to the powers of the
postgraduate degrees in Mass

Communication, and Conflict, Peace, and Governor

Development Studies. Donoughmore
“Studying the constitutions of the world, Constitutional Reform

one can understand that people and

governments have taken necessary Hugh Clifford Manning, who was

measures to amend them, according to appointed Governor in 1925, understood

their timely needs”, started Abeywickrama. that the Manning Constitution is a weak

“It was the same in Sri Lanka too. From and unsuccessful system. Hence, in

a monarchy to an executive presidency August 1927, a new Commission headed

system, Sri Lanka’s constitution evolved, by Donoughmore arrived at Ceylon.

adjusting and refashioning according to The task of this commission was to

the needs of the time.” submit a report to amend the Manning

John Doyle in his book, A sketch of the Devonshire system of government.

Constitution of the Kandyan Kingdom, Kandyan chieftains during British Rule Accordingly, the reforms were submitted

writes about the monarchy system that in 1928. On October 10, 1929, the

was in Sri Lanka prior to 1815. The power Secretary-General of the Colonies added

of the king was supreme and unlimited. discretion of the Governor. The six amendments to the Donoughmore

The king was responsible to maintain law unofficial members of the Legislative Reform Report. It received 19 votes in

and order in the country. He made Council were appointed as; three favour and 17 votes against and the

decisions about the war when necessary. Europeans, one Sinhalese, one Tamil, and Constitution was passed by a majority of

The lives of his subjects were solely his one Burgher. Thus, the origins of racism in only two votes.

responsibility. The monarchy followed the British Ceylon Sri Lanka were traced back to the Donoughmore Constitution
traditions of the Kandyan Kingdom. It was Colebrooke-Cameron reforms.
n Members – 61
the tradition to discuss with the Kandyan possible.” This reform commission lasted until n Eight Minorities under Regional
chieftains and Buddhist monks before Abeywickrama said that their sole 1910.

implementing laws and regulations. The objective was to make the best use of the “By the 20th century, the rise of the local Representation Vote – 50
n Members by Nomenclature – 8
king’s powers were exercised by many of resources of the island to strengthen their bourgeoisie can be noted. Until then, the n Executive Officers – 3
the king’s officials who served for him. economy and use Ceylon as a good constitutional reform campaigns led by n Secretary of State
profitable market to sell their products. To Europeans had passed into the hands of n Secretary of Finance
In 1815 the Sinhala monarchy was

abolished by the British and they signed a continue this exploitation of resources, the the local bourgeoisie, and in 1907 the Low n Legal Secretary

treaty. Afterward, the country was ruled by British did not hesitate to implement harsh Country Planters’ Association and later

the British Crown. rules and regulations through a strict the National Union were formed,” said An executive committee system was

She explained that the people were military regime. Abeywickrama. introduced under the Donoughmore

displeased by the iron rule of the British However, despite the fact that the Crow-McCallum Reforms Constitution. Accordingly, seven
and the result was the Great Rebellion, income they generated from Ceylon was committees were appointed.
which is also known as the Udarata Maha handsome, their expenses were higher As a result of these campaigns, the n Committee on Home Affairs
Karalla in 1818. This resulted in the British and became unbearable at one point. As a Crow-McCallum Reform was formed. It n Agriculture and Land Committee

taking measures to amend the Kandyan solution, the Colebrooke-Cameron increased the number of official members n Local Government Committee

Treaty. This new amendment was Commission was formed. The of the Legislative Assembly to 11 and the n Health Committee
publicised on 12 November 1818 establishment of both the Legislature and number of unofficial members to 10. But n Committee on Labour, Industry, and

according to which, the legislator of British the Executive Council was one of the the locals were not satisfied as the powers Commerce

Ceylon with all supreme powers was the primary functions of this Commission. of the Governor had not changed. n Committee on Education

British monarch and his representative Colebrooke-Cameron Manning Reforms n The Committee on Posts and Public
was the governor. Reform Commission Affairs
Accordingly, the Manning Reforms in
British Marshall Law failed n Chairman – Governor 1920 increased the number of members These seven committees had an equal
number of members and each committee
n Legislative Council 15
“In the book Lankawe Andukrama n Executive Council (Senior Government of the Legislature to 37. Of these, 14 were had a chairman. Executive functions were

Wikashanaya, W. A. Abeysinghe analyses Kaushalya Abeywickrama official members and 23 were unofficial also divided into 10 divisions, seven of

the constitutions of Ceylon from 1818 to Officials) members. which were handed over to Sri Lankan
n Colonial Secretary
1832, and he writes that the ruling system n Army Commanding Officer Reform Commission and all the Bills Abeywickrama explained that these officials and three divisions to three

imposed by the British in Sri Lanka from n Attorney General presented by the Governor were passed reforms did not change the powers of the government officials. The State Council,
n Treasurer
1815 to 1832 can be identified as a n Accountant without any hindrance. The Executive Governor either, and unfortunately, by then established by the Constitution of
government that followed a strict rule and Council was also a nominal executive. the aim of the British rulers had been Donoughmore, was dissolved on

implemented martial law to rule the This was because it was the duty of the fulfilled; until then, the Sinhala and Tamil December 7, 1935, ending its five-year

country, which for them was a colony that The 15 members of the Legislature were Governor to consult the Executive Council, communities who had been campaigning term.

they were free to exploit as much as appointed by the Governor under this but whether he accepts it or not was at the together were divided due to differences To be continued…

Continued from page 1

Future of the world’s best cuppa

“But that’s not the only cause. The properly educating them with the skills season to enrich the soil.” NIPM’s mandate is to develop the human
devaluation of the Sri Lankan rupee is and knowledge to protect the richness of Sustainability and circularity are capacity of those involved in the
another major problem, as well as the the soil used for plantation will be key in plantation sector,” he explained.
huge demand for fossil fuels.” addressing the many issues faced within concepts that can easily be overlooked
the Sri Lankan tea industry. in search of profits, only to discover As such, the NIPM is heavily involved in
He continued, explaining that climate that doing so would hinder future providing educational programmes for
change is another major cause for According to Dr. Dharmasena, one of profits in the long-term. those in the plantation sector to better
concern. “The agricultural sector is highly the best things we can do is to encourage equip themselves with the skills needed
affected by climate change,” he said. small-holders to return to some of the Besides Government implementing to be a more effective contributor to the
“Especially since we are an island, we are practises exercised by planters in the good policy decisions on their end, Dr. industry.
even more vulnerable for climate change. past. “For example, my family also comes Dharmasena believes that developing
In fact, our vulnerability index as a result from a tea background, and I remember the human element will be a key to “One of the main things we want to do
of climate change is doubled because we we used to grow kumbuk, mee and many securing a stronger future for Sri is not to develop farmers, but
are an island. other beneficial plants in our small tea Lanka’s tea industry. entrepreneurs,” he explained. “We want
estate,” he recounted. “We used to grow even small scale cultivators who might
“2020 is a good example of this,” he gliricidia which is rich in nitrogen, and The NIPM grow only a few perches of tea in their
revealed. “Because of the heavy rainfall would cut down branches, spreading land to develop a business mindset,
and extreme weather we experienced, we them out on the ground during rainy Of course, being a part of the NIPM, Dr. which will collectively elevate the
had an extremely low yield from the tea Dharmasena is in the perfect position to plantation and agricultural sector as a
industry, the lowest since 1997. This help make that change happen. “The whole.”
could also be one of the reasons why Sri
Lanka’s tea yields have been decreasing With this end-result in mind, he
over the years. I would say from 2000 revealed that the NIPM plans to provide a
onwards, we have been strongly affected number of degree programmes to those
by climate change.” who hope to be part of the agri-business
sector, to develop the skills of the next
Another major cause for concern is the generation of cultivators in Sri Lanka, as
condition of the soil, according to Dr. well as providing educational
Dharmasena who revealed that Sri opportunities for students overseas to
Lankan soil has been deteriorating fast educate themselves in agri-business
due to the unsustainable practices here in Sri Lanka.
conducted by tea cultivators.
It’s clear that the tea industry still has a
“In terms of soil-carbon or humus, lot of potential for development in Sri
countries such as India have a soil carbon Lanka, including those who are part of it
content of 3 – 4 per cent in their tea
plantation fields, but you probably will be in term of skills and competencies,
surprised to know that in Sri Lanka, the and institutions such as the NIPM
soil-carbon content in our tea plantation are playing a key role in building
is below 1 per cent, which just goes to the future for the agricultural
show how harsh our soils have become.” industries of tomorrow.
Although this year in tea may
The human element look dark, that doesn’t mean
there aren’t exciting times to
For all this, the human element has come, as we begin to recognise
been a key factor according to Dr.
Dharmasena. With more than 70 per cent the importance of developing
of tea being cultivated by small-holders, agricultural technology and our
industries.

SUNDAY 22 MAY 2022 LAW C3

ECHOby shanuka kadupitiyage Legal literacy is about
having an
For actual, tangible change to happen, understanding of the
the people must continue to arm law. It’s not about
themselves with knowledge and wisdom, having an academic
understanding, it’s for
KNOWLEDGEtoholdofficialsaccountablebeyondthe your everyday
purposes, at a basic
ongoing uprising that’s happening level... In Sri Lanka,
throughout the island.  you’ll find people with
very high levels of
When one corrupt government falls, education, who may
another is bound to take its place. not necessarily be
Corruption, mismanagement and injustice aware of the law of the
are bound to continue, taking new forms, land including their
constitutional rights,
IS POWERusingnewwordsandfollowingnew and how the
Constitution is
methods. The people must be prepared.  supposed to function
Power to the people Now is the best time to promote
legal literacy among citizens “These young people, who have also
As stated in the Constitution of the gone through this formal education
Democratic, Socialist Republic of Sri system, consist of many who have
Lanka: obtained their education through public
schools. I don’t think they have been
“In the Republic of Sri Lanka sovereignty majorly exposed to ideas of citizenship
is in the People and is inalienable. and civic consciousness.
Sovereignty includes the powers of
Government, fundamental rights and the “What I think has made the difference is
franchise.” [Chapter 1 (3)]  the fact that they have been exposed to
social media. It’s possible that through
For the people to exercise their social media, they have been able to pick
sovereignty effectively, they need to be up all these dimensions of governance,
aware of the laws they live under, their constitutional issues, human rights, rule of
law and more. That’s my guess, but we
democratic authority and the fundamental really need to understand this more.
rights that they have been guaranteed Although what’s more important right now
under the Constitution.  is the crisis that the country is facing at the
moment, eventually we have to study the
A person would need to learn the rules of complexion of this youth movement.”
the sport – its strategies and techniques –
before stepping onto the field. Doing Prof. Udagama praised the level of
otherwise would basically be asking for creativity and ingenuity that the youth
defeat. Similarly, it is through learning how protestors have displayed over the past
to exercise democratic power and month of protests. “To me, as someone
understanding a person’s rights that the who has been involved with young adults
people’s sovereignty can be protected. all my life, what I see unfolding about this
Additionally, the people must be capable in peaceful, non-political, inclusive, and
assembling themselves to defend the intensely democratic protest movement is
rights that they are entitled to. incredible. It’s truly fascinating.”

If knowledge is power, then where She also applauded the use of political
are we? satire by the protestors. “Political satire
can be more effective than a bullet,” she
If anything, the GotaGoGama (GGG) shared. “It can hit hard, and these methods
protests happening not only in Colombo, are obviously things that they haven’t
but throughout the island are clear learnt in school. I think it is other media
evidence that a significant number of that the younger generation have been
people are capable and are willing to exposed to that has given them this edge.
assemble and organise themselves to This isn’t something brought about by
defend their rights. Now, the question is formal education.”
how informed the public is on their rights
and liberties as citizens of Sri Lanka. More in-depth than you think

Reaching out to a number of people, it Both online and offline, there are
was clear that very few individuals who conversations regarding the overall
were not law students had at least a movement, with some criticising that the
rudimentary awareness of the laws they statements and stances taken by the
live under. In fact, hardly anyone had even protestors lack depth and understanding
read the Constitution of Sri Lanka; the of the true political situation of the country.
fundamental document upon which all Sri
Lanka’s laws and liberties are derived “You can’t expect great depth, because
from.  they have arisen as a result of the
necessity of the moment, but they are
Is Sri Lanka where it is today as a result learning, very fast at that. There are also
of this lack of interest by the people on not quite a number of university and law
only political affairs, but also the legal students involved. Despite the lack of a
operations of the country? How can one deep philosophical understanding of these
protect and defend their rights, without subjects, they have grasped the gist of the
even knowing what they are? principles, and they are handling it very
well. Additionally, there is a thirst to know
“I know more about the American more, to bring about better change.”
Constitution than Sri Lanka’s thanks to
how much they talk about it even on For a better future
popular media,” Pasan shared. “There
should be a summarised version of our Even after the attack on GGG, whilst civil
rights so that people can read it. No one’s unrest spread throughout the country, the
going to read technical jargon.” protestors at the protest site remain non-
violent, and true to their convictions,
Becoming ‘legally literate’ continually protested against the failed
regime to step down, for a better, united
Although not everyone needs to be as A young girl at Galle Face Green how the Constitution is supposed to regard. “Children in India are introduced to and just tomorrow.
well-versed with the law to the extent of protest site (Pic by Kelum Chamara) function.” their Constitution at a very young age, and
someone in the legal profession, it’s are taught the preamble to their Prof. Udagama notes that even though
important that a citizen be aware of his or Although Sri Lanka has a strong literacy She revealed that this disparity between Constitution. campaigns for developing legal literacy
her rights, the laws that protect them, and rate, there is still much to be achieved in the literate and legally literate has among the people have existed, it is only
the legal resources provided by the legal terms of how aware the public is on continually been observed and studied by “The preamble to any constitution now that interest in such topics has
system that they can make use of to matters of law and civic competencies. A academia at the University, and it has been reveals a very clear explanation of its increased. “There’s interest when you see
protect themselves. This core competency common mantra that I would often hear clearly identified that legal literacy is low fundamental principles. As a result, its relevance to life,” she explained. “Now,
is often termed as having ‘legal literacy,’ or from individuals is ‘no politics,’ with many among the people. “Sometimes, it’s sad to children learn that India is a democracy, the citizen in us has come out, because
legal awareness. stating that they have no interest in the say that even amongst some legal that it is a federal nation, and that it’s a now our eyes are open to how important it
political or legal affairs of the country, professionals, awareness of how the secular republic.” Even though these is to organise the system of our
There are very few avoiding any discussion on the matter, Constitution works can be rather limited.” young children aren’t fully aware of or able Government well.
disciplines that involve even rejecting their opportunity to vote to grasp these concepts, as a result of their
teaching law and that sometimes.  She attributes this people’s lack of education, these concepts don’t feel “Right now, it’s a turning point. We need
also in tertiary interest regarding their constitutional foreign, and understanding is developed to take this citizen’s movement forward.
education. What we Of course, this apathy towards civic rights to the disconnection between the with maturity. This shouldn’t be just one moment, but a
want is to expose activity isn’t something new. Since Sri people and the law. “The average person constant fact in our life.”
children at a young age Lanka gained independence, its political grows up thinking that only lawyers need “At a very young age we are taught about
to the law of the land. power and influence predominantly to know the law, and you grow up in that personal hygiene,” she continued. “We She noted that many active citizens who
Basic principles and circulated among what can be called the vacuum, where you don’t get an grow up knowing that we should boil our have spent their lives fighting for a more
facts about the law social elites, and the upper-middle class, understanding of the law,” she explained. drinking water, clean our fingernails, and aware and vigilant society through active
should be taught at a while the common everyman was As a result, for many, topics such as law, bathe regularly. We are initiated into health citizenship, observe this peoples’
young age, and as the seemingly removed from the equation, constitutional rights and governance may education at a young age, and as a result it awakening with great joy, and with the
education progresses, either being uneducated or being seem too technical, or complicated to has become integrated into our thinking. conviction that this needs to be the
young people should demoralised from rampant corruption and understand. cement that binds people together in a
be taught how disregard for rule of law. This and other “In contrast, I don’t see any similar effort democratic society. This is the potential
governments are factors most likely would have played a However, she notes that in strong being taken with regards to law. Yes, you turning point for a more democratic Sri
organised and run, the part in the apathy of the common man in democracies, civic education, and the may be taught to follow the school rules Lanka.
fundamental principles regards to exercising their civic rights.  study of constitutional rights and concepts and its disciplinary system, but there is no
of the Constitution, the of the law is heavily emphasised, and relationship to the outside world, to civic
rights of the people, A similar divide was identified by introduced to children from a young age. life. We are taught in our schools largely to
and how one defends German philosopher Jurgen Habermas in be future employees at our schools, not to
one’s rights when they his time. He pointed out the divide between Education is key be good citizens.”
are in threat of social elites – the bourgeoisie, and the
violation common public – the proletariat. This “Even though the law is such an integral Consumers over citizens
divide was arguably bridged thanks to the part of our lives, it’s still not taught in
development of print media and the schools,” Prof. Udagama pointed out. She notes that education and the
dissemination of information.  “There are very few disciplines that involve competition to obtain one has become a
teaching law and that also in tertiary race to obtain a better standard of living
While social media and popular media education. What we want is to expose over becoming a more capable citizen.
have played a part in making people more children at a young age to the law of the “Quite often, the competition to become
aware of fundamental rights, the law of the land. Basic principles and facts about the doctors, engineers, lawyers and so on, is
land, and the importance of civic law should be taught at a young age, and about finding a good standard of living,
participation, there is much needed to be as the education progresses, young people and to a great extent it’s about
done in order to cultivate a legally literate should be taught how governments are consumerism. It’s a competition to go to
culture, ultimately the first major step in organised and run, the fundamental the better school, drive the better car, have
creating effective change in the country. principles of the Constitution, the rights of the better house, and of course, the better
the people, and how one defends one’s job. It’s not about becoming a better
A disconnect with the people rights when they are in threat of violation.” citizen or being of service to the nation.”

“Legal literacy is about having an Of course, including it in the curriculum A pivotal moment for change
understanding of the law. It’s not about is only the first step. Prof. Udagama agrees
having an academic understanding, it’s for that the said material should also be It is in these circumstances that the
your everyday purposes, at a basic level,” presented and taught in creative ways to citizens’ uprising has sprung forth, an
shared Head of Department at the inspire students, instead of merely unprecedented awakening of the people
Department of Law of the University of covering subject material for an on the importance of exercising the right to
Peradeniya, Professor Deepika Udagama. examination. peacefully assemble and protest against
the Government’s disastrous
“In Sri Lanka, you’ll find people with very She notes that India has been very mismanagement and corruption.
high levels of education, who may not effective in its educational system in this
necessarily be aware of the law of the land
including their constitutional rights, and

C4 Mosaic EchoSunday 22 may 2022

PoTDsioetxiavircity, Mistreated an
PalDuiglsahsawneiwa Underappreci
not-msou-bllrsigohnttehreside A tribute to Ananda Samarakoon; the creator of our

I know you think you are like a rainbow By Chandana Ranaweera to further express his own songs. Some Birth of national anthem Kulathilaka, Ananda de Tissa A
that comes with some sunshine after parts of the songs; Endada Menike, Sarath Fernando.
hours of rainfall that has poured all too When asked who the creator of our Punchi Suda Sudu Ketiya, Vile Malak In 1946 when Samarakoon was
hard on people without an umbrella who national anthem is, both kids and adults Pipila, and Besa Seethala Gangule – serving as a music teacher at Mahinda At the time Samarakoon wa
got drenched out sick, but here is a little alike would be quick to mention the which Samarakoon himself wrote and College, Galle, he wrote the school form an organisation for artist
explanation as to why you are poles apart name Ananda Samarakoon. While it is composed – were expressively and anthem as well as the song which later radio. This paved the way for
from anything positive. In fact, you are true that Samarakoon was a gifted beautifully painted by Samarakoon. on was selected as the national anthem. Samarakoon to record some o
more like the silver lining in the gloomiest lyricist who penned not just the song By then Samarakoon had penned a lot songs on gramophone disks a
of clouds that hover in the distance. So the which was selected to be our national The golden era of Samarakoon’s of patriotic songs and songs about Sri to pen songs in Sinhala to Bol
fact that you expect people to look at you anthem and also many other popular painting career has to be the ‘40s. Lanka. In 1951 the Cabinet granted melodies.
with the same optimism as a multihued classics we enjoy to this day, it is a During this time his paintings were approval to use Samarakoon’s song,
illusion just because you share the same lesser known fact that Samarakoon was praised by critics both local and foreign. Namo Namo Matha as the national According to Prof. Sunil Ariy
skies, tells me that you are so ‘clouded’ by a jack of many artistic trades. On top of The renowned Indian art critic Jasmine anthem. However, Samarakoon wasn’t Samarakoon is the only singe
your own dark energy to realise that the being a lyricist, Samarakoon was a Roy had once said this about informed of this decision and neither Lanka who had penned all the
‘silver’ you see is in fact extreme white talented poet, actor, musician, Samarakoon’s paintings, was he acknowledged properly as the had sung. He also states that
light that you’ve blinded yourself with, in a playwright, as well as painter. “Samarakoon’s paintings resonate creator of the national anthem. Later on Samarakoon is a pioneer who
desperate attempt to see the ‘bright side of music. His colour combinations are he was given a cash prize of Rs 2,500 trailblazed new avenues in Sri
things’ as you weather past an intense Samarakoon was born as Egodahage soothing and depict the same rhythm which even back then, wasn’t sufficient music as well as literature.
storm. George Wilfred Alwis Samarakoon on 13 found in Indian classical music. Just like or justifiable. Moreover, the publisher of
January 1911 in Watareka, Padukka. He many Indian works of art Samarakoon’s the magazine Kumuduni in which the Although Samarakoon neve
Imagine trying to manufacture was the second child of Samuel paintings too contain beauty, grace, and song was first published also came songs written by others, he gla
happiness in someone else’s life by Samarakoon who was the Chief Clerk of charm. Through the apt use of forward demanding a portion of the penned songs for others to sin
drawing comparisons between who is the British-owned Maturata Plantations symbolism Samarakoon manages to prize money. them are; Amaradeva, Suryasa
relatively privileged and eating one meal a and Dominga Peries. add something extra to his paintings.” Molligoda, Chithralekha
day and keeping healthy, to people who are Not only was Samarakoon not given Muttuchinnappa, and many ot
literally –mostly those engaged in hard Education Upon witnessing the painting due recognition as the creator of the popular singers at the time.
labour – starving their way through an Samarakoon did for his song Endada national anthem, the unprofessional
extreme economic collapse because they Young Samarakoon entered Wewala Menike, Sunil Shantha who was another manner in which the whole incident was Victim of jealousy
have no other choice? All in an attempt to Government School in Piliyandala for great musician at the time had said, conducted created some haters of
justify how three meals a day isn’t his primary education. The school’s “Determining whether Ananda Samarakoon as well. Some didn’t like The baseless accusations an
essential for survival. name was later changed to Ananda Samarakoon was born to be a musician the song and thought it wasn’t good professional jealousy put imme
Samarakooon Vidyalaya as a tribute to or a painter is by no means an easy enough to be selected as the national pressure on Samarakoon and t
It’s a pretty brutal picture isn’t it? Samarakoon. For secondary education task.” anthem. This dislike made many to matters worse, his son Ranjith
Yes, there are people out there who he entered Christian College, Kotte point fingers at Samarakoon for being a Arunadeepa from his second m
genuinely believe that those who are which in now called, Sri Realistic stories, symbolic political pawn. passed away suddenly. The dea
unable to afford all three meals a day, Jayawardenapura Maha Vidyalaya. He expressions, tragedies, happy endings, Samarakoon hard and to cope
shouldn’t make such a big issue of it entered Christian College, Kotte in 1919 comedy, mockery, human life, gods and These accusations mounted Lanka again and went to India.
because apparently it’s an absolutely and completed his school education devils, and visible and invisible forces immense pressure on Samarakoon three years, he wandered, paint
doable task that can be done for people there. Samarakoon was a popular often became themes for Samarakoon. which resulted in turmoil in his personal held art exhibitions to ease his s
across the board. character at school, mainly for his life. By then he was in his second
Meanwhile, a few others chimed in on aesthetic capabilities. Whenever the Samarakoon served as a music marriage and to make matters worse, After returning to Sri Lanka
social media with their tone deaf vantage school had an art exhibition, a play or a teacher in many schools across the his second wife filed for divorce amidst Samarakoon engaged in many
to laud a few food delivery riders who’ve musical programme, young country. At the age of 23 he got his first all this political mud-slinging. natyas. Chandalika is one of the
adapted to these very trying times by Samarakoon was sure to be there. appointment as a music teacher at his successful mudra natyas at the
swapping their usual motorbikes with Samarakoon loved to draw and paint. own alma mater Christian College, Despite these hardships Samarakoon which was produced by Samar
bicycles, noting they are in fact doing good Rabindranath Tagore’s visit to Sri Lanka Kotte. He had also served as a music continued to create music and art, and
on themselves because now they are piqued Samarakoon’s interest in teacher in schools such as; Mahinda make a living out of music by holding He also contributed to Sinhal
getting ‘exercise’. Tagore’s drama and music and in no College, Galle, Dharmashoka Vidyalaya, private classes in Borella, Wellawatte, by writing songs for films. Sujat
Yes sure, these people working full-time time he fell in love with the Indian Ambalangoda, Ananda Balika Vidyalaya, and Kotahena. Among Samarakoon’s Sulan, Surasena, Duppathage D
jobs delivering food on cycles are doing so maestro’s work. This prompted him to Colombo, Sujatha Vidyalaya, Matara, students are; W.D. Amaradva, C de S Wedibima are some of the mov
for recreational purposes because they visit India to study more. Two years and University of Ceylon. enriched by Samarakoon’s pen
absolutely have a choice to pick their after Tagore’s visit to Sri Lanka Soon Samarakoon became a p
empty-tanked motorbikes to get through Samarakoon went to India to study art name in the industry and he wa
their day of work. and music at Santiniketan. In India,
It’s like saying people who flee Samarakoon studied arts under the
persecution on a boat over dangerous renowned artist and critic Nandalal
waters in search of safe land is the same Bose. He also studied music under
as people going on joy rides in the ocean in Shanti Devi.
search of breathtaking views.
To think that there are still people in After six months in India, Samarakoon
various places, sitting in their houses, returned to Sri Lanka in 1937. He was a
cosily wrapped in bed, vigorously typing on Christian by birth but decided to follow
their keyboards as they dispatch their hot Buddhism and even changed his name
takes on social media to be Judge Judy to Ananda Samarakoon. He further
about livelihoods they know little to studied painting and arts at Horana
nothing about with the intention of Sripali College. He took a special liking
sprinkling some fairy dust on a Pandora’s to ‘spray painting’ and a painting
box that has unleashed on people who are technique called, ‘washing paint’.
told to expect nothing but the worst for the
foreseeable future, is frankly disturbing. Ananda Samarakoon;
The fact that some people fail to
differentiate ‘having a choice’ from having the painter
an ‘only choice’ or the difference between
‘diet’ and ‘starving’, shows how Samarakoon was inspired to draw on
disconnected some just are from the rude his own life experiences. He also painted
reality of the common man who now has
to stand in painfully long lines just to have By Risidra Mendis A diverse display
their basic needs met. It completely
disregards the magnitude of the struggle, Some artists are inspired by the world Genesis: Artistic talents of five artists concentrated
the excruciatingly high cost of living that is around them and others are inspired by
happening in conjunction to the fuel thoughts and concepts.Regardless the Ishara Indhira Peshala Manu Pathirana Thilini de Simon
shortage that has severely impeded most nature of the inspiration the end result is a Premathilaka
people’s daily income. unique painting worth having in your office Kariyapperuma Jayasundara
Not just that, it also indicates how a or home. Painting is a difficult task these
certain faction of society when privileged days as there is shortage of materials but bombings in 2019,” Thilini reveals. Indhira Jayasundara (IK)
enough, don’t get how they are being these five artists have come together and Her father used to be good at drawing
insensitive or exclusive even when told so. braved the odds to show the world what “Art is in my bones. However, it lied “My great grandfather William, hi
These in-denial species is so plenty it they are capable of during these tough but it is her mother who taught Thilini to dormant till about four years back.There George and their father Harmani
truly is a good reason as to why our times. always see beauty in nature. She does are struggles in obtaining canvas and Alwis Seneviratne; were all Artists
societal norms are so damaging. Yet, I get plein air drawing and landscape painting paints from time to time. I can account for were pioneers in biological illustr
bombarded with messages of being The paintings of Thilini de Simon, with water colours.Her words of advice 55 paintings but I may have done a few Harmanis started work at the ag
pessimistic when I only am trying to be Indhira Jayasundara, , Manu Pathirana, for anybody interested in painting is to more. I like painting landscapes and 1818. Harmanis and his two son
pragmatic. and Peshala Premathilaka will go on draw whenever possible and maintain a blooms and anything that takes my fancy. contributed so much that the dra
Don’t get me wrong, I’m not calling out display in an exhibition to be held next sketch book, and learn by studying I do not like to stick to any form or available in the country are the w
the privileged. It’s not a crime to be so, week. The name of the exhibition is paintings and drawings of other painters particular style,” about her art. one family [father and two sons].
what’s troubling is how certain people use Genesis and each artist has their own international and as well as national. great-great granddaughter of Ha
that privilege because sometimes it has theme. “Most importantly, everyone has their “My earliest memories were always Indhira reveals.
the potential to dismantle someone else’s own style of painting so discover yours. observing and appreciating nature. Art
right to justice or downgrade someone’s Thilini de Simon This quote by Henry Matisse is all you evokes the mystery without which the
suffering. need to remember to start drawing or world would not exist and the earth has
In penny plain terms, there is nothing “I have always looked at the world painting 'Don’t wait for inspiration. It music for those who listen,” Indhira says
positive on this ‘brighter side’ because it through the eyes of an artist as art has comes while working',” Thilini shares poetically.
simply ceases to exist, so that greener been a part of me since I was a child. I some wisdom.
grass some of you are on is all just a enjoyed going to Cora Abraham’s art Indhira hails from a family of artists.
figment of your imagination. classes as a child and art was one of my
favourite subjects at school.What
Sincerely, inspires me is the world around me that
Negative Nancy is what I use as my raw material to draw
and paint,” Thilini says.

She says the events and cultural
changes that take place in
contemporary society captures her
interest and this too she uses to make
conceptual art. “For the exhibition my
theme is 'Invisible Justice' and through
my paintings I am putting on canvas, my
thoughts and feelings of the Easter

Echo Sunday 22 may 2022 Mosaic C5

niadted Events Diary
national anthem AnandaSamarakoon
Mad-Fest ‘22 Where are the chefs?
9 a.m. onwards
may may 3:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.
NSBM Green University Elphinstone Theatre, Maradana
25 28

script writer position in Cinemas, a Young Ananda Samarakoon Are you looking for a platform to showcase your mobile Mihira
company which was producing films at application development coding skills? Then get ready to Sirithilaka’s
the time. Lanka Matha. The change was done take part in Mad-Fest – the mobile application comedic play Ko
without consulting Samarakoon and development competition and exhibition organised by the Kukko will take
A milestone in Samarakoon’s cinema without his permission. NSBM. Get ready to showcase your skills and win amazing to stage in
career was reached in 1956 when he won prizes. Maradana this
the award for the most popular song On 3 April 1962 Samarakoon tried again Saturday for two
written for cinema. The competition was to end his suffering by consuming a large special shows.
organised by Lakehouse and dose of sleeping pills and unfortunately, The cast
Samarakoon’s song Mana Ranjana this time around he succeeded. He was includes many
Darshaniya Lanka for the movie Sujatha hospitalised for treatment but rendering stage veterans;
managed to become the most popular doctors’ efforts in vain, Samarakoon Kumara
song by securing 81,900 reader votes. breathed his last on 5 April 1962 as the Thirimadura,
The second place only managed to get clock marked 6:15 p.m. Sarath
12,988 votes. Kothalawala, Hemantha Iriyagama, Janaka Ranasinghe,
His death was broadcast on radio like Chinthaka Pieris, Sankheth Wickramage, and Sirithilaka
Samarakoon was also a talented actor, this; himself. All seats are box-planned and tickets are now
although he preferred music. He once available at the theatre gates.
performed with Rukmani Devi in a show “A string of a lute is broken, a lamp in a
held at Gamini Cinema Hall. The duo series of lamps is extinguished, a fountain A musical break from studying Beats of rhythm
acted and danced to the song Podi Mal of poetry is forever closed, the world of art
Alwis, and Ethano where Rukmani Devi played Mal lost a talented brush. A strong link in the may 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. may 6 p.m. onwards
Ethana to Samarakoon’s Tikira. chain of the nation’s singer generation is Holy Cross College
as trying to broken. We are talking about the poet, 28 Sapphire Seas Beachfront 28 Auditorium, Gampaha
ts of the In 1957, Samarakoon was appointed to Ananda Samarakoon who bade farewell Hotel, Hikkaduwa
Lanka Kala Mandalaya but his stint at the to the world a while ago. About the sea of
of his board was a short one since he was artistic talents that was Ananda
as well as abruptly kicked out for no real reason. He Samarakoon.”
llywood was a victim of political and professional
hatred but despite all the negativity he (Translated by Sanuj Hathurusinghe)
yaratne, faced the passion he had for the industry
er in Sri and art drove him to continue 3000 Events presents Jungle with Teklix featuring DJ Black Mirror Productions presents Spandana live in
e songs he contributing. However, he was not making Teklix – a homegrown DJ who has reached greater heights concert, featuring Sanuka Wickramasinghe, Sajitha
money out of his work and there came a in the music industry through his unique grooves infused Anuththara Anthony, Kokila Pawan Jayasooriya, and
o time when he found it hard to make basic with ethnic soundscapes. Be there in Hikkaduwa this Kanchana Anuradhi. Book your seat now to not miss out on
i Lankan ends meet. On 25 May 1959 he wrote to Saturday to experience an epic spinning of vinyls. this special musical opportunity.
the Ministry of Cultural Affairs requesting
er sang a job or at least a benefit for the time being A Unique musical experience Live on stage!
adly since he was finding it hard to fund his
ng. Among day-to-day needs, even after reducing his may 6:30 p.m. onwards may 7 p.m. onwards
ankar number of meals per day to one. Sadly, Royal MAS Arena
the letter bore no fruit. 28 28 The Epitome,
ther Kurunegala
Last years
nd Chakra
ense This desperation and frustration Colombo – a
to make gave him no other choice but to join unique musical
politics. He engaged in party politics event organised
marriage and used his ability to by The Chakra
ath hit write poems and draw in collaboration
he left Sri cartoons to put down with Hot
There for other political parties. Chocolate, will
ted, and Samarakoon getting present you a
sorrows. into politics predictably concert
resulted in him losing his experience you
y mudra popularity. He was have never
e most criticised even more and witnessed
e time the mud-slinging before. Make
rakoon. intensified. It was around sure to book
la cinema this time he first tried to your seat in
tha, Seda end his life by consuming a advance. For
Duka, and large amount of sleeping more
vies pills but miraculously, he information
nmanship. was saved. visit the event’s
popular Facebook page.
as offered a What broke Samarakoon’s
heart the most was the
baseless accusations involving
his song Namo Namo Matha.
Many claimed that the beginning
of the song was badly written in a
way that brought misfortune to
Sri Lanka. This prompted the
Government to change the intro
from Namo Namo Matha to Sri

y of art hope to bring forward social, cultural and Rotaract Club Athugalpura is bringing On Stage Live,
political issues,” Ishara says. an exceptional musical extravaganza featuring Bachi
d into one exhibition Susan, Kanchana Anuradhi, and Falen Andrea to the
Her advice to others is to never stop music of Naada. Book your ticket now and contribute to
drawing because of what someone says, a worthy cause as the proceeds are donated to
keep moving forward, help everyone, Divisarana project which is renovating an elders’ home
andone day a place will be created for you. for people living with disabilities.

Her advice to others is if you like to Manu Pathirana Towards a spotless shore Star-studded musical night
make a start and see what that creative
'itch' is all about – go for it. “Time is our Since she wasa young school kid in may 8 a.m. onwards may 6 p.m. onwards
most valuable commodity, spend it wisely, grade 2Manu was interested in painting. Dehiwala Beach
remembering that confidence, self- She has around 150 paintings including 29 29 National Youth Centre
esteem,and risk taking are the ingredients her final year project. “I paint most Auditorium, Maharagama
for a successful Artist.I love challenges commonly my life events. Surrealist artists
and to do things out of the norm. From like Salvador Dali and Joan Miro give me After much anticipation, Colombo Fest ‘22 – organised
being one of the first females to join the Sri inspiration to paint.I prefer to be stationed by Leo Club District 306C2 – is finally taking stage next
Lankan Air Force, now I have discovered in one place and do the paintings,” Manu Sunday. The lineup includes; Lahiru Perera, Ashanthi,
this journey of Art. My only regret is that I quips. Her advice toanybody interested in Chithral Somapala, Dhanith Sri, and Piyath Rajapaksha. Be
did not start earlier. Follow your dream. paintingis to keep drawing. there to enjoy a night filled with good music and tantalising
Don't be satisfied with stories, how things food.
have gone with others. Unfold your own,” Peshala Premathilaka
is brother Indhira advices. Colombo Beach Cleaning Campaign 2022, organised by
is De Peshala loved to paint from her Parami Janahitha Foundation, will be held next Sunday
ts and Ishara Kariyapperuma childhood days and feels that it comes morning at Dehiwala Beach. Be there to lend a helping hand to
rations. from the aesthetic skills of her fatheras he keep our beaches clean.
ge of 26 in “I have loved drawing since I was a is a talented artist. In 2015 she started art
ns child. When I showed the pictures to my studies at the University of Visual and
awings mother, she appreciated them very much. Performing Arts and has held over 20
work of After studying academically at University, I exhibitions. “This was a turning point of
.I am the began to recognise the style of painting. my art life with my own art style. I was
armanis,” The art environment was one of the inspired by nature and my life experiences
reasons I developed my art,” Ishara to paint.In 2020 l participated in an art
reveals. camp in Jaipur, India. My paintings are
mostly, abstract art style, with my own
Thoughts and concepts give her the petal brush strokes,” Peshala reveals.
inspiration to paint. “My father when he
was a university student, painted at the The Genesis art exhibition will be held on
Bodhirukkarama Vihara in Kantale. There I 27 May from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., and on 28
gained an understanding of temple art.I and 29 May from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the
Lionel Wendt Art Gallery.

C6 Puzzles/Pets EchoSunday 22 may 2022

DAILY SUDOKU 1953

AinTgoeuncuhitoyf

Breeding new varieties of ornamental fish at your own home

1952 Puzzle 2053 By Risidra Mendis With gene combinations to see what type of fish they are. This is a
we can create a large long time consuming process,”
Crossword CLUES In the past on multiple occasions Ceylon number of variants. With Kapurusinghe said.
Across Today has got in touch with Thushan some fish we can make
SOLUTION FOR CROSSWORD 204542 Kapurusinghe who is the Chairman of hybrids easily, while with He went on to say that the genes of
7 Carrier (6) the Turtle Conservation Project (TCP) some fish it is difficult. some fish are linked together and they
8 Relatives by marriage (2-4) for various turtle-related articles. Some fish reach sexual don’t separate. “For example imagine
9 Metallic element;Atomic Recently to we met with Kapurusinghe maturity in three to four
at his home in Panadura but this time years. They produce there is a fish in red and black and I want
No. 30 (4) around it was not to discuss turtles but young after three to four to add a yellow colour fish to produce a
10 Crabwise (8) to shed some light on another interest years. So we have to wait fish with red and yellow colour. But if the
11 very attractive or seductive of Kapurusinghe’s – ornamental fish for a long time until the red and black colour are mixed together
breeding or to be more particular, babies are born and won’t separate from that fish I can’t
looking woman (7) breeding of new varieties of platy fish. get the colour I want. So we have to first
13 side road little travelled than 1,000 varieties of platies I can’t use all of breed the fish and see what genes
Over the years Kapurusinghe has them on a commercial basis because there separate from the fish,” Kapurusinghe
(as in the countryside) (5) experimented with platies and produced over is no customer demand for new varieties. explained.
15 Plucky (5) a 1,000 new varieties or new strains with Some customers go for the colour. To
17 Envelop completely (7) different colour combinations and unique produce different varieties we need a large After six generations a
20 Knitted clothing (8) fins and tails. His interest in ornamental fish area,” Kapurusinghe explained. new species
21 Tear or be torn violently (4) started at a very young age when he had
23 More mindless (6) them as a hobby. But as he grew older, He said that at any given time we can only According to Kapurusinghe it is only after
24 Splendid assemblage Kapurusinghe wanted to do more than just have a limited number of varieties with us. six generations of breeding that we can
have ornamental fish swimming inside a fish “With gene combinations we can create a establish a new species of fish and call it a
(especially of famous people) tank. large number of variants. With some fish we pure breed. If for example a fish takes three
(6) can make hybrids easily, while with some months to reach sexual maturity, for six
His interest in the subject made him fish it is difficult. Some fish reach sexual generations to be complete one has to wait
Down explore further and he started studying the maturity in three to four years. They produce for 18 months. "When we get a new breed
1 Shop selling delicatessen (4) behaviour patterns of fish. “Fish are beautiful young after three to four years. So we have to the cost is more because the fish is rare and
2 Energises (6) but I went beyond the beauty of fish and wait for a long time until the babies are born. it is a new breed. But during the research
3 Furniture with drawers for studied them. I found out how to identify the Then we have to wait until the babies get big process I cannot earn any money. That is
male and female fish and how the fish breed why many people are reluctant to do
keeping clothes (7) because different species breed in different research and breed new varieties,”
4 A diacritical mark (~) placed ways. I found out that some fish change Kapurusinghe said.
colour during the breeding season. I got a lot
over the letter n in Spanish (5) of experience by studying these fish,” When asked if the new breeds can survive
5 With low speed (6) Kapurusinghe explained. for a long period of time Kapurusinghe
6 game played away from confirmed that they can because they are
Same type of fish bred in tanks, kept in captivity and have no
home (4,4) predators. "If they get sick we treat them. The
12 Sorrowful through loss or In Sri Lanka in most aquariums, it is ornamental fish breeding trade was active
usually the same type of fish; the platy, even during the COVID-19 lockdown time
deprivation (8) swordtail, guppy, goldfish, carp and the barbs and brought good foreign exchange to the
14 O ence (7) among others which are found. “Some country. But now the situation is different
16 Attends (3-3) people who are interested in ornamental fish and with the power cuts, no fuel and so forth,
18 Exhilarate (6) wait until new fish breeds are imported, to the breeding and exporting has got badly
19 Languish (5) buy them for their fish tanks. When we bring affected,” Kapurusinghe explained.
22 Future (4) down fish from overseas we have to buy the
fish from those who breed them. The foreign Some of the new breeds by Kapurusinghe
breeders breed and sell as many fish as they include the Sunset Pintail, Copper Red
can before they sell them to us. That is their Highfin Brushtail, Calico Pintail, Copper Red
marketing strategy,” Kapurusinghe said. Wagtail Pintail, Green Tuxedo Pintail, Black
Neon Wagtail Pintail, Black Highfin, Calico
According to Kapurusinghe, although in Sri Spotted Tail Pintail, Calico Wagtail Pintail,
Lanka we consider this to be a new species, Calico Wagtail Highfin, Golden Variatus
it is not really a new species because the Highfin and Golden Variatus Pintail among
country we imported the original species others. Platies are widely used in tropical
from, has already done the breeding of the aquariums. Several different colour
new variety and sent it to other countries. variations have been developed, such as red,
yellow, orange, blue, rainbow (combination of
“As a country we have to develop new colours) and white. Platies will usually live for
strains or new varieties. Sri Lanka has the around three years if the aquarium water
potential to breed new varieties as we parameters are correct.
presently have all the resources. I took two
species of platies – the Xiphophorus “Platies are very popular among fish lovers
maculatus and the Xiphophorus variatus – as they are easy to take care of and come in
and using the selective breeding process many varieties. If we are committed to what
produced new varieties or new strains of we do we can have our own new varieties
platy fish. Though I have produced more bred in Sri Lanka,” Kapurusinghe said.

(Pix courtesy Thushan Kapurusinghe)

Yesterday’s

Game On -Echo Sunday22may2022 Miscellaneous C7
sport galore!
Daraz Cares and Child Action Lanka project team

Daraz funds

Despite the trying times we and efforts to execute an ‘Help My Friends’
are experiencing, Rotaract exciting Hardball T10 Cricket
Club of Kelaniya – a Tournament where all teams To provide better futures for children in
movement of volunteers led by worked effortlessly to underprivileged communities
Rtn. Rtr. Rashmika Silva and compete. In the end, Gampaha
his passionate team – was and 27 February 2022 with 24 historic one as it marked a Rhinos came out as Daraz Cares is Sri Lanka’s first raise funds for their ‘Help My Friends’
able to bring back ‘Game On’ – teams and a massive crowd of milestone in Rotaract District champions. online multi-charity donation platform, campaign, which focuses on keeping
the club’s successful and over 700 individuals 3220’s history with the first connecting thousands of consumers children and parents together, thus
popular sports project – with a competing at Lani’s Place, ever Hardball T10 Cricket However, the true and potential donors to charities that providing these children with much
twist. Dehiwala. Tournament. In this phase, five champions would be the team help Sri Lanka’s most vulnerable and more secure and stable futures.
districts came together from behind the entire Game On disadvantaged communities.
Starting off in 2016 as just a As the tournament reached Colombo, Gampaha, Jaffna, journey. Many families in Sri Lanka struggle
handball tournament, the its conclusion, the Matale Kandy and Kurunegala. The As part of Daraz’s commitment to to make ends meet on a daily basis. To
Game On project was later District handball team took teams from each district Game On – a signature give back to its communities, Daraz make matters worse, the ongoing
developed into a sports series first place in the men’s group, included Colombo Sharks, project for the Rotaract Club of Cares seeks to empower people and economic crisis is pushing many
with the addition of many while the Maldives Huskies Gampaha Rhinos, Jaffna Bulls, Kelaniya – started off small deliver happiness to those who need it families further into poverty. In this
sports and a variety of phases. took first place in the women’s Kandy Pumas, and Kurunegala under the sports umbrella and the most. Every day, Daraz strives to backdrop, many parents are compelled
group. In the Rotaract group, Tuskers. has since grown into a deliver on their promise, make it to leave their children for work far from
The first phase of Game On the Rotaract club of IIT came spectacular national personal, and promote generosity of home and some children are also
was an ‘Indoor Inter-Cricket out as winners. This phase  It all began with an auction phenomenon. spirit which translate to initiatives that dropping out of school to gain
Tournament’ held at Club was concluded successfully during the month of April, aim to enhance and transform the employment and contribute to
Fusion in December 2021 with thanks to efforts of the teams where Rotaract cricketers were The Rotaract Club of experiences of sellers, buyers, and the household incomes to meet health and
25 teams, 73 matches and a as well as the support given by auctioned off to teams in an Kelaniya completed this wider community it operates in. Daraz nutrition requirements.
group of 500 participants. With sponsors on board; Lani’s IPL-style format and after the spectacular sports series Cares provides everyone who visits the
over 23 hours of matches and Place and Milo. end of a successful auction, successfully thanks to the platform an opportunity to be a part of Child Action Lanka’s ‘Help My
play time, the teams competed the Rotaract Club of Kelaniya unwavering support, patience the meaningful work of the company Friends’ campaign seeks to raise
with all their efforts and in the Come, the third and final worked collaboratively, and effort of the passionate towards uplifting communities and funds to support the financial
end the Rotaract Club of phase of Game On. combining all their hard work team. driving change through the power of requirements of a child’s day care/
Colombo Heritage took home technology. after-school care, nutritional
the championship trophy The third phase was a To this day, the team requirements, school supplies, and
thereby ending the first phase continue to celebrate their Through Daraz Cares on daraz.lk, other educational expenses. The
as a massive success.  success while cherishing the customers can donate to verified donations made through Daraz Cares
valuable memories they charity partners and other not-for- to Child Action Lanka will, therefore,
Enter phase two: The Beach formed during their journey. profit organisations working to solve a enable parents to seek work close to
Carnival – a two-day handball However, this amazing project multitude of developmental challenges home and ensure they are not
tournament held in will not end here. Game On will and meet pressing needs. More separated from their children for
collaboration with the Sri always be a remarkable importantly, 100 per cent of every months or even years, thereby also
Lanka Handball Federation signature project for the donation made through Daraz Cares protecting children from different
and the Colombo District Rotaract Club of Kelaniya in goes to the charity or organisation of forms of abuse that could take place
Handball Association. the years to come and will choice, with no hidden charges or when separated from their parents.
become a project the nation additional costs being incurred at any The ‘Help My Friends’ campaign aims
This phase took place on 26 will remember for a lifetime. point of the donation or transaction. to give children back their
childhoods and create an environment
Didn’t chicken out The Daraz Cares ‘Charity and where children find the comfort, peace,
Donation’ page is listed under the acceptance, and security they need
New Anthoney’s Farms reaffirms poultry ‘Home and Lifestyle’ category on to grow and thrive, despite ongoing
supply amidst economic challenges Daraz, which makes donating as easy challenges.
as placing an order. However,
customers can also access Daraz Join the Child Action Lanka family
Cares via: pages.daraz.lk/wow/gcp/ today and sponsor the needs of a child
daraz/channel/lk/daraz-cares/daraz- by donating on Daraz Cares! For more
cares. information on Child Action Lanka,
please email [email protected] or
During the month of May, Daraz has visit childactionlanka.org.
partnered with Child Action Lanka to

BOC sponsors With the view of ensuring National Chicken Council, NBC donates
consumers continue to enjoy USA. It was also the first and medicinal plants
their favourite chicken brand, only poultry producer in Sri
New Anthoney’s Farms (Pvt.) Lanka to embrace To aid the restoration efforts at Nilgala Forest Reserve
Ltd., a name synonymous biodegradable measures in
Annual Sand Paving with the domestic poultry their food packaging process. Nature’s Beauty Creations Ltd (NBC),
sector, recently reaffirmed its manufacturer of Nature’s Secrets and
Ceremony at Jaya position by providing In the last two years winner of Sri Lanka’s highest
adequate and uninterrupted despite the unprecedented environmental award, the ‘National
Sri Maha Bodhi supply of its meat range pandemic, New Anthoney’s Green Award-Gold’, recently donated
amidst feed shortages and Farms made a bold move to over 2,700 medicinal and valuable
Invoking the blessings of the Aruna Hettiarachchi, AGM – the growing challenges establish its presence plants across 13 different plant varieties by the Sri Lankan Army, Divisional
sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi for North Western Ruchindra facing Sri Lanka’s economy. globally, yielding orders from for reforestation efforts at Nilgala Forest Secretariats, Youth Service Centres and
peace, harmony and prosperity Perera, and other staff some key international Reserve. schools.
on the country and on all its members. The poultry industry markets for its Anthoney’s
citizens, the Bank of Ceylon speculates production to and No Biotic Chicken brands Located in Ampara District, the Nilgala The ceremonial planting of the trees
conducted its annual ceremony The event was organised by contract by one-fifth this year and achieving an export Forest Reserve vicinity was known to at Nilgala was attended by Eastern
of strewing fresh sand which is the Bank’s AGM – NCP G.K.G. primarily due to the surging income of USD 1.5 million for have been the medicinal forest used by Province Governor Yahampath, Veddha
known as ‘Weli Athirime Mahinda Bandara and staff feed costs as import of the the year 2021/22. This has King Buddhadasa, a King renowned for Chief Uruwarige Wannila Aththo,
Pinkama’ in Uda Maluwa (Upper members of the NCP with the raw materials for feed is enabled the company to also his skill in indigenous herbal medicine. Eastern Province Ayurveda
Terrace) of Anuradhapura Jaya guidance of the raising alarm because of the bring in the much-required The forest which was declared a Commissioner, Prof. Piyal Marasinghe,
Sri Maha Bodhi premises, Atamasthanadipathi of impending dollar shortage, forex into the country. conservation area in 1953 is also the Eastern Province Ayurveda doctors,
recently. Anuradhapura, the Most resulting in access and catchment area for the Rambakan Oya Maha Oya Divisional Secretariat, Officer-
Venerable Dr. Pallegama availability of good quality ‘We have expanded our Reservoir. However, recent human in-Charge of Sri Lanka Police, Maha Oya,
The ceremony was Siriniwasa Thera. and nutritious feed becoming state-of-the-art production intervention had destroyed over 2000 school principals, students and villagers,
participated by; the Bank’s scarce. facilities in the recent years acres of the forest, and had also and was also supported by the Sri
General Manager K.E.D. The Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi to cater to the increasing hindered the lives of the neighbouring Lankan Army and the Civil Defence
Sumanasiri, DGM – Corporate Temple is considered one of the “We are closely monitoring demand locally and village of indigenous Veddha Force. All the donated plants were
and Offshore Banking Priyal most sacred religious places in the current situation and internationally. We have put community. planted within the same day with the
Silva, DGM – Human Resource Sri Lanka for all Buddhists engaging with key together a well-defined assistance of those in attendance.
Dhamma Wijeyawardhene, DGM around the world. The Jaya Sri stakeholders to take export strategy with the aim A reforestation drive was recently
– Branch operations and Maha Bodhi Tree is an original proactive and timely of becoming one of the initiated by Eastern Province Governor Since its inception, NBC has been a
Development Banking Nilantha sapling of the noble Bodhi tree – measures in encountering leading meat exporters in Sri Anuradha Yahampath to which NBC pioneer in implementing environment
Meneripitiyage, AGM – North the tree of awakening under the various challenges Lanka renowned for its donated all the required plants for the protection initiatives across biodiversity
Central Province (NCP) Mahinda which Siddhartha Gautama was imposed. This is a time world-class green standards first phase of the reforestation conservation, waste management, and
Bandara, AGM – Marketing seated when attaining where collaboration plays a and sustainable practices,’ programme. All donated plants were sustainability awareness. NBC has also
enlightenment. crucial role in getting the added CEO Neil Suraweera. grown at the company’s Medicinal Plant been a zero water waste facility for more
poultry industry back on its Garden by its Agriculture Team, and is than 13 years, generates renewable
feet and strengthening its Chicken is undoubtedly part of the Nature’s Secrets ‘Siri Laka biogas within its facilities, carries out
ecosystem and value chain,” one of the most widely Osu Uyanak Karamu’ project, initiated in plastic waste recycling projects, has set
commented Chairman/ consumed meat products 2020 which aims to grow and donate up a subsidiary company to
Co-Founder of New across the world, enjoyed by over 100,000 medicinal plants by 2025. manufacture patented, organic
Anthoney’s Farms, Emil Sri Lankan households in It is part of the company’s efforts biological fertilisers to reduce Sri
Stanley. their everyday cooking and towards large-scale biodiversity Lanka’s chemical fertiliser usage, and
New Anthoney’s Farms takes conservation, reforestation, land implemented many other eco-friendly
The ‘Haritha Hari’ concept great pride in being a part of restoration and increase in carbon initiatives. The company’s vision is ‘to
at New Anthoney’s Farms is it. The company is GMP, sequestration. The company has be the most environment-friendly
an all-natural conception that HACCP, and ISO 22000 already made many plant donations to cosmetics manufacturer in the world’.
is nutrient-rich and free from certified with local and various national environmental projects
any antibiotics or hormones international halal across the island, including to
which means its feed is accreditations and is the only ‘Sadhaharitha Hetak’ and ‘Surakimu
completely made of natural poultry producer in Sri Lanka Ganga’ projects by Ministry of
ingredients. It follows strict to receive the Greenhouse Environment and Central Environment
biological measures and Gas (GHG) Verification Authority, as well as to other initiatives
farming practices, adhering Statement from Control
to animal welfare standards Union in accordance with the
in line with that of the ISO 14064-1:2018 standards.

C8 Heritage EchoSunday 22 MAY 2022

Vedda people taking part in Kataragama Perahera Traditional Jaffna food Kataragama Perahera

Dr. Gamini Wijesuriya bbReurbridungitledsing living in a 100 per cent solo ethnic or
Building an intercultural dialogue for a peaceful Sri Lanka cultural zone, living in a zone with high
By Ama H. Vanniarachchy cultural diversity is a blessing. It is vibrant,
of Conservation at the Department of Until the European Muslim communities of Sri Lanka. The energetic, and unique.
“Celebrate liberty, not imprisonment – Archaeology; Special Advisor to the nations stepped their God who is worshiped at Kataragama is a
celebrate diversity, not discrimination – Director-General of International Centre major god that is culturally significant for The Muslim communities of
celebrate differences, not differentiation – for the Study of the Preservation and foot on our shores Sinhala, Tamil, and Veddas. For the Sri Lanka
celebrate cultural variation, not cultural Restoration (ICCROM), Rome, Italy; Special during the 16th Sinhalese, it is a protector of Buddhism
profiling.” Advisor to the Director of WHITRAP and a mighty god of war Kataragama, or It is interesting to note the Gale Bandara
Shanghai, China; and President of the century and planted Mahasen, while for the Tamils it is the Deviyo who is venerated at Kurunagala
—Abhijit Naskar, Earthquakin’ International Council on Monuments and the vicious seeds of fearsome yet compassionate Skanda or when talking about the cultural diversity
Egalitarian: I Die Everyday So Your Sites (ICOMOS) Sri Lanka, Dr. Gamini racism as a part of Kadira. For the Veddas, it is their beloved and harmony of Sri Lanka. Gale Bandara
Wijesuriya who is a prominent scholar and their strategy, ‘divide yet feared Kande Yaka and a Vedi princess Deviyo was the son of the King of
Children Can Live archaeologist. and rule’ along with Valli Amma who is the second wife of Kurunagala, who was born to a Muslim
UNESCO says that, “Three-quarters of forceful conversion, Kataragama. The Hindu goddess Thevani princess from Beruwala. According to local
the world’s major conflicts have a cultural “Indeed, the world collectively the Sinhala, Tamil and Amma is the first wife of the god. Also, for folklore, descendants of her family still live
dimension. Therefore, bridging the gap considered peace and security as the Muslim, and many the Tamils, the god who is worshiped at in Beruwala. The prince who was killed in a
between cultures is urgent and necessary fourth pillar of the sustainable Kataragama is the son of their mightiest conspiracy, as it usually happens in royal
for peace, stability, and development.” development, emphasising its significance other races, god, Siva or the Maha Deva, and the families, in a fight for the throne, was born
As we observe the World Day for Cultural in today’s world,” started Dr. Wijesuriya. ethnicities, and brother of Ganesh. Both Sinhala and Tamil as a fearsome demon. Born as a ferocious
Diversity for Dialogue and Development on religions coexisted in people come together and perform their demon after being pushed down the
21 May, this is something we ought to UNESCO Policy on ‘World Heritage and own rituals and traditions at the same Kurunegala rock and murdered, he started
focus on as the situation in Sri Lanka can Sustainable Development’ expands the this island in devala premises. For the Muslims, there is harassing the locals. People prayed and
be very closely related to the above fourth pillar on; fostering peace and harmony. Post a mosque built within the devala premises. then a mightier god (according to local
statement by UNESCO. In Sri Lanka, we are security in ensuring conflict prevention, independent Sri The Veddas play a significant role at the folklore this is god Kataragama)
going through a cultural and social conflict protecting heritage during the conflict, Lankan politicians, Kataragama Perahera. No community is commanded the demon not to harass
for decades. Starting as back in the 1940s promoting conflict resolution, and low or high at this place and it is a blessing people and instead help them. Since then
when the very first agriculture and contributing to post-conflict recovery; instead of to see all in harmony and get closer to their he became a god that would answer the
resettlement work was initiated by the some of which can be utilised in building extinguishing the gods at this holy place. prayers of the villagers and help them.
British in Sri Lanka, the seeds of anger, peace between the two communities by flames, added fuel
hatred, dispute, discomfort, displease, and starting the intercultural dialogue, he There are so many restaurants in The most interesting and fascinating
even terror separated two communities in explained. to it Colombo where Jaffna curries (meals) are part of this is that the first ‘kapu
Sri Lanka; the Sinhala people and the Tamil on the menu. Not just in Colombo but in mahattaya’ or the priest of the Gale
people. Although the two communities As the current UN Chief says, “We are a the South in general, Jaffna food or Tamil Bandara Devala at Kurunagala was a
have been living together for centuries in world in pieces. We need to be a world in cuisine is much popular and in demand. Muslim; a tradition that is continued to t
harmony (as history proves) at the dawn of peace.” Similarly, Dr. Wijesuriya said that there are his day. On the days he performs rituals, he
the 20th century, the curse of racism and many elements in the two cultures which prepares himself for that and also follows
separatism parted the two. Part of the cultural diversity is the very can be used for the mutual benefit. a vegetarian diet. Interestingly, most of the
Tamils, whose homeland is South India rich tangible and intangible heritage of “Diversity adds richness to life and why devotees who visit the devala are
migrated to Sri Lanka, have been living in both communities which can be an cannot we explore that?” he questioned. Sinhalese while there are Muslim devotees
harmony and have greatly contributed to opportunity to build bridges as has been too.
the cultural diversity of Sri Lanka. The overly emphasised by UNESCO through its Also, cultural diversity and cultural
Sinhala people, whose only homeland is two international conventions, noted Dr. tolerance help to lead more fulfilling lives The role of the Vedda people
Sri Lanka, have been sharing the land with Wijesuriya. in aspects such as intellectuality, in Sri Lanka
many others such as the indigenous spirituality, and morality. In order to
Vedda people and many other races and Kataragama as a platform of embrace and understand the two cultures, When talking about cultural diversity and
ethnicities that migrated to Sri Lanka. All peace it is important to open dialogues between cultural inclusiveness, we hardly include
these various races and ethnicities have the two. In Sri Lanka, as the main conflict the role of the Vedda people in the
immensely contributed to the cultural For instance, why cannot two has been between the Sinhala and Tamil country’s development process. Yet, they
diversity of Sri Lanka. communities engage in pada yatra which communities, it is crucial to have open and have greatly contributed to the cultural
However, as we have stated before, links the north and south of the country? honest dialogues between the two and to diversity of Sri Lanka.
instead of connecting the bridges between He questioned. accept coexistence.
the Sinhala and Tamil people, due to the Especially, indigenous people of the
greed and selfishness of political leaders How many of these communities gather As Dr. Wijesuriya emphasised, cultural world play a vital role in their respective
of both communities, the races have in Kataragama for the religious festival and diversity is a beautiful thing and Sri Lanka countries. For example, in New Zeeland,
grown apart from each other. This hatred why can’t these be platforms for building being blessed with such a gift should the Maori tribe plays a very important role
and greed led the nation to a three-decade peace? make the best use of it. This can be greatly in the country’s development. Nanaia
war and hindered the country’s used in promoting tourism. Instead of Cybele Mahuta, hailing from the Maori
development for decades. Kataragama, can of course be community, is a prominent New Zealand
In historic times, there had been cultural considered a great platform for building politician and is serving as the Minister of
harmony between the Sinhala and Tamil peace and reconciliation between the Foreign Affairs. Does this happen in Sri
communities, and the best examples are Sinhala, Tamil, Vedda as well as the Lanka? The plight of the Vedda people of
seen in Polonnaruwa. The bulls, which are Sri Lanka is actually sad; they are an
sacred to the Hindus, were removed from isolated group, which is probably the
the Moonstone as a mark of respect. oldest group of humans who inhabited this
Beautiful Siva devalas were built in island, yet are on the verge of losing their
Polonnaruwa, for the first time in Sri Lanka. identity as well as their dignity due to
They were well preserved and cherished as poverty. Once a year or so, we hold an
national treasures. During later times, indigenous people celebration day or invite
Hindu gods were placed inside the the Vedda Chief for a conference and we
Buddhist temples, and also, Hindu shrines end it there. Researchers conduct research
were built within the premises of the on them and propose plans to upgrade
Buddhist temples. The best example is the their lifestyles and yet, they are merely
four major Hindu shrines which are limited to paperwork.
located right in front of the Temple of the
Tooth. Out of these four, Visnu and They are not being involved in the
Skandha are major Hindu gods. The April country’s development process despite
New Year is celebrated in harmony and Vedda community playing a huge role in
happiness by both Sinhala and Tamil the country’s agriculture, tourism, and
communities, together. If not for the greed local indigenous medicine. It is recorded
of racist and separatist politicians during that in historical times, Veddas had played
post-independent Sri Lanka, no hatred or a dignified and vital role during wars as
terror would have burnt the bridge of they would fight on behalf of the king, they
harmony and reconciliation between the would supply meat for the king and also
two communities. pure bee’s honey for the sacred Temple of
World Day for Cultural Diversity for the Tooth. This practice still continues and
Dialogue and Development is an every year, during the Kandy Dalada
opportunity to help Sri Lanka to Perahera, the Vedda Chief and a group of
understand the value of cultural diversity Veddas visit the Temple of the Tooth and
and learn how to live together in harmony. offer bee’s honey.
In this process, it is important to
understand how and why cultural Before we end, we must bring to your
tolerance is important to achieve peace. It attention two important points. At
is important and timely to understand the Korathota, there is a ‘Kapiri Deviyo’ who is
role of intercultural dialogue in achieving being venerated by locals. At an ancient
sustainable development in Sri Lanka. temple in Kandy, there is Elara’s son is
Joining us in conversation to discuss venerated as a minor deity by locals. These
this interesting topic is the former Director are examples of cultural tolerance that
have been practiced in Sri Lanka for
centuries. This is the true nature of the
islanders. Cultural tolerance and diversity
go hand in hand.

Until the European nations stepped their
foot on our shores during the 16th century
and planted the vicious seeds of racism as
a part of their strategy, ‘divide and rule’
along with forceful conversion, the Sinhala,
Tamil and Muslim, and many other races,
ethnicities, and religions coexisted in this
island in harmony. Post independent Sri
Lankan politicians, instead of
extinguishing the flames, added fuel to it.

It is high time we put an end to this and
embrace the cultural diversity of this
country and together build a harmonious
and peaceful future in a unitary Sri Lanka.

“The seed of cultural harmony lies not in
the culture you are born in but in the
recognition of the sweetness of other
cultures.”

—Abhijit Naskar, Sleepless for Society

Published by Ceylon Newspapers (Pvt) Limited, 101, Rosmead Place, Colombo 7 and printed at its press at No. 302/1A, Minuwangoda Road, Ja-Ela.

Sunday 22 May 2022

Cologne Still following
Vs. Perfume his heart…

Page - 2 Page : 4-5

A threat Pull-out Inside
through the
multiverse

Page - 6

02 Sunday
22 May 2022

There’s no doubt that finding a new CologneWhat’s the Difference?
scent can be a daunting process. With the Vs. Perfume
vast array of lavishly decorated bottles maximum of three hours. They tend to be fragrance doesn’t have this label, it likely to 20 per cent concentration of perfume oil,
lining the shelves of your local department less costly, and also come in bigger bottles means that it’s marketed towards women, giving it a stronger scent that’s supposed
store, knowing where to start can be a because more liquid is needed in order to and therefore more feminine in notes. to five to six hours, according to men’s
confusing task for many.  compensate for their shorter wear time grooming and style blog Dapper
(via Dapper Confidential). What is perfume? Confidential. A version that’s more difficult
While many simply think there are two to find is labelled as ‘pure perfume,’ which
main types of fragrances out there — Therefore, there are products in the The true differences between colognes is the highest concentration available at 15
colognes and perfumes — the truth is cosmetics industry labelled as ‘colognes’ and perfumes are simply in the strength of to 40 per cent. Its potent, transferable scent
actually much more complicated. that are more feminine in scent, and the scent, or the concentration of lasts up to eight hours, and because of its
Similarly, while many may associate the products labelled as ‘perfumes’ that are fragrance oils and alcohol (aka ‘perfume thicker consistency, it comes in stoppered
term ‘cologne’ with masculine fragrances more masculine in scent. If you want a essence’) in the bottle. Generally speaking, bottles as opposed to sprays like most
and ‘perfume’ with feminine fragrances, masculine scent that lasts longer than a the higher the concentration, the pricier mainstream fragrances. There’s also a
this is actually a common misconception.  cologne so you don’t have to worry about the product, which is why it’s essential to commonly sold version called ‘eau de
reapplying throughout the day, but are differentiate between the two while toilette,’ which is about 5 to 15 per cent
So if you’re looking for a new fragrance, cautious of the label ‘perfume’ because choosing a new scent. concentration, lasts up to five hours, and is
don’t make the mistake of staying away you associate it with femininity, make sure typically considered for everyday use.
from colognes because you’re assuming to look for the label ‘for men,’ or the French Perfume, which is typically referred to in
they’re just for men or avoid perfumes version, ‘homme,’ on the bottle. If the marketing terms as ‘eau de parfum,’ simply (thelist)
because you’re under the impression that means that the product contains around 15
they’re only for women. In fact, there’s a
range of products on the market that are
suitable for men that are technically
labelled as perfumes. But what exactly are
the differences between colognes and
perfumes? The answer is actually
relatively simple.

What is cologne?

Colognes, (aka ‘eau de cologne’) on the
other hand, only contain up to 2 to 4 per
cent of perfume essence and last a

03

Sunday

A beautifully woven brutal,22May2022
harsh and real story

Review: An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir

What if you were a ember, a spark that could ignite a
revolution?

There are some books that you just don’t expect to be that good –
you think you’ve read the best the genre has to offer, and then, once
again, something leaves you so shocked, so numb, that getting in to
another one is impossible for quite a while!

An Ember in the Ashes is definitely one of those books. Even if you
expect a really good book, what you read will blow you away
completely.

Oppressed for generations, The Scholars live with earning next to
nothing, living in fear of raids, of imprisonment, or simply
disappearing in the dead of the night to never be heard of again, not
even by the people who love you them the most. The once great
Scholar empire is trembling at the hands of the Marshals that
conquered them.

Even though The Resistance has been working for years, it has
never succeeded. They are just rumours at every child hears of -
ones where they break people out of prison, ones where they can
make people leave this land and escape to the free land. But
association with them is punishable by death, after such horrendous
torture that you’re practically begging for it.

The Masks are the Marshal’s strongest weapon. Trained from an
early age to be the most cold-hearted, dangerous assassins to help
keep Law and Order in the Empire, they are what haunts the Scholars
– they are killers without remorse. Elias Veturius is one of these
Masks, about to graduate and inflict a world of pain onto the
Scholars.

Laia is a Scholar, who was apprenticing to become a healer, until a
Mask in a nighttime raid took her only brother away, for possible
association with the Resistance. Left with nothing, Laia has but one
choice – find the Resistance, even if it means death.

If there is one thing you wouldn’t expect from the book, is how
brutal it is. There are no pretty palaces with cunning games being
played. There are no princes or their swoony admirers. This is set in
the frontlines, with fights, loyalty, slavery, magic and death with no sly
pretences. Thus, you will love EVERY moment of it. It is also great
because it isn’t the typical love-at-first-sight. The characters are
more than two people who fall in love and fight for a happily-ever-
after. Despite their attraction, they still fight for the same purposes
that they did before each other.

It lovely how there are other characters with stories brought to the
front and not just two main characters. Their loyalty and freedom
plays such a big part in this, because it is, in a way, a military-based
story.

To conclude, An Ember In the Ashes is a brutal, harsh and real
story cunningly woven with magic and myth, loyalty, betrayal and
freedom and family and friends to produce a marvellous book!

(theguardian)

04 Sunday Still foll
22 May 2022 his heart…

In conversation with Ravi Jay

By Shanuka Kadupitiyage one that is of ambition, and comradery for one another.
“Truly, I wouldn’t be here without Samith Gomes, Suresh
“I’m not really a big fan at describing myself and what I
do. I’m sure people are able to decide for themselves Arunasantha, Dileepa Karunarathna, Suresh Vignarajah and
more, and many more who were there with me from the start
who I am and what I do in life by seeing my work. For my rap careers as well as in digital graphics. They’ve taught
some, I could be a rapper, for others a writer, a much over the years. I am truly thankful for them.”
designer, a painter, an actor or director. I like to do the
things that I like to, and what I know how to do. There’s Sri Lankan hip-hop/rap
really not all that much to it.”
It seems that Ravi Jay, a person who has quickly “My opinion has changed a lot over my time as someone w
become a widely known figure in the Sri Lankan hip-hop/rap hip-hop and rap,” Ravi explained whilst sharing his thoughts
genre certainly doesn’t want to limit himself to his music.
Teen Inc had the opportunity to share a moment in
conversation with the man, and to learn more about his
journey as an artist in Sri Lanka and what he thinks may lie
in store for Sri Lanka in the future.

A journey of discovery

First introduced to rap at around the age of 18, Ravi
explored a number of avenues in his youth, searching for
his path when he succumbed to an illness that took his
life in a completely new direction. “It was definitely a

turning point in my life,” he shared. “I started to think a
lot deeper about the facts of life that we have to face,
including the truth that it is from darkness we emerge

from, and it is into darkness that we go at the end of
our lives.”

Time passed, and Ravi continued his life,
expanding his creative horizon with Drill Team, and
subsequently with other artists such as Yuki
Navaratne and Charith Attalage. “They were an

amazing support in helping me develop my ability
to share my philosophy through my work. I highly
respect the two of them for all the support they
gave me in my journey.”

There were a number of other turning points in
Ravi’s journey as an artist, and Kuveni was
definitely one for him. But of course, “I’ve still
only just begun, and it’s going to be exciting to
see where this all will take me.”

Finding his sound

“Creating original work that you can be proud of isn’t
easy,” he shared. “It’s not easy to seek what makes you
unique from everyone else and try to stand out from the
others. But it was a challenge I wanted to overcome. I’ve
always wanted to express what is mine, my ideals, my
philosophy, which was the biggest challenge I had to face.”
Fortunately, Ravi’s journey wasn’t alone, supported by many
family, friends, and fellow artists who have been with him along the
way, including doctors, who have helped heal him, Ravi’s journey is

lowing Sunday 05
… 22 May 2022

d many Lanka’s hip-hop/rap culture. “Certainly, Sri Lanka has amazing
t, in both trailblazers who are dedicated to their craft, but I also sense something
me so lacking in our local industry,” he said.
who enjoys
on Sri “We need to be able to take what we have and present it to an
international audience, through the lens of hip-hop. It’s a beautiful form
of art, and there are a lot of things unique to hip-hop that I don’t
subscribe to, mainly because I follow my own art.”

Going international

Ravi agrees that Sri Lanka still is struggling to break into the
global audience and creative industry as a whole. “We still struggle
to quantify our ‘Sri Lankan-ness’ and project it to a global audience
as a whole. I think that our tendency to copy from others is one of
the main things that is holding us back. As a result, the content we
create is hardly ever current with what’s going on in the world
around us, from a lot of aspects regarding content creation, in being
unique.”

Of course, among the many, he agrees there are a select few who
are trying to bring something new and unique to the table. However,
these are also mired by various factors, including the ugly
competition that exists between a number of artists, which as a
result has prevented many talented individuals’ work from reaching
the public and overseas. As a result, Ravi argues that the
international audience has heard or seen very little of what Sri
Lanka truly has to offer.

For the artist in you

If you are someone who aspires to be an artist, or maybe even a
rapper like Ravi Jay, he advises to “keep searching, and exploring new
things. Find yourself and show what you have to the world. Don’t fall
into the trap of sharing something that isn’t part of you, because it is
very short lived. Sometimes, we can fall into the false belief of following
patterns or rules. There are no rules to creativity and rap. The
experiences, thoughts and philosophy you have is unique to yourself,
and it is through your art that it is shown to the world.”

“You don’t have to limit yourself as a rapper. Be a free thinker, a
creator.”

So many to thank

Ravi Jay is someone who truly believes in the power that comes with
collaborating and working together as a unified and united industry,
which reflects in how he speaks about the many creators and many
others who have been part of Ravi’s journey. In fact, Ravi shared a whole
list of names followed with kind words about their talent and kindness as
we conversed, as well as his deep love for them, especially his mother
and father.

Unfortunately, we don’t have enough space if we were to name every
single one of them. However, he wanted to ensure to let everyone know
that they are loved, and he is truly thankful for each and every one of them.

“Of course, my journey hasn’t ended yet. It has only just begun. I’m
just really excited to see where the next chapter in my life will take me.”

06 Sunday
22 May 2022
MATHUTRHLTORIUEVGAETHRSTEHE
Review: Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness

By Nirupa Mohan Dore they try to find a way to survive the clutches of the Scarlet Witch.
The film opens and embraces the infinite possibilities in the
The newest American superhero film, Doctor Strange in the
Multiverse of Madness, released recently, as the sequel to Doctor multiverse, and explores several realms within it, as each portal in
Strange (2016). The film brings back Benedict Cumberbatch, as the multiverse features similar characters, living a different reality,
he reprises his role as the title character, Dr. Stephen Strange, in a with some similarities that make them relatable to each other.
story that unfolds with him trying to protect a young traveller with
special powers. This is a film that shows a threat that emerges and immediately
dives into the core plot, with an enemy who is portrayed as being
The movie based on Marvel Comics, marks the 28th feature too powerful for Strange and his team to challenge. While the
film, as part of phase four, in the popular Marvel Cinematic story centres around action, the film has strong dialogue and
Universe (MCU), as it follows the characters fans know, while drama, as America Chavez is show as someone who needs to
introducing a few fresh faces, in a story that shows the characters develop trust, while Wanda is portrayed with more emotional
navigate their way through a new threat. depth, as a character who is consumed by her past. The movie
delivers well developed characters in a story that is well-rounded,
The story centred on the title character Dr. Strange, also stars supported by a dynamic cast.
Benedict Wong as Wong, the Sorcerer Supreme, Strange’s trusted
ally, Elizabeth Olsen as Wanda Maximoff (Scarlet Witch), a The 126 minute film by renowned director Sam Raimi, was
powerful former avenger, who has gone rogue, now has a new made together with producer Kevin Feige, working in collaboration
plan, and will do anything to get her hands on the powers she with production company Marvel Studios, with a budget of
wants. Wanda’s character follows the events of Wanda Vision US$200 million. The film proved to be a financial success, easily
(2021) and shows that she has acquired the Darkhold. Rachel earning over 229 million in less than a week of itstheatrical
McAdams stars as Christine Palmer, the one woman Strange has opening, with releases dates in several countries still ahead.
feelings for but did not pursue in the previous film, and now regrets Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness proved to be yet
his decision, as he sees her move on. another successful film in the MCU, that is backed by positive
reviews, with 75 per cent featured on Rotten Tomatoes, 61 per
Xochitl Gomez stars as America Chavez, a teenager from the cent on Metacritic and 7.5/10 on IMDb. The film has received
universe known as the Utopian Parallel, who holds the power to mostly positive reviews, with many praising the performance by
travel between dimensions. Strange takes it upon himself to the film’s lead cast, visual effects, and director Raimi’s overall
protect her, from danger, with the Scarlet Witch, on her trail, trying direction.
to acquire her powers. Meanwhile, Chiwetel Ejiofor plays Karl
Mordo, the Sorcerer Supreme of Earth-838 and Patrick Stewart Sam Raimi seems to have made the film his own, with his
stars as Charles Xavier (Professor X), in a short but prominent role, experience in directing the Spider-Man Trilogy (2002-2007),
alongside several other members of the film’s skilled cast of stars. proving to be an asset, which may have shaped some
components of the film, like the first action sequence, which
The story this time introduces America Chavez, as she is shows Strange spring into action, to fight the octopus demon.
pursued by a dangerous monster, for her power, which allows her
to travel through the multiverse, which in the wrong hands, could Filmed in several locations in England and in Los Angeles,
result in the lives of countless being lost. Strange takes it upon United States, the PG-13 rated film, takes viewers on an engaging
himself to find a way to protect her. The film is filled with action adventure through the multiverse, as it explores beyond the events
and adventure, as the lead characters travel between the of Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021), and allows viewers to
multiverse, encountering friends and enemies along the way, as journey through the multiverse, while enjoying the superhero
action that fans expect.

07

Sunday

JT’S RISE TO FAME22May2022
1. Still one of the biggest pop stars
Justin Timberlake is one of the most famous pop stars soon catch on, and slowly become one of the most
to date — there’s no arguing that. He might be one of the famous boy bands in the world. Justin had come a long way since his days in the Mickey
biggest stars, but he didn’t get that way overnight. Justin’s Mouse Club. He’s worked hard and definitely earned his
career started when he was just a child where he 8. Band’s Leader place in Hollywood. Although he’s not as active as he
appeared on Star Search and The Mickey Mouse Club. used to be, he’s still arguably one of the biggest pop stars
From then on, opportunities came knocking for Justin, as When you would see NSYNC perform, it’s easy to see today, and has made a huge impact on pop music as we
he became a member of NSYNC and they went on to that Justin quickly emerged as the group’s leader. Justin know it.
become one of the most successful boy bands of their was only 17 when the band released their debut album —
time. the youngest in the band — but that didn’t matter when it (thethings)
came to his leadership role. He took on lead vocals, and
Justin’s career only flourished from there, with a solo eventually became the face of the band.
career and other opportunities to move up in Hollywood.
He had a few high profile romances, and he became the 7. Acting debut in 2000
talk of many tabloids, but that’s the price of fame that he
was willing to pay. We all know that Justin excelled in the music world,
therefore, he decided that he wanted to take a shot at
Here’s everything we know about Justin Timberlake’s acting, too. In 2000, he made his big acting debut in a
rise to fame. made for TV movie called Model Behaviour. He played a
male model named Jason Sharp where he got mixed up
14. He started off singing in a church in a mess when his model girlfriend and a normal girl
choir switched places.

When Justin was growing up, he was brought up in a 6. He infamously
rather religious household. Being raised a Baptist had dated Britney Spears
many benefits for Justin, as he attended church a lot. As
a result, he got involved with the church choir and grew When you’re trying to become a high profile celebrity
up singing with them, which ultimately started off his love that means you’re going to have to have some high
for music. profile relationships. In 1999, Justin started dating his
fellow Mouseketeer and fellow pop star, Britney Spears.
13. His family was a big influence The two were the talk of Hollywood and were definitely an
‘it’ couple that everyone was rooting for. Unfortunately,
Not only was church a big influence on Justin, but his the two broke up in 2002.
family was too. His grandfather was the one to teach
Justin how to play the guitar, and Justin’s uncle also 5. NSYNC took a hiatus
played in a bluegrass band. His father also always played
bands like the Eagles and Queen and his grandfather Much to the dismay of fans everywhere, NSYNC
Willie Nelson and Johnny Cash for Justin to listen to, decided that they were going to go on hiatus in
giving Justin his musical influences. 2002. They assured fans that the hiatus was only
temporary, however, the band still haven’t
12. He was on Star Search reunited or made new music together to this day,
making the hiatus more permanent.
In 1992, Justin Timberlake was just 11 years old. It was
also when Justin began to pursue his music career. He 4. Launched his solo career
appeared on the talent search show Star Search. He
performed under his first and second name — Justin After the announcement of NSYNC’s
Randall — and actually lost to another singer named hiatus, Justin decided that he wanted to
Anna Nardona who actually didn’t know she beat Justin go off and pursue his own solo career.
Timberlake until years later. That same year, he debuted his first
solo single Like I Love You and then his
11.  Mickey Mouse Club own solo album, Justified. He made his
first solo performance debut at the
The following year, Justin’s career only continued to 2002 MTV Video Music Awards.
grow. He became a cast member of the Mickey Mouse
Clubhouse. Being a part of the show was a huge honour, 3. Won a Grammy
and he was even among other future superstars, as
Christina Aguilera, Britney Spears, and Ryan Gosling Even though Justin had a lot of success with NSYNC, it
were his fellow cast-mates. wasn’t until he was a solo artist that he finally got a
Grammy Award. He won two Grammy awards for his
10. Member of NSYNC debut solo work; one for Best Male Pop Vocal
Performance for Cry Me A River and Best Pop Vocal
Being on the Mickey Mouse Club did wonders for Justin Album for Justified. NSYNC had been nominated
as his talents were now known. Justin, along with JC several times, but they never won.
Chasez and Chris Kirkpatrick joined forces to start a
group. The guys added in Joey Fatone and Lance Bass, 2. He took on big
and sure enough, NSYNC was born right before our very acting roles
eyes, and little did they know that they’d take over the
world. After his tiny TV movie debut, Justin moved on to
bigger and better roles. He was in movies
9. NSYNC took the world by storm like Alpha Dog and Richard Kelly’s Southland
Tales, however, his biggest role had to be Sean
NSYNC made their debut with their self-titled album on Parker the founder of Napster in The Social
24 March 1998. The initial release of the album wasn’t Network. These roles proved that Justin could do well
fantastic, however, their debut single, I Want You Back in the music world and the movie world.
debuted at No. 39 on the Billboard chart. The band would

Sunday 22 May 2022
Published by Ceylon Newspapers (Pvt) Limited, 101, Rosmead Place, Colombo 7 and printed at its press at No. 302/1A, Minuwangoda Road, Ja-Ela.

www.ceylontoday.com Sunday 22 May 2022

The Zahra
Collection

02

Sunday 22 May 2022

Liberation in Style
By Shanuka Kadupitiyage  truly buying what we want, why are something you want to be associated because of some marketing team,
we unhappy with our purchases in with yourself? Instagram influencer or designer
We know the fashion industry is the long term? label wants us to want them?
one of the biggest polluters globally, Enslaved by the system
and yet the new seasonal collections, Well, marketing has to play a large Such a question challenges the
new trends, and new styles continue part in answering this question. “I think we often let ourselves get notion that fashion is in fact an
to hit the stores, and we continue to Each time a new collection drops, we told what to buy and get told what extension of ourselves and ultimately
purchase. are fed these fantastical stories, from we should be wearing. You can easily takes away the value of the choices
supporting diversity and get trapped in a cycle of constantly we make in what we wear and how
But of course, fashion isn’t the evil marginalised communities, saving being dissatisfied with what you buy we wear them.
of all evils, and neither are those who the planet, cleaning up the ocean, because you are just listening to
enjoy being connected and current and maybe even curing cancer (who what other people think you should Liberation in style
with the industry. Because style is knows). be wearing. It’s good to take a step
all about expressing yourself, back and ask yourself some deeper Of course, there’s nothing wrong
showcasing who you are, and being We are fed concepts such as questions about what you want and with chasing the latest trends, but
able to wear something you feel good circularity, sustainability, eco- what you need from your clothing,” it’s not something that is feasible or
in. friendliness and ethical fashion, Alec added in his interview, practical, especially given the
devised and planned by marketers explaining how much of a role current circumstances.
But then why did Alec Leach, who who create narratives for the clothes marketing plays in the clothes we
spent nearly five years at the we purchase. No longer is it the wear, pointing towards a valuable Instead, being able to break away
streetwear publication Highsnobiety, latest dress, it’s something more, question: do we buy the things we from the bonds of marketing, and
in an interview with GQ express this; and we just have to be a part of it. buy because we want them, or freely choose your style, and look is
“I realised that my life was just really where fashion becomes liberating,
clogged with stuff, and none of it But is it truly you? Or just something completely separated
meant anything to me, even though from the marketing shams that
it all seemed important at the time. I many brands tend to apply.
just remember thinking that after
chasing all the trends that I was On the opposite end of the
supposed to be chasing, getting all spectrum are those who try to apply
the designers that I was supposed to mandates for fashion and your
be getting, I just had a bunch of stuff purchases to be better for the
in my closet that didn’t mean industry and the planet. That
anything to me. I didn’t think it doesn’t sound very liberating either.
suited me, and I didn’t enjoy wearing
any of it,” he shared. The best action is to be more
focused on our approach, with you
Is it truly you? in the centre of it all. Whatever the
marketing may be, you will finally be
I’m confident all of us have the one wearing it.
experienced similar sentiments
regarding our wardrobes as well. It Now is the best time to liberate
might even extend beyond. If we are yourself in your style and create a
look of true glamour that lasts the
ages.

03

Sunday 22 May 2022

The Zahra
Collection

04

Sunday 22 May 2022

The Za
Collect

By Shafiya Nawzer

When it comes to style, personal is priceless. Luxury
brands provide custom-made items and bespoke
services. For a fashion house to qualify as one of the
best designer brands and atop high-end luxury labels,
its clothing, shoes, and accessories must be made from
the best materials, by expert artisans in the most
uniquely imaginable styles. Luxury is personalisation,
and vice-versa.

Dimuthu Sahabandu is a renowned fashion designer
well known for his couture clothing and custom wear.
His eponymous brand has designed and created some
of the most iconic pieces.  Dimuthu’s line is built on his
signature aesthetic of colours and playful proportions
creating feminine, sexy, and unique designs.

His creations are unlike anything you have ever seen
and a total pleasure to look at. Dimuthu’s collections
centre around glamour and drama with the use of
feathers, sequins, pearls and beads combined with a
metallic colour palette. If we could describe his works in
one word, it’ll be ‘regal’.

Dimuthu’s designs consist of soft layers and drapes
that create an ultra-feminine silhouette without the
need for bare skin. His more elaborate pieces are
particularly popular amongst brides and bridesmaids
who drool over lace and detailed beaded hems.

ahra 05
ction
His latest collection ‘Zahra’ was recently launched intimate events, parties, weddings and festive Sunday 22 May 2022
and features a generous dose of glamour through his celebrations. The ready-to-wear ensembles are
usage of contemporary colours, modern embroideries dipped in cheerful, eclectic graphics on luxurious your day-to-day life.
and edgy designs. Luscious palate, rich textiles along fabrics. From botanical-inspired or geometric prints
fusion revival of exquisite handwork and stylish floral to giving the collection an edgy update. What are some of the materials, design styles and
prints are the key narrative. embellishments that you have incorporated into
The Zahra collection embraces colour and a mix of the Zahra collection?
Imperial yet contemporary, sophisticated yet playful, techniques such as beadwork with modern
contrasting moods were seamlessly woven into classic silhouettes. Every piece is lovingly handmade and Surface detailing is something we’ve concentrated
silhouettes, the designs are perfect for the new age woven to create unique pieces that redefine modest on in this collection as well, as it is a part of our
fashion. brand’s identity. We’ve also developed some custom
prints for ‘Zahra’ which are printed on silk satins
We at Glamour spoke to the master craftsman and duchesse satin materials. The prints are
Dimuthu about his latest collection. adorned with our signature pearl, bead and sequin
embellishments. We’ve also detailed some of our
Tell us about your latest collection ‘Zahra’ and the pieces with upcycled fabric offcuts keeping in line
inspiration behind it? with our CFW collection this year which focused
mainly on upcycling.
The word ‘Zahra’ translates to ‘White’ and ‘Flower’
in Arabic, capturing the idea of purity and beauty. For this collection, you worked with a range of
Our brand identity too revolves around the idea of materials. What does sustainability mean to you
femininity and beauty, therefore Zahra seemed like and how do you incorporate it into your designs
an ideal concept for our Eid collection this year. besides material use?
We’ve derived inspiration from vintage rose
tapestries and prints. Most of the prints we have in Sustainability in fashion can have many
the collection are custom developed and printed by definitions and it applies in different ways for each
us at Dimuthu Sahabandu Collections. brand depending on its signature. For our previous
collection, we embellished all garment surfaces from
When it comes to designing, what sparks your upcycled materials from garment offcuts in our own
creativity? production house. Minimising waste and controlling
what leaves our production unit which ultimately
I’ve come to realise that there is no one particular ends up in a landfill. I believe the sector we cater to
thing or area that inspires me when it comes to my in fashion has the least impact on the environment.
work. I’ve derived inspiration from many different As a luxury brand, we produce very limited
places for my past collections. Whether it be art, quantities of each design as opposed to the mass
history, literature, a roadside poster or even the manufacturing sectors. Most of our designs are one-
lyrics of a song I am listening to, you never know off pieces which can be worn as a one-piece garment
what random thing could be your next big for a couple of wears and our customers are given
inspiration. You simply cannot look for it. It is the opportunity to bring the garments back where
something that should come to you effortlessly in we take them apart and turn them into a few
separates prolonging the life and use of our pieces.

We’ve also come to realise that consumers who
purchase a handmade piece with a story behind its
process are less likely to dispose of it, compared to
the clothing that’s cheaper in price and readily
available in bulk. We also make sure that we keep
our production process quite transparent where the
consumers get an idea of who made their clothes
and how they are made so that they know the story
of the artisans and craftsmen involved in our supply
chain, this also strengthens the lives of artisans and
help them keep their crafts alive in an era where all
things handmade are replaced by machine-made
mediocrity.

How can we view and purchase them?

The collection is available at The Design Collective
store, No 28, Stratford Avenue, Colombo-6.

Anything else that you would like to add?

Other than the collection that is in store right now
we are also working on the ‘Zahra’ plus size
collection which will be out soon. These collections
although released for Eid are also ideal for the
wedding season. The collection consists mostly of
separates so you have the option of picking up a
particular piece from an outfit and customising your
own look.

Credits

Photography – Anushka Fernando
Model – Diwanga Perera
Agency – BK Model Management
Hair and Makeup – @noary_thestylist
Jewellery – The Blooming Beads
Location – Gandhara Store

06

Sunday 22 May 2022

A Special
Screening

‘Adaraneeya Prarthana’ is an upcoming romance film
directed by Wasawa Baduge and executive produced by
Ishantha Withanage. It stars Shanudrie Priyasad,
Nethmi Roshel, and Rahul Rishika. The music is
directed by Yasas Medagedara.

It centres around a love triangle between the film’s
three main protagonists, Rahul (Rahul Rishika),
Menakaa (Shanudrie Priyasad) and Parami (Nethmi
Roshel). The film was primarily shot in Sri Lanka though
some scenes were taken in Australia due to the covid-19
pandemic restrictions. A special screening and premiere
were held recently at the PVR Cinema, One Galle Face
Mall.

Pictured here are some of the highlights from the
premiere event.

Pix courtesy - DNA by Dehan Godallage

07

Sunday 22 May 2022

8

Sunday 22 May 2022
By Ruelle Sittampalam

 Manicures can leave you feeling How to mean your nails become chipped and
fresh and fashionable. But it’s so Achieve dry. Try opting for spring cleans
easy to ruin a good manicure and can before a manicure, or getting
mean a big waste of money. Here’s the someone else to do the cleaning.
how to get the best of your manicure Perfect
in some simple ways! Nails? Using your nails

Preparation for your manicure Nails can be very handy to use as a
tool. Unfortunately, prying things
Take your time removing old nail apart and scraping will only damage
polish. place the cotton round dipped your nails. Resist the urge to and
in nail polish remover on the nail and your nails will last longer and look
wait for 5 seconds before removing - better.
it will come off faster and easier!
Using a nail strengthener
Shaping the nail is the next step.
The fingernails should be filed into Using a nail strengthener will make
oval tips. You should slant the file so your natural nails healthier and in
that the filing is done mostly to the the long term can save you expensive
underside of the nail. File each acrylic sets when your natural nails
fingernail from the corner to the are long and strong enough!
centre, making sure to stroke in one
direction only on each side of the Staining foods
nail.
Avoid eating with your hands
Softening the cuticles is done by especially when it comes to staining
soaking the fingers in a small bowl foods such as turmeric, or hot sauce.
filled with soapy water. Make sure to This will leave your nails with a dull
use a non-irritating soap. Carefully yellow or orange colour that will not
dry the hand by holding a small towel flatter the nail.
and place the hand on the towel. Dry
the hand while simultaneously Washing dishes
pushing back the cuticle and skin on
each fingernail. Having your hands in water a lot is
hard on your manicure. Washing
When using a cuticle remover, dishes is especially hard on them.
gently loosen the cuticle with an This is probably because they’re
orangewood stick or cuticle pusher. soaking in soapy water that can
Keep the cuticle moist while working. cause your nail polish to weaken and
Wash gently and dry. chip. Use your dishwasher instead. If
you have to wash your dishes by
Clean under the free edge of the hand, wear gloves to protect your
fingernail by dipping a cotton-tipped nails.
orangewood stick in soapy water and
cleaning under the nail from the Hairspray
centre outward to each side.
Hairspray is hard on your
Apply cuticle oil or cream at the manicure. It can cause the nail polish
base of the nail. Brush nails gently in to come off if enough of it gets on
soapy water with a downward your nails. You can blame the alcohol
motion. Dry hands and nails
thoroughly. Next use a very fine content in hairspray for that. Try
emery board. Buff nails give them a to keep your other hand out of
smooth bevelled edge. Wipe nails to the way when you’re spraying
remove any particles of cuticle or
dead skin. your hair. Use a comb to hold
your hair in place while you
Apply a base coat using long spray instead. Your
strokes. When the base coat is dry to
a light touch apply polish. manicure will last a lot
longer without hairspray
 Apply polish lightly with strokes hitting it.
from the base to the tip. Excess
polish on cuticle or nail can be easily Biting your nails
removed with a cotton-tipped
orangewood stick moistened with Biting your nails is
polish remover. instant ruin to your
manicure. This can be
Apply a top or seal coat. Brushing a hard habit to break but
the top or seal coat around and you can do it. Many people
under the tips of the nail will give the have overcome this habit.
nail added protection. There’s a lot of helpful information
on how you can do this on the
Things to avoid after your internet. One great benefit is that
your nails and manicure will look
manicure much prettier.

Scrubbing the bathroom

Scrubbing the bathroom is
one of the things that will
ruin your manicure. The
chemicals in bathroom
cleaners and the rough
action of scrubbing will

Published by Ceylon Newspapers (Pvt) Limited, 101, Rosmead Place, Colombo 7 and printed at its press at No. 302/1A, Minuwangoda Road, Ja-Ela.

Sunday 22 May 2022
www.ceylontoday.lk

Cayman Dinaya
Islands Shanuki
in Brief Perera

Page - 3 Pic by Amitha Thennakoon

Never Have artwallPG 4-5
I Ever...

Page - 7

02

Sunday 22 May 2022

Art Alert!

This May, stand a chance to be one of three
lucky weekly winners to get a gift pack from
Nutriline (CBL) by sending in one of your
drawings (no theme) to participate in an art
competition for kids aged 12 and below. If you
opt to send it in digitally, be sure to scan the
picture and send it to us via email to
[email protected] or post it to
Scribbler, 101, Rosmead Place, Colombo 7 with
details inclusive of name, age, address and
contact number.

Note: If any one of the above mentioned details
aren’t provided, the entry will be disqualified.

ESSAY Fun Train Facts
ALERT!
1. A train is a series of inventor Robert Davidson in 1837.
This May, stand a chance to be one of three lucky winners of connected vehicles 7. Prior to diesel and electric trains,
a gift pack from M.D. Gunasena Publishers! If you are aged that travel along
12 and below, all you have to do is send in an essay railroad tracks. steam powered trains were
(with a word count of maximum 450 words) written by you dominate.
(no theme) to be entered in the competition. You can send 2. Trains are powered 8. Modern trains either use diesel or
your entry via email to [email protected] or by a locomotive, electricity, but steam powered
post it to Scribbler, 101, Rosmead Place, Colombo 7 with also known simply trains still exist for recreational
details inclusive of name, age, address and contact number. as an engine. purposes.

So put on your creative hat 3. A locomotive (factsjustforkids)
and send in your entry! engine can be
powered by steam,
Note: If any one of the diesel or electricity.
above mentioned details
aren’t provided, the entry 4. Prior to locomotive
will be disqualified. engines, trains were
powered by
humans, horses or
gravity.

5. The first commercially successful
steam powered locomotive was
the Salamanca built by English
steam engine and machine tool
manufacturer Matthew Murray in
1812.

6. The first electric locomotive was
invented and built by Scottish

03

Sunday 22 May 2022

CaymanHands on History
Islands
in Brief

The Cayman Islands are a British Overseas Territory located in 950 slaves owned by 116 Caymanian families. sustained minor damage from partial roof removal, low levels of
the western Caribbean Sea. The territory comprises the three The islands continued to be governed as part of the Colony of flooding, or impact with floating or wind driven hurricane debris.
islands of Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman, Power, water and communications were disrupted for months in
located south of Cuba and northwest of Jamaica. The Cayman Jamaica until 1962, when they became a separate Crown some areas, as Ivan was the worst hurricane to hit the islands in
Islands are considered to be part of the geographic Western colony while Jamaica became an independent Commonwealth 86 years. Grand Cayman began a major rebuilding process and
Caribbean Zone as well as the Greater Antilles. The territory is a realm. On 11–12 September 2004 the island of Grand Cayman, within two years, its infrastructure was nearly returned to pre-
major world offshore financial centre. which lies largely unprotected at sea level, was hit by Hurricane hurricane status. Due to the tropical location of the islands, more
Ivan, creating a storm surge which flooded many areas of Grand hurricane or tropical systems have affected the Cayman Islands
The Cayman Islands were first logged as sighted by Christopher Cayman. An estimated 83% of the dwellings on the island were than any other region in the Atlantic basin; it has been brushed or
Columbus on 10 May 1503 during his fourth and final voyage to damaged including 4 per cent requiring complete directly hit, on average, every 2.23 years.
the New World. He named the islands Las Tortugas after the large reconstruction. A reported 70 per cent of all dwellings suffered
number of sea turtles observed there. The first recorded English severe damage from flooding or wind. Another 26 per cent (kiddle)
visitor to the islands was Sir Francis Drake in 1586. He
subsequently named the islands «Cayman» after caiman, a Neo-
Taino word for “alligator”.

The Cayman Islands remained largely uninhabited until the
17th century. While there is no archaeological evidence for an
indigenous people on the islands, a variety of settlers from various
backgrounds made their home on the islands, including pirates,
refugees from the Spanish Inquisition, shipwrecked sailors, and
deserters from Oliver Cromwell’s army in Jamaica.

The first recorded permanent inhabitant of the Cayman Islands,
Isaac Bodden, was born on Grand Cayman around 1661. He was
the grandson of the original settler named Bodden who was
probably one of Oliver Cromwell’s soldiers at the taking of
Jamaica in 1655.

England took formal control of the Cayman Islands, along with
Jamaica, as a result of the Treaty of Madrid of 1670. Following
several unsuccessful attempts at settlement, a permanent
English-speaking population in the islands dates from the 1730s.
With settlement, after the first royal land grant by the Governor of
Jamaica in 1734, came the perceived need for slaves. Many were
brought to the islands from Africa; this is evident today with the
majority of native Caymanians being of African and English
descent. The results of the first census taken in the islands in 1802
showed the population on Grand Cayman to be 933 with 545 of
those inhabitants being slaves. Slavery was abolished in the
Cayman Islands in 1834. At the time of abolition, there were over





06

Sunday 22 May 2022

07 Dear winners,
congratulations!
Sunday 22 May 2022
Thank you all for sending in these lovely
Never Have essays. Now await a call from M.D.
I Ever... Gunasena Publishers for a delivery of a
By Saudha Naushad gift pack!

I have always wanted to go on a trip how to visit her,” I said. “You can ask uncle Bernett Let’s
with my friends but I wasn’t allowed to. to take you and your friends, he will be happy to do save
It’s not safe, my parents say. My friends so,” my mother jumped in. My sister and I were water!
and I were planning on a trip for so long sharing looks. I said, “No I think we can book a
but gave up on that eventually. I still vehicle. I am sure they will have some offers going By Zainab Ramsan
wanted to make it happen, because I on,” I shared. “Okay, as you wish...” says my cool
know how fun it would be to go around dad. Water is very important thing in the world.
with people we love. Without water, we can’t live in this world. We need
I rushed to the room to call my friends and tell water to drink, cook, bath, wash, cultivation and
One night, I was talking about this to them about the good news. They were so happy many more. Plants and animals also need water.
my little sister, Airah. She is a seven- about it but wasn’t sure if their parents will believe
year-old girl with behaviour of a in them. But they made it too! The same night, I There are many sources of water such as
90-year-old, but I still love her. She began preparing my things and as usual my sister sea, river, pond, lake and well. We should
helps me out with things but also makes helped me out. Later in the night, my mother protect water ways.
sure to not keep any secret. This is why I received a call, and I could see a disappointment in People pollute water in many ways. We should not
clearly don’t want to share things with her face. I was hoping it’s something to do with the litter the water ways. We should not cut trees. If we
her. But when she genuinely family issues they were having lately, but no. It was cut trees, we will get less rain. Factory waste mix
understands that I wholeheartedly want my friend’s mother, who I faked a death of. My friend with river, sea and harm water and the fish and other
something, she will help me out. got caught lying, and her mother called mine to water animals. So let’s protect water.
complain about me. Once she ended the call, she
So when I told her about how badly I want to go on walked towards me, and “BOOOOOM!” she verbally How I got
a trip with my friends, she pitched in with some exploded. “I am never going to let you out with my pet cat
great plans. One was to fake a school trip (which is friends, ever! STAY HOME!” As usually my plan
not possible because if my parents contact my failed, but I am not going to give up on this. I will let By Aaminah Mohamed Fasly
school, I am DEAD), the next in line was to fake a you all know about the next plan very soon. This
death of my friend’s mother who lives very far away. time it will involve nothing but the truth...hopefully. This year i was sad. Have you ever been sad for
That was a good one, but what if my parents would past year? I am very sad. I have wanted a pet cat for
want to accompany me and my friends? I M.D. Gunasena years. Suddenly my mom said, “I am going to give a
questioned. “Definitely they would, but let’s find a Essay gift to you.” It was surprising. And it was a pet cat. My
way,” my sister said. Competition mom took me to the store. I wasn’t patient in the car
Winners itself. This is the best gift I’ve ever got. The store was
Before I discuss with my parents, I need to make close and I was nervous already.
sure that all my friends are ready to go on this trip.
Some may not be, but I am sure I can make this Finally we arrived at the store. There were many
happen. I called them and told about the plan. As I different cats. Suddenly i saw the cutest baby cat I
said, some were okay with this while some weren’t. have ever seen. I chose that and bought it. In the
But it’s usually like that. When we plan things, it’s evening, I went to the toy store with my mom and the
only few friends eventually making it happen. But i cute car. I bough tiny medium sized balls. Next I went
took some time and forced them to join the trip, and to the food store. The car was staring at one of the
they did. cat’s food. It loved the food and i bought it.

Now, it was time for me to talk to my parents. I
had to fake some tears because of the ‘loss of my
friend’s mother.’ Faking a tear is not hard but
playing it along is. So I approached my mother who
was clearly having a bad mood, and my father who
is cool as always. I sat down next to them, and
stayed silent for two minutes, just to let them
know that I am sad about something. “What’s
up child? Are you okay?” said my dad. “Nah...
Tharushi’s mother just passed away and she
lives 45 kms away, just trying to figure out

Sunday 22 May 2022 Colour
Me

Published by Ceylon Newspapers (Pvt) Limited, 101, Rosmead Place, Colombo 7 and printed at its press at No. 302/1A, Minuwangoda Road, Ja-Ela.

GLOBAL

SUNDAY 22 may 2022

Cover Story
India mosque row
could become a
religious flashpoint

PAGES 4-5

02 GLOBAL

SUNDAY 22 may 2022

Two years after Joe Biden was US midtermThe Capitol Building in Washington DC is home to both the Senate and the House of Representatives
elected US president, voters return to elections-a
the polls on 8 November. simple guide
enough. Divided control of Washington is
The midterm elections - so called Conservative Democrats - not likely to mean more drama and hostility.
because they fall halfway through a
president’s term - take place every four Republicans - have blocked several And what happens next?
years. major proposals, including “Build Back
Better”, the president’s trillion-dollar Once the midterms election ends, all
Who is being elected? package for social programmes and eyes will turn to the 2024 presidential
climate action. election.
Americans are represented in
government by 535 lawmakers, known A heavy defeat in the midterms will It could be a repeat of 2020 - both
as members of Congress. make it even harder for the president to Presidents Biden and Trump say they
introduce new laws. plan to run again.
Congress is made up of two
chambers - the Senate and the House Several Republicans have also But various first-time contenders are
of Representatives. The two work expressed interest in taking a closer expected to throw their hats in the ring
together to make laws. look at the Biden administration’s too.
affairs.
The Senate is the 100-strong upper As well as the elections for Congress
chamber. Each US state - regardless of That could mean opening on 8 November, 36 out of 50 state
size - sends two representatives. These investigations into everything from the governors are up for election. Of those
senators are elected for six-year terms. bungled troop withdrawal from 36, 20 are Republican.
Every two years a third of the Senate Afghanistan, to the foreign dealings of
faces re-election. the president’s scandal-plagued son When presidential campaigns get
Hunter Biden. under way, governors play an outsized
The House of Representatives (often role supporting their party’s candidates
referred to as “the House”) has 435 Since the 6 January riots at the US and overseeing their state’s elections.
members. Each one represents a Capitol, trust between the two parties
particular district in their state and has declined sharply. A divided Washington and a crop of
serves a two year term. All seats are up new governors could have a major
for election. Public health measures particularly effect on presidential campaigning in
mask rules, have further deepened 2023 and 2024.
What is at stake? these divisions.
(BBC News)
Currently, all members of Congress
align with the Democratic Party or the
Republican Party.

The Democrats control both
chambers, but by very slim majorities.

So far, this has made it easier for
President Biden, a Democrat, to get
things done.

But if the Republican Party gains
control of either or both chambers, it
will have the power to thwart the
president’s plans.

Republicans need to win five extra
seats to take back the majority in the
House this November.

It is even closer in the Senate, where
the seats are evenly split between both
parties at present. At present, the
Democrats have control because Vice
President Kamala Harris has the
casting vote in any tie.

The Republicans only need to win one
extra seat to gain control in November.

Primary elections to determine who
will contest the general election for
each party will take place around the
country between May and September.

So who is going to win?

Historically, the party that holds the
White House has tended to suffer
losses in the midterms.

Signs point to this being a so-called
“wave election” in which the
Republicans make major seat gains.

President Biden also happens to be
unpopular right now, with an approval
rating stuck at less than 50 per cent
since last August.

That is likely to undermine support
for Democratic candidates.

What does it all mean for
President Biden?

Even now Biden typically requires
every Democrat lawmaker to back any
given bill - and even that is often not