President Ranil Wickremesinghe convened a special meeting in his office last Sunday to address the concerns regarding the appointment of a new Inspector General of Police (IGP).
In attendance were Minister of Public Security Tiran Alles, outgoing IGP Chandana Wickramaratne, and the President’s Secretary Saman Ekanayake. After a brief discussion, President Wickremesinghe decided to reinstate Wickramaratne as the IGP, pending the approval of the Constitutional Council (CC).
Subsequently, multiple rounds of discussions took place concerning the economic situation of the country, with the participation of Presidential Advisor R.H.S. Samaratunge and officials of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL). On Monday, the focus of the discussion shifted towards the country’s media landscape. Later that evening, after the Cabinet meeting, Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, accompanied by several Party Leaders who support the Government, convened with the President to address various pressing issues prevailing in the country.
The primary agenda of the discussion revolved around the challenges faced by the health sector. President Wickremesinghe specifically directed officials of the Finance Ministry to allocate funds for the procurement of medicines and surgical equipment. While the main focus was on health-related matters, the conversation also encompassed various other topics of concern.
“Sir, a question has emerged regarding Aswesuma. This issue has the potential to work against us,” Minister Dr. Bandula Gunawardena said.
Minister Manusha Nanayakkara said, “The Opposition is capitalising on this issue, but it is the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) that is particularly targeting and criticising it the most.”
Minister Shehan Semasinghe chipped in, saying, “The cessation of Janasaviya, which was initiated by President R. Premadasa played a significant role in bringing about the Samurdhi program. Today, President Premadasa’s son is advocating for Samurdhi. It is quite ironic and perhaps the best joke ever.”
“It is worth noting that during Premadasa’s impeachment, Ranil Wickremesinghe came to his rescue. Had he not saved President Premadasa then, his son would not have had the opportunity to be involved in politics today,” MP Wajira Abeywardena quipped.
The room fell into a brief moment of silence as Minister Bandula put forth a suggestion, proposing that the Government should take control of the Opposition Leader’s office in Colombo. “There is no use of such an Opposition office,” he said.
“I meant to say that it is rather pointless to have an Opposition Leader’s Office in Colombo when he is always in the Yala forest,” clarified Minister Dr. Gunawardena. “Perhaps we should consider providing him with a bungalow in the Yala forest and set up the Opposition Leader’s office there.” His comment sparked a burst of laughter among everyone present.
President Ranil encouraged Minister Shehan Semasinghe by emphasising the importance of truthfully informing the public about Aswesuma. He highlighted that it is crucial to prioritise conveying the truth to the people rather than solely responding to the accusations raised by the Opposition.
On Tuesday morning, the President visited the Ministry of Defence to participate in the National Security Council (NSC) meeting. After a span of several weeks, the IGP also made an appearance before the NSC. Indian Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra, who was on a visit to Sri Lanka, met the President at the Defence Ministry.
From the Sri Lankan side, the President’s Chief of Staff, Sagala Ratnayake, and Secretary Saman Ekanayake were present at the meeting. Representing the Indian side, a delegation including Indian High Commissioner Gopal Baglay participated.
The Indian Foreign Secretary’s visit to Sri Lanka included preliminary discussions regarding the President’s upcoming visit to India on July 20 and 21. Thereafter, the President proceeded to join the NSC meeting, while the Indian Foreign Secretary continued discussions with the President’s Chief of Staff Ratnayake.
President Wickremesinghe departed the Ministry of Defence and arrived at the Battaramulla Water’s Edge Hotel. He attended a workshop organised by the Presidential Media Unit, specifically for press secretaries. During the workshop, the President provided guidance and instructions on effectively communicating the Government’s message to the nation.
However, due to a busy schedule that included various other meetings, the President did not stay for an extended period. He had subsequent commitments, including the opening of the new Ratnapura Courts Complex.
There he encountered former Justice Minister Thalatha Athukorala, who had presented the Cabinet Paper for the construction of a judicial complex which was approved by President Wickremesinghe during his tenure as Prime Minister of the Good Governance Government.
“Ah! you tricked me with the Cabinet Paper didn’t you?” the President told Athukorala. Surprised by the President’s comment, Thalatha asked for a clarification, saying, “What do you mean, Sir? What are you referring to?”
President Ranil Wickremesinghe said, “I was under the impression that a judicial complex was being developed, but it seems to resemble a mansion. It would be fitting if we were to consider bringing the Supreme Court to this location as well.” The President’s statement evoked laughter from those in attendance.
As MP Athukorala had a reserved seat towards the back of the hall, many attendees observed with curiosity as the President engaged in a conversation with her, occasionally turning back to speak. However, the exact details of their discussion remained unheard, leaving the spectators intrigued about the nature of their conversation.
The President made a significant statement in Ratnapura. His remark centred around the perceived lack of response from the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) regarding an incident where a group of persons burned the Quran in front of the Turkish Embassy in Sweden.
Later that evening, President Wickremesinghe attended a private family charity event at the Dematagoda Veluvanarama. The following day, the President remained at the Presidential Secretariat, attending to his official duties. During this time, he received the report from the committee led by State Minister Ranjith Siyambalapitiya, which was appointed to explore strategies for generating new sources of revenue for the State.
Indian HC meets President’s Chief of Staff
On Wednesday afternoon, Indian High Commissioner Baglay held a meeting with President’s Chief of Staff Ratnayake to discuss the upcoming visit of President Ranil Wickremesinghe to India.
During their conversation, they also deliberated on various economic cooperation agreements that would have an impact on both sides.
During the discussion, there were deliberations regarding an oil pipeline between the two countries, and an electricity connection. The proposed agreements were part of the negotiations and intended to be signed during the President’s visit.
As part of his routine, President Wickremesinghe visited the Ministry of Finance on Thursday for the weekly economic review. Prior to joining the economic review session, the President engaged in conversations with the attending ministers and officials, focusing on the prevailing political situation. During this discussion, it was Minister Semasinghe who raised the question regarding the Quran remark made in Ratnapura, prompting a discussion on the matter.
The President provided a comprehensive explanation, stating that every individual should have the right to religious freedom. He highlighted the teaching of Buddha, emphasising the importance of respecting other religions. “While Western organisations might not often address this issue, organisations in Asia are more vocal about it,” he said.
The President said that Pakistan is already working on bringing a resolution at the UNHRC, and Sri Lanka has decided to co-sponsor it. He said that Singapore is expected to join this effort. “Among non-Islamic countries, Sri Lanka has taken a proactive stance in addressing and advocating religious freedom,” he said.
Presidential Advisor Ruwan Wijewardene raised the issue, stating, “Unfortunately, there are individuals among us who have misinterpreted this situation and taken it in a negative light”.
While the President acknowledged concern he expressed his disappointment that some individuals with racist views have misconstrued the situation and taken it in the wrong direction.
The President recognised the need to address these issues effectively, emphasising the importance of promoting tolerance, understanding, and respect for all communities.
LRT project
Minister Prasanna Ranatunga highlighted the criticism surrounding the Light Rail Transit (LRT) project, stating, “There are claims that the light railway project is merely a burden of debt. A member of the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) has specifically criticised it, pointing out that it only runs in one direction.”
In response to the criticism raised about the LRT, MP Abeywardana retorted saying, “This train is moving forward, but some are hesitant to come forward.”
Director General of Government Information Dinith Chinthaka Karunaratne said the people have shown their appreciation for having a leader with strong international relations, especially considering that he came to power during an economic crisis.
During the discussion, the review of two important matters took place. First, the easing of import restrictions on 300 items was examined, reflecting on the potential impact of such measures on the economy.
Second, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) issue was also reviewed, discussing the progress and implications of the country’s engagement with the IMF and related developments.
United National Party (UNP) General Secretary Palitha Range Bandara provided an update to the President regarding the establishment of United National Party (UNP) Constituency Committees.
They reported on the progress made thus far and shared their plans. In response, the President advised them to expedite the formation of the electoral organising committees and organise a convention at the earliest convenience.
General Secretary Range informed the President that the conference could potentially be held mid-August.
Govt TUs meet PM
Amid ongoing discussions and concerns within the public service and various professions, all trade unions affiliated with the governing party held a meeting with Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena last week.
On Thursday, July 13, a meeting took place at Temple Trees, which was attended by 50 trade union leaders. Minister of State Sisira Jayakody and Member of Parliament Gamini Lokuge, a trade unionist himself, were also present.
The Prime Minister warmly greeted the union leaders, with whom he shared a longstanding acquaintance.
Minister Sisira Jayakody said, “They say they have many things to talk about,” implying the breadth and depth of the issues to be discussed. Lokuge, joining the conversation with a smile, encouraged open dialogue, saying, “Let’s talk.”
Prime Minister Gunawardena acknowledged the numerous challenges faced by Government employees and highlighted the pivotal role played by trade union leaders in addressing these issues.
In response, a trade union representative emphasised the inadequacy of engaging with trade unions in the process of restructuring public institutions. “There should be a sharing of ideas. Otherwise, how can these comrades effectively respond to the questions raised by their members?”
“We are not given sufficient time to thoroughly study the labour laws that are published. As a trade union leader I am sure the Prime Minister understands,” said one of the trade union representatives, highlighting a significant concern.
“Yes, in the past, we have encountered numerous challenges due to the absence of agreements with trade unions before laws were enacted,” acknowledged the Prime Minister, recognising the importance of a proactive engagement with trade unions in the legislative process.
The Prime Minister attentively listened to the perspectives shared by the labour representatives regarding the current situation and accorded special attention to all the views expressed.
Opposition Leader’s parliamentary committee
A special Opposition Leader’s parliamentary committee led by Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa was set up on July 13. The committee formed in Committee Room 8 is a first in Sri Lanka’s Parliamentary history.
The committee headed by Premadasa is expected to discuss issues in various fields. It will also focus on combatting corruption and fraud, setting up procedures for exemplary governance and providing solutions to issues in various fields.
The inaugural meeting was attended by representatives of the Government Radiological Technologists Association, the Association of Government Pharmacists, the Association of Medical Professionals for Civil Rights and the Institute of Health Professionals.
Premadasa said the committee was appointed not to fulfill a political agenda but to instead reveal the truth to the country and its people.
“There has been a significant collapse and a disastrous situation in the country’s health sector. It is comparable to the terrorism that plagued our nation for 30 years; now, we are witnessing a form of terrorism within the health sector,” Premadasa said.
Gayantha Karunathilake said, “The Government has embarked on a mission to destroy the country’s free health service by using various means such as financial waste, corruption, fraud, import of substandard medicinal drugs and equipment along with suppression, concealing information from the people and launching witchhunts against health professionals revealing information about the health service crisis.”
Premadasa said, “In the Act, it is stipulated that the procurement method should be adhered to when importing medicines. However, despite this provision, section 109 of the Act is being exploited to conduct ‘medical business’ over the dead,” said Premadasa.
“Due to this situation, numerous lives of children and citizens have been tragically lost in the past as a result of administering substandard anaesthetic drugs,” said Harshana Rajakaruna,
“At present, there is a noticeable reluctance within the Ministry of Health to acquire quality equipment needed for cancer patients. Outdated equipment continues to be used. Healthcare professionals are departing the country, while the government pursues those who expose the truth,” Lakshman Kiriella said.
“This country deserves the right to access information. However, it appears that the Ministry of Health is concealing vital information,” said Kavinda Jayawardena.
at a meeting involving the Opposition coalition and non-Governmental organisations engaged in the electoral process, concerns were raised regarding the Government’s direction, particularly through the postponement of elections.
MP Dallas Alahapperuma said: “This private member’s proposal presented by MP Jayantha Ketagoda is a farce.”
Peratugami Party’s Duminda Nagamuwa said: “The Government lacks integrity and must step down and hold elections without delay. We must go for a new mandate. There needs to be a consensus on this matter.”
“Multiple actions have been implemented to counteract this conspiracy aimed at postponing the elections,” said Premadasa.
A representative from civil society acknowledged, “We recognise and appreciate the positive efforts you have undertaken. We have observed that the Opposition’s conduct in Parliament has surpassed the traditional role of the Opposition.”
Ensuring timely elections is a critical aspect of upholding democracy. In response to the Government’s decision to postpone the elections, the SJB has initiated peaceful protests and legal action to challenge this decision, the Opposition Leader said.
During the Samagi Jana Balawegaya MPs Group Meeting, the Opposition Leader advised members to actively work on building public opinion against the Government’s Aswesuma program and the issue of debt restructuring.
Opposition leader Premadasa made the decision to participate in the Finance Committee meeting promptly after the Government announced its intention to present the Domestic Debt Restructuring (DDR) proposal to the Parliamentary Finance Committee. However, the participation of the JVP in these discussions was not evident.
MP Tushara Indunil asked, “How can they all oppose this proposal unanimously? It is clear to everyone where they stand.”
In response to Tushara’s statement, Rajakaruna said, “Indeed, but one wonders what their response would be if the Opposition Leader was not in the country during such critical times.”