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Afghanistan
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Sri Lanka
Statement:2018
Read more...
Date
Incidents
January - 2 
Opposition Leader R. Sampanthan said, “I have not the slightest doubt that we made the correct decision in backing Mr. Sirisena”, reports The Hindu on January 3. He said, “We were sick of the Rajapaksa government which had been particularly unjust and unfair to the Tamil
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Opposition Leader R. Sampanthan said, “I have not the slightest doubt that we made the correct decision in backing Mr. Sirisena”, reports The Hindu on January 3. He said, “We were sick of the Rajapaksa government which had been particularly unjust and unfair to the Tamil civilians. I have no regrets about the decision we made, though the Tamil people, and consequently those of us who represent them, expected greater performance from the government.”
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January - 3 
13 Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) financiers charged with supporting the terrorist group to stand trial in Swiss Federal Criminal Court in Bellinzona on January 8 for providing financial support to the organization through a sophisticated microcredit system, reports Colombo Page o
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13 Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) financiers charged with supporting the terrorist group to stand trial in Swiss Federal Criminal Court in Bellinzona on January 8 for providing financial support to the organization through a sophisticated microcredit system, reports Colombo Page on January 4. The accused from Switzerland, Germany and Sri Lanka are charged with funneling more than $15.3 million to the terrorist organization. Between 1999 and 2009, they allegedly created a complex fundraising structure which involved coaxing members of the Tamil diaspora to obtain loans from banks. To raise higher amounts, the WTCC created fictitious companies in the name of borrowers that issued fake salary certificates.
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January - 7 
Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe issuing a statement to mark the third year of the National Unity Government (NUG) said that the NUG liberated the country from a lawless regime, reports Colombo Page on January 8. The Prime Minister said “When President Maithripala Sirisena and I e
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Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe issuing a statement to mark the third year of the National Unity Government (NUG) said that the NUG liberated the country from a lawless regime, reports Colombo Page on January 8. The Prime Minister said “When President Maithripala Sirisena and I embarked on the campaign for Yahapalanaya on November 21, 2014, we were responding to a nationwide outcry to lift Sri Lanka out of the shackles of nepotism, and into the spotlight as a proud and independent member of the community of nations. Our promise to the people was that should they elect us to right the course of our country on January 8, 2015, we would rescue the economy, put an end to state-sponsored extra-judicial violence, and restore the independence and respectability of our law enforcement and criminal justice systems. While our journey together has much more to accomplish, I am proud today to reflect on how many hurdles have been overcome so far.”
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January - 8 
The trial of 13 supporters of Sri Lanka's Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) charged of financing the terror outfit by extortion, fraud and other illegal means commenced on January 8 at the Swiss Federal Criminal Court in Bellinzona in Switzerland, reports Colombo Page. The 13 defendan
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The trial of 13 supporters of Sri Lanka's Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) charged of financing the terror outfit by extortion, fraud and other illegal means commenced on January 8 at the Swiss Federal Criminal Court in Bellinzona in Switzerland, reports Colombo Page. The 13 defendants identified in court by letters are alleged to have been involved in a criminal organization from 1999 to May 2009 and supported the criminal organization funneling more than $15.3 million. In this context some of the defendants are accused of document falsification, money laundering, fraud and extortion.The accused are from Switzerland, Germany and Sri Lanka. Some are former members of the World Tamil Coordinating Committee (WTCC), which represented the LTTE in Switzerland until 2009, and include its founder, his deputy and the person in charge of finances. Between 1999 and 2009, they allegedly created a complex fundraising structure which involved coaxing members of the Tamil diaspora to obtain loans from banks. To raise higher amounts, the WTCC was accused of creating fictitious companies in the name of borrowers that issued fake salary certificates, SwissInfo reported.The Swiss funds were transported in cash by couriers to Singapore and Dubai, eventually reaching the LTTE in Sri Lanka who allegedly used the money to purchase arms. This funding system collapsed in 2009 after the LTTE's military defeat at the hands of the Sri Lankan armed forces. As the LTTE was never declared a terror organization in Switzerland, they will not face charges of funding a terror group, unlike cases involving Islamic State (IS) or al Qaeda, report said.
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January - 10 
The ongoing probe into the murder of liquor baron and hotelier Mithila Mohan in Kerala (India) has taken a new turn with the investigators now suspecting the involvement of Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) in the case, reports Colombo Page. The Crime Branch on January 10 informed the Ker
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The ongoing probe into the murder of liquor baron and hotelier Mithila Mohan in Kerala (India) has taken a new turn with the investigators now suspecting the involvement of Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) in the case, reports Colombo Page. The Crime Branch on January 10 informed the Kerala High Court the accused in the murder - Mathivanan and Uppali - hailed from Sri Lanka and had alleged ties with the LTTE. According to the Crime Branch, third accused Mathivanan had told first accused Santhosh Kumar and Uppali belonged to Vedaranyam lighthouse at Nagapattinam in Tamil Nadu. However, on cross checking the details it emerged there are two lighthouses situated there. One is situated in the middle of the dense forest with virtually no inhabitation. On being shown the images of Mathivanan and Uppali, the residents of Kodiyekkara said Mathivanan had an uncanny resemblance with persons of Lankan origin. Incidentally, Kodiyekkara and the lighthouse are situated on the sea shore from where it takes barely 20 minutes to reach Kankesanthurai in Sri Lanka on speedboat.K M Sabu Mathew, Superintendent of Police (SP), Crime Branch, Ernakulam submitted LTTE militants were quite active in the Kodiyekkara area in 2006. One building which was used by the LTTE there is still there though in a dilapidated condition. Before the assassination of former Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, the LTTE militant camp was very active there and it was learnt the extremists there had faced a serious financial crisis in 2006.
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January - 12 
Political parties in the Northern Province were urged not to promote the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) while campaigning for the Local Government (LG) election, reports Colombo Gazette on January 13. The Campaign for Free and Fair Elections (CaFFE) said that there have
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Political parties in the Northern Province were urged not to promote the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) while campaigning for the Local Government (LG) election, reports Colombo Gazette on January 13. The Campaign for Free and Fair Elections (CaFFE) said that there have been reports pro-LTTE songs are being played at events held in support of some political parties in the North. The Executive Director of the Campaign for Free and Fair Elections, Rajith Keerthi Tennakoon said that some candidates in the North are also promoting extremism. Tennakoon said that playing songs promoting the LTTE is not only a violation of election laws but also violates the law of the country. “We urge political parties and independent candidates to respect election laws and national laws when campaigning for the LG polls,” Tennakoon said in Jaffna on January 13.
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January - 13 
Keerthi Tennakoon, Executive Director of Campaign for Free and Fair Elections (CaFFE), a election monitor in Sri Lanka, addressing a meeting of the candidates contesting the elections on January 13 in Jaffna District said several political parties contesting for the local government institutions in
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Keerthi Tennakoon, Executive Director of Campaign for Free and Fair Elections (CaFFE), a election monitor in Sri Lanka, addressing a meeting of the candidates contesting the elections on January 13 in Jaffna District said several political parties contesting for the local government institutions in the northern districts of Jaffna, Kilinochchi and Mullaitivu are using separatist songs popularized by the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) for election propaganda, reports Colombo Page. "We observed that several candidates for Jaffna, Kilinochchi and Mullaitivu local government institutions using not only separatist songs, but also the songs popularized by the LTTE for their election campaigns. The use of LTTE songs in election campaigns is not only a violation of Election Law. It is also a violation of the Law of the country," Tennakoon said. "We kindly request all political party candidates and independent candidates here to respect the Election Laws and the Law of the country when engaging in election campaigns," the CaFFE Executive Director urged.
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January - 15 
Tamil National Alliance (TNA) leader M. A. Sumanthiran addressing the media after a Thai Pongal ceremony which was held at the Opposition Leader’s Office in Colombo on January 15 said the National Unity Government (NUG) should continue if the constitution-making process is to carry on, r
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Tamil National Alliance (TNA) leader M. A. Sumanthiran addressing the media after a Thai Pongal ceremony which was held at the Opposition Leader’s Office in Colombo on January 15 said the National Unity Government (NUG) should continue if the constitution-making process is to carry on, reports Daily News. Sumanthiran said his party views that the Government should move forward, despite the many issues that have risen recently.
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January - 28 
Human rights Watch (HRW) in a report released on January 28 said that Sri Lankan Government has been "all talk but no action" on repealing the draconian Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA), reports Colombo Page. "The Sri Lankan government has been all talk and no action on repealin
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Human rights Watch (HRW) in a report released on January 28 said that Sri Lankan Government has been "all talk but no action" on repealing the draconian Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA), reports Colombo Page. "The Sri Lankan government has been all talk and no action on repealing the reviled PTA. Replacing this draconian counterterrorism law with one that meets international standards should be an urgent priority if the government is serious about protecting human rights," said Brad Adams, Asia Director.
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January - 29 
Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe during a United National Party (UNP) rally held in Kaduruwela, Polonnaruwa said that the National Unity Government (NUG) will continue under the leadership of the President Maithripala Sirisena until 2020 without any problems, reports Colombo Page on Jan
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Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe during a United National Party (UNP) rally held in Kaduruwela, Polonnaruwa said that the National Unity Government (NUG) will continue under the leadership of the President Maithripala Sirisena until 2020 without any problems, reports Colombo Page on January 29. Addressing the rally, the Prime Minister pointed out that the majority of the seats in the parliament are with the United National Front (UNF), of which, the UNP is the main party. They will have a majority in parliament for the Government they will establish, he said.
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January - 30 
Northern Provincial Council (NPC) Chairman C.V.K. Sivagnanam told a news conference that it is meaningless to continue with the ban imposed on Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) within Sri Lanka, reports Daily Mirroron January 30. "Eight years has lapsed since the war ended with even
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Northern Provincial Council (NPC) Chairman C.V.K. Sivagnanam told a news conference that it is meaningless to continue with the ban imposed on Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) within Sri Lanka, reports Daily Mirroron January 30. "Eight years has lapsed since the war ended with even former LTTE members joining mainstream politics after surrendering their weapons and in such a scenario continuing with the ban on the LTTE is meaningless," he said. The chairman said the LTTE wanted to win the rights of the Tamil people and the Tamil political leaders are also engaged in politics with the same intention. He said the time had come to consider the release of all LTTE suspects in custody and allow them to integrate into society after taking the necessary legal precautions and withdrawing the ban on the LTTE.
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January - 30 
Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe at an election rally in Vavuniya District on January 30 said that the Government will implement the Enforced Disappearance Bill soon, reports Daily Mirror. “The government has already got the Enforced Disappearance Bill approved and is now ready to impl
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Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe at an election rally in Vavuniya District on January 30 said that the Government will implement the Enforced Disappearance Bill soon, reports Daily Mirror. “The government has already got the Enforced Disappearance Bill approved and is now ready to implement it,” he said.
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February - 2 
Finance and Mass Media Minister Mangala Samaraweera on February 2 at a rally held at Weligama said that the country which was rescued from dictatorship by electing the Common Candidate will never be turned back, Daily News. “The previous leaders attempted to push the country into dictator
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Finance and Mass Media Minister Mangala Samaraweera on February 2 at a rally held at Weligama said that the country which was rescued from dictatorship by electing the Common Candidate will never be turned back, Daily News. “The previous leaders attempted to push the country into dictatorship. However, we were able to prevent this, in credit of the people’s right to vote. The international community made war crimes allegations against us. Our fishermen were denied access to the European fish market as part of sanctions imposed on us,” Minister Samaraweera said. He also pointed out that the country which was isolated in the international arena, regained its due recognition after the victory of the Common Candidate.
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February - 4 
Leader of Opposition and the leader of the main Tamil party, Tamil National alliance (TNA) R. Sampanthan said in his Independence Day message on February 4 urged all parties to cooperate on adopting new constitution for country's development, reports Colombo Page. "As a result of
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Leader of Opposition and the leader of the main Tamil party, Tamil National alliance (TNA) R. Sampanthan said in his Independence Day message on February 4 urged all parties to cooperate on adopting new constitution for country's development, reports Colombo Page. "As a result of the unresolved national question, we have faced the lack of peace and harmony and development of the country... Our failure in genuinely addressing the national question has left us far behind in economic development and prosperity in the region. We must come together to find a lasting solution through a new Constitution, the supreme law of the country," he said.
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February - 11 
Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa who led the new political party, the SLPP to the LG election victory, on February 11 said it was clear that Sri Lanka needs a change, reports Daily Mirror. “Thank you to all who supported the vision of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna at the LG election. Your voices
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Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa who led the new political party, the SLPP to the LG election victory, on February 11 said it was clear that Sri Lanka needs a change, reports Daily Mirror. “Thank you to all who supported the vision of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna at the LG election. Your voices have been heard. It’s clear that our country needs a change. Despite the personal harassment they may have had to face over the past three years, I earnestly request all those who contested under the SLPP to celebrate this hard won victory peacefully and with restraint and in a manner that will not inconvenience the defeated side. I wish to express my heartfelt thanks to the voting public of Sri Lanka who have reposed their trust in us, and made this victory possible,” he said in a tweet.
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February - 11 
The election monitoring groups said the LG elections ended at 4 pm on February 10 was the most peaceful election held in the island's history, reports Colombo Page. The head of the Center for Monitoring Election Violation (CMEV), Dr. Paikiasothy Saravanamuttu said, "We can conclude that Election Day
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The election monitoring groups said the LG elections ended at 4 pm on February 10 was the most peaceful election held in the island's history, reports Colombo Page. The head of the Center for Monitoring Election Violation (CMEV), Dr. Paikiasothy Saravanamuttu said, "We can conclude that Election Day and the campaign period leading up to it was one of the most peaceful on record." Similarly, Campaign for Free and Fair Elections (CaFFE) Executive Director Rajith Keerthi Tennakoon said that even though this is the biggest election in the entire history with over 52,000 candidates, generally a peaceful environment prevailed throughout the election period. Another election monitoring group, The People's Actions for Free and Fair Elections (PAFFERAL) has deployed about 7,000 well-trained and well-equipped volunteers as observers for the Local Government Elections.
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February - 12 
Australian authorities have issued deportation order for Sri Lankan Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) suspect seeking asylum in Australia, reports Colombo Page on February 13. The deportation order issued by the Australian Border Force for suspected LTTE asylum seeker Shantaruban say
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Australian authorities have issued deportation order for Sri Lankan Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) suspect seeking asylum in Australia, reports Colombo Page on February 13. The deportation order issued by the Australian Border Force for suspected LTTE asylum seeker Shantaruban says he will be deported on February 22. He will not be permitted any visitors at the airport when he is removed and he will be escorted on his flight to Colombo. He has refused to sign the order. Shantaruban has fled Sri Lanka fearing repercussions from Government security forces for his involvement with the LTTE. He arrived in Australia by boat in 2012. Having been released to live in the community, he was re-detained in 2015 and has remained in immigration detention since.
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February - 12 
Finance and Mass Media Minister Mangala Samaraweera issuing a press statement on the outcome of the Local Governement (LG) elections on February 12 said former President Mahinda Rajapaksa who commanded 5.77 million votes (47.6%) at the 2015 Presidential polls was barely able to muster 4.95 million v
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Finance and Mass Media Minister Mangala Samaraweera issuing a press statement on the outcome of the Local Governement (LG) elections on February 12 said former President Mahinda Rajapaksa who commanded 5.77 million votes (47.6%) at the 2015 Presidential polls was barely able to muster 4.95 million votes (44.7%) at the LG Elections, reports Daily Mirror. Taking note of the election results, Samaraweera however said; “Today, the people told us that we have not done enough. Despite the sincerest of efforts to inject haste and independence into a dilapidated justice system over the last three years and empower the police with the tools they need to successfully investigate complex crimes, murderers and fraudsters remain at large. Despite our government being the first in the nation’s history to insist that ministers must resign from the cabinet at the first sign of wrongdoing, and indeed the first to investigate allegations of corruption within its ranks with such vigour, justice is yet to be served.”
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February - 12 
Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa during a news conference on February 12 said the results of the LG election has showed that the territory of Eelam has also been minimized, reports Daily Mirror. Rajapaksa pointed towards a map of Sri Lanka which depicted the election results of the Sri Lanka
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Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa during a news conference on February 12 said the results of the LG election has showed that the territory of Eelam has also been minimized, reports Daily Mirror. Rajapaksa pointed towards a map of Sri Lanka which depicted the election results of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) and said the party has spread every nook and corner. “The colour of Kurahan (maroon) has spread across the country. Even the territory of Eelam has reduced. This is the power of the SLPP,” he said.
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February - 13 
Amid speculation of a new ruling coalition, the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) on February 13 said that it would not become part of any Government, but would cooperate on progressive measures adopted by it as far as the issues of Tamil people were concerned, reports Daily Mirror. Jaffna District
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Amid speculation of a new ruling coalition, the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) on February 13 said that it would not become part of any Government, but would cooperate on progressive measures adopted by it as far as the issues of Tamil people were concerned, reports Daily Mirror. Jaffna District TNA MP M.A. Sumanthiran told that the Government formed in 2015, invited his party to join but the request was turned down. He said there were fundamental issues faced by the people who supported the TNA but as the main Opposition in Parliament, the TNA supported the NUG on progressive measures.
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February - 13 
The United National Party (UNP), Sri Lanka's majority party in Parliament, on February 13 decided to continue the current National Unity Government (NUG) for the remainder of its term without any changes and the Ministers of its coalition partner, Sri Lanka Freedom party (SLFP), can decide on th
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The United National Party (UNP), Sri Lanka's majority party in Parliament, on February 13 decided to continue the current National Unity Government (NUG) for the remainder of its term without any changes and the Ministers of its coalition partner, Sri Lanka Freedom party (SLFP), can decide on their own whether to stay with the Government or not, reports Colombo Page. Prime Minister Ranil Wickramasinghe has conveyed his party's decision to President Maithripala Sirisena at a special discussion held at the President's Residence between the President and the Prime Minister along with the UNP Ministers.
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February - 14 
Speaker Karu Jayasuriya on February 14 said the President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe should work together, reports Daily News. He made this comment when approached by the media after an event to mark the 150th Birth Anniversary of late Sir D.B. Jayatilaka at th
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Speaker Karu Jayasuriya on February 14 said the President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe should work together, reports Daily News. He made this comment when approached by the media after an event to mark the 150th Birth Anniversary of late Sir D.B. Jayatilaka at the Public Trustee Department where a newly erected statue of Sir D.B. Jayatilaka was unveiled by the Speaker. “I earnestly wish that the two leaders will continue to work together. I have no involvement in any of the ongoing political discussions as I hold the post of Speaker. Let them discuss and arrive at an agreement,” he told a swarm of journalists waiting for him outside the event premises.
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February - 15 
Minister of Health, Nutrition, and Indigenous Medicine, Dr Rajitha Senaratne at the weekly Cabinet news briefing held at the Department of Government Information on February 15 said that the National Unity Government (NUG) will continue its term until the next elections in 2020 with a reshuffle in t
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Minister of Health, Nutrition, and Indigenous Medicine, Dr Rajitha Senaratne at the weekly Cabinet news briefing held at the Department of Government Information on February 15 said that the National Unity Government (NUG) will continue its term until the next elections in 2020 with a reshuffle in the Cabinet of Ministers, reports Colombo Page. He said both the President and the Prime Minister will continue their services and the reshuffle of the Cabinet of Ministers will take place within this week.
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February - 16 
Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe speaking to media at Temple Trees, Colombo on February 16 said that he will continue as the Prime Minister taking forward January 8 Mandate, reports Colombo Page. "We want to carry the January 8th mandate forward," he said. He further said the Gover
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Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe speaking to media at Temple Trees, Colombo on February 16 said that he will continue as the Prime Minister taking forward January 8 Mandate, reports Colombo Page. "We want to carry the January 8th mandate forward," he said. He further said the Government accepted the verdict given by the people at the Local Government Election as a warning conveyed by voters. The Premier said the election result was a big setback for the government parties and corrective measures will be taken accordingly.
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February - 19 
Separately, Opposition Leader R.Sampanthan on February 19 said in Parliament that the Constitution and laws of this country cannot be subverted by claiming benefits of the Local Government elections to his advantage in the way that Mahinda Rajapaksa pleases, reports Daily News. “There hav
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Separately, Opposition Leader R.Sampanthan on February 19 said in Parliament that the Constitution and laws of this country cannot be subverted by claiming benefits of the Local Government elections to his advantage in the way that Mahinda Rajapaksa pleases, reports Daily News. “There have been three elections in recent times, but in none of these elections has the former President Mahinda Rajapaksa been able to obtain over 50%. Therefore, there is nothing to get excited about,” adding that the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) had received just 44.69% in favour of Rajapaksa as opposed to 55.31% of polls against him,” Sampanthan added.
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February - 21 
Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said in Parliament on February 21 that the agreement between the United National Party (UNP) led by him and the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) led by President Maithripala Sirisena forming the National Unity Government (NUG) is still valid and will continue to fun
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Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said in Parliament on February 21 that the agreement between the United National Party (UNP) led by him and the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) led by President Maithripala Sirisena forming the National Unity Government (NUG) is still valid and will continue to function, reports Colombo Page. "The national government will continue to function according to the motion passed in parliament. There is no need to quit it," the Premier said in Parliament.
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February - 22 
Secretary of the Secretariat for Coordinating Reconciliation Mechanisms (SCRM), Mano Tittawella on February 22 said reparations are essential in leading to a process of reconciliation and it should be done in parallel to a process on truth, justice and non-recurrence, reports Daily Mirror. He s
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Secretary of the Secretariat for Coordinating Reconciliation Mechanisms (SCRM), Mano Tittawella on February 22 said reparations are essential in leading to a process of reconciliation and it should be done in parallel to a process on truth, justice and non-recurrence, reports Daily Mirror. He said this in view of the two-day international conference organized by the SCRM, International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the UN Migration Agency on Reparations for Conflict Victims. The conference was launched in Colombo on February 22.
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March - 4 
Sri Lanka's Office for Missing Persons (OMP) has come under fire from the Nationalist Party backed by former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, alleging that some of its members have campaigned in favour of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), reports The New Indian Express on March 4. The OMP
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Sri Lanka's Office for Missing Persons (OMP) has come under fire from the Nationalist Party backed by former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, alleging that some of its members have campaigned in favour of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), reports The New Indian Express on March 4. The OMP aims to bring in reparations to the victims of the nearly three-decade long armed conflict in the country. "This is nothing but a mechanism to try war heroes (soldiers who defeated the LTTE)," Udaya Gammanpila, a leading Joint Opposition supporter said on March 4. He said that President Maithripala Sirisena who pledged not to go ahead with the OMP had buckled under pressure from the West and the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (UNHCHR) Zeid Raad Al Hussein. Last week, Sirisena appointed seven members to a special office set up for determining the status of all persons who went "missing" during the decade-long civil war against the LTTE. Under the Chairmanship of Saliya Peiris, a leading legal luminary, the Commissioners comprise of two members from the Tamil minority and a Muslim. "Look at their names, they are all characters from the dubious non-governmental organisations who have never raised their voices against the LTTE terrorism," Sarath Weerasekera, a former legislator said. "Some of them have campaigned for the LTTE against the state," Weerasekera added. The OMP is expected to bring solace to the tens of thousands of relative of the missing due to armed conflicts both in the south and the north of the country. The Government legislator Ajith Mannapperuma rubbished the accusation that OMP would lead to persecuting the members of the military.
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March - 6 
Also, Sri Lanka's Leader of Opposition and the Leader of main Tamil party, Tamil National Alliance (TNA) R. Sampanthan seriously questioned the inaction of law enforcement authorities in response to the recent attacks on Muslim establishments in Ampara in the East and Digana area in the central
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Also, Sri Lanka's Leader of Opposition and the Leader of main Tamil party, Tamil National Alliance (TNA) R. Sampanthan seriously questioned the inaction of law enforcement authorities in response to the recent attacks on Muslim establishments in Ampara in the East and Digana area in the central hills, reports Colombo Page on March 7. Speaking in parliament on the chaotic situation in the Kandy area, the Opposition Leader said all these people who have engaged in these hostile activities seem to have been able to get away without being obstructed by the law enforcement authorities. He said such incidents are clearly unacceptable and is indicative of sense of impunity. "People seem to have the confidence that they can engage in such acts and that the arm of the law would not reach them; that the Rule of Law would not be enforced against them," Sampanthan said. He said it is not sufficient that some actions to be taken after the incident is over. The role of law enforcement authorities is called into serious question, he added.
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March - 6 
Also, the Sri Lankan authorities must respect human rights under the state of emergency that was declared on March 6, Amnesty International said, reports Colombo Page. On March 5, a mob set homes, shops and a mosque belonging to the local Muslim community alight in the Digana area of Kandy, in Centr
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Also, the Sri Lankan authorities must respect human rights under the state of emergency that was declared on March 6, Amnesty International said, reports Colombo Page. On March 5, a mob set homes, shops and a mosque belonging to the local Muslim community alight in the Digana area of Kandy, in Central Province. This was the second serious incident of violence against a Muslim community in the country over the past week, following a similar attack in the eastern coastal district of Ampara on February 26. "It is important that the authorities take action against mobs who have incited hatred and carried out acts of violence against religious minorities," Biraj Patnaik, Amnesty's South Asia Director, said.
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March - 6 
Meanwhile, the United States (US) on March 6 called on the Government of Sri Lanka to act quickly against the perpetrators of communal violence and end the State of emergency while ensuring human rights, reports Colombo Page. The US Embassy in Colombo in a statement said the Rule of Law, human right
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Meanwhile, the United States (US) on March 6 called on the Government of Sri Lanka to act quickly against the perpetrators of communal violence and end the State of emergency while ensuring human rights, reports Colombo Page. The US Embassy in Colombo in a statement said the Rule of Law, human rights, and equality are essential for peaceful coexistence. "It is important that the Government of Sri Lanka act quickly against perpetrators of sectarian violence, protect religious minorities and their places of worship, and conclude the State of Emergency swiftly, while protecting human rights and basic freedoms for all."
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March - 8 
Meanwhile, Sri Lanka's Army Commander Lieutenant General Mahesh Senanayake, who visited the troubled central hill capital of Kandy on March 8, has assured that the Army troops will ensure safety of all communities, adds Colombo Page. As normalcy was returning fast, Lieutenant General Senanayake
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Meanwhile, Sri Lanka's Army Commander Lieutenant General Mahesh Senanayake, who visited the troubled central hill capital of Kandy on March 8, has assured that the Army troops will ensure safety of all communities, adds Colombo Page. As normalcy was returning fast, Lieutenant General Senanayake visited Kandy on March 8 and took stock of developments taking place in the aftermath of violence that sparked off in the general areas of Digana, Galaha, Katugastota, Menikhinna, Ambetenna, Akurana, Poojapitiya and a few other affected areas. Meeting with the Muslim religious leaders and community leaders during his visit to Kandy Lieutenant General Senanayake assured that he would do everything possible to provide full security to the mosques and villages where the Muslim communities are resident as the normalcy was fast returning to trouble-torn areas. More than 15 Chief Moulavies during the interaction with the visiting Commander of the Army expressed their concerns on prevailing developments in respective areas and the need to strengthen the security of people further. They also insisted the continued presence of Army personnel in their areas for safety of property and their lives.
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March - 8 
Police Media Spokesman Superintendent of Police (SP) Ruwan Gunasekara on March 8 said that 81 suspects, who instigated communal clashes in the Kandy District in Central Province were arrested during the past few days, reports Colombo Page. Police Media Spokesman said that ten persons including the a
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Police Media Spokesman Superintendent of Police (SP) Ruwan Gunasekara on March 8 said that 81 suspects, who instigated communal clashes in the Kandy District in Central Province were arrested during the past few days, reports Colombo Page. Police Media Spokesman said that ten persons including the alleged mastermind of the attacks in the Kandy area were arrested by the Police Terrorism Investigation Division (TID) at Digana and Poojapiitiya on March 8. The main suspect, who initiated the anti-Muslim riots, Vidana Patharanage Amith Jeewan Weerasinghe was among the arrested persons, the Police Media Spokesman said. Main suspect's chief assistant Nasnaram Pattiyage Sureda Suraweera was also arrested, the spokesman added. Extremist Sinhala Buddhist groups attacked Muslim establishments, including mosques and residences after a Buddhist man was attacked by a group of Muslims during an altercation and later died. As a result of the communal clashes two people died and more than 200 Muslim-owned shops and properties were destroyed. Four Muslim places of worship have been attacked. About 45 incidents of attacks have been reported and the Police are conducting investigations, the Spokesman said. Meanwhile curfew will be imposed today [March 8] at 06.00 pm until 6.00 am Friday [March 9] in the area, the Police said.
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March - 9 
A top United Nations (UN) official visiting Sri Lanka on March 9 expressed satisfaction on the progress of Sri Lanka's recompilation process and the measures taken by the Government, reports Colombo Page. UN Under-Secretary General for Political Affairs Jeffrey Feltman expressed this view when h
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A top United Nations (UN) official visiting Sri Lanka on March 9 expressed satisfaction on the progress of Sri Lanka's recompilation process and the measures taken by the Government, reports Colombo Page. UN Under-Secretary General for Political Affairs Jeffrey Feltman expressed this view when he called on Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil on March 9 at Temple Trees in Colombo. The discussion with the Premier was focused on the measures taken by the Government to bring reconciliation.
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March - 9 
Separately, State Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs Dr. Harsha De Silva said in parliament on March 9 that the access for social media platforms was restricted only for 72 hours and the access to the social networking sites would be restored by March 10, adds Colombo Page. The Gover
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Separately, State Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs Dr. Harsha De Silva said in parliament on March 9 that the access for social media platforms was restricted only for 72 hours and the access to the social networking sites would be restored by March 10, adds Colombo Page. The Government had to block the social media due to the communal tension in prevailed in Kandy and blocking of social media networks such as Facebook, Whatsapp and Viber contributed to the mitigation of the tense situation, the State Minister Dr. De Silva said.
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March - 10 
Also, the Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, who visited the riots-hit Kandy on March 10, said that the common belief is that the racial attacks against the Muslims in the Kandy District were organized and carried out, reports Colombo Page. Therefore, the Prime Minister said that a comprehensive i
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Also, the Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, who visited the riots-hit Kandy on March 10, said that the common belief is that the racial attacks against the Muslims in the Kandy District were organized and carried out, reports Colombo Page. Therefore, the Prime Minister said that a comprehensive investigation into these attacks should be carried out and those found responsible for these attacks should be punished irrespective of their status. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe made these remarks during a meeting with the Police, the three armed forces and state officials at the Kandy District Secretariat following an inspection tour in the areas of Digana, Kengalla and Akurana areas to get a firsthand look into the damages caused by the attacks on Muslims in the Kandy District.
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March - 11 
The United Nations (UN) on March 11 condemned the recent attacks against Muslims and their property and breakdown of law and order in Sri Lanka, reports Colombo Page. UN Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs Jeffrey Feltman, who concluded a three-day visit to the island on March 11, offering
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The United Nations (UN) on March 11 condemned the recent attacks against Muslims and their property and breakdown of law and order in Sri Lanka, reports Colombo Page. UN Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs Jeffrey Feltman, who concluded a three-day visit to the island on March 11, offering condolences to the affected on behalf of the UN, urged the Government to swiftly and fully implement the law to bring perpetrators to the justice. He urged swift and full implementation of the Government's commitment to bring the perpetrators of the violence and hate speech to justice, to take measures to prevent recurrence, and to enforce non-discriminatory rule of law. During his planned visit to Sri Lanka amidst the communal violence, the Under-Secretary-General Feltman met with President Maithripala Sirisena, Prime Minister Ranil Wickramasinghe, Speaker of Parliament Karu Jayasuriya, Foreign Minister Tilak Marapana, as well as other political leaders and cabinet and government officials. Noting the recent appointment of Commissioners to the Office on Missing Persons (OMP), Under-Secretary-General Feltman expressed hope that the OMP will soon be fully operational to help answer questions that haunt too many families from all across Sri Lanka about their missing loved ones. He also commended the Parliament's recent adoption of the Bill for the Protection Against Enforced Disappearances as an important element of the Sri Lankan government's commitment to its citizens.
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March - 19 
The Sri Lankan Government informed the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) on March 19 that progress has been made on a new Counter Terrorism Act, reports Colombo Gazette. The Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka to the UN in Geneva, Ravinatha Aryasinha said that progress has been made in t
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The Sri Lankan Government informed the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) on March 19 that progress has been made on a new Counter Terrorism Act, reports Colombo Gazette. The Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka to the UN in Geneva, Ravinatha Aryasinha said that progress has been made in the drafting of a new Counter Terrorism legislation. “We envisage a Counter Terrorism Act that conforms to human rights safeguards and other international standards and we expect the draft legislation to be gazetted for tabling in Parliament for consideration, once the established procedures including translation into local languages are completed, shortly,” he said. Aryasinha was speaking when the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) Report of Sri Lanka was adopted at the UNHRC in Geneva during the 37th annual session on March 19.Speaking further, Aryasinha said that the Cabinet of Ministers, on March 6, 2018, approved the formulation of legislation by the Legal Draftsman, for the establishment by law of an Office for Reparations. He said that once the draft legislation with translations into local languages is finalised, the draft Bill is expected to be gazetted. The Ambassador said that Sri Lanka has been and continues to engage actively with UN systems and procedures and across all agencies at all levels. He also drew reference to the recent incidents that took place in Kandy targeting members of the Muslim community who he says represent an integral part of the pluralistic society of Sri Lanka.
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March - 21 
The United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) has expressed doubt that whether Sri Lanka would be able to fully implement the UN's prescribed transitional justice agenda before March 2019, NDTV reports on March 22. The UNHRC Deputy High Commissioner Kate Gilmore on March 21 presented an update
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The United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) has expressed doubt that whether Sri Lanka would be able to fully implement the UN's prescribed transitional justice agenda before March 2019, NDTV reports on March 22. The UNHRC Deputy High Commissioner Kate Gilmore on March 21 presented an update on progress in promoting reconciliation, accountability and human rights in Sri Lanka (A/HRC/37/23) between March, 2017 and January, 2018 at the 37th session of the UNHRC in Geneva. Sri Lanka was last year granted 18 months by a UNHRC resolution in October 2015 to initiate a credible investigation into the nearly three-decades long civil war with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE).Ms Gilmore said that it was much regrettable that progress in establishing transitional justice mechanisms were slow. "In the absence of concrete results or publicly available drafts of legislation, it seems doubtful that the transitional justice agenda committed to by the (Sri Lankan) government under this Council's resolution could be fully implemented before our next report in March 2019," Ms Gilmore said. The UNHRC Deputy Commissioner also said that there has been insufficient progress in returning land occupied by the military. "Trust will not be rebuilt, if land grabbing continues, nor without independent mechanisms established to determine fair compensations for land reserved for security reasons. "Furthermore, the authorities have yet to demonstrate with willingness or the capacity to address impunity for gross violations of international human rights and international humanitarian law," she said.Ms Gilmore also stressed on establishment of a specialised court to deal with serious crimes, supported by international practitioners."We are also seriously concerned about multiple incidents of inter-communal violence, attacks and hate speech against minorities observed last year a worry further exacerbated by recent developments that have occurred since the drafting of the report, including violence against Muslims in Kandy district that led to the proclamation of state of emergency for 12 days," the Deputy Commissioner said. Allegations of use of torture and continued reports of harassment or surveillance of human rights defenders are more than worrying, she added.
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March - 28 
Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe at a ceremony to present letters of appointment to Northern Province teachers who worked on contract basis and as volunteers in the Sri Lanka Teachers Service, at Temple Trees on March 28 said that a 10-year-plan will be implemented to improve the quality of educa
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Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe at a ceremony to present letters of appointment to Northern Province teachers who worked on contract basis and as volunteers in the Sri Lanka Teachers Service, at Temple Trees on March 28 said that a 10-year-plan will be implemented to improve the quality of education in Jaffna, reports Daily News. The Prime Minister instructed Education Minister Akila Viraj Kariyawasam to take necessary measures to implement the 10-year-plan with the assistance of Northern Province Education to improve the quality of education in Jaffna District
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March - 30 
Minister of Finance and Mass Media Mangala Samaraweera has met with officials of the Northern Provincial Government in Jaffna District on March 30 to discuss the implementation of projects in the Northern Province as proposed by the 2018 Budget, reports Colombo Page. The Minister accompanied by the
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Minister of Finance and Mass Media Mangala Samaraweera has met with officials of the Northern Provincial Government in Jaffna District on March 30 to discuss the implementation of projects in the Northern Province as proposed by the 2018 Budget, reports Colombo Page. The Minister accompanied by the Central Bank Governor Indrajit Coomaraswamy and Finance Secretary Dr. R.H.S. Samaratunga met with the Chief Minister of Northern Province Wigneswaran. During the discussions, the officials considered possible projects to best use the SLR 1 billion allocated for the five Districts in the Northern Province. The District Secretaries of five Districts in the Province also participated in the discussion.
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April - 1 
Meanwhile, Minister of Finance and Mass Media Mangala Samaraweera on April 1 met with the mothers of the disappeared and missing in Mullaitivu District, who are staging a roadside protest opposite Mullaitivu District Secretariat for the past 390 days demanding to know the whereabouts of their missin
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Meanwhile, Minister of Finance and Mass Media Mangala Samaraweera on April 1 met with the mothers of the disappeared and missing in Mullaitivu District, who are staging a roadside protest opposite Mullaitivu District Secretariat for the past 390 days demanding to know the whereabouts of their missing children, reports Colombo Page. The mothers of the disappeared presented the facts about their missing children to the Minister and requested him to provide a quick solution. The Minister assured them that officers from the Office on Missing persons (OMP) will be sent to meet them soon to learn about the disappearances and he personally will intervene to ensure that the mother will receive the information they seek on their loved ones. Minister Samaraweera stressed that the activities of the OMP will not be interfered politically or militarily.
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April - 17 
Opposition Leader R. Sampanthan addressing a press conference in Jaffna said that he was ready to face a no confidence motion, should one be moved against him by the Joint Opposition, reports Daily News on April 18. Sampanthan said “It is neither ethical nor the parliamentary traditi
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Opposition Leader R. Sampanthan addressing a press conference in Jaffna said that he was ready to face a no confidence motion, should one be moved against him by the Joint Opposition, reports Daily News on April 18. Sampanthan said “It is neither ethical nor the parliamentary tradition to bring a no confidence motion against an opposition leader. I think that nowhere in the world has an opposition leader faced a no confidence motion. If the joint opposition brings a no-confidence motion against me for supporting the Prime Minister, I am ready to face it.” He noted that the national government led by the President and the Prime Minister now should focus on swift constitutional reforms.
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April - 23 
President Maithripala Sirisena has said that when appointing a Cabinet Minister, the person selected must not only be acceptable locally but also internationally, reports Daily Mirror on April 24. This had transpired when the BBC Sinhala channel interviewed the President during the Commonwealth Head
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President Maithripala Sirisena has said that when appointing a Cabinet Minister, the person selected must not only be acceptable locally but also internationally, reports Daily Mirror on April 24. This had transpired when the BBC Sinhala channel interviewed the President during the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in London. The President said he had to consider the international atmosphere as well when he was asked about the views expressed in the country as to who should be appointed as Law and Order Minister. "The one who is to be appointed to a ministerial portfolio should have local and international recognition," he said.
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April - 24 
Meanwhile, former Minister Chandima Weerakkody on April 24 said the 16 former Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) Ministers, State and Deputy Ministers who quit the Yahapalana Government would soon expose the frauds and misdeeds of the members of the Government, reports Daily Mirror. When asked why they
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Meanwhile, former Minister Chandima Weerakkody on April 24 said the 16 former Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) Ministers, State and Deputy Ministers who quit the Yahapalana Government would soon expose the frauds and misdeeds of the members of the Government, reports Daily Mirror. When asked why they were now going public with these allegations, he said they were earlier bound by collective Cabinet responsibility and the concept of decency and therefore were not in a position to expose the wrongdoings of the SLFP and UNP members in the Cabinet.
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April - 25 
Separately, Election Commission (EC) Chairman Mahinda Deshapriya on April 25 said to compare local elections to national elections is a grave mistake, reports Daily News. If someone assumes that winning a local election will ensure easy passage at a national level poll they may be in for a rude shoc
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Separately, Election Commission (EC) Chairman Mahinda Deshapriya on April 25 said to compare local elections to national elections is a grave mistake, reports Daily News. If someone assumes that winning a local election will ensure easy passage at a national level poll they may be in for a rude shock, Deshapriya said. He said there were several instances in history where the opposition has secured easy victory in local elections against the government in office and also instances where these victories have been reversed in a short period of time.
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April - 27 
Minister of Public Enterprise and Kandy Development Lakshman Kiriella speaking to media after attending a meeting held at the auditorium of the Polgolla Open University in Kandy District of the Central Province on April 27 said a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the President and the Prime
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Minister of Public Enterprise and Kandy Development Lakshman Kiriella speaking to media after attending a meeting held at the auditorium of the Polgolla Open University in Kandy District of the Central Province on April 27 said a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the President and the Prime Minister on the forward journey of the good governance Government will be signed within the next few days, reports Colombo Page. The relevant MoU is currently being prepared and after signing it within the next few days the new cabinet will be sworn in, Minister Kiriella said.
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April - 27 
The 16 former Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) Ministers, State and Deputy Ministers who quit the Yahapalana Government, on April 27 requested in writing to arrange seating in the opposition benches, reports Daily Mirror. Parliament Secretary General W.B.D. Dassanayake said a letter signed by the 16 S
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The 16 former Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) Ministers, State and Deputy Ministers who quit the Yahapalana Government, on April 27 requested in writing to arrange seating in the opposition benches, reports Daily Mirror. Parliament Secretary General W.B.D. Dassanayake said a letter signed by the 16 SLFPers said that they had resigned from their posts and therefore to make seating available for them in the opposition benches. He said steps would be taken to make the seating arrangement accordingly when the next Parliament session starts after informing Speaker Karu Jayasuriya.
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April - 28 
Meanwhile, Sri Lanka's Office on Missing Persons (OMP) will travel to different places of the island to hold discussions with families of the disappeared starting from next month, OMP Chairman Saliya Pieris PC, said, reports Colombo Page on April 29. "The OMP will from May onwards visit dif
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Meanwhile, Sri Lanka's Office on Missing Persons (OMP) will travel to different places of the island to hold discussions with families of the disappeared starting from next month, OMP Chairman Saliya Pieris PC, said, reports Colombo Page on April 29. "The OMP will from May onwards visit different places to speak to families of the missing and disappeared to share our plans and obtain their views on how we should proceed," he said. The OMP Commissioners will first meet with families in Mannar on May 12.
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May - 6 
Inspector General of Police (IGP) Pujith Jayasundera on May 5 said that Police will provide special protection for the opening of the new session of Parliament on May 8, reports Colombo Page. The IGP says that several additional teams of police officers have already been deployed. The new sessi
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Inspector General of Police (IGP) Pujith Jayasundera on May 5 said that Police will provide special protection for the opening of the new session of Parliament on May 8, reports Colombo Page. The IGP says that several additional teams of police officers have already been deployed. The new session of Parliament will be open on May 8 at 2.15 pm.
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May - 8 
President Maithripala Sirisena presided at the Ceremonial Sitting of Parliament for opening of the Second Session of the Eighth Parliament of Sri Lanka on May 8, reports Colombo Page. Speaker Karu Jayasuriya and the Secretary-General of Parliament received the President and the Prime Minister R
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President Maithripala Sirisena presided at the Ceremonial Sitting of Parliament for opening of the Second Session of the Eighth Parliament of Sri Lanka on May 8, reports Colombo Page. Speaker Karu Jayasuriya and the Secretary-General of Parliament received the President and the Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe at the main steps of the Parliament building when they arrived at the Parliament for the ceremony.
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May - 11 
Britain on May 11 said it was disappointed by the Sri Lanka’s pace of change in terms of fulfilling its international commitments and said there was much remaining to be done, reports Daily Mirror. Mark Field, Minister of State for Asia and the Pacific told British Parliament that he met
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Britain on May 11 said it was disappointed by the Sri Lanka’s pace of change in terms of fulfilling its international commitments and said there was much remaining to be done, reports Daily Mirror. Mark Field, Minister of State for Asia and the Pacific told British Parliament that he met Foreign Minister Tilak Marapana in the margins of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in London and discussed about the progress achieved by Sri Lanka. “I met Minister Marapana on April 18. We discussed the progress made by Sri Lanka against its international commitments. I set out the British Government's view that there is much remaining to be done and we have been disappointed by the pace of change,” he said. He said there was limited progress on Human Rights in Sri Lanka and Sri Lanka remained a Human Rights Priority Country for the British Government.
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May - 16 
Army Commander Lieutenant General Mahesh Senanayake during an interview with The Hindu news paper said that Sri Lanka is the only country that has eradicated terrorism, reports Daily Mirror on May 16. “We are a victorious army. Once the combat is over, it is the responsibil
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Army Commander Lieutenant General Mahesh Senanayake during an interview with The Hindu news paper said that Sri Lanka is the only country that has eradicated terrorism, reports Daily Mirror on May 16. “We are a victorious army. Once the combat is over, it is the responsibility of the army itself to understand its role and task. The last nine years were very critical to understand what happened 30 years ago,” he said.
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May - 25 
Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe addressing a meeting held at United National Party (UNP) headquarters, Colombo on May 25 said the sole endeavour of the UNP was to prevent another military type regime coming into power, reports Daily News. “As such, the decision confronting the people
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Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe addressing a meeting held at United National Party (UNP) headquarters, Colombo on May 25 said the sole endeavour of the UNP was to prevent another military type regime coming into power, reports Daily News. “As such, the decision confronting the people was whether they needed democracy or a second Rajapaksa regime in power,” the Premier said. The Premier added that when UNP leaders addressed Parliament with pride and honour, Pohottuwa members only shouted and disrupted the proceedings. “Their sole objective was to bring back the Rajapaksa regime to power. The question was as to whether they wanted to safeguard democracy if they returned to power. Lasantha Wickrematunga was murdered and Ekneligoda was abducted during their rule,” he said.
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May - 27 
Western Province Chief Minister Isura Devapriya on May 27 said the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) is against the 20th Amendment to the Constitution to abolish the Executive Presidency brought by the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) as a private member’s bill, reports Daily News. Devapriya
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Western Province Chief Minister Isura Devapriya on May 27 said the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) is against the 20th Amendment to the Constitution to abolish the Executive Presidency brought by the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) as a private member’s bill, reports Daily News. Devapriya told that there is no need to abolish the executive presidency or pruning down more executive powers. He pointed out that President Maithripala Sirisena has removed the executive powers of the Presidency to its maximum limits. Devapriya also pointed out that the majority of the public also believes that the executive presidency should remain.
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May - 28 
Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe during a tour in the Northern Province on May 28 to inspect the progress of development projects launched in the Province pledged to accelerate the development of the island's poorest province strengthening the state machinery and going beyond concretization t
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Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe during a tour in the Northern Province on May 28 to inspect the progress of development projects launched in the Province pledged to accelerate the development of the island's poorest province strengthening the state machinery and going beyond concretization to increase the economic productivity helping the people, reports Colombo Page. Participating in the progress review meeting of the development projects in the Kilinochchi District secretariat, the Premier emphasized that measures should be taken to increase economic production aiming at improving the quality of life of the people. "We must remember that Northern Province is the poorest among the nine provinces of the country. Except Jaffna, the situation has a major impact in the province, mainly in Kilinochchi and Mullaitivu areas. There has been some progress in the Vavuniya area," he noted.
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May - 29 
The Office on Missing Persons (OMP) on May 29 expressed optimism to establish several regional offices within next the six months, reports Daily Mirror. The OMP earlier announced its plan to establish 12 regional offices, eight in the North and East, and four in the rest of the country, in orde
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The Office on Missing Persons (OMP) on May 29 expressed optimism to establish several regional offices within next the six months, reports Daily Mirror. The OMP earlier announced its plan to establish 12 regional offices, eight in the North and East, and four in the rest of the country, in order to expand its services and to receive information and complaints about the missing. OMP Chairman Saliya Pieris PC said if all the processes were completed smoothly, they would be able to establish not one but more regional offices in the coming months. “Most likely, the first set of regional offices would be set up in the North,” he told. The regional offices would be established in Jaffna, Kilinochchi, Mannar, Batticaloa, Trincomalee, Ampara, Mullaitivu, Vavuniya, Matara, Kurunegala, Moneragala and Kandy.
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May - 30 
The Joint Opposition unanimously decided on May 30 to oppose the 20th Amendment to the Constitution proposed by the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) to abolish the Executive Presidency, reports Daily Mirror. These discussions took place when they met former President Mahinda Rajapaksa. Initially
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The Joint Opposition unanimously decided on May 30 to oppose the 20th Amendment to the Constitution proposed by the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) to abolish the Executive Presidency, reports Daily Mirror. These discussions took place when they met former President Mahinda Rajapaksa. Initially, there were differences of opinion. However, they reached a consensus that they should oppose the move undertaken by the JVP. They took the position that the constitution should not be amended in such a piecemeal manner. While claiming that the International community could not be a spectator anymore with regard to Sri Lanka, Leader of the Opposition and the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) R. Sampanthan on May 30 said if the Government continued to fail in its commitments, the International Community must clearly state its position on follow up mechanisms to safeguard the victims and ensure non-recurrence of the past, reports Daily Mirror. He told this during a meeting with the visiting United States House of Representatives Armed Services Committee Delegation led by McClellan Thornberry in Colombo. “We are unhappy about the way the country is progressing. The majority of the people in this country were willing to address the national issue once and for all. What is lacking is that the courage from the Sinhala leaders to go out to the people and explicitly tells them on the need for a new Constitution and the benefits of framing a new Constitution. Some Sinhala political leaders are trying to satisfy the hardliners than being just and equal to all people in this country, they cannot go on this path forever, it will only end up in history being repeated. Especially the President and the Prime Minister must go to the Sinhala people and genuinely explain the need for a new Constitution. Since 1988 every successive Government and President have made several attempts to change the present Constitution, therefore, this should not be a difficult task for the majority of Sinhala people to understand,” he said.
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June - 4 
The Minister of Finance and Mass Media Mangala Samaraweera on June 4 said that the present Government transformed the country into a mature democracy, reports Daily News. He said the present Government deserves 100% credit from the people for establishing a mature democracy in the country within the
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The Minister of Finance and Mass Media Mangala Samaraweera on June 4 said that the present Government transformed the country into a mature democracy, reports Daily News. He said the present Government deserves 100% credit from the people for establishing a mature democracy in the country within the last three years. He further said that the present Government has taken all initiatives to strengthen the reconciliation process. He pointed out that Sri Lanka cannot be economically developed if the ethnic groups in the country live in tension and disharmony. “The present government has made an enormous contribution to the country’s reconciliation process. President Maithripala Sirisena has visited Jaffna 17 times during his term of office so far and the Prime Minister has visited Jaffna on 12 occasions.” Minister Samaraweera pointed out.
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June - 7 
The Office on Missing Persons (OMP) issuing a statement clarified that media reports that it could provide the names of surrendees or the disappeared if a request is made are not accurate and the OMP does not have any lists of surrendees or the disappeared, reports Colombo Page on June 7. "The
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The Office on Missing Persons (OMP) issuing a statement clarified that media reports that it could provide the names of surrendees or the disappeared if a request is made are not accurate and the OMP does not have any lists of surrendees or the disappeared, reports Colombo Page on June 7. "The attention of the OMP is drawn to several articles in the media as well as social media quoting its Chairperson, Saliya Pieris as having told protesting families at Mullaitivu that the OMP can release the name list of the disappeared during the final stages of the war or those who surrendered to the security forces, if a written request is submitted. This is not accurate," the OMP said. The seven commissioners of the OMP were in Mullaitivu on June 2 to meet with families of the missing and disappeared, civil society organizations and activists working on the issue of disappearances and the media at the Mullaitivu District Secretariat in order to share the OMP's organizational plan and strategies, as well as to hear public views and incorporate suggestions on the structure and operations. In addition, the Chairperson met with families of the disappeared who were protesting outside the District Secretariat.
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June - 8 
Sri Lanka Permanent Representative to the United Nations (UN) in Geneva, Ambassador A.L.A. Azeez addressing the forum on 'individualized approach' on the sidelines of the Intercessional Meeting of the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention on June 8 in Geneva said that Sri Lanka is making steady
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Sri Lanka Permanent Representative to the United Nations (UN) in Geneva, Ambassador A.L.A. Azeez addressing the forum on 'individualized approach' on the sidelines of the Intercessional Meeting of the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention on June 8 in Geneva said that Sri Lanka is making steady progress towards the goal of mine free status and remains hopeful of completing mine action by 2020, reports Colombo Page. Ambassador Azeez highlighted Sri Lanka's engagement in demining activity as one which had its own complexity and uniqueness. The National Policy on Reconciliation and Co-existence, in place in Sri Lanka since 2017, both underpinned and nourished the ongoing programs of peace building and development in the country, he stressed.
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June - 8 
Tamil National Alliance (TNA) MP Charles Nirmalanathan on June 8 alleged that Chiefs of Security Forces in the North and East were refusing to meet them and said they had no one to discuss issues of their people, reports Daily Mirror. The MP told Parliament that he made several requests to meet a Na
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Tamil National Alliance (TNA) MP Charles Nirmalanathan on June 8 alleged that Chiefs of Security Forces in the North and East were refusing to meet them and said they had no one to discuss issues of their people, reports Daily Mirror. The MP told Parliament that he made several requests to meet a Navy Officer in the North but he had refused to give him an appointment without an approval of the Defence Ministry. "I made several requests to meet a Navy Commander in the North to discuss an issue related to the fishing community there. I even wrote to the Defence Ministry but there was no reply as yet," he said.
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June - 8 
the Office on Missing Persons (OMP) will be holding its next regional meeting in Trincomalee on June 13, reports Colombo Page on June 9. The newly-created OMP began its outreach program with public consultations on the 12th May in Mannar and held its second public meeting in Matara on May 19 and the
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the Office on Missing Persons (OMP) will be holding its next regional meeting in Trincomalee on June 13, reports Colombo Page on June 9. The newly-created OMP began its outreach program with public consultations on the 12th May in Mannar and held its second public meeting in Matara on May 19 and the third meeting in Mullaitivu on June 2. The seven commissioners of the OMP met with families of the missing and disappeared, civil society organizations, activists working on the issue of disappearances, and the media, in order to share the OMP's organizational plan and strategies. The meetings also facilitated the hearing of public views and in order to incorporate their suggestions on the structure and operations of the OMP. The meeting in Trincomalee will be held at the Hindu Cultural Hall (in front of the Governor's Office, (down Inner Harbor Road).
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June - 10 
Rehabilitated Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) cadres gave tearful farewell to departing Commander of Civil Defence Force in Mullaitivu, Kilinochchi and Jaffna, Colonel Rathnapriya Bandu as he was being transferred out, reports Daily Mirror on June 11. Colonel Rathnapriya Bandu had implemente
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Rehabilitated Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) cadres gave tearful farewell to departing Commander of Civil Defence Force in Mullaitivu, Kilinochchi and Jaffna, Colonel Rathnapriya Bandu as he was being transferred out, reports Daily Mirror on June 11. Colonel Rathnapriya Bandu had implemented the process of rehabilitation of the former LTTE cadres after recruiting these members to the Civil Security Department. They all showed their affection for their departing leader by organising a send-off party at the cooperative building in Kilinochchi. It was not only the people of the area that felt his loss but the rehabilitated LTTE cadres there also were unable to control their emotions as he was leaving the Wishvamadu area on transfer.
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June - 12 
As part of implementing the resolutions by the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), the Cabinet endorsed a Bill to be enacted by Parliament for the payment of reparation in respect of war-affected and missing persons, reports Daily Mirror on June 13. However, there was resistance w
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As part of implementing the resolutions by the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), the Cabinet endorsed a Bill to be enacted by Parliament for the payment of reparation in respect of war-affected and missing persons, reports Daily Mirror on June 13. However, there was resistance within the Cabinet for the reparation formula which includes benefits to families of former Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) combatants. The formula has been worked out by Rehabilitation, Resettlement and Hindu Religious Affairs Minister D.M. Swaminathan. Some Ministers including Patali Champika Ranawaka opposed benefits being provided to families of ex-LTTE cadres. The Cabinet memorandum was prepared by the Foreign Affairs Ministry. The UNHRC, in its resolution on Sri Lanka called for proposals for transitional justice in Sri Lanka. The establishment of the Office of Missing Persons was one such step.
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June - 12 
Two new State Ministers and five new Deputy Ministers took oaths before President Maithripala Sirisena at the Presidential Secretariat on June 12 (today), reports Colombo Page. Their names are as follows. State Ministers: 1. Ranjith Aluvihare - State Minister of Tourism, Development and Christi
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Two new State Ministers and five new Deputy Ministers took oaths before President Maithripala Sirisena at the Presidential Secretariat on June 12 (today), reports Colombo Page. Their names are as follows. State Ministers: 1. Ranjith Aluvihare - State Minister of Tourism, Development and Christian Religious Affairs 2. Lucky Jayawardene - State Minister of Hill Country New Villages, Infrastructure and Community Development. Deputy Ministers: 1. Ajith Mannapperuma - Deputy Minister of Environment 2. Angajan Ramanathan - Deputy Minister of Agriculture 3. Kadar Mathan - Deputy Minister of Resettlement, Rehabilitation, Northern Development and Hindu Religious Affairs 4. Mr. Edward Gunasekara - Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs & Wayamba Development 5. Nalin Bandara Jayamaha - Deputy Minister of Public Administration & Management and Law & Order.
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June - 13 
Former Military Intelligence Director and Chief of Staff of the Army, Major General (Retired) Amal Karunasekara was re-remanded till June 26 by Mount Lavinia Additional Magistrate Lochana Abeywickrema on June 13. Major General Karunasekara was arrested in connection with the abduction and assault of
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Former Military Intelligence Director and Chief of Staff of the Army, Major General (Retired) Amal Karunasekara was re-remanded till June 26 by Mount Lavinia Additional Magistrate Lochana Abeywickrema on June 13. Major General Karunasekara was arrested in connection with the abduction and assault of journalist Keith Noyahr in 2008. Amal Karunasekara was arrested by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) at the Army hospital on April 5 in connection with the abduction and assault of senior journalist Keith Noyahr on May 22, 2008.
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June - 13 
President's Media Division has announced that a Presidential Task Force has been appointed to operate development programs in the North and East, reports Colombo Page on June 14. The task force headed by President Maithripala Sirisena will be responsible for operating coordinating and
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President's Media Division has announced that a Presidential Task Force has been appointed to operate development programs in the North and East, reports Colombo Page on June 14. The task force headed by President Maithripala Sirisena will be responsible for operating coordinating and follow up of all development programs in the Northern and Eastern Provinces. Following the end of the war in 2009 many programs had been implemented in the two provinces for social and economic development. However, the programs have not made a significant contribution for uplifting the livelihood of the people in the war-torn region. The President has also informed the cabinet regarding the task force. The Prime Minister, Provincial Governors, Chief Secretaries of the two provincial councils, top military and police officials and representatives of all relevant factions are included in the task force.
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June - 17 
Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa on June 17 said Government is laying groundwork to betray armed forces, reportsDaily Mirror. He said the amendments proposed by the Government to the Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters Act of 2002, were clearly aimed at assisting foreign courts in the trial of S
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Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa on June 17 said Government is laying groundwork to betray armed forces, reportsDaily Mirror. He said the amendments proposed by the Government to the Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters Act of 2002, were clearly aimed at assisting foreign courts in the trial of Sri Lankans for offences allegedly committed in Sri Lanka. “The Government has introduced in Parliament, a Bill to amend the Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters Act, No. 25 of 2002. This is the latest betrayal by the yahapalana Government. This country has had its share of traitors in its long history, but never anyone as committed and enthusiastic in their betrayal as the present Government,” he said in a statement.
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June - 17 
Northern Province Chief Minister C. V. Wigneswaran on June 17 asked to extend his term of office till next polls, reportsDaily Mirror. He said he had no objection to the postponement of the elections to his provincial council provided that his term of office was extended up to the point of the next
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Northern Province Chief Minister C. V. Wigneswaran on June 17 asked to extend his term of office till next polls, reportsDaily Mirror. He said he had no objection to the postponement of the elections to his provincial council provided that his term of office was extended up to the point of the next polls. He told that he would be opposed to placing the Northern Provincial Council (NPC) under the purview of the Governor in the event the elections were postponed.
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June - 20 
Ministry of Foreign Affairs on June 20 urged and encouraged any one in Sri Lanka or overseas to share the information of the missing, including whose names have been listed by the International Truth and Justice Project (ITJP), with the Office on Missing Persons (OMP), reports Daily Mirror. &ld
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Ministry of Foreign Affairs on June 20 urged and encouraged any one in Sri Lanka or overseas to share the information of the missing, including whose names have been listed by the International Truth and Justice Project (ITJP), with the Office on Missing Persons (OMP), reports Daily Mirror. “According to the ITJP, the list, which presently consists of 351 names, is of persons who are alleged to have disappeared while in the custody of the Sri Lankan Armed Forces in May 2009. Any other lists/information that may be available with anyone/ entity pertaining to any individuals including lists of security forces and police personnel, who may be considered to be missing, as defined by Section 27 of the Act could also be directed to the OMP,” the Ministry said in a statement. People could send details of the missing to the OMP at No: 34, Narahenpita Road, Nawala, Sri Lanka or via the e-mail address ‘
[email protected]
’.Earlier, a fresh Cabinet memorandum seeking to grant compensation to war affected people including ex-Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) combatants was submitted on June 19, reports Daily Mirror. Sources said, the Cabinet withheld its approval for this compensation formula till the establishment of the reparation office after enacting necessary legislation. This is the third time this Cabinet paper was submitted. It was first submitted last year. But, the move was shelved amid widespread objections to the inclusion of ex-LTTE combatants. Resettlement and Rehabilitation Minister D.M. Swaminathan submitted it again last week but met with similar resistance on that occasion as well. The memo was taken up for discussion on June 19 when Minister Patali Champika Ranawaka had reportedly raised objections. Finance Minister Mangala Samaraweera is reported to have said that compensation could be paid only through the reparation office after it was set up.Meanwhile, the Joint Opposition on June 20 said people should stop paying taxes to the government, if it continues with its move to pay compensation to ex-LTTE combatants, reports Daily Mirror. Joint Opposition member and MP Wimal Weerawansa said “The compensation will not be paid by using the money of government bigwigs. Compensation has still not been paid to the victims of the Meethotamulla garbage dump tragedy and the explosion at the army camp at Salawa. Then, why is the government trying to compensate terrorists who tried to destroy our country. If the government is attempting to compensate the terrorists who struggled for Tamil Eelam, we are forced to consider the President and the Prime Minister as separatists.”
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June - 21 
National Party (UNP) Colombo District MP Mujibur Rahuman responding to a statement by National Freedom Font Leader MP Wimal Weerawansa asking people to stop paying taxes to the Government on June 21 said that the much debated Cabinet Paper submitted by Resettlement and Rehabilitation Minister D.M. S
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National Party (UNP) Colombo District MP Mujibur Rahuman responding to a statement by National Freedom Font Leader MP Wimal Weerawansa asking people to stop paying taxes to the Government on June 21 said that the much debated Cabinet Paper submitted by Resettlement and Rehabilitation Minister D.M. Swaminathan seeking to grant compensation to war affected persons including ex-Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) combatants consists of some of the recommendations of the Lesson Learnt and Reconciliation Commission (LLRC) appointed by former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, reports Daily News. Rahuman said that Weerawansa is attempting to incite racism by making false statements. As a person who survives in the field of politics by arousing racist feelings, he (Weerawansa) never raises his voice to strengthen religious harmony, national unity and reconciliation. Rahuman further said that the ex-LTTE combatants are also citizens of this country. So they have a right to lead normal lives without any restriction or monitoring after completing the rehabilitation process.
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June - 22 
Army urged the public not to be misled by the rumors spread by "disgruntled" politicians that the Army is in the process of withdrawing its units from the North and East and downsizing in strength, reports Colombo Page on June 23. "A canard, born out of some utterances, repo
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Army urged the public not to be misled by the rumors spread by "disgruntled" politicians that the Army is in the process of withdrawing its units from the North and East and downsizing in strength, reports Colombo Page on June 23. "A canard, born out of some utterances, reportedly made by disgruntled political elements has been desperately attempting to mislead the public, saying that the Army is in the process of withdrawing its formations in the North and East and downsizing its strength, putting the national security at risk. The Sri Lanka Army categorically denies having taken any such decision, nor has it contemplated implementing a move of that nature at all as alleged by those elements who try to showcase that 'they' are more patriotic than members of the armed forces in the country," the Army said in a communiqué.
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June - 23 
Attorney General, in his sum up on the Bill entitled “Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters (Amendment)” said Government will not permit any of our soldiers to be tried in foreign jurisdiction on war crimes, reportsDaily Mirror on June 24. The Bill “Mutual Assistance in Crimin
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Attorney General, in his sum up on the Bill entitled “Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters (Amendment)” said Government will not permit any of our soldiers to be tried in foreign jurisdiction on war crimes, reportsDaily Mirror on June 24. The Bill “Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters (Amendment)” came before the Supreme Court for its Special Determination on its constitutionality. The Bench comprised Justices Buwaneka Aluvihara, Sisira J. De Abrew and Nalin Perera. Three petitions were filed before the Supreme Court for its Special Determination on the Bill. Petitioners are former MP Rear Admiral Sarath Weerasekera, Ven. Maduruoye Dhammissara Thera and Kumarajith Dharmadasa. Petitioners in their petitions complained that Sri Lanka submits itself to the Universal Jurisdiction pertaining to several criminal offences falling under international humanitarian law and human rights law which make Sri Lankan citizens subject to the jurisdiction of foreign courts and international criminal tribunals/courts. Additional Solicitor General Sanjay Rajaratnam appeared for the Attorney General informed court that certain provisions of the Bill would be removed and certain other provisions would be amended. He further submitted the original Act already provided that any request made by foreign jurisdiction which violates our Constitution including sovereignty, national security and military law will be refused. He also submitted that this is a safeguard to prevent any of the soldiers being tried in a foreign jurisdiction. He stated the purpose of the Bill has only further strengthened the refusal of request.
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June - 27 
Northern Province Chief Minister C.V. Wigneswaran and other Tamil MPs opposed the Government's decision to deploy Army personnel to reconstruct abandoned tanks in Vavuniya was opposed by the when the matter was discussed at June 26’s Vavuniya District Development Committee meeting, reports
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Northern Province Chief Minister C.V. Wigneswaran and other Tamil MPs opposed the Government's decision to deploy Army personnel to reconstruct abandoned tanks in Vavuniya was opposed by the when the matter was discussed at June 26’s Vavuniya District Development Committee meeting, reports Daily Mirror. The meeting was presided by Industries and Commerce Minister Rishad Bathiudeen with the participation of Deputy Minister Kader Masthan, Mr. Wigneswaran, TNA MPs, provincial councillors, Vavuniya GA Somaratne Widanapathirana and security officials.
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June - 28 
Speaking at the first ever United Nations High-Level Conference of Heads of Counter Terrorism Agencies of Member States at the United Nations Headquarters in New York on June 28, Chief of Staff of the Sri Lanka Army Major General W.B.D.P. Fernando said Sri Lanka, as a country that had experienced fi
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Speaking at the first ever United Nations High-Level Conference of Heads of Counter Terrorism Agencies of Member States at the United Nations Headquarters in New York on June 28, Chief of Staff of the Sri Lanka Army Major General W.B.D.P. Fernando said Sri Lanka, as a country that had experienced first-hand the suffering of its people due to terrorism, emphasized that a key pillar of counter-terrorism is prevention and addressing the root causes of conflict, reports Colombo Page. He noted that counter terrorism is as much about military strategy and intelligence as it is about winning hearts and minds.
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June - 29 
Speaker Karu Jayasuriya addressing the media at the end of a conference on National and Religious Reconciliation attended by multi-religious representatives at the Parliament complex on June 29 said a special Parliament Committee headed by him is to be appointed to come up with a series of proposals
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Speaker Karu Jayasuriya addressing the media at the end of a conference on National and Religious Reconciliation attended by multi-religious representatives at the Parliament complex on June 29 said a special Parliament Committee headed by him is to be appointed to come up with a series of proposals to build national unity, reports Daily News. He said the Committee would take the opinions of the religious leaders, intellectuals and the public and present a realistic and practical set of proposals to improve ethnic and religious co-existence in the country. The Committee will have the power to make recommendations on any matter related to reconciliation and to review their implementation.
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July - 2 
State Minister of Child Affairs Vijayakala Maheswaran on July 2 addressing the 'Janapathi Nila Mehewara' event at the Weerasingham Hall in Jaffna District said there is a huge need of reorganization of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) in the North and East, reports Daily Mirr
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State Minister of Child Affairs Vijayakala Maheswaran on July 2 addressing the 'Janapathi Nila Mehewara' event at the Weerasingham Hall in Jaffna District said there is a huge need of reorganization of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) in the North and East, reports Daily Mirror. “Now we remember how we lived before May 18, 2009. In the present conditions our main intention is to bring back the LTTE if we want to live, if we want to walk freely, if we need our children to attend schools and return back. We do not know what development they have done in our area. But I only thank the Government for one good thing and that is to release and return our lands to us. Other than that the Government had done nothing to us,” she said. She also said being a minister in the present administration there is a limit that she can speak against their leader but had to cross the limit on some occasions.
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July - 4 
Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe stressing that a comprehensive investigation will be conducted in to the statement made by the State Minister Vijayakala Maheswaran told Parliament that no room will be allowed to resuscitate the banned Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), reports Colombo
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Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe stressing that a comprehensive investigation will be conducted in to the statement made by the State Minister Vijayakala Maheswaran told Parliament that no room will be allowed to resuscitate the banned Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), reports Colombo Page on July 4. He told Parliament that the United National Party (UNP) and the Government are committed to protect the unitary status and territorial integrity of the country. The Prime Minister said that soon after learning about the controversial statement made by the State Minister Vijayakala Maheswaran he inquired about the situation.
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July - 5 
Opposition Leader R. Sampanthan on July 5 said the Government is yet to accomplish most of its commitments to the International Community, reports Daily News. “The expectations of the international community in the best interest of the people of Sri Lanka have not been fulfilled by the Governm
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Opposition Leader R. Sampanthan on July 5 said the Government is yet to accomplish most of its commitments to the International Community, reports Daily News. “The expectations of the international community in the best interest of the people of Sri Lanka have not been fulfilled by the Government. Given the fact that there had been plenty of work done around the framing of a new Constitution for over 25 years, I don’t see any justifiable reasons for delay in this. Our primary interest is in the best interest of the country, and everyone in this country will benefit from a new Constitution. Mustering a two-third Majority in Parliament need not be that difficult to adopt a new Constitution. We have been absolutely reasonable in our demands. If the Government does not deliver, the Tamil people are not going to be second-class citizens in this country,” Sampanthan said. The Opposition Leader made these observations when outgoing United States Ambassador Atul Keshap paid a courtesy call on him at the Opposition Leader’s office.
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July - 8 
Commander of Sri Lanka Army Lieutenant General Mahesh Senanayake has instructed the Army not to allow any person, who acts in a manner that obstructs the process of reconciliation, in to the army camps, reports Colombo Page on July 9. The Army Commander has given instructions to bar people
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Commander of Sri Lanka Army Lieutenant General Mahesh Senanayake has instructed the Army not to allow any person, who acts in a manner that obstructs the process of reconciliation, in to the army camps, reports Colombo Page on July 9. The Army Commander has given instructions to bar people who deliver speeches damaging the trust the people of the North and the East have placed in the Government and the military. The Commander in a communiqué has instructed the army not to take part, support or sponsor any event participated by the people disrupting reconciliation process. Army Commander's communiqué says that the Sri Lanka Army should completely condemn any act of obstructing reconciliation. "It has been observed that at times, opportunistic politicians, and some retired military officers as well as civil activists, while criticizing the reconciliation process carried out by the Government and the Army and appreciating the terrorists' activities, conduct lectures and meetings to damage the trust peace loving people in the North and East have placed in the government and the military and to poison their minds with hatred," the Army Commander has said in his communiqué.
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July - 8 
The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (UN-HCHR) on July 8 said it is deeply disturbed by the return of 41 Sri Lankan asylum seekers to Sri Lanka by Australian authorities without proper screening and called for a full judicial review on the matter, reports Colombo Page. The High Comm
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The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (UN-HCHR) on July 8 said it is deeply disturbed by the return of 41 Sri Lankan asylum seekers to Sri Lanka by Australian authorities without proper screening and called for a full judicial review on the matter, reports Colombo Page. The High Commissioner said the international law requires that each and every case be properly and individually examined on its own merits.
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July - 10 
Deputy Minister of Law and Order Nalin Bandara Jayamaha at a news conference on July 10 said Government will defuse pro-Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) mindset in North, reports Daily Mirror. Law and Order Minister Ranjith Madduma Bandara, Deputy Minister of Law and Order Nalin Bandara
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Deputy Minister of Law and Order Nalin Bandara Jayamaha at a news conference on July 10 said Government will defuse pro-Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) mindset in North, reports Daily Mirror. Law and Order Minister Ranjith Madduma Bandara, Deputy Minister of Law and Order Nalin Bandara Jayamaha and IGP Pujith Jayasundara are to visit North on July 12 to defuse the pro-LTTE mindset in the area. “We will gather all stakeholders and will try to resolve matters. There is only a pro-LTTE mindset among the people in the area and that will be got rid of sooner or later. It will not be easy but we will do it. We will not allow the LTTE come back again. Intelligence units are on alert. Terrorism prevention units are active in the North,” the Deputy Minister said.
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July - 12 
Northern Province Chief Minister C.V. Vignewswaran at an event held in Kilinochchi District of Northern Province on July 12 ordered all state officials in the Northern Province not to provide any information to the Army without seeking his advice, reports Daily Mirror. “If the army reques
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Northern Province Chief Minister C.V. Vignewswaran at an event held in Kilinochchi District of Northern Province on July 12 ordered all state officials in the Northern Province not to provide any information to the Army without seeking his advice, reports Daily Mirror. “If the army requested for any information, you tell them that I had requested you not to give them any information without my approval,” he said. The Chief Minister said people in the north had been inconvenienced due to the three form of administration by the central government, Provincial council and also by administration of the governor. “That is why we request for federal governance from the beginning. Apart from that we should request for self-governance for the nine provinces,” he said.
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July - 13 
After a fact finding mission in Jaffna District of Northern Province, Law and Order Minister Ranjith Madduma Bandara on July 13 said the ‘Ava’ criminal gang was a phenomenon created by some youngsters influenced by violent scenes in Tamil films, reports Daily Mirror. "
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After a fact finding mission in Jaffna District of Northern Province, Law and Order Minister Ranjith Madduma Bandara on July 13 said the ‘Ava’ criminal gang was a phenomenon created by some youngsters influenced by violent scenes in Tamil films, reports Daily Mirror. "They brandish swords to terrorize the people," the minister said and confirmed that the senior police officers based in the area had briefed him about the ground situation."It is not as bad as it is portrayed by the media and by political opponents," the Minister said.
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July - 13 
Briefing the Indian Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale in Colombo on July 13, Tamil National Alliance (TNA) delegation led by its Leader and the Leader of the Opposition R. Sampanthan pointed out that the new Constitution must be adopted before the provincial council elections, reports Daily News.
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Briefing the Indian Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale in Colombo on July 13, Tamil National Alliance (TNA) delegation led by its Leader and the Leader of the Opposition R. Sampanthan pointed out that the new Constitution must be adopted before the provincial council elections, reports Daily News. “We want a solution within a united, undivided an indivisible Sri Lanka and this longstanding national question must be addressed through a new Constitution that must enable people to exercise power over day to day matters pertaining to their life,” he said. MPs M. A. Sumanthiran and Selvam Adaikkalanathan were also present at the meeting.
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July - 15 
Army Commander Mahesh Senanayakeon July 15 said in a media statement that Army would not close down Army camps in the Northern Province as alleged by some media reports, reports Daily Mirror.He said; “Sri Lanka Army is prepared round the clock to respond to all security requirements in th
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Army Commander Mahesh Senanayakeon July 15 said in a media statement that Army would not close down Army camps in the Northern Province as alleged by some media reports, reports Daily Mirror.He said; “Sri Lanka Army is prepared round the clock to respond to all security requirements in the country. During the war, the Army adopting its own structural reforms succeeded in winning the war at that time. In similar vein, the Army while performing a gigantic role in development has thrown its full weight behind the government’s ongoing nation-building projects as the prime mover. However, some opportunistic politicians and mass media organizations, envious of the Army’s commitment to the country’s future are in the practice of spreading malicious and false propaganda in order to inculcate the public with untruth and distortion regarding the ongoing rightsizing process of the Army. The ‘right-sizing’ process has always been happening in the Army and had even taken place during the war and also in the post-war period before this one.Through that, the troops mainly deployed for administrative duties are relieved and mobilized for field duties to gain better productivity, thereby doubling their efficiency. This process does not allow any Army camp to be closed, but it instead enables the majority of troops in those camps be deployed for emergency disaster needs and nation-building tasks in an effective manner. Nevertheless, some false media reports try to claim that this process has led to a large let-up in the security arrangements in the North and East. It certainly is not a disbanding of battalions, but is only a restructuring with the intention of distributing human and material resources equally among other battalions.”
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July - 22 
Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe speaking at an event held at Jaffna Municipal Grounds in Jaffna District of Northern Province on July 22 to distribute investment kits to new entrepreneurs under the Enterprise Sri Lanka program, encouraged entrepreneurs in North with tax concessions to uplift loc
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Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe speaking at an event held at Jaffna Municipal Grounds in Jaffna District of Northern Province on July 22 to distribute investment kits to new entrepreneurs under the Enterprise Sri Lanka program, encouraged entrepreneurs in North with tax concessions to uplift local economy, reports Colombo Page. He offered tax relief for 300 percent of the income from capital investment to entrepreneurs who start business enterprises in the Northern Province to boost the local economic growth. He said "We want local entrepreneurs to invest as well as bringing the enterprises to the region from outside. That money should be invested in Jaffna. We will give money if you start from inside (the region)."
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July - 26 
Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe addressing the National Programme titled 'Teach if you know- Learn if you don't know' held with the facilitation of the Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC) at the Sugathadasa Stadium in Colombo on July 26 said people unite when they understand ea
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Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe addressing the National Programme titled 'Teach if you know- Learn if you don't know' held with the facilitation of the Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC) at the Sugathadasa Stadium in Colombo on July 26 said people unite when they understand each other, reports Daily News. Sri Lanka could come forward as a peaceful and developed nation when its people become competent in two official languages of the country, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said.
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July - 26 
Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on July 26 said trilingual proficiency is vital for reconciliation, reports Daily Mirror. He said “If people learn Sinhala, then everyone should be conversant with the language of the majority. If one learns Tamil, then that person will be able to benef
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Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on July 26 said trilingual proficiency is vital for reconciliation, reports Daily Mirror. He said “If people learn Sinhala, then everyone should be conversant with the language of the majority. If one learns Tamil, then that person will be able to benefit from the development that is taking place in Tamil Nadu. One could get more benefits from South India than from Europe if he or she learns Tamil. Likewise, if one learns English, he or she will be benefitted when travelling to UK or USA. There was a conflict between the Malays and the Tamils in Malaysia in late 1960s. Singapore saw this conflict and decided to introduce laws to nationalize Malay, Chinese and English languages to avoid a similar conflict. This is why there is no communal violence in Singapore today. Language is a bridge that connects ethnic and religious groups.”
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July - 29 
Prime Minister (PM) Ranil Wickremesinghe while participating in the opening ceremony of the newly built Manmunai Pattu Divisional Secretariat building in Batticaloa District of Eastern Province on July 29 announced plans for massive development of East, reports Colombo Page. Speaking on the occasion
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Prime Minister (PM) Ranil Wickremesinghe while participating in the opening ceremony of the newly built Manmunai Pattu Divisional Secretariat building in Batticaloa District of Eastern Province on July 29 announced plans for massive development of East, reports Colombo Page. Speaking on the occasion Prime Minister Wickremesinghe said "We have already started an accelerated development program throughout the country. With the present government taking office, in 2015, each Grama Niladhari division in the country was given 1 million rupees for development programs. The Divisional Secretariat is the main hub of development work. In 2015 there were many shortcomings existed in these Divisional Secretariats and we decided to address them."
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July - 30 
President Maithripala Sirisena has appointed a special task force to accelerate the development projects launched in the war-affected North and East under his supervision and the Presidential Task Force convened for the first time at the President's Office on July 30, reports Colombo Page. At th
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President Maithripala Sirisena has appointed a special task force to accelerate the development projects launched in the war-affected North and East under his supervision and the Presidential Task Force convened for the first time at the President's Office on July 30, reports Colombo Page. At the meeting, the President emphasized that the development programs should be done in a systematic and efficient manner to provide the people in the region with immediate benefits. President Sirisena said that although the government has done a great deal of work in the past three and a half years to uplift the lives of the people living in the North and the East and to develop the infrastructure, the people have not been well informed of the developments. The Special Presidential Task Force was appointed by the President in an Extraordinary Gazette Notification published on June 5, 2018. The Task Force chaired by the President consists of Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, 15 Cabinet Ministers, Governors, the Chief Ministers of the two provinces together with the Tri Forces Commanders.
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July - 30 
Skills Development and Vocational Development Training Minister Mahinda Samarasinghe at a press conference held at the Information Department auditorium in Colombo on March 31 said that the Government would not allow any foreign tribunal or judge to inquire into the last phase of the Liberation Tige
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Skills Development and Vocational Development Training Minister Mahinda Samarasinghe at a press conference held at the Information Department auditorium in Colombo on March 31 said that the Government would not allow any foreign tribunal or judge to inquire into the last phase of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) war, reports Daily News. He said that President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe had made those statements publicly. He added there are also the heads of the two main political parties and there is no way for such an inquiry. He also said that they had stated that according to the provisions of the Constitution, there is no room for the involvement of foreign judges.
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August - 1 
Former Inspector-General of Malaysian Police Tan Sri Musa Hassan in an exclusive interview with Bernama News in Kuala Lumpur said Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE)ideology is still a threat, reports Daily Mirror on July 31. The LTTE in Sri Lanka may have been defeated, but its ideology and sym
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Former Inspector-General of Malaysian Police Tan Sri Musa Hassan in an exclusive interview with Bernama News in Kuala Lumpur said Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE)ideology is still a threat, reports Daily Mirror on July 31. The LTTE in Sri Lanka may have been defeated, but its ideology and sympathizers still exist around the world posing a threat, Hassan has said. Musa said the threat of the LTTE should not be taken lightly as the United States and the United Nations listed them as a terrorist group and it was also banned in Malaysia and 32 other countries.
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August - 2 
President Maithripala Sirisena speaking at a ceremony to vest many development projects with the public at the Hela Bojun Hala in the Manampitiya town of Polonnaruwa District in North Central Province on August 2 said Government will not allow anyone to divide the country nor will it allow any force
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President Maithripala Sirisena speaking at a ceremony to vest many development projects with the public at the Hela Bojun Hala in the Manampitiya town of Polonnaruwa District in North Central Province on August 2 said Government will not allow anyone to divide the country nor will it allow any force to subjugate the people, reports Daily News. The President also said that the present Government has taken steps to protect our War Heroes from any international pressures. President Sirisena further said that certain politicians rally around Lipton Circus shouting outdated slogans saying not to betray the country and protect the War Heroes, only for the sole purpose of achieving their petty political objectives.
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August - 3 
Leader of the Opposition and the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) R. Sampanthan briefing the visiting Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland on August 3 in Colombo pointed out that even though the war has come to an end, there is no complete peace and harmony among the people and the unity go
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Leader of the Opposition and the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) R. Sampanthan briefing the visiting Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland on August 3 in Colombo pointed out that even though the war has come to an end, there is no complete peace and harmony among the people and the unity government is slow in delivering the promises it made, reports Colombo Page. "People had a great deal of hope with the change of Government particularly the minorities. They expected the government to deliver on the promises it made both locally and internationally. A new Constitution which will alter the structure of the governance and give more powers to the regions, ascertainment of truth and justice, reparation, dealing with missing persons, return of civilians lands occupied by the armed forces, release of people held in custody under the draconian Prevention of Terrorism Act are some of those promises, but the delivery on these matters has been slow and inadequate," said Mr Sampanthan.
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August - 4 
Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe while participating as the Chief Guest at the opening ceremony of several new buildings constructed at the Kilinochchi Campus of the Jaffna University on August 4 said massive development program commenced from North to South, reports Colombo Page. He said that st
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Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe while participating as the Chief Guest at the opening ceremony of several new buildings constructed at the Kilinochchi Campus of the Jaffna University on August 4 said massive development program commenced from North to South, reports Colombo Page. He said that steps are being taken to provide a better life for the youth through a massive development program from Point Pedro in the North to Hambantota in the South. The accelerated development program has already been commenced from the Northern Province with the construction of an airport in Kilinochchi and the development of Kankasanthurai harbor, the Premier said.
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August - 7 
Speaker Karu Jayasuriya on August 7 informed Parliament that the Supreme Court (SC) has determined certain sections of the Reparations Bill are inconsistent with the Constitution, reports Daily Mirror. He said sections 27(a) and 27(A) (iii) of the Bill was inconsistent with Sections 4(D) and Section
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Speaker Karu Jayasuriya on August 7 informed Parliament that the Supreme Court (SC) has determined certain sections of the Reparations Bill are inconsistent with the Constitution, reports Daily Mirror. He said sections 27(a) and 27(A) (iii) of the Bill was inconsistent with Sections 4(D) and Section 3 of the Constitution and therefore the SC has stated that the Bill has to be approved by a two-thirds majority of the total number of members in the Parliament. The SC has also recommended that Bill should be approved by the people at a referendum and that the inconsistency could be removed if amendments were made in line with the directions it had given. Reparations Bill provides provisions to set up an office to look into disappearances and pay compensation to the relatives who had gone missing especially during the war.
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August - 10 
Speaker of Sri Lanka Parliament Karu Jayasuriya on August 10 (today) announced that there will be no change in the post of the Opposition Leader, reports Colombo Page. Making a special statement in Parliament, the Speaker said in accordance with the continuing long-established parliamentary traditio
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Speaker of Sri Lanka Parliament Karu Jayasuriya on August 10 (today) announced that there will be no change in the post of the Opposition Leader, reports Colombo Page. Making a special statement in Parliament, the Speaker said in accordance with the continuing long-established parliamentary tradition, the leader of the party which is not a party of the Government and holds a majority of members in opposition has been accepted as the Leader of Opposition. Accordingly, in the current 8th Parliament of Sri Lanka, the leader of the Illankai Tamil Arasu Kachchi (ITAK) party, Member of Parliament Rajavarothiam Sampanthan has been accepted as the Opposition Leader of parliament by the Speaker on September 3, 2015. "As such, I hereby declare that my final decision is as the Speaker of this august assembly, I cannot constitutionally or traditionally make a change in the post of Opposition Leader of Parliament," the Speaker said in his long statement.
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August - 12 
Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe during the opening of Mahatma Gandhi Puram housing scheme in Nuwara Eliya on August 12 said reconciliation is taking place in Sri Lanka with the movement of Southern people to the North and Northern people to the South, reports Daily Mirror. “Many Sinhalese
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Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe during the opening of Mahatma Gandhi Puram housing scheme in Nuwara Eliya on August 12 said reconciliation is taking place in Sri Lanka with the movement of Southern people to the North and Northern people to the South, reports Daily Mirror. “Many Sinhalese from the South are increasingly visiting the North, especially the Nagadeepa Vihara and Naga Vihara, while many from the North are visiting the South particularly to see what Colombo looks like. These visits are gradually becoming a mode of reconciliation. Northern and Southern people are more reconciled today than in the past,” the Prime Minister said.
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August - 15 
Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe while participating in the annual festival of the historic Shrine of Our lady of Madhu in Mannar District presided by the Archbishop Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith and Bishop of Mannar Most Rev. Emmanuel Fernando said the National Unity Government (NUG) is working to de
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Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe while participating in the annual festival of the historic Shrine of Our lady of Madhu in Mannar District presided by the Archbishop Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith and Bishop of Mannar Most Rev. Emmanuel Fernando said the National Unity Government (NUG) is working to deliver long term peace to the island nation and religious festivals are important to promote peace and reconciliation, reports Colombo Page on August 15. "Our large religious festivals are important moments to promote and embrace the values of peace and reconciliation, as we work to deliver long term peace in Sri Lanka," the Premier said.
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August - 22 
President Maithripala Sirisena while commencing the renovation activities of Mailaddy Fisheries Harbour in Jaffna District on August 22 said 88 percent of the lands occupied by the Security Forces have been released to their original owners and the Government is of the clear stance to expedite the r
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President Maithripala Sirisena while commencing the renovation activities of Mailaddy Fisheries Harbour in Jaffna District on August 22 said 88 percent of the lands occupied by the Security Forces have been released to their original owners and the Government is of the clear stance to expedite the release of the remaining 12 percent to the owners as well, reports Colombo Page.The President also said that the lands belonging to Mailaddy School and other area schools, which are still under the custody of the security forces, will be released within the next two weeks.Recalling that no other President has toured the North as much as he has done, the President said he has joined hands identifying the issues of the people in the North to diligently fulfil the responsibility of expediting the implementation of relevant services.
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August - 27 
President Maithripala Sirisena convening the Presidential Task Force on the development of the Northern and Eastern Provinces for the second time on August 27 at the Presidential Secretariat assured equal development in Northern and Eastern Provinces, reports Colombo Page. He said there is no differ
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President Maithripala Sirisena convening the Presidential Task Force on the development of the Northern and Eastern Provinces for the second time on August 27 at the Presidential Secretariat assured equal development in Northern and Eastern Provinces, reports Colombo Page. He said there is no differentiation or discrimination in the development of the country and the benefits of the development to the people living in the Northern and Eastern provinces will be delivered equally as promised. During the meeting, the President instructed the officials to take measures to streamline and accelerate the infrastructure development programs of the North and the East and the programs implemented to uplift the livelihood of the people.
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September - 19 
In reference to the request by Minister Patali Champika Ranawaka to grant a general amnesty to the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) cadres and military personnel involved in war-related crimes, the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) MP M.A. Sumanthiran on September 19 said that the two groups coul
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In reference to the request by Minister Patali Champika Ranawaka to grant a general amnesty to the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) cadres and military personnel involved in war-related crimes, the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) MP M.A. Sumanthiran on September 19 said that the two groups could not be equated at all, reports Daily Mirror. Making his remarks on this matter, TNA MP M.A. Sumanthiran told that Tamil political prisoners had been arrested and held up for long years. He said their cases were not over. “They are being dragged on,” he said. He said these prisoners had been arrested on confessions made by them and detained for a long time. However, he said the unidentified atrocities perpetrated by the military could not be equated with those of Tamil political prisoners. MP Sumanthiran said there should be a truth-seeking mechanism in place to trace the kind of crimes committed before considering any amnesty.
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September - 20 
President Maithripala Sirisena addressing the gathering after vesting with the people development projects completed under the ‘Sirisara Pivisuma’ development project in Trincomalee District on September 20 said North East under representation caused ethnic issue, reports Daily News. He said “Govern
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President Maithripala Sirisena addressing the gathering after vesting with the people development projects completed under the ‘Sirisara Pivisuma’ development project in Trincomalee District on September 20 said North East under representation caused ethnic issue, reports Daily News. He said “Governments that came to power since 1947 used people’s representatives in the North and East to secure their power and did not take action to create an environment for appropriate political representation that could have solved economic and development issues.” The President further said under past Governments, limited attention was paid to developmental needs of the people in the North and East. Under representation in those provinces is among the main causes of the ethnic issue.
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September - 25 
President Maithripala Sirisena addressing the 73rd Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York on September 25 called on the international community to allow Sri Lankan people to solve their problems on their own, reports Daily Mirror. He said “As an independent country, we do
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President Maithripala Sirisena addressing the 73rd Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York on September 25 called on the international community to allow Sri Lankan people to solve their problems on their own, reports Daily Mirror. He said “As an independent country, we do not want any foreign power to exert influence on us. We want to appeal to the international community to give us the room to resolve the problems that we are facing so that the right of the Sri Lankan people to find solutions to their problems is respected.”
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September - 28 
Commonwealth Secretary General, Patricia Scotland QC during a meeting with the Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena at the Loews Regency Hotel in New York on September 28 praised Sri Lanka's progress in strengthening democracy and reconciliation, reports Colombo Page. Scotland said that in her
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Commonwealth Secretary General, Patricia Scotland QC during a meeting with the Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena at the Loews Regency Hotel in New York on September 28 praised Sri Lanka's progress in strengthening democracy and reconciliation, reports Colombo Page. Scotland said that in her recent visit to Sri Lanka she saw the positive developments taking place on all fronts and congratulated the President and the Government. She said the Commonwealth would continue to extend support to Sri Lanka's efforts towards development and reconciliation.
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September - 28 
Vavuniya Punthottam Rehabilitation Director Colonel Asela Obeysekera at an event held at the Wanni Punthottam Rehabilitation Camp on September 28 said that only one out of 12,191 Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) cadres who surrendered to the military during the last stage of the war remains t
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Vavuniya Punthottam Rehabilitation Director Colonel Asela Obeysekera at an event held at the Wanni Punthottam Rehabilitation Camp on September 28 said that only one out of 12,191 Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) cadres who surrendered to the military during the last stage of the war remains to be released after rehabilitation, reports Daily Mirror. He said “Nearly 12190 former LTTE combatants, who surrendered to the Army, underwent rehabilitation and were reintegrated into society. Only one still remains in a camp in Vavuniya.” Colonel Obeysekera said those who were integrated into society were provided self-employment opportunities, fishing gear and educational requisites at a cost of SLR 26 million this year alone.
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September - 29 
President Maithripala Sirisena while addressing Sri Lankans living in the United States at the Sri Lanka Permanent Mission to UN in New York on September 29 said the Government is always fully committed to safeguard honour, dignity and respect of war heroes from top Generals to the last private sold
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President Maithripala Sirisena while addressing Sri Lankans living in the United States at the Sri Lanka Permanent Mission to UN in New York on September 29 said the Government is always fully committed to safeguard honour, dignity and respect of war heroes from top Generals to the last private soldier and they would be provided with every privilege, reports Daily News.
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September - 29 
United Nations (UN) Secretary General Antonio Guterres has assured Sri Lanka's President Maithripala Sirisena that the UN will continue to support Sri Lanka in its efforts to build reconciliation and strengthen democracy, reports Colombo Page on September 29 (today). President Maithripala Sirisena b
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United Nations (UN) Secretary General Antonio Guterres has assured Sri Lanka's President Maithripala Sirisena that the UN will continue to support Sri Lanka in its efforts to build reconciliation and strengthen democracy, reports Colombo Page on September 29 (today). President Maithripala Sirisena briefed the UN chief about Sri Lanka's progress in strengthening democracy, rule of law, media freedom and reconciliation during a meeting at the UNSG's office at the UN Headquarters in New York. Secretary General warmly greeted President Sirisena and the Sri Lankan delegation comprising Ministers Tilak Marapana, Champika Ranawaka, Mano Ganesan and Permanent Representative to UN, Dr Amrith Rohan Perera. Mr Guterres said he deeply appreciates the difficult and complex challenges faced by Sri Lanka and said the UN would continue to extend support to Sri Lanka's efforts towards reconciliation. He praised Sri Lanka's good work in peace building, human rights and UN peace keeping.
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October - 3 
President Maithripala Sirisena on October 3 said the occupied lands in the North and East should inevitably be returned to the rightful owners and instructed the relevant authorities to sort out the problems and complete the process to release the lands before December 31, reports Colombo Page. The
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President Maithripala Sirisena on October 3 said the occupied lands in the North and East should inevitably be returned to the rightful owners and instructed the relevant authorities to sort out the problems and complete the process to release the lands before December 31, reports Colombo Page. The President instructed the officials when the Presidential Task Force on Development of the Northern and Eastern Provinces met for the third time at the Parliamentary Complex. The President gave further instructions to prepare a proper timeframe to launch the relevant program and present the progress of the program at the next Presidential Task Force meeting next month. Special attention was focused on releasing military occupied buildings and lands belong to schools in the North and East. The President, noting that people in certain areas of the Trincomalee district, are facing a severe water shortage inquired about the program being implemented to resolve the drinking water issue.
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October - 4 
Norwegian Foreign Minister Ine Eriksen Søreide when she met with the visiting Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe at the state visitor's official residence in Oslo on October 4 commended Sri Lanka for continuing to set an example to the world on peace and reconciliation tackling difficult
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Norwegian Foreign Minister Ine Eriksen Søreide when she met with the visiting Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe at the state visitor's official residence in Oslo on October 4 commended Sri Lanka for continuing to set an example to the world on peace and reconciliation tackling difficult challenges faced in the process, reports Colombo Page. Søreide said Sri Lanka is a valued partner for Norway and assured Norway's full support to the peace and reconciliation program.
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October - 9 
Foreign Affairs Minister Tilak Marapana on October 9 said Sri Lanka has made considerable progress on complying with the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) resolution 30/1 co-sponsored by the US and Sri Lanka and adopted in October 2015, reports Daily Mirror. Minister Marapana said “The est
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Foreign Affairs Minister Tilak Marapana on October 9 said Sri Lanka has made considerable progress on complying with the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) resolution 30/1 co-sponsored by the US and Sri Lanka and adopted in October 2015, reports Daily Mirror. Minister Marapana said “The establishment of the Office of Missing Persons (OMP), passing of the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance Act, tabling of Reparations Bill and the Counter Terrorism Bill are the steps taken in the right direction by Sri Lanka to fulfil her obligations. We have had regular consultations with other co-sponsors, EU, UK and Canada and those who voted for the resolution at the UNHRC who have expressed their appreciation on the progress that has been made by Sri Lanka. Further, anyone could see himself how this government has restored democracy, rule of law, the independence of judiciary and media. Today, no one has the feeling of insecurity, abduction or disappearance. The government has also constituted the Constitution Council and through it established independent commissions. No suppression of media and harassment on media personnel, critical on the government. We have taken upon ourselves the reforms which are beneficial to our people. In this regard, the government is well aware of where we should draw the line. We are confident that the International Community will defend us to the hilt at the March 2019 sessions of the UNHRC and therefore no one must unnecessarily worry about it.”
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October - 12 
Northern Province Chief Minister C. V. Vigneswaran speaking to the media after holding a meeting at his Jaffna office with Provincial Council political representatives and civil society organisations on October 12 has called upon the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) to demand the release of all Tamil p
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Northern Province Chief Minister C. V. Vigneswaran speaking to the media after holding a meeting at his Jaffna office with Provincial Council political representatives and civil society organisations on October 12 has called upon the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) to demand the release of all Tamil political prisoners, as a condition to lend its support to the Government during the forthcoming Budget. Vigneswaran said Tamil youths who acted on the orders of Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) leaders like Karuna Amman were languishing in jail for almost 26 years, while Karuna Amman who gave the orders is scot free.
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October - 17 
President Maithripala Sirisena during a discussion with the representatives of Tamil National Alliance (TNA) on October 17 in Parliamenthas assured that the Government would extend every possible assistance to streamline the development activities in the North and East to provide maximum benefits to
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President Maithripala Sirisena during a discussion with the representatives of Tamil National Alliance (TNA) on October 17 in Parliamenthas assured that the Government would extend every possible assistance to streamline the development activities in the North and East to provide maximum benefits to the people, reports Colombo Page.The delegation included Opposition Leader R Sampanthan and parliamentarian M ASumanthiran.The issues pertaining to development activities and the need for streamlining them and adverse effects of inclement weather were discussed during the meeting.The President also held a meeting with the representatives of Tamil Progressive Front where the issues pertaining to upcountry Tamils such as their wage issues and development activities were discussed.Tamil Progressive Front leader, Mano Ganesan, Minister Palani Digambaran and V Radhakrishnan attended this meeting.
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October - 23 
Megapolis and Western Development Minister Patali Champika Ranawaka told the Cabinet on October 23 that the Government should launch diplomatic efforts to withdraw its co-sponsorship of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) resolution on Sri Lanka, reports Daily Mirror. The Minister said t
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Megapolis and Western Development Minister Patali Champika Ranawaka told the Cabinet on October 23 that the Government should launch diplomatic efforts to withdraw its co-sponsorship of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) resolution on Sri Lanka, reports Daily Mirror. The Minister said this when the Cabinet discussed the Bill to set up the National Truth Commission and pointed out that the Government had taken several steps as far as reconciliation was concerned. He said the government should also make every effort to replace the current resolution. He cited the Office of Missing Persons, the Office for Reparation, and various commissions appointed during the former rule as steps taken in this direction. However, the Minister said there was no reciprocity from the other side.
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October - 23 
Minister of Sustainable Development, Wildlife and Regional Development Field Marshal Sarath Fonseka on October 23 said that it is not legal to pay reparations to those who tried to divide the country and engaged in illegal activities, reports Daily Mirror. Minister Fonseka expressed this sentiment
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Minister of Sustainable Development, Wildlife and Regional Development Field Marshal Sarath Fonseka on October 23 said that it is not legal to pay reparations to those who tried to divide the country and engaged in illegal activities, reports Daily Mirror. Minister Fonseka expressed this sentiment at a media briefing held this afternoon when he was asked about his views on the Reparations Bill. “LTTE were those who worked to divide the nation by taking up arms. It is a serious offence according to the Constitution. I don’t approve of paying compensation to them. However, if people are affected due to certain other reasons including while engaging in their official duties, such people can be compensated,” he said.
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October - 24 
Northern Province Chief Minister C. V. Wigneswaran speaking at a meeting of the Tamil MakkalPeravai, a civil organization formed by the Chief Minister, held in NallurKandaswamiKovil in Jaffna Dsitrict on October 24 said that he will be forming a new political party under the name Tamil MakkalKoottan
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Northern Province Chief Minister C. V. Wigneswaran speaking at a meeting of the Tamil MakkalPeravai, a civil organization formed by the Chief Minister, held in NallurKandaswamiKovil in Jaffna Dsitrict on October 24 said that he will be forming a new political party under the name Tamil MakkalKoottani (Tamil People's Front, TMK), reports Colombo Page.Mr. Wigneswaran said that he will conduct his future political activities under the new party.He said the new party would uphold the fundamentals of Tamil nationalism.
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October - 26 
Northern Commander Major General Darshana Hettiaarachchi said that Army will help Jaffna war-torn people to stand on their feet, reports Daily News on October 26. "They are poor and innocent people and I felt that I should do my utmost best for their welfare as a Buddhist, let alone being the Northe
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Northern Commander Major General Darshana Hettiaarachchi said that Army will help Jaffna war-torn people to stand on their feet, reports Daily News on October 26. "They are poor and innocent people and I felt that I should do my utmost best for their welfare as a Buddhist, let alone being the Northern Commander, it was my duty to dispense my duties to keep them happy," said an emotional Darshana.
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October - 26 
Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe has said that the appointment of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa as Prime Minister by President Maithripala Sirisena is unconstitutional, reports Colombo Page on October 26. Mr. Wickremesinghe has said that he would continue to function as the Prime Minster. "I
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Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe has said that the appointment of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa as Prime Minister by President Maithripala Sirisena is unconstitutional, reports Colombo Page on October 26. Mr. Wickremesinghe has said that he would continue to function as the Prime Minster. "I am still the Prime Minister of this country," he has said in a statement. According to the Article 42 (4) of Sri Lanka Constitution the President "shall appoint as Prime Minister the Member of Parliament, who, in the President's opinion, is most likely to command the confidence of Parliament." Article 46 (2) says The Prime Minister shall continue to hold office throughout the period during which the Cabinet of Ministers continues to function under the provisions of the Constitution unless he - (a) resigns his office by a writing under his hand addressed to the President; or- (b) ceases to be a Member of Parliament. Mr. Wickremesinghe said he will show majority in Parliament soon.
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October - 29 
Sri Lanka's former Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on October 29 requested everyone to set aside political differences and rally around him to re-establish the democracy in the country to ensure a better future for the younger generation, reports Colombo Page. Addressing the constitutional crisi
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Sri Lanka's former Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on October 29 requested everyone to set aside political differences and rally around him to re-establish the democracy in the country to ensure a better future for the younger generation, reports Colombo Page. Addressing the constitutional crisis in the country at a special media conference, Wickremesinghe said the rights of every citizen of Sri Lanka were blatantly violated on the October 26, 2018 and undermining the constitution sets a dangerous precedent that erodes the very fabric of the society. "Our government worked hard to regain the freedoms that were lost until 2015. We established the RTI Act, independent commissions, and an unprecedented democratic culture. Let us not allow these hard-won freedoms to be taken away from us again," he said.
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October - 31 
Meanwhile, a group of civil society representatives has met with Speaker Karu Jayasuriya on October 31 to hand over a petition urging to reconvene Parliament immediately to establish democracy in the country, reports Colombo Page. The Office of the Speaker in a statement said the petition which cont
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Meanwhile, a group of civil society representatives has met with Speaker Karu Jayasuriya on October 31 to hand over a petition urging to reconvene Parliament immediately to establish democracy in the country, reports Colombo Page. The Office of the Speaker in a statement said the petition which contained approximately 16,000 signatures obtained through internet was handed over to the Speaker, urging Speaker Karu Jayasuriya to reconvene Parliament immediately to establish democracy in the country.The petition also requests the state officials to refrain from adhering to illegal directives, the statement said.
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October - 31 
Separately, Nava Sama Samaja Party Leader Wickramabahu Karunaratne on October 31 said they would launch a massive trade union action and a riot in protest of President’s decision to remove Ranil Wickremesinghe as Prime Minister and proroguing Parliament unconstitutionally, reports Daily Mirror. He t
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Separately, Nava Sama Samaja Party Leader Wickramabahu Karunaratne on October 31 said they would launch a massive trade union action and a riot in protest of President’s decision to remove Ranil Wickremesinghe as Prime Minister and proroguing Parliament unconstitutionally, reports Daily Mirror. He told a news conference that the country had plunged into a serious crisis and requested the President to restore democracy in the country by convening Parliament immediately. “President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa were acting against the Constitution disregarding Parliament. We consider this a political coup,” he said.
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November - 1 
European Union (EU) Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Tung-Lai Margue, on November 1 said that EU is worried the return of Mahinda Rajapaksa, as Prime Minister, could derail halting progress made toward national reconciliation following a war with ethnic minority Tamil separatists that killed tens of thousan
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European Union (EU) Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Tung-Lai Margue, on November 1 said that EU is worried the return of Mahinda Rajapaksa, as Prime Minister, could derail halting progress made toward national reconciliation following a war with ethnic minority Tamil separatists that killed tens of thousands, many during the final stages under his watch as President, reports Colombo Page."The government got GSP on the basis of certain commitments, if these commitments are not met, then we would consider withdrawal," Tung-Lai Margue told.Margue was referring to Generalized System of Preferences Plus (GSP+) status, under which Sri Lanka's top exports of garments and fish get lucrative concessions in the world's largest single market.
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November - 1 
Secretary-General of the United Nations (UN) Antonio Guterres on November 1 urged Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena to take measures to immediately reconvene the Parliament, which was prorogued by the President until November 16, reports Colombo Page.The Secretary-General spoke by telephone
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Secretary-General of the United Nations (UN) Antonio Guterres on November 1 urged Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena to take measures to immediately reconvene the Parliament, which was prorogued by the President until November 16, reports Colombo Page.The Secretary-General spoke by telephone with President Maithripala Sirisena about the political crisis in the island nation, the Office of the Spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General said.The Secretary-General urged the President to revert to Parliamentary procedures and allow the Parliament to vote as soon as possible.He encouraged the Government to uphold its earlier commitments to human rights, justice and reconciliation, in line with Human Rights Council resolutions.
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November - 1 
United People's Freedom Alliance (UPFA) Member of Parliament (MP) Susil Premajayantha on November 1 said that Parliament would reconvene on November 16 as per the Gazette issued by President Maithripala Sirisena and not on November 5, reports Daily Mirror. Premajayantha said “At least three working
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United People's Freedom Alliance (UPFA) Member of Parliament (MP) Susil Premajayantha on November 1 said that Parliament would reconvene on November 16 as per the Gazette issued by President Maithripala Sirisena and not on November 5, reports Daily Mirror. Premajayantha said “At least three working days were required to reconvene Parliament once it was prorogued. Therefore, Parliament cannot be reconvened on the 5th. Reports to that effect are incorrect
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November - 2 
Government spokesman and MP, KeheliyaRambukwellaon November 2 said that November 16 remains to be the Parliament's scheduled reconvening date and not November 7 as claimed by Speaker Karu Jayasuriya, reports Daily Mirror.“The Speaker cannot change this date. Only the President can do so and no gazet
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Government spokesman and MP, KeheliyaRambukwellaon November 2 said that November 16 remains to be the Parliament's scheduled reconvening date and not November 7 as claimed by Speaker Karu Jayasuriya, reports Daily Mirror.“The Speaker cannot change this date. Only the President can do so and no gazette notice on any change in the dates has been issued so far,” he said.
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November - 2 
Speaker Karu Jayasuriya on November 2 announced that President Maithripala Sirisena has agreed to reconvene the Parliament on November 7, reports Colombo Page.Parliamentarians of United National Front (UNF), the main Tamil party Tamil National Alliance (TNA), and the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP)
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Speaker Karu Jayasuriya on November 2 announced that President Maithripala Sirisena has agreed to reconvene the Parliament on November 7, reports Colombo Page.Parliamentarians of United National Front (UNF), the main Tamil party Tamil National Alliance (TNA), and the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) met with Speaker Karu Jayasuriya on November 2 for a floor test to determine which party held the majority.
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November - 2 
UNP MP Palitha Range Bandaraon November 2 revealed that he was offered US$2.8 million and a Ministerial portfolio to join the Government,reports Daily Mirror.“They agreed to offer me Rs.500 million and settle the transaction at a temple in Colombo but I said I could consider the offer if it was deli
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UNP MP Palitha Range Bandaraon November 2 revealed that he was offered US$2.8 million and a Ministerial portfolio to join the Government,reports Daily Mirror.“They agreed to offer me Rs.500 million and settle the transaction at a temple in Colombo but I said I could consider the offer if it was delivered to my house in Anamaduwa. They said I could be sworn in this evening. I received a message to my mobile phone saying I could get both cash and ministerial portfolio,” he told the media at the Parliamentary complex.
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November - 4 
Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) Leader Rauff Hakeem and All Ceylon Makkal Congress (ACMC) leader Rishad Badthiudeen on November 4 said that there is no change in their stance with regard to the appointment of a Prime Minister who does not command the support of a majority of members in Parliament,
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Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) Leader Rauff Hakeem and All Ceylon Makkal Congress (ACMC) leader Rishad Badthiudeen on November 4 said that there is no change in their stance with regard to the appointment of a Prime Minister who does not command the support of a majority of members in Parliament, reports Daily Mirror. They rejected reports that said that these two parties were on the fence with regard to their stand on the illegal appointment of Mahinda Rajapaksa as the new Prime Minister. According to the present composition of parliament, SLMC has 7 seats and the ACMC has 5 seats.
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November - 6 
Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland noting the decision by Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena to reconvene Parliament on November 14 has urged to reconvene parliament as soon as possible to resolve the crisis, reports Colombo Page on November 6. The Secretary-General has encourag
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Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland noting the decision by Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena to reconvene Parliament on November 14 has urged to reconvene parliament as soon as possible to resolve the crisis, reports Colombo Page on November 6. The Secretary-General has encouraged the political leaders and people of Sri Lanka to engage in constructive dialogue and uphold rule of law.
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November - 7 
Leader of Tamil Progressive Alliance (TPA) Mano Ganesan on November 7 said that he and five other MPs of his party have declined the President Maithripala Sirisena's request to support the new UPFA Government, reports Colombo Page. "As a civilized political entity, we as Tamil Progressive Alliance (
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Leader of Tamil Progressive Alliance (TPA) Mano Ganesan on November 7 said that he and five other MPs of his party have declined the President Maithripala Sirisena's request to support the new UPFA Government, reports Colombo Page. "As a civilized political entity, we as Tamil Progressive Alliance (TPA) team of all Six (6) MPs met President Maithripala Sirisena and told him that we can't accept his invitation to join his government," MP Ganesan said taking to Twitter.
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November - 7 
Marxist party Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) on November 7 said that the party will support any motion brought to defeat the political conspiracy hatched by the President Maithripala Sirisena and former president Mahinda Rajapaksa, reports Colombo Page. The JVP said the conspiracy being carried out
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Marxist party Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) on November 7 said that the party will support any motion brought to defeat the political conspiracy hatched by the President Maithripala Sirisena and former president Mahinda Rajapaksa, reports Colombo Page. The JVP said the conspiracy being carried out by Mahinda Rajapaksa and Maithripala Sirisena offering positions, privileges and black money should be defeated. "As such the JVP would act to defeat this political conspiracy at the very first instance it gets," the Leader of the JVP MP Anura Dissanayaka said.
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November - 8 
President Maithripala Sirisena while addressing the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) executive committee meeting on November 8 said that he had used only one trump card and there were more trump cards still in his hand, reports Daily Mirror. He said he would not to roll back any decision that he had t
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President Maithripala Sirisena while addressing the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) executive committee meeting on November 8 said that he had used only one trump card and there were more trump cards still in his hand, reports Daily Mirror. He said he would not to roll back any decision that he had taken already. He also said that he would be going to make a request to the United National Party (UNP) to support the Government’s work plan when Parliament meets on November 14. If they do not do so, other trump cards will be played in accordance with the constitution and the law of the country, the President added.
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November - 10 
Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) leader Anura Dissanayaka at a press conference held at the head office of the JVP on November 10 said the party would go to the SC against the move by President Maithripala Sirisena to dissolve Parliament unconstitutionally, reports Colombo Page. "The move by the Pres
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Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) leader Anura Dissanayaka at a press conference held at the head office of the JVP on November 10 said the party would go to the SC against the move by President Maithripala Sirisena to dissolve Parliament unconstitutionally, reports Colombo Page. "The move by the President to dissolve parliament is illegal, the election to be held after illegally dissolving Parliament too would be illegal and the government that would be elected in such an election too would be illegal," Anura Dissanayaka pointed out.
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November - 10 
Tamil National Alliance (TNA)’s spokesperson and MP, M A Sumanthiran said the party would be going to the SC to challenge the dissolution, reports Tamil Guardian on November 10. The 19th amendment to the constitution makes it ‘crystal clear’ that the President did not have the authority to dissolve
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Tamil National Alliance (TNA)’s spokesperson and MP, M A Sumanthiran said the party would be going to the SC to challenge the dissolution, reports Tamil Guardian on November 10. The 19th amendment to the constitution makes it ‘crystal clear’ that the President did not have the authority to dissolve Parliament before it had passed its four and a half year term, Sumanthiran said.
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November - 25 
President Maithripala Sirisena on November 25 reignited the power struggle that has crippled Sri Lanka's Government for more than a month, vowing never to reappoint arch-rival Ranil Wickremesinghe as Prime Minister, reports Daily Mirror. "Even if the UNP has the majority I told them not to bring Ran
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President Maithripala Sirisena on November 25 reignited the power struggle that has crippled Sri Lanka's Government for more than a month, vowing never to reappoint arch-rival Ranil Wickremesinghe as Prime Minister, reports Daily Mirror. "Even if the UNP has the majority I told them not to bring Ranil Wickremesinghe before me, I will not make him prime minister. He is corrupt. His economic policies are not good for local industries. He pursued an extremely liberal form of government that is not compatible with our culture. I told him that we lost the election because his economic policies had failed. I told Ranil in this very room to step down, but he refused," Sirisena said.
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November - 27 
In a Twitter post on November 27 'colonel Karuna', as he was called when he was the LTTE area commander of the East, said some UNP people try to scare him and reminded "who he was before 2004." "I think some UNP people try to scare me. Many people message me and call me. Please remember I am karuna
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In a Twitter post on November 27 'colonel Karuna', as he was called when he was the LTTE area commander of the East, said some UNP people try to scare him and reminded "who he was before 2004." "I think some UNP people try to scare me. Many people message me and call me. Please remember I am karuna amman from batti. Maybe you ask other people who karuna amman before 2004," former Minister and deputy chairman of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) said.
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December - 2 
Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa in a lengthy statement issued on December 2 said that the only way to restore stability to a destabilized democracy will be through a general election, reports Colombo Page. Rajapaksa said according to the country's constitution, sovereign power is vested with the pe
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Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa in a lengthy statement issued on December 2 said that the only way to restore stability to a destabilized democracy will be through a general election, reports Colombo Page. Rajapaksa said according to the country's constitution, sovereign power is vested with the people, not the parliament and emphasized that this power is being implemented through universal suffrage. Explaining the powers vested in President Maithripala Sirisena by the constitution to dissolve parliament, PM Rajapaksa noted that in the gazette notification dated 09 November 2018 issued by the President in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution and the Parliamentary Elections Act, dates had been fixed to call for nominations from the 19th to the 26th November, to hold the poll on the 5th January 2019, and for the new Parliament to meet for the first time on the January 17.
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December - 6 
President Maithripala Sirisena on December 6 in a statement said he is committed to bring changes to certain provisions of 19th Amendment which has resulted in political issues, reports Colombo Page. The President's statement follows the call by his Prime Minister appointee Mahinda Rajapaksa's party
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President Maithripala Sirisena on December 6 in a statement said he is committed to bring changes to certain provisions of 19th Amendment which has resulted in political issues, reports Colombo Page. The President's statement follows the call by his Prime Minister appointee Mahinda Rajapaksa's party, Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) for abolishing the 19th Amendment, which was brought by the National Unity Government (NUG) under Sirisena and ousted Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe to curtail the powers of executive and grant more powers to the legislature. The amendment has given the Sri Lankan society a host of positive results, including the establishment of Independent Commissions and the strengthening of the democratic institution. It is a real victory for the people of Sri Lanka who value democracy and it is essential for our motherland to be taken to the modern era. Therefore, if there are procedural weaknesses in the 19th amendment, it must be amended. The President is committed to further strengthening its core values and democratic substance. The announcement states that the amendments related to the issues that are politically problematic will be instituted by parliamentary procedures.
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December - 8 
President Maithripala Sirisena has openly admitted that his Prime Minister appointee Mahinda Rajapaksa has attempted to bribe parliamentarians to show majority in the House and said that the current crisis is a result of his failure to gather 113 MPs, reports Colombo Page on December 8. In an interv
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President Maithripala Sirisena has openly admitted that his Prime Minister appointee Mahinda Rajapaksa has attempted to bribe parliamentarians to show majority in the House and said that the current crisis is a result of his failure to gather 113 MPs, reports Colombo Page on December 8. In an interview with Daily Mirror, President Sirisena said he believes that Mahinda Rajapaksa couldn't show majority because MPs demanded millions as high as SLR 500 million to crossover. "I heard some bargained themselves for sums as high as Rs 500 million. Mr. Mahinda Rajapaksa could not gather the majority because of such high price tags quoted by the MPs, if not for that, he could have gotten the majority. If Mr. Mahinda Rajapaksa could show the majority of 113, this problem would not have been dragged for one and half months and there won't be any political crisis," the President said.
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December - 9 
President Maithripala Sirisena speaking at an event held in Polonnaruwa on December 9 said he will accept the Supreme Court's verdict with respect and take future political decisions accordingly in the best interest of the country, reports Colombo Page. "I look forward to the constitutional interpre
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President Maithripala Sirisena speaking at an event held in Polonnaruwa on December 9 said he will accept the Supreme Court's verdict with respect and take future political decisions accordingly in the best interest of the country, reports Colombo Page. "I look forward to the constitutional interpretation of the Supreme Court, whatever it may be, I will take future political decisions accordingly, to the best interest of our motherland, not to the benefit of any person, group or party," the President said. The President further said he is not happy about the executive powers one individual can have as president and it should be not so in a country where democracy is strong.
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December - 20 
the United Nations (UN) Secretary General Antònio Guterres lauding the "resilience" of Sri Lanka's democratic institutions, on December 20 welcomed the resolution of the political crisis in the island nation in a peaceful and constitutional manner, reports Colombo Page. "The Secretary-General welcom
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the United Nations (UN) Secretary General Antònio Guterres lauding the "resilience" of Sri Lanka's democratic institutions, on December 20 welcomed the resolution of the political crisis in the island nation in a peaceful and constitutional manner, reports Colombo Page. "The Secretary-General welcomes the resolution of the political crisis in Sri Lanka through peaceful, constitutional means, and applauds the resilience of the country's democratic institutions," Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesman for Secretary-General said.
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December - 28 
The Commonwealth on December 28 while congratulating Sri Lanka's reinstated Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, commended the Premier and other political stakeholders for defending the democratic process and upholding the rule of law and the constitutional framework, reports Colombo Page. "In parti
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The Commonwealth on December 28 while congratulating Sri Lanka's reinstated Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, commended the Premier and other political stakeholders for defending the democratic process and upholding the rule of law and the constitutional framework, reports Colombo Page. "In particular, I commend you and other political stakeholders for your steadfastness in defense and support of the rule of law and the constitutional framework," the Secretary General of Commonwealth Patricia Scotland, QC said in a congratulatory message to Prime Minister Wickremesinghe. The Secretary General welcomed the peaceful resolution of the political crisis in Sri Lanka and offered the Commonwealth's steadfast support to Sri Lanka to improve political reconciliation, progress constitutional reforms and entrench the rule of law.
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