The Clean Sri Lanka programme respectfully urges all devotees visiting the Sri Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic) for the veneration of sacred relics, to avoid bringing non-biodegradable items, such as polythene and to prioritize cleanliness within and around the temple premises.

Visitors are kindly reminded to dispose of waste responsibly, using only the designated disposal areas.

As a flagship government programme, Clean Sri Lanka seeks to inspire a collective awakening in environmental, social and ethical consciousness, striving to uplift the nation towards a cleaner and more responsible society.

This programme places special emphasis on creating a waste-free environment and encouraging proper waste management practices.

In alignment with the commencement of the Siri Dalada Dekma (Sacred Relic exposition), a series of activities under the Clean Sri Lanka programme have been launched around the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic to support this cause.

(President’s Media Division)

The Maha Bodhi Society of Sri Lanka has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of Pope Francis.

The head of the Maha Bodhi Society of Sri Lanka and Chief Sanghanayaka of Japan, Ven. Banagala Upatissa Thero has conveyed deep condolences on behalf of the organization.

The Thero, who had met Pope Francis on several occasions, described him as a humble and deeply insightful leader, dedicated to religious coexistence and compassion for the poor. The Thero praised Pope Francis as a venerable disciple of Jesus Christ, who embodied humility and love.

In a significant move during his visit to Sri Lanka in 2015, Pope Francis visited the Maligakanda Maha Bodhi Viharaya. The Pope had remarked back then that he was the first Pope to visit a Buddhist temple.

Venerable Upatissa Thero concluded his message by praying for Pope Francis to attain heavenly bliss, acknowledging his lifelong dedication to spreading true Christianity and peace worldwide.

(Pic : News1st)

Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe has formally informed the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) that he will be unable to appear before the Commission on April 25th as requested.

He requested a date after April 27th to appear before CIABOC, citing that his lawyer Ronald Perera is currently abroad.

Mr. Wickremesinghe is summoned to record a statement regarding a statement he had made about the bribery case filed against MP Chamara Sampath Dassanayake.

The CIABOC had previously summoned him on April 17, but the latter had informed of his unavailability on that day. Subsequently, the CIABOC yesterday requested Mr. Wickremesinghe to appear before them on April 25.

At a meeting on April 21 at the UNP headquarters, Sirikotha, the former President had also reiterated that he would appear before the Commission once his legal counsel returns.

(Previous news 2025 April 22 – 9.15.a.m.)

Ranil given new date by CIABOC

Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe has been summoned before the Bribery Commission this week.

Accordingly, Mr. Wickremesinghe has been requested to report to the Bribery Commission at 09.30 am on April 25.

He has been summoned to record a statement regarding a statement he had made about the bribery case filed against MP Chamara Sampath Dassanayake.The CIABOC had previously summoned Mr. Wickremesinghe on April 17, but the latter had informed of his unavailability on that day.

Therefore, the CIABOC has issued an alternative day.