News

Fuel distributors and government respond to ongoing concerns

Published

3 weeks ago

March 2, 2025

editor

The ongoing discussions surrounding the fuel distribution issue continue to evolve.

Today, the Fuel Distributors Association confirmed that they would participate in a scheduled meeting with the Chairman of the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) next Tuesday(4) at 9 AM.

This comes after the government’s decision to change the distribution system, which has caused some disagreement among distributors.

Meanwhile, the government has reiterated its position on the matter.

Minister of Health and Mass Media Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa expressed that the government is committed to benefiting the public and ensuring fair access to fuel.

He emphasized that the oil shortage rumors are unfounded and reassured the public that there is no shortage of oil in the country. He also addressed the issue of the commission received by distributors, which had been a point of contention.

Dr. Jayatissa clarified that the previous government had failed to implement a court order regarding this commission, leading to a situation where billions of rupees were lost due to unfair practices.

He added that the government stands with the people and will not reverse the decision made regarding fuel distribution.

However, the government remains open to discussions with distributors to establish a fair and reasonable commission that does not burden the public.

This ongoing dialogue is set to continue, with both sides preparing for the upcoming discussions to resolve the situation.
(News1st)
(This story, originally published by News1st has not been edited by SLM staff)

News

SLTB drivers return to original roles

Published

6 hours ago

March 25, 2025

editor

The Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB) has decided to reassign drivers and conductors who were previously engaged in various other duties.

This decision comes into effect today as announced by Deputy Minister of Transport, Prasanna Kumara Gunasena.

Deputy Minister Gunasena revealed that political interference had led to the assignment of drivers and conductors to various non-related duties.

An investigation uncovered that 333 drivers were affected by these political appointments.

To ensure the fitness and readiness of these drivers for their original roles, they will undergo medical examinations at the National Transport Medical Institute.

Based on the results of these examinations, the drivers will be reassigned to their driving duties.

(News1st)

News

Prof. Gananath Obeyesekere bids adieu

Published

6 hours ago

March 25, 2025

editor

Professor Gananath Obeyesekere, a distinguished academic and former Head of Anthropology at Princeton University, has passed away at the age of 95.

He earned his BA in English from the University of Peradeniya in 1955, followed by an MA in 1958 and a PhD in 1964 from the University of Washington.

Prior to his tenure at Princeton University from 1980 to 2000, Prof. Obeyesekere held prestigious academic positions in Sri Lanka, the University of Washington, and the University of California, San Diego.

Among his popular books are Land Tenure in Village Ceylon, Medusa’s Hair, The Cult of the Goddess Pattini, Buddhism Transformed (coauthor), The Work of Culture, The Apotheosis of Captain Cook: European Mythmaking in the Pacific, and Making Karma.

News

NPP MPs submit letter to remove Deshabandu

Published

6 hours ago

March 25, 2025

editor

National People’s Power (NPP) MPs have signed a letter to remove suspended IGP Deshabandu Tennakoon from office.

A total of 115 MPs endorsed the letter, which was submitted to the Speaker this afternoon (March 25).

Tennakoon is currently in remand custody in connection with a 2023 shooting incident that took place outside the W15 hotel in Weligama, which resulted in the death of an officer from the Colombo Crimes Division (CCD).

Related News :