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Sajith & Dilith slam 15% Services Export Tax

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Opposition Leader – Sajith Premadasa has slammed the 15% Services Export Tax

Taking to X, he points out that the tax will cripple Sri Lanka’s digital economy and drive talent away.

“IT freelancers & service exporters bring in much-needed forex. Taxing them discourages growth, investment & innovation. At a time when needs to boost exports, this move will push talent overseas—hurting our economy long-term. Instead of taxing dollar earners, the govt should incentivize & support them to boost long term revenue, investments and talent and industry development,” he points out.

Speaking during the Cabinet briefing yesterday (Feb. 25), Cabinet Spokesman Nalinda Jayatissa said that the government has no choice but to implement the Services Export Tax under the current circumstances.

According to reports, the tax, which is to be implemented from April 01, 2025, will affect individuals and companies in Sri Lanka that provide services to external parties and bring back foreign exchange.

Meanwhile, speaking at a media briefing held today (Feb. 26), leader of the Sarvajana Balaya – MP Dilith Jayaweera said that the tax could discourage creative entrepreneurship and drive foreign exchange transactions into informal channels such as ‘Undiyal.

Referring to the February 21 gazette amending the Inland Revenue Act, No. 24 of 2017, he further said that the tax applies to freelancers and professionals, including content creators on YouTube and Facebook, freelance creatives using platforms like Fiverr, and consultants such as doctors, lawyers, and accountants.

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Maithripala Sirisena claims he holds world record for most lawsuits

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Former President Maithripala Sirisena has claimed that he holds the world record for being the most sued individual, with approximately 400 lawsuits filed against him. 

In an interview with *Deshaya*, Sirisena stated that while he has never filed lawsuits against others, he has been targeted extensively by legal actions.

Sirisena remarked that these lawsuits will only end upon his death, as he emphasized that no one lives forever. 

He also drew parallels between his political philosophy and the fates of iconic leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Abraham Lincoln, and S.W.R.D. Bandaranaike, who were assassinated for their ideals. 

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Woman among 3 arrested over Devundara shooting

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Police have arrested three suspects, including a woman, in connection with the shooting near the Devundara Sri Vishnu Devalaya in Matara late last night (21) which claimed the lives of two persons, said police.

Additionally, investigations have revealed that the prime suspect behind the killings is notorious underworld figure Shehan Sathsara, also known as “Bale Malli”, who is believed to be hiding in Dubai.

According to police, the attack stemmed from a dispute between the two victims, identified as Pasindu Tharaka (29) and Yomesh Nadeeshan, and Bale Malli.

The shooting occurred at around 11:45 p.m. on Sinhasana Road, in front of the southern entrance of the Devundara Sri Vishnu Devalaya. 

Two unidentified gunmen, who arrived in a van, had rammed the victims’ motorcycle before opening fire with a T-56 assault rifle and two 9 mm firearms, police said.

(adaderana.lk)

(This story, originally published by adaderana.lk has not been edited by SLM staff)

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Nightclub bouncer injured in altercation involving Yoshitha Rajapaksa

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A bouncer at a nightclub in Park Street, Union Place, was injured following an altercation involving Yoshitha Rajapaksa, his wife, and their group early this morning (22). 

The incident occurred when the group refused to comply with the nightclub’s standard entry procedure of wearing identification wristbands, leading to a confrontation that turned violent.

According to police, the group arrived at the venue around midnight and became agitated when asked to follow the security protocol. 

The situation escalated, resulting in physical violence and injuries to one of the bouncers. 

The injured security personnel is currently receiving treatment at a private hospital in Colombo.

The Kompannavidiya Police have initiated an investigation into the incident, which has sparked public interest due to the involvement of Yoshitha Rajapaksa, the son of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa. 

Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage and witness statements to determine the sequence of events and identify those responsible.

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