News

Speaker decides to step down

Published

1 month ago

December 14, 2024

editor

Speaker Ashoka Ranwala yesterday said that he has decided to step down from his post following allegations regarding the authenticity of his educational qualifications.

In his statement, the Speaker assured the public that he had never made any false claims about his qualifications.

But said he does not possess certain documents required to validate his educational credentials at this moment.

He stated that while he has requested the necessary documents from the relevant institutions, it is challenging to produce them urgently.

He further noted that the relevant documentation can be obtained from the research institution affiliated with Japan’s Waseda University, which had awarded him a doctorate, and he intends to present them as soon as possible.

“However, considering the prevailing situation and to avoid inconveniencing the government and the people who placed their trust in us, I have decided to resign from the position of Speaker,” he said.

The controversy surrounding Ranwala’s doctorate recently gained traction on social media, leading to the Sri Lanka Parliament’s website removing the title “Dr.” from his profile in the members’ directory.

Opposition parties have also called for clarity on whether he genuinely holds a doctorate, urging the government to address growing public suspicion.

News

SJB appoints committee for talks on working together with UNP

Published

3 hours ago

January 16, 2025

editor

The Working Committee of the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) has approved a proposal for discussions to work together with the United National Party (UNP).

Accordingly, a five-member committee, headed by SJB General Secretary – Ranjith Madduma Bandara, has been appointed for the discussions.

News

China pledges to back sovereignty, territorial integrity & independence of SL (Video)

Published

3 hours ago

January 16, 2025

editor

Zhao Leji, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress (NPC) of China, stated that China is committed to supporting Sri Lanka’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independence.

This statement was made during a meeting between President Anura Kumar Disanayake and Zhao Leji, which took place earlier today (Jan. 16) as part of President Disanayake’s four-day official visit to China.

During the meeting, Chairman Zhao warmly welcomed President Disanayake, further emphasizing that working with Sri Lanka in a continuous and cooperative manner is a key expectation of the Chinese National People’s Congress.

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism – Vijitha Herath, Minister of Transport, Highways, Ports, and Civil Aviation – Bimal Rathnayake, Chinese Ambassador to Sri Lanka – Qi Zhenhong and Sri Lankan Ambassador to China – Majintha Jayesinghe, were also present at the event.

(President’s Media Division)

BIZ

SL President holds talks with globally renowned Chinese companies (Pics)

Published

4 hours ago

January 16, 2025

editor

During his four-day state visit to China, President Anura Kumara Disanayake held a series of strategic discussions with several globally acclaimed leading Chinese corporations following his participation in an investment forum organized by both public and private sector entities in China.

Among the prominent companies involved in these discussions were the China Communications Construction Company Ltd (CCCC), China Petrochemical Corporation (SINOPEC Group), Metallurgical Corporation of China Ltd (MCC), Huawei and BYD Auto.

President Disanayake highlighted the investment opportunities available in Sri Lanka and assured these corporations that the government is committed to providing all necessary facilities and support to investors to foster a business-friendly environment.

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Vijitha Herath and Minister of Transport, Highways, Ports and Civil Aviation Bimal Rathnayake also participated in these significant engagements.

(President’s Media Division)