The legal counsel of former Agriculture Minister – Mahindananda Aluthgamage, against whom an arrest warrant has been issued, has sent a letter to the Director General of the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC).

The full letter in Sinhala is as follows : 

The Department of Meteorology says South-West monsoon conditions are gradually getting established over the island and it will be in effect until 5.30 am tomorrow (20).

Cloudy skies can be expected over most parts of the island.

Meanwhile, wind speed in the sea areas of the relevant areas may increase to 55 – 65 kmph at times.

Showers or thundershowers will occur at times in Western, Sabaragamuwa, North-western, Central, Southern and Northern provinces.

Heavy showers above 100 mm are likely at some places in Western and Sabaragamuwa provinces and in Galle, Matara, Puttalam, Nuwara-Eliya and Kandy districts.

Several spells of showers will occur in the North-central province.

Showers or thundershowers may occur at several places elsewhere on the island during the evening or night.

The general public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimize damages caused by temporary localized strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.

The 16th National War Heroes Commemoration Ceremony will be held on Monday (19 May) at the National War Hero Cenotaph in Sri Jayawardenepura, Kotte, from 4.00pm to 6.00pm.

A series of island-wide community welfare programmes will also be carried out by armed forces, Police and Civil Security Department in view of the War Hero Commemorations.

Deputy Minister of Defence Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd) is expected to represent President Anura Kumara Dissanayake at the event. Field Marshal Sarath Fonseka, Admiral of the Fleet Wasantha Karannagoda and Marshal of the Sri Lanka Air Force Roshan Gunathilleke are also scheduled to attend the ceremony.

The Ministry of Defence on Friday convened a press conference to announce the preparations for the ceremony. Commanders of the Navy and Air Force, Army Chief of Staff, senior military officials and Ministry representatives were present at the press briefing.

Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd) underscored the national significance of the annual commemoration, paying tribute to the brave men and women of the armed forces, Sri Lanka Police and Civil Security Department who laid down their lives in the defence of the nation.

He reiterated the Ministry’s and the Tri-forces’ commitment to preserving the memory of fallen heroes, ensuring that their legacy of patriotism, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to duty continues to inspire future generations.

During the briefing, officials of Ranaviru Seva Authority and armed forces provided an overview of the ceremonial proceedings, which will include wreath-laying, special tributes, and military honours, with the participation of distinguished guests, military personnel, and the families of war heroes.

The event seeks to serve as a solemn occasion for the nation to express its gratitude and respect for those who selflessly served the country’s sovereignty and national security.

The Ministry of Defence calls upon all citizens to stand in solidarity in remembering the nation’s war heroes, reaffirming collective appreciation for their dedication to protecting the country and its people.