Sunday 2 august 2020 Latest Edition Vol: 09/37 Price : Rs 70.00

Sunday Final Ceylon Today now Rs 70/= Rallies Today Kindly note that Sunday Ceylon Today is Mahinda priced at Rs 70/= from at now on. Tangalle Send intelligent, Arrested for falsifying evidence experienced young leaders to Parliament – Mahinda Prime Minister urged the voters to Sajith at send intelligent and experienced young leaders, who can work for the betterment of the country, to Parliament in this Election. Shani’s firearm Story Continued on page 2 Central Premalal Jayasekara, two others sentenced to death game backfires By Chamara Amarasuriya residence in Elvitigala Flats, Matha By L. Niroshana (Kahawatta) Road, Colombo 8. CID sleuths arrested former The CID had obtained a statement Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) Director of the CID Shani voluntarily on 1 November, seven Ranil at candidate Premalal Jayasekara and two others were sentenced Abeysekara, who had been years ago, from Police Sergeant Dias to death after Ratnapura High Court Judge Rohan Jayasuriya interdicted earlier, on charges of who had served with Vaas on 31 July convicted them over the fatal shooting incident in allegedly tampering with Gunawardena on several occasions. In Maligawatte Kahawatta during the lead-up to the Presidential Election in evidence pertaining to a firearms his statement, Dias had stated that 2015. Former Sabaragamuwa Provincial Councillor Nilantha case. several firearms had been kept at Vaas Jayakody and... Abeysekara has been charged Gunawardena’s residence and that with furnishing false evidence, after the murder of Shiyam, the Story Continued on page 2 ahead of filing a case related firearms had been taken way in a van to the seizing of the firearm by Inspector of Police Willawaarachchi. used in the murder of Confirming the statement given to Despite summons millionaire businessman, the CID by Dias, Police Constable Mohammad Shiyam. Susantha, who also had served under Anura at Already, former Senior Vaas Gunawardena, had given a Bathiudeen a no show at CID DIG Vaas Gunawardena has statement to the CID. been convicted over the Based on evidence recorded, the CID Aluthkade By Chamara Amarasuriya murder of the said had nabbed Willawarachchi on 26 businessman and is February, six years ago. During Leader of the All Ceylon Makkal Congress and ex-Minister presently on death row. interrogation, Willawarachchi had failed to turn up at the CID on 31 July Meanwhile, Abeysekara confirmed that more firearms from to record a statement in connection with the ongoing probe was apprehended around Vaas Gunwardena’s residence had into the 21 April 2019 Easter Sunday... 7 a.m. on 31 July at his been removed.

Story Continued on page 2 Story Continued on page 2 Protest continues to cripple work at Colombo Port Talks end in deadlock

By Leon Berenger

Work at the Colombo Port was crippled on 31 July as workers protested for the third consecutive day against moves to hand over the East Container Terminal (ETC) to an Indian company known as the Idani Group. The protesters belonging to all leading Port trade unions irrespective of political affiliations have vowed...

Story Continued on page 2 New tech to help Police nab intoxicated drivers By Keerthi Mendis Hapugoda said the new technology would help identify 12 The Police will adopt new types of illegal drugs. technology to help apprehend The Motor Traffic Department is those driving under the influence already equipped with two of illegal drugs. methods of apprehending Senior Inspector of Police and intoxicated motorists. Director of Motor Traffic, Indika One method is to make drivers...

Story Continued on page 2 BoI companies see boost in export revenue The export revenue of BoI its exports report, the total revenue enterprises during the month of earned for the period from 1 to 26 July 2020 had increased by USD July last year had been USD 36.14 million a 7 per cent increase 547.81 million. than that of July 2019. However, that figure had spiked Based on BoI data collated under this year up to USD 583.95 million.

Story Continued on page 2 A2 sunday 2 august 2020 news Rajitha and Rumy Mohammad indicted

By Hansi Nanayakkara State Counsel, Nishara Jayaratna suspects in the case, namely first white vans, murders, acts of torture, Based on that complaint, the CID said on 31 July the duo had been suspect S. Sarath Kumara and theft of gold belonging to LTTE Leader had then launched a probe, before the Attorney General (AG) Dappula de indicted on 14 counts at the High second suspect W. Athula Sanjeewa Prabhakaran and Euros and two persons who had been involved Livera indicted former Minister Dr. Court, for flouting provisions in Madanayaka, had been acquitted and concealing of information that had with Dr. Senaratna’s Media briefing, Rajitha Senaratna and Rumy Sections 190 and 169 of the Penal said that they have turned State allegedly taken place during the Kumara and Madanayaka were Mohammad at the Colombo High Code, as well as violating provisions witnesses. previous Rajapaksa regime. nabbed by them and produced before Court (CHC), on charges, pertaining in Section 80 of the Presidential Dr. Senaratna, conducting a Media Later, the National Organiser of the Court on 16 December, last year. The to the controversial Media briefing Election Act, No. 15 of 1981 by their conference on 10 November last year, Sinhale Organisation, Kumudu two suspects were ordered to be held last year on alleged white van actions. along with Kumara and Madanayaka, Pradeep Sanjeewa lodged a complaint incarcerated till 27 December 2019, abductions. Jayaratna noted that two other had allegedly revealed details with the CID, urging the latter to before the case was called up again. Coordinating Officer to the AG, persons previously identified as pertaining to abductions through probe the incident.

Continued from page 1

Send intelligent... Shani’s firearm... He said addressing a which would make sure that the from the SLFP to form a new He had claimed that the claimed that the weapons pertaining to the recovery professionals’ gathering in President’s vision and mission political alliance because the weapons had been had only been introduced of the weapons. recently that 6.9 million people will be carried forward SLFP started aligning with the handed over to one of his by the CID and that the According to the Police, elected Gotabaya Rajapaksa as successfully. UNP, which brought in the 19th friends in Kadawatha, Court had issued an order after the present Director their President because they He added, the 19th Amendment Amendment specifically to violate known as Neligama. for the arrests of the of the CID briefed the approved of his manifesto, ‘Vistas is detrimental to the rights of the the rights of the Rajapaksas, The CID had later witnesses Dias, Susantha, present Acting Inspector of Prosperity and Splendour’. He citizens of this country. which ultimately violated the recorded a statement from Willawaarachchi, General of Police, the also said the next step is to elect Prime Minister Rajapaksa also rights of all the citizens of this Neligama and claimed Neligama and Neligama’s probe relating to the case a Parliament and a Cabinet said that he had to break away country. that from information spouse. had been handed over to gleaned from that person, Based on a request the CID on 6 June. they had recovered made by the CID, the During the lengthy weapons from a garden in Attorney General’s probe, it had come to light Kalagedihena before Department had filed a that the suspects had Premalal Jayasekara... producing the weapons as revision application in the proceeded to lie to the CID Court productions. Colombo High Court claiming that Abeysekara ...former Kahawatta Pradeshiya rigorous imprisonment. Ratnapura District. The UNP Among the weapons that against the arrest order had not stashed the Sabha Chairman Vajira The Attorney General indicted supporter who was engaged in had been recovered by the issued but that revision weapons in the garden in Darshana de Silva were also seven accused at the said Court decorating an election stage, was CID were six T-56 rifles, a application had been Kalagedihena, however, a sentenced to death over the case. on 13 September, four years ago, wounded in the shooting incident revolver, two pistols and dismissed, stated fresh probe conducted by Besides the imposition of the on nine counts and on charges of and succumbed to injuries in several bullets, said Police Senaratna. He noted that the CID had revealed death penalty on the convicts, manslaughter. hospital on 8 January. Media Spokesman, SSP even after the dismissal of otherwise. Judge Jayasuriya also ordered The trial had lasted from The Pelmadulla Chief Jaliya Senaratna. He said the revision application, The CID having made them to pay compensation 2017and the Judge had acquitted Magistrate had issued arrest at the initial stages of the Dias and Susantha had submissions to the amounting to Rs 600,000 to the four other accused from the case. warrants on the suspects probe, the person known been apprehended on 1 Gampaha Chief relatives of the victim, who was Nalin Ladduwahetty PC involved. as Neligama had not been and 2 June this year and Magistrate’s Court identified as Dodamgoda Sunil appeared for the fourth and fifth Former Deputy Minister apprehended by the CID. produced in Court. He through a B report had Perera alias Shantha suspects, while the other two Premalal Jayasekara was Later, when the case said that Neligama and then proceeded to Dodamgoda. suspects had been represented arrested on 10 January over the filed against Vaas his spouse had also been apprehend Abeysekara. Judge Jayasuriya also ordered by Anil Silva PC. election-related shooting incident Gunawardena was produced in Court on 11 He was produced before the convicts to pay compensation The shooting incident had while he had been released on proceeding at the June. the Gampha Magistrate of Rs 300,000 to W. Karundasa taken place on the morning of 5 bail on 7 December 2015. Colombo High Court, a After the case abstracts late last evening. Weerasingha and Mohammad January 2015 and resulted in the Jayakody and de Silva had also lawyer for the defence had been submitted to the Senaratna added that Ilfam, the two persons wounded death of a political supporter, been arrested over the shooting. identified as Jaliya had AG, the suspects had they had also initiated an in the shooting incident. who was decorating an election Jayasekara, popularly known as claimed that the weapons been released. The reason inquiry to apprehend two The Court also warned that the stage of the then Common ‘Choka Malli’, was due to contest recovered had not been in for that had been other suspects who had failure to pay the compensation Opposition Candidate of the the upcoming Parliamentary the possession of his Abeysekera having falsified evidence related would result in the convicts being Presidential Election, Maithripala Election from the Ratnapura client. Lawyer Jaliya had fabricated evidence to the case. imposed with a 24-month Sirisena in Kahawatta in the District on the SLPP ticket.

Bathiudeen a no...... bombings, despite being report to the CID when statement from Bathiudeen summoned, informed summoned. on 27 July at the CID unit sources said. Bathiudeen had also failed set up at the CID sources said they have to provide a statement to the Irattaperiyakulam Police already made submissions to CID after being summoned Station in Vavuniya, on an the Colombo Fort Chief twice, prior to 27 July. order by Colombo Fort Chief Magistrate’s Court regarding However, the CID had Magistrate Ranga Bathiudeen’s failure to recorded a five-hour long Dissanayaka.

New tech... BOI companies...... undergo a medical test to ascertain Out of all BOI registered export firms, in whether they had been under the influence of comparison to July of 2019, most profits alcohol, while the other method is the had been accrued through the export of breathalyser test. printed material this year. The revenue for Although there is no surefire method to July last year which had been USD 0.45 check whether a motorist has driven under million had increased up to USD 6.07 the influence, Traffic Police had so far million by July 2020; an increase of 1259 confirmed such cases by subjecting offenders per cent. to medical tests. According to available data, the second Also, surveys conducted into the spike in highest amount of profits had been accrued road accidents had revealed that drivers of through the export of waste. The revenue buses and tipper trucks had taken illegal gained through export waste which had drugs. stood at USD 0.05 million last year, had The new technology which has been named increased up to USD 0.18 million, an the Multi Drug Rapid Test Cup has been increase of 301 per cent this year. produced in the United States and stocks of The country’s exports had made these the new equipment have already been provided gains despite the fact that the world to the National Dangerous Drugs Control economy was struggling due to the Board, the Ministry of Passenger Transport debilitating impact of COVID-19. and the Department of Motor Traffic. BOI data has also revealed that despite Hapugoda said the Police Department had the success, the export of footwear has decided to adopt the technology based on shown somewhat of a setback. The revenue recommendations received from these gained in July 2019, through footwear institutions. export which stood at USD 0.35 million It is said the equipment is priced between Rs has dropped by 80 per cent to USD 0.07 1,200-1,500, will be distributed to all Police million. stations. Furthermore two other industries that The Police said the Multi Drug Rapid Test have shown a decline in exports are wood Cup is applied orally and that a light would products and paper products which have flash to indicate the type of drug consumed by dropped by 34 per cent and 49 per cent the suspect based on his or her saliva respectively. samples. (GW)

Protest continues...... to continue their protest protest campaign, Ranjan was later deployed to the area indefinitely to press home Perera, with the International for the purpose of crowd their demand, Palitha Transport Federation (ITF) control but the protest Atukorale with the National said. remained incident free, Perera Union of Seafarers Sri Lanka The protesters are added. (NUSS) said. demanding that this Talks between the union He added that some 5,000 commitment should be representatives and the Port workers had participated in endorsed by either President authorities in a bid to reach a this protest that commenced Gotabaya Rajapaksa or Prime solution to the festering crisis from midday and was set to Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, ended in a deadlock later in continue throughout the day. he added. the day. The protesters are The protesters blocked all The Idani group is owned by demanding a formal access roads leading to the a multi-billion Indian commitment by the terminals inside the Colombo business tycoon who owns at Government that it would roll Port with container vehicles, least three port terminals in back the agreement with the crippling normal operations at and enjoys a close Indian company prior to the facility. relationship with the political calling off their ongoing A large Police contingent elite in New Delhi. news sunday 2 august 2020 A3 UNP-SJB split a ploy to hoodwink masses – Gammanpila By Thameenah Razeek

The split between the UNP and the (SJB) or the conflict between UNP Leader and SJB Leader is a ploy to mislead the public, alleged Pivithuru Hela Urumaya (PHU) Leader . He said the UNP sacked a number of members from their Party but not Premadasa who had created a separate alliance to compete with the UNP, which “I left the Jathika Hela Speaking about the former Parliamentarian M.A. raises many questions as to why Urumaya on 11 December 2014 Millennium Challenge Sumanthiran are not actually Premadasa had not been and formed the PHU. But we did Corporation (MCC) Compact, with Wickremesinghe but with sacked. not worry about the membership Gammanpila pledged that no Premadasa. “Therefore, just as Addressing the Media, of the JHU, because we left it for matter what, they will never the UNP was the breeding Gammanpila alleged that the good. But Wickremesinghe and sign the MCC Compact at any ground for Tamil separatism end of this drama will be Premadasa are engaged in a point as had been promised and Muslim extremism in the revealed following the General conspiracy to get the votes of before. past, it is the SJB that is Election, and the two Parties those disappointed with However, Gammanpila alleged nurturing Muslim extremism will come together and continue Wickremesinghe to Premadasa,” that ‘extremists’ such as former and strengthening Tamil to work together. he claimed. Minister Rishad Bathiudeen and separatism,” he further alleged.

SJB has underhand deals with Rajapaksas – Akila Viraj By Thameenah Razeek members of a party was a notice, it is not we who are huge loss and that it can having deals with them but It is not the UNP that has affect the victory they are Premadasa. We gave him the underhand deals with the pursuing. power to build an alliance and Rajapaksas but the Samagi He said that Premadasa’s establish his own nomination Jana Balawegaya led by move to build another alliance board. But in the end, they Sajith Premadasa who by moving away from the UNP stabbed us in the back,” he conspired to split the UNP is not ethical and that it has further alleged. and create another group to given great opportunities to However, Kariyawasam said diminish the victory of the the Sri Lanka Podujana the UNP will remain the same UNP, alleged UNP General Peramuna to gain more votes. even though members leave Secretary Akila Viraj “There are many baseless the Party for personal Kariyawasam. allegations being made from advantage. “But we are strong He told the Media on 31 various stages, claiming that enough to face the Election July at UNP headquarters, the UNP is having deals with and other consequences,” he Sirikotha, that losing the Rajapaksas. But if you noted. A4 sunday 2 AUGUST 2020 Focus An Election in the Time of Pandemic Country’s future will depend on citizens understanding Election-related health guidelines

By Nabiya Vaffoor

Sri Lanka’s General Election, held once every five years, see the nation’s politicians vying for 196 of the 225 seats in Parliament, as voters exercise their mandate through a polling system that has remained mostly unchanged over the past 36 years. Next week, however, might pose new challenges, as citizens contend with the ongoing pandemic and try to avoid the threat of a second wave. Adapting to the situation, health authorities issued a set of guidelines for voters and officials to ensure the Elections can be held safely. Following these guidelines will be vital if the country wants to prevent a crisis, and so Ceylon Today spoke to common voters to see if they are aware of what they need to do. Imraan Sarath Roshini Silva Wimalasiri Shantha Dwindling faith in politicians HEALTH GUIDELINES AT POLLING BOOTHS

Roshini, a 36-year-old mother of Arrange the polling booth in such a Limit the number of agents to three who makes a living selling toys way that voters enter from one polling booth to the minimum. in Borella, stated she did not feel the 01 entrance and exit from another side if 02 upcoming Election was even possible necessary. When asked why, she flatly ...... replied that she had been voting since Mark one metre distance she was 20, but had yet to see any points in the queue on the Government uplift the poor like 1 m 1 m herself. 03 floor both in and outside. “We are low-class people; the higher authorities will not consider our ...... opinion. If we ask them to stop this Make a transparent protective screen (may be Election, they will not consider that. thick polythene) between the voters and the They don’t care what the current 04 officials with openings below for official situation of the country is; all they want to do is to hold the Election to transactions. seize power. After this, they will ...... probably impose curfew, which will lead people like us to starve for more Keep the maximum possible Arrange polling agent area with 1 than two or three months. I had to distance between officers and metre distance among themselves pawn all the gold jewellery I had, to 05 the voters. 06 and 1 metre behind the voters queue. feed my kids during the lockdown...... voter guidelines yet, but we can’t No clear idea Now I have been caught in that debt, palm that responsibility onto the while I have to earn to feed my three Queue of the voters should be arranged in such Government. We should learn to Sarath, a 55-year-old lottery seller children,” she lamented. a way not to get too closer to officials or other manage our own safety. Take the at a stall near Lady Ridgeway 07 voters. issue of wearing face masks, for Hospital, noted he was unaware of ...... example: one set of doctors’ claim it any voter guidelines. Voters shall be provided with hand washing facilities at the is unnecessary, whereas another “There weren’t any awareness group of doctors advise it to be programmes, but at a couple of entrance and all voters shall wash or sanitise their hands before compulsory, leading the public into meetings around my residence, a 08 entering the polling booth and wear masks. utter confusion. majority of the supporters of these ...... “Even regarding social distancing, meetings were wearing masks – but although everyone is concerned no social distancing was in practice. I None of these All officers shall wear masks and wash their whether those guidelines were usually wear a mask to protect hands before entering the polling booth. followed in political meetings and in myself, since my wife has lung cancer candidates cares 09 the polling booth, what about the and she is vulnerable,” said Sarath...... about us; they buses, and trains? People run for Shantha, a three-wheel driver Officers shall not touch the identity card or buses and trains in a rush to be at noted he wasn’t aware of any specific only act up a the polling card of the voter, instead shall work on time, or to avoid missing the guidelines either, except for wearing 10 ask the voter to show it. If touched sanitise last bus home, but nobody thinks of a mask and taking his own pen to the drama during hands immediately thereafter. the health guidelines then,” he polling booth as the Election pointed out. Commissioner noted in the Media. the campaign ...... Imraan, a mobile parts shop owner “There is no point taking the risk to period and work If finger marking is practised ask the voter to hold from , claims he is uninterested vote, since none of these leaders the fisted left hand with the little finger out without in politics and will choose his consider the issues of the low-class for their own 11 touching the table. Paint the finger with a cotton candidate on Election Day, saying, when they get in power. None of agenda. As a bud and dispose it to a closed bin. Alternatively a “None of it matters in day-to-day life, these candidates cares about us; drop of paint could be placed on the finger tip. it is only my hard-earned money that they only act up a drama during the citizen, I know will help at the end of the day.” He campaign period and work for their the worth of ...... further claimed to be unaware of any own agenda. As a citizen, I know the Sanitise the voting box each hour guidelines – except for wearing a worth of holding an Election, but holding an including the pen used for voting. mask, because the Police urge him to whether the results really bring any Election, but 12 do so. advantage to people like us, is still ...... When asked about the lack of youth questionable,” shared Shantha. whether the involvement in politics that some Judging by the above statements, it Employ a separate worker to push the ballot papers in to the ballot box with a candidates have pointed out, Imraan would appear that many are largely results really ruler. If the ruler or the person changes the ruler shall be sanitised. noted that the current politicians unaware of the published health 13 aren’t providing the youth with good guidelines for the voting process. bring any ...... examples to draw their attention. “The With a few days left until the advantage to All hand washing points shall be provided politicians of this country have given Election, authorities will need to with tissues for wiping the hands. the false picture that only money and spread awareness and ensure these people like us, is 14 corruption can survive in politics, guidelines are adhered to, or the still questionable ...... that’s why the youth is no longer threat of us facing a dreaded second Provide adequate numbers of bins (with a concerned and that’s why there aren’t wave could become very real. polythene bag inside the bin) to discard the any young leaders.” (Pix by Udesh Ranasinha) 15 used tissues. Roshini noted that though political rallies were conducted near her ...... residence, none of the politicians had Medical Officer of Health (MOH) staff shall visited or informed her regarding the sanitise the center after the voting is over. voter guidelines; she is only aware 16 that she has to wear a mask and maintain social distancing in the queue because the electronic media Graphic © Lakshan Warnakulasuriya has been reporting it repeatedly. Under the morning glare, and confirm their victory. As far as I know, office in Borella, claimed, “For as long amidst Borella’s bustle of people, each the majority of the public aren’t aware we know, the rulers have not been seemingly rushing after their personal of any voter guidelines.” sensible enough to understand the mirages, we managed to stop and Like Roshini, he had little faith in country’s situation from the public’s consult 55-year-old Wimalasiri – campaign promises. “No ruling party side; by now we as the public should although his views were far less has ever been concerned about us – be vigilant enough to understand this sunny. they removed all the pavement shops reality and safeguard ourselves “There won’t be any difference and only gave those business vans to without depending on them.” whether or not the Election is held. their supporters. Now we have to He added, since the country has The people aren’t constantly wearing stand on the pavement to find a been on pause for so long, holding masks or taking the situation penny to live,” complained the this Election would allow the seriously. The Government and ruling widower. President, who has proven a capable party will cover up the real situation leader in his opinion, to be supported regarding COVID-19 until they get a Voters’ responsibilities by a better team to move forward. chance to hold the Election and Silva, a 51-year-old working in an “No one has informed us about the news sunday 2 august 2020 A5 Ex-UNPers expelled on Court ruling – Ranil PHIs to ensure By Nabiya Vaffoor are moving forward under a Sinhala leadership to protect these racial UNP Leader, Ranil and ethnic groups. We are not Wickremesinghe said the decision of marginalising other ethnic groups health safety at the Party’s Working Committee to like the SLPP,” Wickremesinghe expel those who have brought claimed. disrepute to the Party was based on He further noted that despite a Court decision. shouting that the Sinhala He was addressing a public nationality is in danger, this meeting on 28 July in Rambukkana. Government had not been able to polling centres Wickremesinghe said legal action protect the antiquities. would have been instituted against “Antiquities of historical value By Dilanthi Jayamanne the procedure. “This year, we would not There are approximately 12,984 him and the Working Committee, if belonging to the Kurunegala Royal be participating as Election officers but polling centres in the country. The he did not adhere to the Court Council have been bulldozed. No The Public Health Inspectors Union of in maintaining the health safety of the senior officer in charge at all polling ruling . arrests have been made so far. After Sri Lanka (PHIUSL) said they were public and Election officers engaged in stations will be provided with the stock “Disciplinary inquiries were the relics of the Pandyan kings were ready to extend their fullest cooperation the Election process including at polling of soap, liquid hand wash and conducted against those who taken to Madras, the relics were to ensure the health safety at polling stations on 5 and 6 August 2020,” he sanitisers. The EC has said they would violated Party discipline. brought back to Kurunegala and centres during the 5 August General said. provide someone to dispense the Considering them broadly, the buried in Kurunegala. If it cannot be Election in the midst of the COVID-19 He said, PHIs were tasked with sanitiser liquid or gel to voters. Working Committee decided to expel protected, there is no point in pandemic. They would commence ensuring that voters maintain the one- Fielding questions regarding the 54 candidates of the Samagi Jana talking about it. This history should duties on 4 August by sterilising all metre social distance. arrangements being made for those in Balawegaya (SJB) and 61 UNP be remembered,” he added. polling centres. Balasooriya said special self-quarantine and those in quarantine representatives in Local He pointed out that all people Secretary of the Union, M. arrangements have also been put in centres to cast their vote, he said the Government bodies. All those who should have the right to live freely Balasooriya said, the relevant Local place to provide the necessary hand Health Ministry would have to look at were expelled from the Party will be and as politicians they must protect Government authority would have to washing facilities with soap, liquid hand ways of transporting them to polling informed in writing. Then the names that right. Wickremesinghe claimed provide the necessary equipment while wash or hand sanitisers to be made centres while ensuring the health safety will be revealed. There are others that today, Sri Lankans of all the Election Commission (EC) is to available to voters as well as Election of those involved in providing them who have joined the SJB and we will communities are in a dilemma over provide the sanitising liquid and gel for officers. transportation. take decisions regarding them in the two issues: whether they’re dying future. At present, we have deployed because of COVID-19 or whether six teams to look into this matter. they will starve to death. The Working Committee will meet “This Government that deceived and decide on the remainder as the people by making false promises well,” added Wickremesinghe. has no right to rule the country Voice Teens finale on 8 and 9 August Wickremesinghe noted that those anymore. Before this Government who have left the UNP could came to power, it promised to ‘Voice Teens’ is the latest reality The Voice Teens has gained a huge compete with the UNP but that they maintain law and order. However, show brought through an digital reach and the Voice Teens do not have the right to say they the President of the Three-Wheelers international franchise by Sirasa TV, Youtube channel has become a fast belong to the UNP and act in a Association who went to meet the attracting audiences across the growing channel, reaching a high manner that jeopardises the UNP. President was assassinated. island, creating a fascinating musical number of views. “I will not be the Leader of this Another man is said to have experience. Sanuka Wickramasinghe, Party for all time. This Party should committed suicide in Independence Voice Teens has reached its final Ashanthi De Alwis, Dumal be handed over to a new generation Square. Some claim that this is a stage and the finals will be conducted Warnakulasuriya and Raini of youth. If the SJB continues to voluntary suicide. Others say it was live on 8 and 9 August at Stein Gunathilake are the Voice Teens criticise us, it will destroy the image forced. A monk was killed at the Studios, Ratmalana. Coaches who are popular among of the UNP, which will in turn be an temple,” noted Wickremesinghe. Eight finalists who came through youth and Stephanie Siriwardena is advantage to the Sri Lanka He further inquired whether this the blind auditions, the battle rounds hosting the show. Podujana Peramuna (SLPP). The was what was promised to the and the knockout rounds will contest The production is with the use of decision to remove this group was public. in the grand finale on 8 and 9 August. high tech cameras in Stein Studios. not an easy task. It should be noted that this decision was reached after lengthy discussions with lawyers,” he added. He requested the others who wish to leave the Party could send in their resignation letters, so that the UNP could easily take decisions, without carrying out disciplinary inquiries. Meanwhile, while addressing a public meeting in Obeysekarapura on 29 July, Wickremesinghe claimed that the only Party representing all racial and ethnic groups was the UNP and not the SJB. He added that there were several members in the SJB who had switched sides from the previous Mahinda Rajapaksa- led Government. “UNP Founder D.S. Senanayake had one objective; to unite all communities such as the Sinhalese, Tamils, Muslims and Burghers. We

Nallur festival to limit devotees this year By Dilanthi Jayamanne

Director General of Health Services, Dr. Anil Jasinghe has issued a directive to the Northern Provincial Health Directorate to reduce the number of devotees at the Nallur Kandaswamy Temple during this year’s festivities owing to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Northern Province health sources said on 31 July that although the flag hoisting ceremony was held on 25 July, instructions in regard to health guidelines were only issued at the end of the week. The number of devotees entering Temple premises has been limited to 300 persons at a time. They said that the largest crowds at the Temple are usually seen during the 10th day of the festivities. The directive will have to be forwarded to the temple authorities and the Armed Forces, who are responsible for the safety and wellbeing of the devotees, they said. Sources said that the Medical Officer of Health (MOH) in charge of the area had made several appeals to the Provincial Health Director of the Northern Province to strengthen health safety measures during festivities. However, sources said that the MOH had even had to make his appeal to the Governor of the Province. Annually, at least 50,000 people attend the temple’s grand celebrations, while over 3,000-4,000 people attend other days of the feast. However, this year, measures have been taken to stop certain ceremonies such as the alms giving, kavadi dancing and the sacred ritual of rolling on the ground. Commissioner of the Municipal Council, R.T. Jeyaseelan said that measures will be taken to register the devotees entering temple premises. Temperatures of visitors will be checked and they are instructed to wear masks and wash hands. Furthermore, banners and posters displaying hygiene guidelines will be displayed during the festival. A6 sunday 2 august 2020 focus Will we sacrifice our children to preserve ‘conservative’ values? By Faadhila Thassim and the failure to protect children; and the fact that there is an estimated On one hand, Sri Lankan society number of 6,000 rape cases an year, appears concerned about what makes it vital to expose offenders and children are exposed to, considering see more convictions prior to the that several concerns were raised by direct imposition of death penalty.” parents and teachers over the planned distribution of a school Victim protection textbook on Sexual and Reproductive Underage girls Attorney-at-Law, Achala Health (SRH) titled Hathe Ape Potha. Senevirathna stated when dealing On the other hand, we have the ugly and boys alike with child victims of such crimes, the truth: in July alone, we heard are victimised proceedings should consider the best breaking news of the gruesome rape interests of the children. Although and murder of three underage girls in by rape and involving the law is important to separate instances within just 24 grave sexual ensure justice for victims, such cases hours, and now a case has come to entail a major responsibility to ensure light of over 20 boys within 10-12 abuse. However, the child’s mental state is looked into, years of age being sexually abused by while they are given proper support their English teacher. for the purposes through the legal system and society. The 54-year-old teacher, Nirantha of Section 363 of She added that Sri Lanka is in dire Edirisinghe, who was recently need of sweeping amendments to its arrested on charges of sexually the Penal Code, rape laws, as archaic laws are still in abusing underage boys, was also a man is only place, barely able to keep up with the identified as a set designer for a situation the country now faces. children’s reality television show. The guilty of rape if “Prolonged cases affect the lives and offender allegedly sold video footage of future of the victimised children, and him abusing these children to foreign he engages in this results in providing more clients. When he was apprehended, sexual opportunities for offenders to the Police seized 135 CDs of such recommit the crime. Once an offender footage, a pen-drive, hard disk, intercourse with is let out on bail, their whereabouts memory card, camera and mobile are not governed and they are left phones from his house. a woman unmonitored until they commit the This disturbing case makes it clear without her crime again,” she stated. that both underage girls and boys alike are victimised by rape and grave consent The NCPA and the Court sexual abuse. However, for the System’s responsibility purposes of Section 363 of the Penal Code, a man is only guilty of rape if he Aritha stated that the National engages in sexual intercourse with a The role of the Police Child Protection Authority (NCPA) can woman without her consent, where traditions of the country; yet they fail play a pivotal role in protecting only penetration is sufficient to prove to understand that this is vital for the in Child Protection children through the justice process sexual intercourse, establishing that protection of children. Failing to do DIG Ajith Rohana said the Sri by establishing regulations to be only girls could be raped. this will most imminently affect the Lanka Police, understanding that the “I am of the personal opinion that followed, including regulations Thereby, unless there is penetration security of the children,” noted most affected parties are women and both drug addicts and paedophiles governing the proceedings of cases with the use of a natural penis, it is Attorney-at-Law, Aritha children had for the past 25 years, who rape and murder children should involving child victims. not considered rape, as in the event Wickremesinghe, adding that a value established special Police units for be given capital punishment, as when He added that the court systems an instrument is used, as opposed to -based education system is of great children and women, and that while such actions are implemented, it have to also be more sensitive towards or together with the genitalia, it is importance, together with sex there are possible shortcomings on would pass a strong message to the child victims, as the current system is instead classified as a Grave Sexual education the part of the Police as well, there offenders,” Rohana added, stating nothing short of sadistic, when the Abuse under the provisions of the Early childhood teacher, Shanthi has to be an integration of society and that this would, to a certain extent, victim and the offenders are due to Penal code. Thus, even if these boy Wickremesinghe, addressing a every relevant authority to eradicate minimise the reoccurrence of rape or appear before court, both parties are children were raped, it does not fall webinar, focused on the importance of this menace and ensure our children grave sexual abuse being faced by transported in the same bus. within the definition of rape in the child protection, stated that instead of are in safe hands. He added that the children. Thus, Sri Lankan society has Penal Code. focusing on purely the academic Police, the Attorney-General’s Aritha, adding to this, stated, “Even forfeited the right to raise an uproar education system, there has to be Department or the courts system if we implement the death penalty or over sexual education for children, at Sex education equal attention given to a value-based cannot sufficiently control this capital punishment, how many people least until we begin to consider the “The basis on which several parents education system, and it is also situation alone, unless and otherwise are we going to possibly hang? Over damage we are wreaking by closing raised concerns on the introduction of important for children to understand children are also protected by other 2017, 2018 and 2019, there has only their eyes in public while they are the ‘Hathe Ape Potha’ book was that it the concept of ‘good touch’ and ‘bad means, such as through the been one convict for rape, exposing subjected to unimaginable horrors went against the culture and touch’ from their childhood itself. introduction of sex education. the inefficiency of the justice system in secret.

The Radicalised Middle Way An Agenda for All True Patriots By collaboration of the executive, clergy and military. Buddhist clergy and This is an opportune time to reflect Sinhalese extremist groups have given on the credibility of democracy in Sri the President a task to pass a Lanka and the future of democracy as Constitution, which favours the we are preparing for another General majority outside the Parliament. If Election on 5 August to elect the 16th President Rajapaksa gets a strong Parliament since 1947. people’s mandate on 5 August, he will In Sri Lanka, Elections have been drag the country into a state of held on time without any delay, military dictatorship which was except for a few rare occasions. If granted fake democratic rights. There Elections are a measure of a country’s would be an economic crisis, which is democratic credibility, Sri Lanka is never seen before, and it would sure to be at the top of the list of the increase unemployment. In this most democratic countries in the backdrop dictatorial Rajapaksa world. However, in the Democratic mentality would favour the Index of the Economist Intelligence suppression as their favourite Unit’s Economic Intelligence Unit in alternative to deal with problems. This 2019, Sri Lanka is ranked 69th as a could surely be destructive to a ‘flawed democracy’. country, which names ‘the oldest Rapid transition democracy in Asia.’ With the rapid militarisation of Crucial moment civilian administrative structures over This moment is a truly crucial for all the past several months since the the Sri Lankans. Everyone should Presidential Election in 2019, we make meaningful choices and their should not be surprised if Sri Lanka is choices would define the future of Sri relegated to the status of a ‘hybrid Lanka for several future generations. state regime’ on a rapid transition to Should we determine a new future the ‘dictatorial’ category in 2020. for our country based on fear and Democracies in many countries prejudgements or should we decided came to an end in the twentieth our future for each and everyone of the century as a result of anti-government country based on better hopes and conspiracies led by men with guns intentions. Should we give a space to and tanks through military force and few religious and ethnic extremists to coercion. determine our future by staying silent? Democracy died in Argentina, Chile, started to turn the democracy and taking its last few breaths. It is inches Corruption which is increasing This Radicalised Middle Way should , Thailand and Ghana. democratic institutions in Sri Lanka away from being inactive. Power continuously, since Independence in be a home to free thinking and Today, democracy is likely to be upside down in a rapid manner. If he division between the Executive, 1948 has become a cancer which neutralism. The need of this moment ‘extinct’ not by the generals but by the gets two-third-majority from Legislature and the Judiciary has destroys the essence of our society. is creating a new political culture elected leaders who brought them to upcoming General Election it would become Opening the economy to international which is a collective of visions and power. In fact, many democracies are be the funeral of Sri Lankan The President has publically said competition without introducing values of Lord Buddha, Mahatma slowly being destroyed by subtle democracy. But, President Rajapaksa that Independent Commissions have necessary reforms, equal Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Martin measures invisible to the naked eye, is not the only reason for that. Since become a nuisance to his ruling style opportunities and regulations has Luther King, Nelson Mandela and and the setback for that begins with 1970, dictatorial leaders have and now he is seeking a public made a path to for the endless Barack Obama. the ballot box. unlawfully interfered in Sri Lanka’s blessing to abolish the 19th corruption. In short, corruption, Some people think that this Middle democratic institutions. From the Amendment to the Constitution. dictatorships from time to time and Way is a weak vision which justifies Paradox moment in which Executive Racism, hate speech and religious attacks against civil and human anything. But Radical Middle Way is a The paradox of the path through Presidency was introduced in 1978, and ethnic extremism are normalised rights as a result of that has vision which can even launch non- elections to dictatorship is that the elements which are essential for the in Sri Lanka as the Freedom of Speech weakened the political body of Sri violent struggles to achieve and protect assassins of democracy systematically existence of modern democracy have has been limited. The Democracy has Lanka. its defined values when there is a overthrow, even subtly and been violated mercilessly. been pressurised and extreme necessity. It is the stage which legitimately, the institutions of Now the Constitutional Council racisms disguised as the nationalism Dictatorial State empowers the silent majority to object democracy in order to kill democracy. which was given a rebirth by the 19th has been become the national Today, the country is experiencing a and fight against all kinds of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has Amendment to the Constitution is principle of the country. dictatorial State with an abnormal dictatorships, racism and extremism. news sunday 2 august 2020 A7

Agrochemical pollution and habitat degradation Re-employing migrant workers Grave threat to freshwater crabs By Ranmini Gunasekara who lost their jobs mulled Biologist Dinesh Gabadage who was also a contributor to the By Eunice Ruth Foreign Employment (SLBFE), re-employment of workers in Agrochemical pollution and Report, said that most endemic R.K.K.M.P. Randeniya. alternative workplaces. He also noted habitat degradation are some of crabs are in the wet zone. Arrangements have been made to When contacted on 31 July, he that migrants who lost their job the most serious threats faced by “You can find most endemic crab re-employ Sri Lankan migrant noted that thus far, 8,000-9,000 should get a release letter from the endemic freshwater crabs, noted species from Colombo, Galle, workers who lost their jobs due to workers have reported this to the previous employer to be re-employed the Sixth National Report on the Matara, and Nuwara Eliya. Areas COVID-19, and further steps have Bureau office of their respective in a new place and that thus far, Biodiversity Profile of Sri Lanka to like Ritigala and Knuckles are also been taken to repatriate other countries (and to the Bureau in Sri Qatar has re-employed 1,500 the Convention of Biological very important to endemic crabs. migrants who are willing to return to Lanka via the 24 hour hotline 1989 workers in different places while the Diversity. When it comes to the Central Hill the country, said Deputy General which operates in all three , According to the Report, out of areas, agrochemicals have become Manager – Training, Marketing and languages), and that the SLBFE and Oman are in the process of the 51 species of crabs in the a severe problem for crabs, and Recruitment and Media together with the overseas offices of finding new workplaces for Sri country, 50 of them are endemic, the same can be said for crabs Spokesperson of Sri Lanka Bureau of the Bureau are processing the Lankans. whilst 23 of these endemic living in paddy fields.” varieties are point endemics He further added that another (endemic species of fauna or flora major problem was the unique to one specific location). obstruction of crab nest holes due It further stated that manmade to solid waste dumping, erosion Following clash between activities, increased land and landfilling. clearance in the highlands which “When you cut trees near rivers, NTJ and another group Panadura Police leads to the erosion of river banks the banks of the river tend to and the accidental catching of erode, and these erosions then crabs by fishermen, were some of end up covering the nest holes of SIS recommended on hunt for rapist the other major threats faced by crabs. When this happens, they these species. will have no way to come out and A young girl was raped at knife point at a secluded Moreover, it stated that water they will die. We have observed impartial probe location on a beach in Pinwatte, Panadura, on 30 July, diversion from mountain streams this in a lot of places where the Police said. for human settlement, agriculture crab gets trapped inside their nest They said the victim had visited the beach along with and energy generation, results in hole due to erosion, and die – witness her young lover when the incident took place behind the the frequent drying up of inside,” he said. By Buddhika Samaraweera Panadura Railway Station. streamlets and marshes, the Gabadage added that he has According to Police, the suspect who is yet to be typical habitats for freshwater also observed crab mating Following a clash between the National Thowheed Jama’ath apprehended had initially threatened the young man with crabs. The Report also stated that behaviour change during the past (NTJ) led by Zaharan Hashim and another organisation called a sharp knife before raping the girl. crab habitats are threatened by decades and added that this could the Sunnatul Wal Jama'at in 2017, the State Intelligence Panadura Police has launched a hunt for the rapist. gem mining and solid waste be due to the change in monsoonal Service (SIS) recommended to the Kattankudy Police that an dumping as well. weather patterns owing to climate impartial investigation be conducted in that regard, said Speaking to Ceylon Today, change. former SIS Director, Senior SDIG, Nilantha Jayawardena. He was testifying before the Presidential Commission of Inquiry (PCoI) probing the bombings on 21 April 2019 Easter Sunday on 30 July. He also said that since there was a possibility for some radical Muslim youth to attack General Secretary of the Bodu Bala Sena (BBS), the SIS, in November 2016, took steps to inform of the matter to then Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, Karunasena Hettiarachchi. He also said he had to be careful when such a report was being referred to the Ministry of Defence because of the conduct of the Government at the time. A particular group in that Government could have been unhappy with such a report, he added. SDIG Jayawardena also said that he, as an independent State official, had fulfilled his duties irrespective of certain political influences exerted on him and that he had, on certain occasions, informed the Government on the actions of its own ministers. The witness was also questioned regarding a statement made by former Minister, Dr. at the Parliament regarding 32 Sri Lankans who had joined the Islamic State (IS) organisation in Syria. SDIG Jayawardena said that a number of Muslim organisations and politicians had denied Dr. Rajapakshe's statement at the time. Among those who denied that were the National Shoora Council, the Muslim Council of Sri Lanka and former Ministers Rishad Bathiudeen and and former Governor of the Eastern Province, Nazir Ahamed, he added. He also said that the SIS took steps to warn the relevant officials regarding fundamentalist Sri Lankan Muslims who were suspected to have joined the IS organisation even before Dr. Rajapakshe made the aforesaid statement. SDIG Jayawardena had also sent a significant number of reports to former Minister of Law and Order, Sagala Ratnayake regarding matters pertaining to the IS ideology and its followers. The Chairman of the PCoI then questioned him as to who had instructed him to do so. In response, he said that he had sent those reports with the permission of the then Secretary to the Ministry of Defence. Answering further questions raised by the Commissioners, SDIG Jayawardena said he did so under the instructions of former President and then Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe.

Prison guard assault Rights activists concerned over no action By Ruwan Laknath Jayakody

The Committee for Protecting the Rights of Prisoners raised concerns, regarding the fate of prisoners at a time when incidents such as the alleged assault of a Prison Guard by a Commissioner of Prisons are reported. It has been reported that on 28 July night, following the escalation of a disagreement between a Prison Guard and Commissioner of Prisons (Operations/Intelligence) (Covering Up Duties) at the Welikada Prison, the Guard had allegedly been assaulted by the Commissioner. The injured Guard, it is reported, had subsequently been hospitalised at the National Hospital, Colombo. He has since been discharged from Hospital. Commissioner General of Prisons, Thushara Upuldeniya had informed on 29 July that an investigation team led by a Commissioner of Prisons had been appointed to inquire into the incident, and it was further reported that a statement in this regard had been recorded from the Prisons Commissioner in question. Chairman of the Committee, Attorney Senaka Perera questioned as to why the Commissioner of Prisons who is implicated in the incident has not been interdicted until the conclusion of the ongoing probe. He noted the Commissioner who is alleged to have been involved in the assault serving in office while a probe in this regard is ongoing would have a chilling effect on any witness/ eyewitness (from among Prison officials or prisoners) testimony cum evidence and silence those likely to come forward into submission. Commissioner of Prisons (Administration/ Rehabilitation and Skill Development) (Covering Up Duties), Chandana Ekanayake when questioned by Ceylon Today as to why the Commissioner in question has not been interdicted pending the conclusion of the probe, said that they were not of the view that an interdiction of the Prisons Commissioner in question was necessary as a statement had been recorded from this Commissioner and the Borella Police, and because this was a minor disagreement, and also because the officer who was hospitalised has since been discharged from Hospital. A8 SUNDAY 2 AUGUST 2020 EDITORIAL/EDITORIAL/ INTEINTERVIEW INTERVIEW SUNDAY 2 AUGUST 2020 A9

BY UDENI SAMAN KUMARA building can collapse’ and granted continuously. People admitted that they of the world. It is exemplary and the permission to demolish it. Likewise, they had made the wrong decision. President must take credit for that. The Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa in acted in different ways. We will have to Ministry of Health and the defence conversation with our sister paper Mawbima focus on the Archaeological Department How many members will be authorities implemented his orders with says he did not see any disadvantageous areas as well in future. in the Cabinet in the new dedication. People supported with as far as the SLPP was concerned and that he Government? The Opposition patience. We must appreciate all of them. expects a majority in the Tamil and Muslim Even the Temple of the Tooth has anticipated that the If the previous Government was in power, community to vote for the SLPP this time Will Initiate Massive Development Relic has not been gazetted Rajapaksas will take all the they would have made a mess of the whole around as an archaeological property. powerful Ministries and it will thing and got infected and spread it to us. Only 17 monuments have been The election propaganda campaign lead to another family rule. Are you satis– ed with the Ceylon Newspapers (Pvt) Ltd. gazetted in the Polonnaruwa ends today. Both the President and election process? No: 101, Rosmead Place, Colombo 07. District for example as A: The people also elect the President Editorial Tel: 0117566522, 0117566526, 0117566527 the Prime Minister participated in and the Prime Minister. We will give A: For sure and I must mention that I archaeological sites. Cabinet portfolios to those who will be will meet the people of the Kurunegala Fax: 0117566545 election campaigns covering the entire island. What is the result A: Such monuments must be elected by the people. Both Rajapaksas District once in every two weeks after the Marketing Manager: 0117566550, 0117566551 Drive After 5 August Victory you expect in the Parliamentary appropriately identified as a priority. and non-Rajapaksas will be in the election. Circulation Manager: 0117566580, 0117566581 People are not aware of their antiquity. Cabinet. They will be qualified persons. E-mail : [email protected] Election? Even the Government demolishes You stated that the President A: I was assigned propaganda activities only We will not allow any agreement Anura Kumara has said on People showed their 2015 colonial buildings. Paulier Bungalow in Do you have a plan to have a told you, he would develop the in a few districts, barring the Northern Tangalle is one such building that was National Government and to country while you engaged in Province. I observed an overwhelming detrimental to country Facebook he saw Ranil as Lenin decision was wrong demolished. Now new constructions have increase the number of Cabinet politics. That statement can response in all the areas I visited. I also noticed come up. There must be a plan to portfolios? have many connotations. that the President got a huge response from conserve buildings that are over 100 the people in every district he visited. I think years old. A: I do not see the necessity of a A: Obviously, President Gotabaya Why We the opportunity given to the people to speak I will meet Kurunegala people Three preferences means three We were exemplary in the world National Government at the moment. Rajapaksa does not engage in politics. I out their problems was very important. People demand water projects do it. He welcomes people, asks them every two weeks votes; don’t waste your sovereignty in terms of beating COVID-19 from you at meetings saying The Opposition is claiming about their problems and solves them. In which districts does the they have no potable water. the Government will sign He has proved his mettle and it is easy Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna You promise to sort it out. agreements such as MCC, for me too. When I was President, I (SLPP) lead? What are the President Gotabaya does not like to show off also has drinking which are detrimental to the proposed things and they were Must All disadvantageous regions? water problems. country and the sovereignty, implemented. There was Basil on the one once you come to power? side. Gotabaya on the other hand and A: I do not see any disadvantageous areas, I We gave the benefits of fuel price reduction to all the people A: We worked for the country before Cabinet also acted accordingly. Gotabaya saw unprecedented enthusiasm everywhere. the village. But we will resolve everyone of A: We will never enter into agreements and Basil became popular and were FFund submitted its demolition of an archaeological said it was a monument that those issues. The road to our house was that are detrimental to our country and recognised as smart persons because The SLPP targeted Sinhala built very recently. UNP Minister our sovereignty. We will submit all they delivered whatever was asked of Vote! Buddhist votes in the Presidential report yesterday. site in Kurunegala. Although came under the Archaeological Montague Jayawickrama visited that agreements to Parliament for approval. It’s them. The UNP targeted them and tried Election. Do you expect the There is evidence the committee appointed Act. area and asked my father to build the only after that we will sign agreements. to destroy the Rajapaksas because they Voting is one of the fundamental ways in which our same strategy will be valid in the of misuse of by you to investigate A: None of these buildings identified as road. Even the telephone service was served the country. Now Commissions You made a statement at inalienable rights are guaranteed. Our vote determines Parliamentary Election? Rs 11 billion of recommended the offenders to preserved buildings which are over 100 given to the entire area and finally given are exposing the outcome of the so-called how Parliament acts in our interest, and how and who public money. be produced before Court, still years old. There are no Gazettes. There to our home. Now, Sri Lanka is 99.9% Mawathagama that voters Good Governance: So much so that the will shape the public policy of the country, at least for A: Actually, it is valid. People voted in WhatW action will be no arrests have been made. was a hotel called Buwaneka which ran electrified. must vote early in the morning Prisons in the country will be insufficient the next five years. Public policy in turn, shapes the Gotabaya Rajapaksa to implement his policies. unethical businesses too. Actually, the on 5 August because no one if they are jailed for their offences. We taken now? Why is the Government silent? Sajith Premadasa promised economy, education, transport, health, security, etc. Those policies can be implemented only Archaeological Department did not knows what will happen in the have no desire to engage in such an to fully implement the 13th of our nation. through Parliament. Therefore, we need power A: We will take legal A: The report does not mention who adequately protect this place. This is not evening. Why did you say this? endeavour. The Judiciary will act legally If done right, public policy can determine Sri Lanka’s in Parliament. action, as I mentioned the culprits are. As far as I know, the the Royal Court of King Buwanekabahu Amendment. Meanwhile, the and take care of that. trajectory in the third decade of the new millennium. water issues at Divisional Secretariat levels. previously. Mayor has not ordered to demolish it. I but a colonial building. They have told Government vows to abolish A: It may rain in the evening and as a Did you speci€ cally address What is your message to the If, on the other hand, public policy is not shaped right, checked it. without study that this is the Royal Court the 19th Amendment. Are you result there maybe natural disasters. minority votes in this election Although the split in the UNP What will happen to the people at the end of the work it can further plunge the nation into dire economic of King Buwanekabahu. These are mere trying to bring back the 18th and social peril. Therefore, it is the civic responsibility campaign? initially appeared as an advantage, investigations into the Central Do you mean that the opinions. They later told me that it was Is there speculation that related to the Election in a Amendment and become the of every citizen of the country to exercise their A: I expect a majority in the Tamil and now it seems rather tricky when Bank Bonds scam? Former Prime offenders will not be arrested? only folklore, and there was no evidence. something untoward might positive manner? universal franchise, to ensure a properly elected Muslim community to vote for us this time. Ranil, Sajith and Anura attack the Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe A: We act upon the instructions of the President forever? happen in the evening. Isn’t it true that it is over 100 Parliament. Government on three fronts. said in a television interview that Attorney General’s Department. People A: No one can be a lifelong President A: Voting early is relevant even to A: Electioneering was peaceful so far. I Mahinda Rajapaksa is a political years old and comes under the Unless we take part in the democratic processes, we there was no course of action urge the Government not to interfere with because they need to be elected by the UNPers. I am not referring to my voters wish the people will elect a good cannot, effectively observe and criticise the policy icon in Sri Lanka. Despite this we A: They always attack. They were on a single the Judiciary. Meanwhile, the same Archaeological Act? people. I was defeated by the people and only. I am talking about all voters. Government into power. Nearly 6.9 makers. If they make bad decisions, if they act in saw wide publicity being given to front in the previous Parliament. I saw on against Arjuna Mahendran. He people want us to meddle with the rule of A: That is true. It is a historical Gotabaya was elected as President. million elected the President into power. detriment to the people’s interest, if they misuse you recently. Is it because there Facebook that Anura Kumara saw Ranil as says the funds alleged to have law. I cannot understand what I have to property. The building of CWE in Nuwara People have acted according to the Why did you make a special They must vote for a Government that people’s sovereignty, we have no right to point a finger are some doubts lurking? Lenin. Their politics is based on such been defrauded are in freezed bank do now. However, we shall not interfere Eliya was also an ancient building, but opportunity. They can be both right and request to make use of all three will implement his policies. I urge them and say, “We didn’t elect you to act in this manner.” blunders. accounts and inquires why there is with the Judiciary. It is up to the Police the Archaeological Department granted wrong. However, it is the people’s preferential votes? to grant us the opportunity to It is true that the interest in the election has waned A: I do not get involved in my propaganda. It a need to bring Mahendran into the and the Courts. permission to demolish it. Both the Post decision. In 2015, they gave the perfect A: The three preferences are three votes. implement the programme they have The Government failed to reduce in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. But, today we is done by others. Previously, I campaigned in country. Office and CWE building in Nuwara Eliya answer to those who were afraid that we Wasting one choice is wasting sovereignty. approved. We will initiate a massive are a nation at crossroads. It is the time that we need the entire country, but now I contest from a the cost of living. In addition, The Director-General of the were built during the same period. would be in power forever. Our people I must also mention that we have development drive after the 5 August our elected representatives to formulate social and district. I toured in Kurunegala only for two- the relief of the reduction of fuel A: As far as I know, bringing a person from Archaeological Department However, they put up a board saying ‘this have changed Governments controlled COVID-19 compared to the rest victory. economic policies to navigate us through this crisis. and-a- half days. Both President Gotabaya prices was not passed onto the another country to this country is not easy. We The pandemic is far from over. Some countries in the Rajapaksa and I went there to give our support people. Didn’t these things affect must first interrogate him. Such things have world are going through the second wave of infections. to candidates and they organised the rallies. I the election campaign of the not been done so far. We need to do all that to Some are even facing the third wave, like in the case of did not campaign for myself. obtain a Court order. But, we will do it. Hong Kong. Government? Yet, the world has already changed. How we work, You € rst contested from the A: We gave the benefit of the reduction of Ranil Wickremesinghe said that travel, shop and engage in educational activities and Kurunegala District as an fuel prices to all Sri Lankans. Petrol is used by Mahendran had talked to him many other aspects of life have irrevocably changed. Opposition MP. Now you contest a few people who own vehicles. But, the benefit on 19 July as well. As he said, We are in the new normal. We need to formulate new as the Prime Minister. The people reached all the people, whether they owned a Mahendran talks with other laws, new policies to wade through this crisis and face of Kurunegala will expect massive vehicle or not. For example, we granted persons too. Who is wrong then, the challenges that may come in the next few months development from you. Rs 5,000 relief to the people and the money the public? of this year. was allocated from these funds. We assigned In order to do that, we need to have a functioning A: Definitely, Kurunegala is a district where those savings to all the projects. A: Arjuna Mahendran has never talked with Legislature. All fiscal matters of the Government are four old kingdoms were located. There are us or anyone in our party, as far as I know. exclusively decided by the Legislature. Therefore, we many archaeological sites and memorials. It is The previous regime vowed to need Legislators to formulate the expenditure for the a district that is very good for tourism. The full take corrupt elements to Court. The entire country was shocked next few months, and then next year. potential of areas like Dambadeniya, Now you say that you will not take by the involvement of some Police As Asia’s oldest democracy, in terms of universal Yapahuwa and Panduwasnuwara, have not revenge. People say the corrupt Narcotic Bureau personnel in drug suffrage, which was granted to us by the been yielded. I will serve the people of elements on both sides are saved deals. The people’s suspicion that Donoughmore Constitution in 1931, we have a long Kurunegala to the best of my ability. due to the political deals between the caches of drugs apprehended history of electing Governments. Even during the 30 by the Police go back to the hands years of devastating war, two insurrections, natural The farmers in Kurunegala have both parties. disasters, terror attacks, we continuously held longstanding problems. A: It is a wrong idea. We do not take revenge of the racketeers has been proven elections. A: Some areas do not have water even for like the UNP did. If we arrest them and begin now. What is your view about this? There are few fundamental reasons why we must drinking purposes. We must initiate a investigations, they will accuse us of political A: This was happening for a long time. exercise our right to vote. programme to both irrigate and provide vendetta. We will sue them after gathering President Gotabaya Rajapaksa is a person who Elections have consequences. How we vote in a drinking water. The entire North-Western evidence via the CID and obtaining the advice seeks results. These things might not have particular election decides on the quality of life we Province will benefit if the Left Canal of of the Attorney General’s Department. been revealed until this Government came to want for us and the future generations. Voting is our Moragahakanda irrigates the area. I have power. It is the people’s victory. chance to stand up for the issues we care about like already instructed officials led by the Director- The committee that investigated public transportation, rising cost of living or funding General of Irrigation to compile reports on the corruption in the Central Cultural Two weeks have passed since the for health and education. This is about our lives – we should take the time to decide what’s best. Not voting is giving up your voice. Elections are decided by the people who go out and vote. We must take some time to learn about the policies of different political parties and their candidates. If we don’t vote, someone else will make the decision for us. Our power is in our vote. It’s our money. We all pay taxes, directly or indirectly. All the items we consume are subject to taxes - food, medicines, telecommunication services, etc. But, do we know how that money is being used by the authorities? Many of us don’t know what becomes of the money we pay to the Government as taxes. Voting is our chance to choose how our tax money is spent. Voting is an opportunity for change. Voting gives us the chance to make a change. If we do not agree with the policies of an incumbent Government, elections give us the opportunity to change our policymakers. The power to change Governments is in our hands. We can support the candidates and measures that can help our community and the nation for the greater good. The next generation depends on you. Our communities are made up of both adults and children. It is our responsibility to make sure that our children will inherit a better country and a better society than what we have to live in today. How we can ensure that is by voting in a Government that would implement policies that safeguard our environment, stabilise our economy and ensure security of our country and its people. The Government has already formulated health guidelines to be followed during the election process – from the polling booth until the election results are released. The safety of the voters is guaranteed. What we now need to do is make it to the polling centres as early as possible and exercise our franchise. We cannot hold our people’s representatives accountable, if we did not participate in the process to elect them. It is as simple as that. A10 Sunday 2 august 2020 interview We Strongly Believe We Can Win the Majority – Sajith Premadasa By Aruni Mallawarachchi In the Presidential You’re saying that national 100 per cent. Even in India there is Election, you only received security will be given the a package scheme to give money to Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) 26% of votes in the foremost priority? people who lost their daily wage. Leader Sajith Premadasa talks to our Hambantota District. Did A: Yes, undoubtedly. These types of programs financially sister paper Mawbima on his election strengthen the inactive economy. you decide to contest from Your Government failed to campaign. Colombo because of that The price of a barrel of crude in Following are excerpts: avert the Easter Sunday the world market is at rock bottom. disappointment? attacks. How are you However, the Government has taken You are contesting the A: If that were the case, I should’ve planning to ensure national a decision to refrain from changing forthcoming General been disappointed in 2004, 2010 and security? fuel prices for 12 months. It’s not Election in a challenging in 2015 as well, except 2000 and fair. To rake in some kind of background, isn’t it? 2001. I won in two out of five elections. A: There is no problem. We have a income, first of all, the economy has good plan for that. I did my best to to be active. The economy is A: It’s not possible to engage in a Why did you decide to ensure national security, and I did currently inactive. If we are to conventional election campaign owing contest from the Colombo what I did without regard to party change that, we must do what I to the COVID-19 situation. Those district, then? politics. Even today I will do the mentioned. I don’t understand what activities are being conducted in A: I realised that from Colombo a same. If you want to know more this Government is doing instead of accordance with health guidelines. systematic service can be provided for about what I have done for national following principles accepted by the People come to us with sheaves of the entire country. When security, you can speak to the Army world. beetle leaves and garlands as usual. implementing a systematic plan for Commander, or incumbent They also find it difficult to get the people of the Colombo district and Intelligence Service Chief Suresh You also mentioned a accustomed to this new situation. the other 24 districts, it’s easy for us Sallay. housing project? They do that because they love and to work from Colombo. We rendered A: Yes. Under that program, we respect us. But we are concerned our fullest service for the Hambantota Some say that thus far, will continue the Gam Udawa about the people, and therefore, we district. We can clearly see what we victims of the Easter program. Also we will amend have done a number of changes to our did. But, when it comes to the Sunday attack, Salawa archaic laws that hinder housing usual public meetings. Colombo district, the situation is Army camp blast and development activities. Under this different. After my father’s time, there we will build 50,000 houses for Do you see a political Meethotamulla garbage were Prime Ministers who hailed from dump collapse have not Colombo-based people who’re in challenge this time? Colombo. However, issues existing in need of houses. We will also build A: Politically, I don’t see any other the Colombo district have not been received compensations? houses for people in the North and problem. As an alliance, SJB is resolved. Your name is not on that A: That’s not true. Most of them East. functioning pretty well. When it comes to housing, there are list. They’re saying that a received it. There may have been a number of issues relating to those shortcomings; I’m not denying that. What are you planning Hasn’t parting ways living in rented houses and slums, decision about you would We did a lot of work for the to do for the farming with the UNP caused any and also the houses of the poor and be taken after the second Katuwapitiya, Kochchikade and Zion community? disadvantages to your those who don’t have a permanent inquiry board’s decision? churches. Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith A: I will take steps to give free alliance? income. No significant development A: Those are Ranil can tell you about the work we have fertiliser throughout the year programs have been done in that Wickremesinghe’s cunning political done. without any scarcity. A: We trust that the majority of regard. We have a plan to address tactics. That’s who Ranil people are with the SJB, and therefore those issues; we have plans to develop Wickremesinghe is. It has been impossible to What is your opinion I don’t see it as a serious matter. We cities, suburbs and rural areas all give compensation to those about the Government’s believe that the SJB will receive around the country. Making Colombo It is said that former people, but you claim you programs involving majority people’s blessings and the center of our activities makes it President Maithripala can give Rs 20,000 for bringing back Sri Lankans acceptance. convenient for us to implement these Sirisena offered you the poverty-stricken families? stranded in other countries programs. Prime Minister post 51 The UNP had gained some due to COVID-19? times? A: You can go to Salawa and ask recognition as Sri Lanka’s Ranil Wickremesinghe is whether they received A: What are these embassies largest single political contesting from the Colombo A: Yes, he put forward such a compensations. You’re questioning doing! Look how the embassies of party. What reason caused a district. Did you ever think suggestion. about the money that I’m planning , Philippines and India you’d have to contest to give, but you don’t question how look after their people. Our division within such a party? Don’t you think turning from the same district as much the Government has given. embassies and the Government are down that offer was an A: It’s a well-known reason. As a opponents? asleep. matter of fact, Ranil Wickremesinghe unwise decision? I’m asking how you are suggested to me to contest from an A: No, it’s not like that. This is not a A: More than anything, what’s planning to give this Rs You stated that you have alliance because he wanted to decision that was taken after important is ethics and principles. I 20,000? a plan for the country’s continue to be the party leader. He considering all these. When working always work in accordance with ethics A: We’re building a ground youth? himself told me that he can’t conduct as a new alliance, the Colombo district and morality principles. Like you said, in Homagama spending USD 40 A: We need youth’s contribution political campaigning and said Sajith became important for us as a centre. I could’ve become the Prime Minister million; we launched sea sand in Parliament, Provincial Councils you do it. Also, it was he who on 26 October very easily. But, projects spending USD 890 million. and Local Government Institutions. instructed the appointment of a Prime It appears that there is where’s ethics and principles in that? By stopping futile projects like this We will take steps to ensure 25 per Minister candidate, alliance leader, a discourse among the Had I done so, it would’ve been that increase the country’s debt cent youth representation in those nominations board chairman and a general public about tantamount to a political conspiracy burden, a lot of good things can be institutions. We also need to assist general secretary. The Working scholars, professionals and because it wasn’t given by the people. done for the country. I’m doing this young entrepreneurs, and to do Committee as well as the intellectuals? If I had done that, there’s no in collaboration with a group of that, we will establish a national Parliamentarians group approved of it. difference between Mahinda experts and it has an economy youth development financial What we started like that is what we’re A: Those so-called intellectual and Rajapaksa and me. That’s the background. institution. To prevent young continuing now. However, a few days scholars are the ones who have put difference between him and me. players from facing injustice in before the dissolution of Parliament the country in danger. We don’t have You’re also proposing sports, we will introduce an they obstructed this. with us that type of scholars or Where did the Yahapalana to repay the increased Independent Sports Act. professionals who put the country in Government and former electricity bill, slash fuel You could have resolved danger. With us are intellectuals who President Sirisena go wrong? prices and amend tax The Government is against this issue without parting, can build the country. We don’t A: We were unable to work in system? the 19th Amendment to couldn’t you? engage in short-sighted politics. We harmony and work for the country the Constitution. But A: I’m merely one person, but at that work with people who have scholar because of internal disputes. A: Giving Rs 20,000 allowance, you’re saying it should be time, we worked as a group. We qualities and expert knowledge. repaying electricity bill and protected. Why is that? discussed it. Majority of members of In the event you become the decreasing fuel prices – all these the Parliamentary group and the Who are these new Prime Minister with majority three proposals are aimed at giving A: It should be protected. Working Committee discussed this candidates – who have expert power, would you be able to people more money. That’s why I’m Institutions established through matter with Ranil Wickremesinghe. knowledge and are scholars? work together with President saying that these decisions were this Amendment are very important. But instead of solutions, what they got A: In our group we have a Gotabaya Rajapaksa? taken after thinking long and hard. Shortcomings may arise when these was postponement. professor, a doctor of philosophy, six institutions are functioning. But we working in the field of teaching, six A: It’s not a problem, I can do that. Won’t these moves result will rectify those shortcomings and But now the UNP leader says doctors of medicine, a President’s We’re people who think of the country in loss of national income will ensure transparency. I’m of the he’s ready to welcome a new Counsel, 34 lawyers, eight engineers with a broad-minded attitude. People and cause further economic opinion that this should be enforced leadership. Don’t you think and 49 degree holders, 27 diploma choose us, to work. We’re prepared to decline? with amendments. Also it should you were too quick? holders, three legal experts, four perform our duties in a transparent happen without political journalists, two accountants, three and genuine manner. A: I told you, these are well- interferences. A: What do you mean I was too bank officials and five senior planned ideas. We have a good plan. quick! I implemented Ranil military personnel including a Field Do you think the resignation All three proposals I mentioned are The Government alleges Wickremesinghe’s plan. He’s saying Marshal. of Mangala Samaraweera, aimed at giving people more money. that you and your group this after everything is over. A General who supported you When they have more money, three attempted to get the Secretary has been appointed, and the Do you think you can politically, could be things will happen – consumption, Election Commission to Working Committee and acquire 2/3 majority power disadvantageous? investment and saving. This is the postpone the election? Parliamentary group have already with them? economic stimulation package. given approval for this. A: Certainly; we can win. A: I was upset about that. Up to this When these three things take place, A: I spoke for the people taking The Government says a group of date I can’t understand why he left. I the economy will automatically into consideration the COVID-19 UNP members who are disappointed How many seats does the wasn’t able to discuss that with him. grow. Also note that we’re not giving risk in the country. I suggested that about the party’s division is SJB expect to win? But he will always be a friend. He has this Rs 20,000 allowance to wealthy the election be postponed due to supporting the Government and that A: We strongly believe that we can done a great deal of work for me. We people like this Government. COVID-19. Any person has a right another group is planning to boycott win the majority power in are upset about his departure. to speak. It is up to the Election the election. Parliament. There is no doubt about Who will be the target Commission to decide whether to I’m of the opinion that the that. Your party keeps talking beneficiaries? entertain our request. It’s the Government should focus on its voter about a UNP-SLPP deal. What A: Daily wage workers, labourers, Government that placed the country base, because it’s shattered. Some allege that you’re is this deal? working class people, and poor under lockdown a day after the standing with extremist, A: We can see very clearly what this people in rural and city areas. nominations were handed over. You left Colombo where separatist groups? deal is. It’s very obvious. the UNP has a strong voter A: Is there anything they don’t What strategies would you Do you still think the base and contested from accuse me of! They level allegations Are you satisfied about rural propose in order to build a election should be Hambantota. But now you over everything. and estate communities’ strong and stable economy postponed? knowledge about the SJB in the face of post- A: I suggested that because of the have come back to Colombo. Are there groups that What’s the reason behind symbol? COVID-19 challenges? situation at that time. But the suspect that you’d give into Government dreamt of holding the this? the power of small political A: Yes, there is no problem about A: There was a depression in the election in order to form a A: Would you ask the same question parties that implement that. This country’s literacy rate 1929-1939 period. World renowned Government with 2/3 majority from Mahinda Rajapaksa? You can the agendas of extremist stands at 92 per cent. Party economist John Maynard Keynes power. Had the Government ask him why he left Hambantota and and separatist forces, and supporters are familiar with my devised a plan to save from The listened to us, the situation decided to contest from Kurunegala. symbol. Great World Depression. It is would’ve been better and there Are you aware that on two divide the country? applicable to today as well, and would be no fear of a second wave. occasions, I defeated Mahinda A: Those are dreams of this Will the UNP and SJB that’s what I mentioned earlier. The Rajapaksa in Hambantota? I defeated Government. join hands following the USA gave USD 2.3 trillion to the The Government says that him in the 2000 and 2001 General election? economy. In England, 80 per cent of this is not a second wave? Elections. I contested in five elections Party membership of those A: We have a great deal of work to private sector employees’ salaries A: We have to perform PCR tests held in 2000, 2001, 2004, 2010 and who left the UNP has been do after the election. We expect to are paid though a program called properly, in order to see if there is a 2015. I defeated him twice. suspended? provide the best service for all 22 Furlough. Only 20 per cent are paid second wave. We need to conduct A: Yes. million people of this country. by employers. In Bangladesh, it’s more PCR tests. interview sunday 2 august 2020 A11 UNP strives to make Sri Lanka great again –

By Faadhila Thassim allegations made against me have the UNP as we as a party have over difference that this country Although the losing Presidential come my way in the form of a the years stuck to our policies and requires. Candidate, Opposition Leader managed ’s (UNP) Political witch-hunt and they are all ensured that all promises made by to attract several youth votes, however Colombo District candidate, Ravi baseless with no evidence us are achievable and have also What are the other since then, there has been a huge Karunanayake said he would be the whatsoever. In several other been achieved as a result. aspirations you as a departure from the responsibilities owed voice for the voiceless and look into instances, there also have been For a party whose origin can be candidate seek to achieve? to them and the temporary Government the needs of the youth when allegations made against other traced back long years, any other A: One aspect that needs immediate in power will certainly not be able to representing the District in people, not just in my case. All of party is not considered a challenge. attention is ensuring the future of the fulfill such aspirations. The cost of living Parliament. these have been settled. We have made our journey clear younger generation is developed, has not been managed, there are no Excerpts of the interview: In relation to the Central Bank and have been working towards an because the youth are now sick and sufficient job opportunities and Sri Bond scam, I was not in charge for established stringent procedure. tired of politicians after everything that Lanka as a country has drifted away If you are elected to the purposes of several of the they have been put through. from the rest of the world. Parliament, what difference allegations that has been brought How imminent is the The one thing that the younger Thereby considering such would you make compared forth against me so what is the victory following the generation is looking forward to after shortcomings, the UNP strives to make to other candidates? absolute reason of bringing us here General Election? every election is how they can be a part Sri Lanka great again and the main and making several such allegations A: Victory is imminent and these of the economy, they look forward to focus is how this could be achieved and A: What needs to be done now is against us? promises and policies have been being involvement and that has been that is why we have to bring innovative electing leaders and representatives Most of those who have remained formulated based on the belief that one main aspect which has not been policies that are time targeted and prove who will stand by the people. in the party are those who have the Party would be able to come into getting sufficient attention over the to the youth, the rest of the country and Thereby I would when elected and protected the UNP throughout, and power in the General Election after years. the rest of the world; that this is the way when there is an UNP these are the very persons that are which we would make the rightful They have lost trust in the politicians. forward for the country. -led Government appointed following been politically targeted and those the General election in 2020, like to who have betrayed and have be the voice to the voiceless. currently left the party have been I have been the voice to the holding hands with former voiceless over the past 26 years of President Maithripala Sirisena and my political career so I believe, when are doing acts to the detriment of compared to other candidates the party. contesting in the general elections, Thereby these are the things that there are certain policies and plans are been evidently exposed today that is beneficial to the country that and there are all these new I would work towards and achieve as allegations - those that should have I have been doing so far and I will been brought up long time back. So continue the strive and achieve with why has it taken so long? It is not a great sense of vigour. just me who has been affected by these baseless allegations but my When elected to Parliament wife and children too, for crimes in 2015, there were certain that we have not committed and for promises that were made by no apparent reason. your Government, were all There have been several these achieved? promises made by other A: In terms of promises, when we candidates. What unique came into power in 2015, we made promise do you have on 100 promises to be achieved in 100 your part and as a party? days and I could say, as the former Minister of Finance, we were able to A: Most parties in an attempt to fulfill 88 of the promises in just the gain trust and votes tend to make first 23 days after coming into promises that are impractical and power. unattainable, most of these parties The remaining eight or nine do not assess how these can be promises that were made were also achieved or discharged. achieved within the next couple of Certain promises include providing months and except for a few, Rs 20,000 per family per month. I approximately two or three were would like to ask how they are trying achieved during the former to achieve this pledge at the expense Government’s tenure, every other of the country’s economy. There are promise was achieved and we made 6.2 million families in Sri Lanka, sure that the promises made to the which adds up to approximately Rs public were fulfilled and this will be 124 billion a month and 1.5 trillion a continued following the upcoming year. Election as well. This alone is almost 80 per cent of the total Government revenue so if Regarding the promises that happens, and if such payment that were not fulfilled the is made, who pays the Government last time. Are you, together servants their salaries and with your party, intending pensions? Who pays the capital on fulfilling them if you’ll amortisation for loans? Who’d pay come into the power after for the subsidies and capital maintenance? the election? Therefore these unattainable A: Yes most certainly, I would say promises should and will be in addition to ensuring the promises replaced with policy oriented and targets we hope to achieve promises. Any anybody making within the next couple of years are promises to the people in any future upheld, we would also ensure that election should show how they speeding the process by which would achieve what they are trying things are achieved takes place as to do without causing an economic for example, most Government downfall. servants, take far too long in carrying out their duties. Is the reason why several It is therefore vital following the UNPers are ousted from General Election, to have time the party because of the targeted policies included in the support that they have National agenda and responsibilities extended to other parties? and duties should be kept moving at a faster rate which would result in A: Supporting a party or steps towards justice for the public candidate of is a complete free as people expect so much from both choice of any voter. But when it officials and public servants and so comes to the UNP, all those much can be done but all of these representing the party has are throttled and hindered by responsibility to adhere to the certain Government servants who provisions of the party constitution say they cannot do certain things and those who behaved in which can be achieved if looked into contravention to the constitution meticulously. were purged from the party. There have been certain Is the Samagi Jana allegations against you, Balawegaya or any other how would you, if elected party for that matter a to the Colombo District challenge to the UNP? rectify them? A: I do not believe that either SJB A: I believe most of these or any other party is a challenge to A12 sunday 2 august 2020 Interview Political Map of This Nation Could Change Irrevocably post-5 August – Anura Kumara Dissanayake

National People’s Power (NPP) Leader, to your camp? A: We believe the people would never introduced to the Constitution have Anura Kumara Dissanayake, in frank A: It is hardly a challenge for us. condone committing of acts of been based on the political aspirations conversation with our sister paper Everybody could see the measures that corruption, frauds, wastage, murder, of those in power at the time. Due to Mawbima are being taken by our camp to and all related vices. We always strive this reason the Constitution has been eliminate major illegal drug peddlers, to intervene to stop these acts from reduced to a veritable pickle. However, By Anuradha Herath contract killers, and fraudsters from being committed and change this we realise and acknowledge that this the Legislature. We are under no culture. We also represent the daily country badly needs to overhaul its illusions as to whom this threat is issues and needs of the masses. present Constitution. Now this We had seen previously applicable. Our threat is against However, similarly we are opposed to Government is demanding a two-thirds how the JVP had faced past fraudsters, those engaged in ultra nationalism. Some say that the majority to change the Constitution. elections. However, next corruption, and those who had robbed most popular form of politics is Therefore the Government must Wednesday’s Poll is going to public property etc. Therefore, those nationalism. Hence they think that the enlighten the people as to what be decisive. How crucial is who had engaged in such major vices JVP has failed to grasp the heartbeat of amendments they intend to introduce this Poll going to be for the are furious and they are now gunning the electorate. to the Constitution. Some are saying for our activists and members. In fact I that there is a simmering rift between NPP? am, as well as my party, are more than The JVP always stands both Gotabaya and Mahinda and both A: Yes, there are no two words about pleased to have become a target for opposed to nationalism. are looking to undercut each other after it; the looming Poll is going to be such political rivals. Nevertheless, we could see the Poll. Both of them have their issues extremely crucial for us. This is certain candidates carrying with regard to the present Constitution A common view that is because the outcome of last year’s out election propaganda and they both are looking to amend it to being expressed in society Presidential Poll proved to be a work to say that they seek suit each of them to be in power for as drawback for the NPP. Also after 5 is that JVP comrades such long as they want to. Both the elder and only Sinhala votes. Why August, the political map or the as Anura Dissanayaka, Sunil young sibling do not have the power to aren’t you publicly making landscape of this nation could be Handunnetti, and K.D. Lal carry out the process of appointment of any statement against such changed irrevocably. Hence any Kantha should remain in Judges and Justices to the High Court triumph gained by us will be vital for conduct? and the Supreme Court as per shaping up the future political course of Parliament and that a House A: In this country power could be provisions contained in Articles of the this country. Due to this reason we devoid of the JVP would be grabbed easily by using or playing the Constitution. were engaged in our polls campaign akin to a wedding sans a should be good. However, what have nationalism card. However, a nation aimed at achieving a tangible victory at bride. In addition, there are they displayed during these periods cannot be developed or ruled solely To bring about the 19th this Poll. various charges being levelled thus far? Usually during election times through it. Today this regime has been Amendment to the the price of essential items are reduced. cornered to that position. During the Constitution the JVP did the Although the upcoming against your camp. How do you respond? Nevertheless, this Government even past two-year period this genie called spadework. So what do you Poll could be really before the election was called raised the nationalism was taken out of the bottle. think should happen now? disadvantageous to your A: To all allegations both I myself and price of essential items. They had However, now they are struggling alliance, due to the impact my party have responded during the imposed taxes on all vital items for the desperately to put that genie back into A: Despite its shortcomings the 19th of COVID-19, wouldn’t the past five-year period. You too had people. Also in the lead up to elections, the bottle. They have now realized amendment to the Constitution has present political activities reported it. Also at most electronic the electricity bills are not increased though they had used nationalism to strengthened and solidified the media outlets we have responded. None but they tampered with it this time. capture power they are unable to play democratic process here. Now what of your party contribute in a of those charges had been levelled During an election period the Mayor of the same card to remain in power. We these people are demanding is the way to your own downfall? against us to our face. As I can recall Kurunegala MC should have been will continue to raise our voice against necessary power to remove that A: Taken overall the COVID-19 someone had alleged that there was a remanded on charges of demolition of nationalism. If you ask me whether it is democratic structure totally and the pandemic has affected negatively on house in Ireland belonging to one of our the ancient historic building site in the sufficient, I would say it may be authoritarian power that was evident in our election campaign. That is a fact. activists and when I confronted this District. However, that was not the case insufficient. 2015 to either sack or appoint Chief However, at all elections here what person he stood speechless before me. this time. They are saying publicly that Justices etc. In addition, the power to takes prominence is State and financial Our political rivals being unable to not a finger will be allowed to be laid on You represent the young appoint Auditor Generals and top power. We are unable to compete with make these fabricated charges against the Mayor. They are also now allowing generation. Especially due officers like that. They also seek to use those two aspects. When conducting us to our face are using their political Udayantha Weerathunga to also step to the COVID-19 pandemic this unprecedented power to hound our activities amidst the pandemic the power to sling mud at us. They also use onto the political stage. The people million of people have lost their political rivals. We urge this State and financial power affect us in a their media and financial power to could see it for themselves as to, in their jobs. There are scores regime to educate the people as to why big way. Anyhow we had launched our engage in this sordid exercise. We strive which direction this Government is who are suffering due to they intend to overhaul the present election campaign having truly to clear the air to the best of our ability heading. There are more examples unemployment. What is the Constitution. understood the situation of the and convince the electorate that these which we could mention. They hardly pandemic. Our activists had visited are nothing but canards and innuendos even reprimanded over solution you propose to this Also there is an allegation residences of the people at village and against us. Nevertheless, we must also his controversial remarks. They hardly segment of the society? that you refuse to clear the city level. They also held pocket not forget the fact that there are certain took action against Mahindananda A: During this COVID-19 crisis air regarding certain charges meetings. However, I must insist that segments in this society no matter what Aluthgamage over his remarks that nowhere have the employers felt the being directed against you? the pandemic will not influence the the truth is they always want to give ear certain Sri Lanka cricketers had fixed a pinch. The employers had always final result gained by the NPP at the to what they would like to listen to. This World Cup final. Hence we can see the attempted to maintain the profit pools A: I had previously claimed that coming Poll. What has seriously is the nature of this society and that, we coming colours of the SLPP. The future as they had done previously and to during the previous Mahinda affected the recent election results cannot change. is going to be bleak for all and sundry if transfer the impact of the crisis on their Rajapaksa regime that the entire city of gained by either the JVP or the NPP is the SLPP is returned to power. industries to the employees. There are Colombo was shut down to enable the the dismal view the people still tend to Taking the JVP vote-base into scores of institutions that had cut off offspring of the first family to engage in have regarding the political victories consideration, the JVP must No matter what your theory monthly salaries of the workforce as race car driving. No other country in the that we have achieved for this country, gain a 5 per cent from each is, the SLPP is heading for well as those who had been laid off from world had resorted to this type of the canards that are being spread by District. In certain surveys this Poll armed with 6.9 jobs. The Government took foolish conduct. Even the soldiers of the Army our political rivals against us etc. conducted, I couldn’t help million votes? decisions such as payment of the half of had been deployed for this task. I also Anyhow we are of the view that the NPP but notice that even in the salaries or providing a sum of Rs alleged that Namal Rajapaksa had would be able to record a sizeable A: We are of the view that all those 14,500. Hence it is clear that both the brought down motorcars through his victory at the impending Poll unlike Colombo District where you who are in the 6.9 million vote-base are employers and the Government had Carlton Sports Club for the racing during last year’s Presidential Election. contest, the JVP will struggle not traditionally Rajapaksa supporters worked in unison to aggravate the events. However, a certain journalist to get the said percentage. Do or backers. Having understood the suffering of the working class. Within queried me regarding 19 Lamborghinis. The PM has made a strong you mean to say that these political situation prevalent at the time, our trade union movements we are Nevertheless, I cannot remember allegation saying that Ranil, surveys are biased? around 1.5 million to 2 million votes carrying out the necessary struggles having referred to that many Sajith and you, represented sailed to that camp. The people longed and are conducting talks. We had also Lamborghinis. However, I can recall the same political camp. A: Yes, they are wholly partial to the for equal enforcement of the law to all. intervened even at village level. having mentioned about motorcars. I ruling alliance. At times of elections, However, it is clear they had broken also have the proof to my claims how How do you respond to this What was the reason for charge? there are various surveys being carried that promise. The people also hoped the these motorcars had been brought to out to suit the vested interests of present regime will dispense with the failure to publish an election the country sans any imposition of A: This is a baseless canard. Really certain politicians both in the MCC Pact, the retake over of the manifesto for the NPP? taxes. Do not have any doubts about it. speaking we were not in the same Government and the Opposition. For Hambantota Port and the stopping of A: We know that a manifesto or a At the time they had spent a sum of Rs. political camp. We are from the political example, before Mahinda Rajapaksa the sale of the Colombo Port East policy statement is needed towards the 93.3 million for bringing down the camp that is vehemently opposed to called the 2015 Presidential Poll, all Terminal etc. However, those hopes development of the country. The claims Lamborghinis. corruption and frauds. Both Mahinda surveys carried out had confirmed his have been dashed by now. The people made that fertiliser and a bag of Rajapaksa and Ranil Wickremesinghe victory. If this had not been the case thought those from the Viyath Maga nutrition would be given free of charge On one hand, there is are in the camp that condones then Mahinda would not have called would rule this country in conjunction are not policies. Those are merely strong criticism against the corruption, frauds, and all forms of that Poll two years before the with Gotabaya Rajapaksa. However, bribes that are given to the people at Government. On the other vices. They protect all those who engage completion of his term. Nevertheless, now it is daringly evident that those election time. The NPP has already put hand, when there is a split in such sinister acts. We are from the look what transpired in the end. The who had held Ministerial posts since forth a manifesto aimed at developing between the UNP and SJB, camp that strives to protect National final result on 8 January proved that 1994 would feature in the new SLPP this country. That was put forth during what would you like to tell resources. Mahinda, Ranil, and Sajith the so-called surveys conducted before Cabinet as well. A country with the lead up to last year’s Presidential are from the camp that seeks to sell our the Poll were all made up to suit discipline was anticipated by the Poll. I personally feel that during the the electorate just two days resources. Ranil sold the Hambantota Mahinda’s interests. The ongoing public. There was a spate of other past eight-month period that a massive ahead of the Poll? Port for a pittance. The present regime surveys are also an offshoot of that aspirations as well. Hence the issue of change of the political landscape has A: What I would like to tell them is has already planned to sell the East same process. These surveys are not 6.9 million vote-base was only valid in taken place here to warrant any radical not to consider Wednesday’s Poll as just Terminal of the Colombo Port. They are the reality on the ground. We the past and not for the present. changes to policies contained in that another election. This could be a all from the camp that has turned party acknowledge that there is a challenge manifesto. One thing though we need to turning point in the history of this politics into a profitable business. We for the NPP to increase its number of Are you confident that at focus after this Poll is how to revive the country. Most probably the period after are from the camp that treats party seats in the new Parliament. However, least a sizeable chunk from stagnant economy in the wake of the the Poll will not be conducive to the politics as a genuine public service. we also believe that during our political that vote-base would listen to COVID-19 pandemic. Our manifesto is public. Both, Ranil or Sajith will not be Hence you could see that the trio of journey we had overcome most of the the NPP rhetoric? not aimed at hoodwinking the able to tackle it. Already Sajith has Mahinda, Ranil, and Sajith are in the challenges foisted on us. electorate. been tied to the rope of the CCF camp that is opposed to us. This is also A: Yes, we are confident that a misappropriation of funds. Ranil has evident when those who had held Usually to pass judgment on sizeable lot is listening to our You have alleged that been tied to the rope of the CBSL Ministerial posts under Ranil are now a regime at least two years standpoint. First thing is that the unprecedented power could Treasury Bonds scam. If MPs were to be doing likewise under Mahinda. It should lapse. Hence is it Rajapaksa camp has been rattled and lead the way for unlimited sent to the House from both those two happens vice versa. justified for you to criticise they are rankled ahead of this Poll. The corruption. Nevertheless, the camps they will jump like toads to the challenge before us is how to turn them Rajapaksa faction to strengthen his Some super rich this regime during its short aspect of two-thirds majority term in office to date? into our voters and our activists. has come to the fore again. mitts. Hence even if the people don’t businesspersons are pumping give them the two-thirds at the election, in millions of rupees to A: Yes, it is wholly justified. The best The outlook tends to change The President is seeking a those in the Ranil-Sajith camps will prevent JVP MPs from being time to pass judgment on a from election to election. Are two-thirds power to amend ensure it to Mahinda. What we will be elected to Parliament. No Government, is the election period. you confident that the NPP the laws. Do you believe that tasked with is making our voice heard matter what you say, doesn’t Then it is the new period. Currently this had launched its ongoing it is a pressing need of the on behalf of the oppressed and this pumping in of money in regime is going through its new period polls campaign having clearly hour? victimised segments in the society. If as well as the election period. This understood the people’s people are ready to back us at this this manner to defeat your Government, if it had successfully A: The Constitution has to be election, then we will take that fight to members, present a challenge passed these two periods, then it needs and their goals etc? amended. Most of the amendments Parliament. interview sunday 2 august 2020 A13

being a political tool used by several other Tamil political parties. How will We want the North you resolve this issue? A: We have been highlighting this problem all the time and even spoke about it in Geneva in 2015 and have done so at every session since. We and East merged see the need to address this issue and we worked on the four pillars of peace-building and also established the Office of the Missing Persons – Sivagnanam Sritharan with the former Government. We jointly worked with the former Government and we can reiterate their aspirations and in the process people there and President that we will continue to work on it lost thousands of lives. Now we are Gotabaya Rajapaksa after the poll win. Justice to those not talking about that kind of a reiterated that he will people must be met and we will struggle, but want the Government carry out development return to voice on these setbacks. to understand that there is a need for a political solution for the throughout the country The TNA has been pivotal and will not neglect the in advocating women’s By Sulochana Ramiah Mohan Sajith Premadasa at the Tamils. The wanting of a meaningful last Presidential Election. devolution of power within a united North and East. Do you find representation in politics undivided country where the Tamils his statement a welcoming but it seems only two or Former TNA MP Sivagnanam Do you think those votes could live with self-respect, dignity, will be acquired by the sign? three women have been Sritharan is contesting the General and also enable them to determine nominated to contest at Election from Jaffna. This is the TNA? and find answers to the problems A: Development doesn’t mean third time he is representing the A: Yes, those votes will come to the faced in their localities. We also building houses, providing reliefs the General Election. Why TNA. TNA as we decided to endorse him wanted to merge the North and East. and giving handouts to convince is that? Following are excerpts: then. We have been quiet and intelligently people to vote. In the North and A: We have one candidate in moving towards our goals and the East, there are so many industries Jaffna and one in the Vanni. We see Is there any reason why How sure are you that you Government should be ready to face that have closed down and defunct. that the women are not willing to Tamil political parties in will enter Parliament? this scenario sooner or later. They We have factories for glass, tiles, take up the challenge. We wanted the North carry negative A: I am sure and have no second will be forced to work on these lines paper, clay, chemicals and many more women to come forward, but propaganda and want to thought about it. and go for a referendum of the new other industries that need to be we see there aren’t many coming Constitution and to know what the revived soon. We also need to get all forward. To come forward they also defeat the TNA in the What is your take on the polls? people of the North and East want. the basics amenities for the people. should show a keen interest in allegation that the TNA had This political pressure on the New roads and railways should be serving the community and also A: The TNA is strong and the jointly worked with the Government will continue and we built too. But before all that, we have the passion to serve people in Government has this military- Yahapalanaya Government will not back out from it too. But if need a political solution and the whatever manner. Those who are backed governance to reduce the and that the Government they don’t, then we will want merging of the North and the East. doing those activities are most strength of the TNA. They have and TNA had not attended international intervention to sort out We cannot reject these welcome. It’s not about coming advocated many independent group this burning issue. fundamentals before development. forward and just giving their names. and others to spread negative news to the needs of the Tamil We don’t see the need for We have selected only two this time about us. They have been funding people? Tamizh Makkal development without a solution for around. those groups to work against the A: We worked with them to come Thesiya Kootani led the Tamils concerning their safety TNA. We know that these up and to a political settlement for the Tamil by C. V. Wigneswaran and security, land ownership and Can you tell us three of coming political parties and people and also to boss the Northern and Tamil National being free from step-motherly the promises that you have independent groups were brought economy. We were straightforward People’s Front (TNPF) treatment. We need to come out of it made to your people and against us. with them on our agenda and have led by Gajendrakumar fully before talking about the rest of will strive to implement worked to a certain extent that was the needs. So in our view, a political after the polls? How is election satisfactory. Ponnambalam are solution is priority and then comes campaigning in the North speculated to be a the development and boosting of the A: As we have been saying all the and East? The TNA wants a solution challenge for TNA. Do you economy and we can work together time, A) We will fight for a A: Compared to the last poll, we based on a federal system agree? as brothers and sisters in a united permanent solution for the national see much enthusiasm and this time which southern politicians A: We don’t see any political threat Sri Lanka. problem and work on merging of the many would go out to vote. TNA will don’t agree with. How can from Wigneswaran as many know he North and the East, B) Economic On the missing persons get about 21 seats or no less than you promise this solution is a misfit in politics. Also, development and the strategies that and the victims’ families, 18 seats. We reckon we will gain to the Tamils when it Ponnambalam was rejected by the we have tabled to the people will be about seven seats in Jaffna, six in people and he will be rejected this continuous protests in the implemented and is being rejected by the the Vanni, five in Batticaloa, two in time too. Northern Province accuse C) Work on the release of Tamil Trincomalee and one in Ampara, majority? political prisoners who are detained There is need for the TNA of not stepping up plus one bonus seat. A: The Tamils took up the struggle to find a solution and also under the Prevention of Terrorism and then continued with an armed development in the North Act and work on the implementation Tamils mostly voted for struggle to fight for their land and to uplift the lives of the they have been accused of of the Geneva resolution. A14 SUNDAY 2 AUGUST 2020 FOCUS Is the Easter Attacks Mastermind Still At Large? PCoI uncovers further evidence of failure to act, from top to bottom

BY BUDDHIKA SAMARAWEERA

It is hard for us to forget the events It is now widely of the Easter Sunday of 2019, when a series of suicide attacks on churches agreed that former and hotels nearly plunged Sri Lanka back into the state of chaos that President prevailed during the 30-year civil war; Maithripala and we have all been told that the mastermind behind the attacks, Sirisena and Prime Zaharan Hashim, died in one of those horrific explosions. Minister Ranil However, the Presidential Wickremesinghe Commission of Inquiry (PCoI) into the Easter attacks came across a failed to address shocking revelation – Zaharan, who issues pertaining to had been the leader of the National Thowheed Jama’at (NTJ), may not national security have been the orchestrator of the bombings after all. during their Former State Intelligence Service tenures. Affirming (SIS) Director, Senior DIG Nilantha manner,” he added. men present, including Razik and daughter’s name had been changed to Jayawardena, in his testimony to the When Commissioners questioned another woman. When I was talking Sarah Jasmine after the marriage. this, former PCoI, pointed to Zaharan’s mentor, the relationship he maintained with to Pulasthini, Razik and other two PCoI members further questioned Secretary to the Mawfar Moulavi, as the true hand Sirisena, SDIG Jayawardena said that men there were listening,” she added. Kavitha about the recently-revealed behind the bombings. He explained there was no reason for a State official After speaking with her daughter, fact that Pulasthini was not killed in President, P.B. that Moulavi, having lived in Qatar for not to maintain a cordial relationship she proceeded to file a complaint at the explosion that took place at the Abeykoon, testifying several years, had cultivated various with the nation’s President. The the Maligawatte Police Station. “When house in Sainthamaruthu on 26 April before the PCoI on 24 foreign links, and inspired Zaharan’s Commission then asked him about Abdul Razik came to the Police 2019. In response, she said that she extremist ideology, similar to how his relationship with Wickremesinghe, Station with Pulasthini, the officers only came to know about the matter July, said Sirisena, Anton Balasingham fuelled the fires to which he replied he had shared told me to take her home for 15 days. through the media, as she had Wickremesinghe and among those connected to the LTTE in several reports with Wickremesinghe They said that I could keep her with neither seen nor spoken to her his time. through former Minister of Law and me if she wanted to follow the Hindu daughter since February 2019. She all others concerned SDIG Jayawardena went on to state Order, Sagala Ratnayake. religion, and if not, she should be also requested that the security forces had agreed to hold that Zaharan had been identified as a Rotten at the top handed over to Razik after that collect another DNA sample from her terrorist even before they received period. The Police officers also warned for testing against the remains found the NSC meetings foreign intelligence on 04 April 2019 It is now widely agreed that former me that I would be arrested if I didn’t at the site. only once a month regarding the possibility of the NTJ President Maithripala Sirisena and do so,” she said. from 2015-2017, launching a terrorist attack. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe The Commission then asked Symphony of failure “I had also discussed the matter of failed to address issues pertaining to Kavitha if she had explained to the Meanwhile, a senior Air Force whereas the meeting Zaharan at the National Security national security during their tenures. Police that a mother had the right to official, in his testimony, said that was supposed to be Council (NSC) meetings from January Affirming this, former Secretary to her child, regardless of religion. She since 2014, Air Force intelligence 2019,” he said, noting that he had the President, P.B. Abeykoon, answered that she had tried, only to officers had on several occasions held on a weekly requested at the NSC that a special testifying before the PCoI on 24 July, be told by Police officers that her given the SIS information on Islamic basis team be appointed to apprehend said Sirisena, Wickremesinghe and all daughter was over 18 years old, and extremists and their activities. Zaharan. others concerned had agreed to hold so had the right to make her own He also said that in May 2017, they “Had the investigation units closely the NSC meetings only once a month decisions. had taken steps to provide the SIS the arrest of Mohideen at that time, monitored Zaharan and his activities, from 2015-2017, whereas the meeting The witness further stated that and Terrorism Investigation Division he said that a Chief Inspector of Police considering the intelligence was supposed to be held on a weekly Pulasthini was later taken to her (TID) with information on several (CI) of the SIS had called and information provided by the SIS, basis. home in the Mankadu area, until on Facebook accounts that were informed him about this, while SIS Zaharan could have been arrested He also said that following this 24 September 2015, Pulasthini was observed to be operating in a officials had notified him that prior to the Easter bombings,” he decision for monthly meetings, no again taken away by Razik. “The next pro-Islamic State manner. Mohideen had links with Zaharan. added. “I knew that Zaharan was not specific date had been set for the day, I went to Maligawatte with my The Criminal Investigations “It was reported that Mohideen was an extremist, but a terrorist.” subsequent NSC meeting. The brother, aunt and son, where I Department (CID) also came under staying in a makeshift house on a When a stock of explosives was meetings were subsequently held on a learned that Razik had got my fire from recent allegations that they land near the beach in Pasikudah. So, discovered in the Wanathavilluwa monthly basis afterwards, although daughter married to Hastun,” she had failed to apprehend Army we went to that house. There was a area in January 2019, he had there were a few occasions where the said. Mohideen, a key member of the NTJ, retired elderly couple. They told us informed the investigation units that meetings were not held. However, she said, they did not despite the SIS providing the CID with that Mohideen was staying in that it was the initial stage of Zaharan’s The witness said that Sirisena may show her any evidence that the information on his whereabouts. house, and Mohideen returned home terrorist activities. have felt it appropriate to postpone marriage had taken place, and Retired Inspector of Police (IP), Dias about an hour later,” he recounted. However, he noted, since the the NSC meetings, as there had been informed the Maligawatte Police of Padmasiri, who headed the CID team Although he had questioned previous Government was led by two no apparent threat to National this. However, they had told her there investigating Mohideen, confirmed Mohideen based on information major political parties, the SIS had to Security – although the very purpose was nothing they could do, as both these allegations and admitted he had provided by the SIS, he said nothing maintain middle ground between the of these meetings was to discuss the Pulasthini and Hastun were over the acted in a manner that was against suspicious was found on the land and two when sharing intelligence emergence of, and prevent, such age of 18, adding that she learned her the law, when he was questioned therefore the suspect was not information. “Former President threats. about this by the PCoI on 23 July arrested, Padmasiri said. Sirisena and Prime Minister 2020. He added that Mohideen had even Wickremesinghe were two powerful Fumbles by the Police He revealed that on 07 March 2019, agreed to gather information about politicians from two major political Sadly, the curse of oversight was on the instructions of ASP Zaharan and hand it over to the CID. parties in the country. Because of not limited to the country’s top Wickramasekara, he and a team “We gave him the contact number of that, we were compelled to share officials; security forces across the consisting of Police Sergeants Sergeant Nandalal, as well as my own, intelligence information in such a board, especially the Police, had failed Nandalal and Wijeratne, as well as to call when needed, but I do not to take relevant action to prevent or at Police Constable Dissanayake, had remember him giving any information least deliver justice for the tragic loss left for Pasikudah to search for about Zaharan,” he said. of over 250 lives that day, despite Mohideen. Following his instructions He claimed to have not held obtaining all information regarding to contact SIS officials in the Mohideen for further questioning due When the witness those involved in the attacks. Pasikudah area, he was briefed that to a lack of evidence. The PCoI The questions of whether the Police Mohideen was training teams on a Chairman then asked whether he reiterated that and other law enforcement agencies plot of land in the Pasikudah area, would accept that the non-execution sufficient evidence are really working towards bringing and that weapons had been of a warrant issued by a Magistrate justice to the victims of that day were stockpiled on the plot. Court was against the law, to which was essential to raised again when Rajaratnam Asked if the SIS had informed him Padmasiri stated he only now arrest a suspect, a Kavitha, the mother of Pulastini that a warrant had been issued for understand this. Mahendran, alias Sarah Jasmine, Asked whether he had informed member of the PCoI testified before the Commission ASP Wickramasekara – who had asked whether the recently. instructed him to investigate She said that in 2015, while Mohideen – that he planned to use witness would she had been working in Mohideen as an informant, he said he admit that the Abu Dhabi, she received a had informed the ASP orally in this call from her own regard. When asked if the Kattankudy country had lost mother, who told her Police Station had at least been nearly 300 that her daughter inquired about the warrant issued for Pulasthini had gone the arrest of Mohideen, he said that innocent lives missing after attending a such an inquiry could not be because they had tuition class in Kalmunai. conducted, as he had been busy with Kavitha told her mother ongoing investigations. remained silent to lodge a Police When the witness reiterated that until all the complaint, which was sufficient evidence was essential to then filed with the arrest a suspect, a member of the evidence was Kalawanchikudi Police PCoI asked whether the witness available. The Station. would admit that the country had lost On the same day, nearly 300 innocent lives because Commission however, General they had remained silent until all the member pressed Secretary of the Sri evidence was available. The Lanka Thowheed Commission member pressed on, on, asking if the Jama’at (SLTJ), asking if the Easter attacks could Easter attacks Abdul Razik, have been mitigated to some extent if telephoned he had apprehended Mohideen that could have been Kavitha’s brother, day, to which Padmasiri had nothing informing him that to say. mitigated to some Pulasthini was in their A Commission member also asked extent if he had custody and that would him why he decided to retire be sent back in about a prematurely, to which he replied that apprehended week. he had got another job. However, the Mohideen that day, “Later, I came to Sri Lanka and went Commission observed that retiring to Razik’s office in Maligawatte. At from the Police Department before the to which Padmasiri that time, Pulasthini was dressed like due date, after more than 30 years in had nothing to say a Muslim woman. There were three Zaharan Hashim service, raised concerns. sports sunday 2 august 2020 A15 Billings steers England to comfortable win Sam Billings struck a career-best He put on 66 for the eighth wicket unbeaten 67 as England overcame a with Andy McBrine (40) to give mini-wobble to claim an emphatic Ireland something to defend. six-wicket victory over Ireland in a Jason Roy (24) and James Vince Cricket World Cup Super League (25) both got starts for England in One-Day International on Thursday. their reply and there was a murmur After being sent into bat, Ireland of excitement in the visiting camp slipped to 28 for five in a horror when they had their hosts 78 for start, but recovered to post 172 all four. out in a first competitive game for But the experience of Morgan and four months for many players in clean-hitting of Billings, who struck their side. 11 fours, took the game away from 40 students World champions England scored the Irish, who will look for at a good rate in reply, but lost four improvement in the second match of wickets inside the opening 14 overs three at the same venue on to give the visitors a sniff of victory. Saturday. awarded Black Belts But Billings and captain Eoin The Super League will be used to Morgan (36 not out), a former determine the eight qualified teams Shotokan Ryu Karate Nissei kai University was the Chief Guest of Ireland international, put on 96 for for the next World Cup in India in Association of Sri Lanka presented Honour and presented the the fifth wicket to secure victory 2023. 22 students with the International International Black Belt Degree with 22.1 overs to spare. England’s Sam Billings in action Black Belt Karate Degree and 18 Awards. England were without a number of Brief scores: Ireland 172 in 44.4 students with the National Karate Shiran Crusepulle, the founder of regulars who are preparing for the bowling. overs (Curtis Campher 59*; David Black Belt Degrees at the Karate HEADWAY Educational Centre, was Test series against Pakistan next The visitors’ innings was rescued Willey 5-30, Saqib Mahmood 2-36) Degree Awards ceremony held on 26 the Special Guest of Honour, and week, but returning seamer David by South African-born all-rounder lost to England 174/4 in 27.5 overs July at Nisse Kai Dojo in Negombo. along with President of the Willey had Ireland in early trouble Curtis Campher, 21, who was (Sam Billings 67*, Eoin Morgan 36*; Senior Lecturer Anoma Shotokan Ryu Karate Nissei kai as he picked up career-best figures unbeaten on 59 on debut to go with Craig Young 2-56) by six wickets. Rathnayake from the Department of Association Mervin Fernandopulle of 5-30 in a fine display of swing 1-26 with the ball. (Reuters) Sports Science and Physical and the chief instructor Gihan Soba Education, Faculty of Social Subasinghe, presented the National Sciences from the Kelaniya Karate Black Belt Degree Awards. Rugby scrapbook SLR Governance – CEO and Council Moneragala District Cricket Coaches Association Wasantha Jayawardene By Vimal Perera confirmed there had been The members that take office - some discussions. Sources close to the SLR old and some new faces - must take In 1995, England rugby player Will head office at Torrington explained into account the duty of a committee elected President Carling commented: ‘You do not need that the new management wants to (Council) which includes: 57 old fa--s running rugby’ as part of get into business from day one of • A Duty of Care. Each council Wasantha K. Jayawardene was Secretary: J. M. Nilantha Prasad his criticism of the Rugby Football taking office. Cash strapped SLR has member has a legal responsibility to elected President of the Moneragala Jayasinghe Union’s (RFU) approach to offered the CEO six months pay to participate actively in making District Cricket Coaches Association at Treasurer: K.M. Sujeewa Tharanga professionalism. relinquish office. There are decisions on behalf of SLRugby and to their inaugural Annual General Meeting Vice President: Kasun Madhuranga Two decades later, the debate speculations on reasons for asking the exercise his or her best judgment (AGM) held at Victory Inn Moneragala de Silva continues on the structures of the CEO to pave the way for their choice while doing so. recently. More than 25 coaches from the Vice President: R. M. Rathnapala RFU concerning the lack of to take office - Gunaratne style of • They have Duty of Loyalty. Each Moneragala District attended the Organiser: Roshan Manamperi representation within the decision working irked many. member must put the interests of the meeting. Executive Committee: making and governance. Despite the An undeniable fact is that he was of SRL before their personal and Sarath Kuruppuarachchi, Sandun UN convention on child rights, the thorough with laws and regulations professional interest when acting on Office Bearers: Samarawickrama, Lalith Nissanka, K. progress on accepting diversity is low. concerning the game. Whether it be behalf of the SLR. The needs of SLR Patron: W. M. N. Bandara (Secretary, Chandrakumar, Roshantha Ruwan Studies suggest four core elements Sports-Related laws of the country, should come first. Moneragala District Cricket Association) Senanayake, N.T.T.G. Dilshan for such influence to actualize: space, Asian Rugby guidelines, World Rugby, • Duty of Obedience. Members President: M.P.P. Wasantha K. Madhuranga voice, audience and influence. For Tournament Rules or laws of the bear the legal responsibility of Jayawardene (IR) young people to effectively engage in game, those were at his fingertips. ensuring that SLR complies with the decision-making, it is important to The question is, how did things turn applicable Olympic Federation, World have space or forum where they are sour for Gunaratne? Is he solely to be Rugby and Local laws and adheres to able to discuss their views and blamed? The CEO reported to the its mission. opinions freely. Here, young people Board, or what we call the Council. • The Council is responsible for should be given a ‘voice’, meaning The new administration needs a the selection of a Chief Executive they are afforded the opportunity to CEO to take forward the vision, Officer. The Council has to review the express perspectives and opinions; mission and strategies. It cannot point performance of the Executive Director which is a human right for all people, the finger at a former or next CEO if, on an annual basis. not just children and young people by action and custom, the CEO is In social organizations such as (Universal Declaration on Human allowed to have his way and/or use Rotary, Lions, Toastmasters etc. there Rights 1948). A young person’s voice his services to kill or massage as is always an induction programme for is meaningless if it is not heard by the required. its office bearers conducted annually. decision-makers and those with The media pointed out that the It may be worthwhile for the proposed power, meaning the appropriate accounting and/or disclosure of a fine Rugby Foundation to start a similar ‘audience’ is required (Lundy 2007). by World Rugby was not following education session for office bearers at The incoming Council has accepted good practice; it was a question of how all levels, including the Provinces, the need for constitutional change, to find and interpret the code of clubs and schools. Such a programme and discussions continue to recognise conduct to kill the messenger. will help improve governance; the the so-called founder ‘A’ division Contrary to norms, one member need to understand the SLR clubs. While embarking on changes, carried out the inquiry while the other constitution, the Sports Law and will the SLR look at the recognition of two signed the report. These two are World Rugby and where governance the younger population in rugby? still hanging around while the need is stems from. Schools are already in the system. to discipline them. In this and similar The Olympic Charter (International The importance requires building a occasions did all members of the time Olympic Committee 2013) is the relationship and not the use of read the full report? Did they approve constitutional charter for the world technical clauses to control. It was the or remove sanctions based on a sports community. It is logical to control that created the conflict. The narrated summary? accept that since rugby is an Olympic next possibility is the promotion of Having given enough rope without sport, its requirements on the Coaches and Player Associations and checking the component material, I governance of the International representatives being given a voice in believe, led to the situation faced on Federations (IF) cover World rugby the Council. The player association issues relating to payment of and through it Sri Lanka Rugby. can be encouraged to be the voice and subscription by Provinces. Was it also At the national level, the sport management of players, including the responsibility of Council Members governing bodies in each country are transfers and payments. - particularly the Treasurers - who subordinate to their respective IF, and For anything to be possible, there is have been in office to monitor and the most concrete expression of this is a need for better governance, instil checks and balances to review the requirement for their statutes to transparency and acceptance, which and report? It is not merely the be compatible with those of the IF. For requires greater involvement of subscription that is required, but also this reason, the sport governing Council Members, as well as a requires other supporting information bodies should develop their sports in pathway for higher office, and not be such as audited accounts. their territorial jurisdiction and sitting fossils. There is nothing to wonder if the ensure implementation of the rules A clear lack of involvement is CEO gets the better of the Council and regulations of the IF. A good observed from vibes emanating from when he has to check on the example of good governance by the the headquarters of Sri Lanka Rugby. supposed to be independent members IOC was the creation of the IOC 2000 The Council in waiting has advised who claim organisation or Commission. the Chief Executive Officer that they tournaments run by others, as well as The creation of the World Anti- will not need his services. The issue members who produce documents, Doping Agency (WADA) in 1999 was was discussed by members who are whose authenticity is in question. an example of good sport governance. currently in the chamber following Given the current concepts of The role and legitimacy of governing proper protocol. governance, every member of the organisations depend on continuing The President of the Western Council and/or Board has a and widespread confidence in their Province and nominated Deputy responsibility and cannot shy away institutional structures, governance President and current Vice President from saying that is the job of the arrangements, rules and dispute of SLR Nazeem Mohammed, Treasurer or the CEO. mechanisms. A16 sunday 2 august 2020 SPORTS Blueprint for LPL to be Finalised on 4 August – Silva Special charter flight to Four sponsors Tournament to bring down foreign players in contention for go ahead with or if required - Silva main title without spectators

By Anjana Kaluarachchi ahead with the tournament had a set back Sri Lanka first hosted their first-ever with the Government’s decision to further franchise-based T20 league in 2012, the Sri Sri Lanka’s highly anticipated franchise- delay the scheduled opening of the airport, Lanka Premier League (SLPL), but the based T20 league, Lanka Premier League which was set for 1 August. tournament did not continue. SLC said they (LPL), has now received official approval by President Shammi Silva stated there are have learned from that edition and is now the SLC Executive Committee and the Sri about 75-100 foreign players interested in geared to provide a better tournament. Lanka Government and is all set to get under participating in the tournament, and if It’s also learnt that former Indian all- way from 28 August to 11 September at four necessary, SLC will not hesitate to charter a rounder Irfan Pathan and stadiums with the participation of five teams. special flight to bring down these players. LPL opener Martin Guptill are among the players Even though there are only limited details will feature 23 games to be played at R. interested, which is bound to attract a section about franchise owners, player auction, Premadasa Stadium, Sooriyawewa, Pallekele of the Indian audience. sponsors or title sponsors, SLC President and . The action will move from Domestic premier clubs have been Shammi Silva stated they have more than venue to venue as the tournament progresses, requested to name two players per club for the enough interested parties, and the blueprint rather than be played in various venues league, while 80 cricketers contracted with of the tournament will be finalised by Tuesday within the space of a few days as is the case in SLC will make it a quality pool of players. (4). almost all other leading franchise-based T20s LPL will clash with another top league – the According to Silva, there are four contenders tournament. (CPL 2020) – set to to be the main sponsor of the tournament. The five teams are Colombo, Galle, Jaffna, start next month in Trinidad. The CPL 2020 The title sponsor will also get the opportunity Dambulla, and Kandy, but none of these will begin on 18 August with the final of handling the five franchises’ and their teams will have a base venue, nor will they scheduled for 10 September. SLC has not sponsors. play most of their games in the city they are issued no objection certificates for SL players Meanwhile, SLC’s ambitious plan to go named after. to take part in that tournament.

Vantage powers Inaugural FFSL President’s

Harshana Sachini Ranasinghe Minul Sanjula Niklesha Tharushi Sayuni Gihansa Chinthaka Ranindu Liyanage Cup 2020 Thilakarathne Doluweera Jayaweera Anuruddha

Isuru Alahakoon Devnethmi Ashvini LMST de Silva Nethmi Fernando Ransith Fernando RS Kalugampitiya Dahampriya Pavalachandran FIDE Online Chess Olympiad 2020 National Chess Team to participate FIDE, the World Chess juniors (one male and one female Harshana Thilakarathne YMCA CC), Ranindu Dilshan Federation, has decided to hold under-20) will comprise the (Captain - Maliyadeva College Liyanage (Ananda College By Mustaq Sydeen an online Chess Olympiad this team. A country may include the Kurunegala), Isuru Alahakoon Colombo), Nethmi Fernando year to be held from 4 to 25 same number of reserves as well. (Sri Lanka Navy), Devnethmi (Girls High School Kandy), In a bid to rekindle the spirit of football in Sri August. The Sports organisation The event will be in five stages. Dahampriya (Visakha Vidyalaya Sachini Ranasinghe (NF3 Chess Lanka, Vantage has stepped forward which has the maximum number Sri Lanka is in the third stage Colombo), Ashvini Club), Minul Sanjula Doluweera to sponsor the Inaugural FFSL President’s Cup 2020, of member countries next to IOC, because of the country’s ranking Pavalchandran (Wycherly (Royal College Colombo), which is scheduled to kick start from 9 August is expecting at least 180 and will commence their International School Colombo), Niklesha Tharushi (Visakha behind closed doors. countries to participate in the campaign on 4 August. Lasal de Silva (Nalanda College Vidyalaya Colombo), Ransith Vantage, a leading fashion brand of Ebony event. The National Selection Colombo), Sayuni Gihansa Fernando has been appointed as Holdings (Pvt.) Ltd., is a top sports promoter and A new format will be Committee has selected the Jayaweera (Dharmasoka College the Manager and Rajendra main sponsor of the Sri Lanka’s oldest Football introduced for the event. Two following team to participate in Ambalangoda), Kalugampitiya as the Coach of League, the ‘FA Cup’, for the last couple of years. males, two females, and two this most prestigious event: Chinthaka Anuruddha (Kandy the team. (IR) Ebony Holdings is one of Sri Lanka’s premier clothing suppliers and boasts a comprehensive distribution network spanning across the island. The brand’s commitment to quality and exceptional service has earned a higher scale of reputation from its ever growing, loyal customer base. The inaugural invitational tournament is organised F1 driver Perez to miss British GP by Football Federation of Sri Lanka (FFSL), with FFSL offering financial support to all Tests positive for COVID-19 in re-test participating 20 teams to cover their preparation, participation and travelling Mexican Formula One driver Sergio Perez will costs to reach Colombo for matches. miss Sunday’s British Grand Prix after testing 20 teams divided into 5 groups will positive for COVID-19, his Racing Point team compete for supremacy at the Race said on Thursday. Course and Sugathadasa Stadium, The Canadian-owned outfit said the where each team will have three 30-year-old, who is the first driver to test matches at the group stage before they positive since the pandemic-hit season head into the quarter-finals. All 20 started this month, was ‘physically well and in participating teams were chosen based good spirits.’ on their performance at the last They said they planned to replace him for edition of the Dialog Champions the race at Silverstone. League. With Britain extending the virus isolation Although lower division period to 10 days from seven on competitions and the FA Cup were Thursday, Perez also looks set to miss the played during the last two years, the 70th Anniversary Grand Prix – race five – at most awaited Major League Football the same circuit on the following weekend. returning to Sri Lanka is an opportunity Racing Point share reserves with engine for all participating clubs to showcase supplier Mercedes, who have Belgian Stoffel their skills, as they had no proper Vandoorne and Mexican Esteban Gutierrez in tournament in the last two years due to those roles. various reasons, including the Easter Both are experienced former F1 race drivers, Sunday attacks followed by torrential but Gutierrez would be the driver on call since relevant public health authorities, and will containment of an incident that will have no rain in the latter part of 2019 and then Vandoorne is preparing for the final races of continue to follow the procedure mandated wider impact on this weekend’s event,” the the present pandemic. the stalled all-electric Formula E season in by those authorities.” sport said. However, FFSL will also have the Berlin. Formula One Chairman Chase Carey said opportunity of scouting for young talented Racing Point could, however, call up another No wider impact before the start of the season that the sport players when they represent their clubs at driver of their choice with Germany’s Nico Mexico has been hard hit by the virus, would not cancel a race even if a driver tested this tournament, and who are waiting for Hulkenberg – who raced for Renault last season with the fourth highest number of fatalities positive. an opportunity to showcase their talent at – one such possibility. in the world, but a Racing Point spokesman “We encourage teams to have procedures in competition level. A decision will have to be made before said Perez had not been back to his country place so if an individual has to be put in Teams and Groups: practice starts on Friday. since he last raced in Hungary on 19 July. quarantine, we have the ability to quarantine Group A - Blue Star SC, Up Country Perez, who is sixth in the championship, Formula One has started its delayed them at a hotel and to replace that individual,” Lions SC, Java Lane SC, Moragasmulla SC and a small group of teammates who had season without spectators and under he said then. Group B - Renown SC, Matara City come into contact with him, had already carefully controlled conditions, with teams The original season-opener in Melbourne in Club, New Youngs FC, New Star SC gone into self-isolation after an initial test operating in bubbles and all employees and March was cancelled after a McLaren employee Group C - Defenders FC, Red Stars came back as inconclusive. those with access to the paddock tested tested positive before the track action had FC, Saunders SC, Super Sun SC “The FIA and Formula One can now every five days. started. Group D - Sea Hawks FC, confirm that the result of his re-test is The sport had reported only two positive Racing Point have been in the headlines on Ratnam SC, SL Police SC, Serendib positive,” Formula One and the results, neither involving people who track as well this season, with their pink car a SC governing body said in a joint attended races, from more than 15,000 tests lookalike of last year’s title-winning Mercedes Group E - Colombo FC, Blue statement. carried out from 26 June to 23 July. and subject to an ongoing protest by Renault. Eagles SC, Crystal Palace FC, “Perez has entered self-quarantine in “The procedures set out by the FIA and The team are fourth, just one point behind SLTB SC accordance with the instructions of the Formula One have provided for swift McLaren. (Reuters)

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