www.themorning.lk epaper.themorning.lk www.themorning.lk epaper.themorning.lk www.aruna.lk epaper.aruna.lk www.aruna.lk epaper.aruna.lk MONDAY, AUGUST 03, 2020

For verified information on the Quarantine Unit COVID-19 TOTAL CASES TOTAL CASES coronavirus (Covid-19) contact any 0112 112 705 ACTIVE CASES of the following authorities CASES IN Epidemiology Unit Health THE WORLD 18,095,335 Suwasariya 0112 695 112 PROTECT YOURSELF FROM 2,817 Promotion Ambulance DEATHS CASES DEATHS Bureau Service Govt. coronavirus hotline USA 4,778,150 158,039 COVID-19 DEATHS RECOVERED 1999 1990 0113071073 690,020 BRAZIL 2,708,876 93,616 INDIA 1,780,268 37,690 PRESIDENTIAL SPECIAL TASK FORCE FOR ESSENTIAL SERVICES RECOVERD RUSSIA 850,870 14,128 11 2,514 Telephone 0114354854, 0114733600 Fax 0112333066, 0114354882 Hotline 0113456200-4 Email [email protected] 11,374,573 S. AFRICA 503,290 8,153 THE ABOVE STATISTICS292 ARE CONFIRMED UP UNTIL 9.30 P.M. ON 02 AUGUST 2020 SOURCE: HEALTH PROMOTION BUREAU No decision on reopening airport for foreigners A decision to reopen the country’s Airport and Aviation Services Earlier, the Government was from 1 August to boost the country’s the possibilities to restart the recommence from 8 August and one airports for foreigners has not yet been (Sri Lanka) Ltd. (AASL) Chairman planning to reopen the Bandaranaike tourism industry following the Covid- repatriation of Sri Lankans from flight per day is to land at BIA, The made by the Government despite the Maj. Gen. G.A. Chandrasiri said the International Airport (BIA) in Colombo 19 pandemic. mid-August. Morning learnt. About 700 Sri Lankans earlier date set for the first week of Government had not yet decided when and Mattala International Airport As learnt by The Morning, As per unofficial information, will be brought back to the country. August, The Morning learnt. it should reopen the airports. (MIA) in Hambantota for operations the Government was weighing the repatriation programme is to Contd. on page 2 ECONOMY RETURNING TO NORMALCY PCR TESTING FOR COVID-19 Scientific Export revenue increase in tests recommended The Sri Lanka Medical tests is low and that it should be Association (SLMA) yesterday increased, the increase of the number (2) said the number of PCR tests of PCR tests conducted should not currently conducted by the health be based on people’s opinions. authorities is sufficient for the “There are a number of on theSpeaking to The Morningrise, Export this year is recorded at $ 1,060 million. 587 million and $ 1,020 million, situation as the country’s test factors that need to be taken into BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA Development Board (EDB) Chief The export revenue of the same respectively. positivity rate is still low. consideration when increasing the In the backdrop of the economic turmoil Prabhash Subasinghe said the sector period last year was $ 999 million. “We’re very thankful to our SLMA President Prof. Indika number of tests,” he said, adding associated with Covid-19, the country’s experienced a month-on-month In April, the export revenue was $ exporters for being resilient. The Karunathilake told The Morning that the tests should be increased export revenue has increased after an positive increase since April. 310 million. sectors that are doing well are food that even though many people in Sri in a scientific way. all-time drop experienced in April. According to statistics, the country’s Export revenue for the months and beverage and agricultural sectors, Lanka say that the number of PCR Contd. on page 2 export revenue for the month of July of May and June this year were $ such as tea and coconut,” he said. Will work All smiles! Surveillance beefed to eradicate up in several prisons BY SARAH HANNAN The Morning, revealed: “Recent incidents of various groups poverty: The recent incidents of outside attempting to pass narcotics and entities attempting to smuggle mobile SIM cards and accessories narcotics and mobile SIM cards have been observed in prison President has prompted the Department of institutions that are located adjacent to President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has Prisons to beef up their perimeter shanties. We have now strengthened guaranteed that his quest to eradicate poverty surveillances. the surveillance in these prisons at will not be abandoned. Commissioner General of Prisons possible vulnerable points.” Speaking at a public gathering Thushara Upuldeniya, speaking to Contd. on page 2 in Badulla on Saturday (1), he noted that despite job opportunities for some in 2020 GENERAL ELECTION the past, the poor were left behind, the President’s Media Division President (PMD) said. Expired driver’s Gotabaya Contd. on Rajapaksa page 2 KALUTARA PRISON license accepted The Election Commission (EC) six months, voters will be able 3 inmates escape will accept expired driver’s licenses to show their driver’s license Three inmates at the Kalutara Prison as proof of identification at the as proof of identification at the escaped early last morning (2), according upcoming election. election on Wednesday (5),” to a spokesman of the prison. The “Sadh Thaarunyaya” youth forum was organised by the Samagi Tharuna Balawegaya, in the presence of Samagi Jana “Since the Department of Election Secretariat Director The spokesman said that the three Balawegaya Leader Sajith Premadasa at the Shangri-La Hotel in Colombo yesterday (2). SJB candidates Mayantha Dissanayake Motor Traffic announced that General Saman Sri Rathnayake inmates in question had been held and Harin Fernando were also present the driver’s licence validity period told The Morning. separated from the rest of the inmates PHOTO SAMAN ABESIRIWARDANA had been extended for another Contd. on page 2 for quarantine purposes. Subsequently, one of the escaped inmates AUSTRALIA DECLARES has been recaptured at the Kalutara Town Murali pledges to Covid-19 in a raid by prison officials and the Police. The Kalutara North Police and prison officials have launched a joint operation to State of disaster continue social work infected mother apprehend the remaining two inmates. The social welfare work that has welfare work he has been engaged been carried out will be continued in the past 22 years. delivers baby ARRESTED PRISONS OFFICER in Victoria regardless of the outcome of The former Sri Lanka cricketer Sri Lanka saw its first delivery of an Sweeping new restrictions, been detected since Saturday (1), Wednesday’s (5) general made this statement in Rosella infant from a Covid-19-positive expectant including a night-time curfew, with 6,322 infections now active election, Sri Lanka on Saturday (1) during a public mother on Saturday (1). Handed to CID were imposed across Melbourne in the State. Cricket legend Muttaiah gathering held in support An expectant mother who was repatriated Interdicted Negombo Prison Superintendent under Stage Four restrictions Seven people have died from Muralitharan said. of his brother, Muttaiah from Dubai was admitted to the Kandakadu Anuruddha Sampayo, who was evading arrest yesterday and regional Victoria coronavirus in Victoria in the Muralitharan noted Prabhakaran. Rehabilitation Centre on 10 July for after being issued warrants, was arrested and will move to Stage Three last 24 hours, taking the State’s that he is only a cricketer Prabhakaran is contesting quarantine. handed over to the Criminal Investigation restrictions from Thursday (6) death toll to 123. Six of the seven and not a politician under the Sri Lanka Podujana However, on 21 July she was diagnosed Department (CID), stated the Police Media onwards. cases are linked to aged care and that he would Peramuna (SLPP) from the with Covid-19 after she was subjected to Division. Premier Daniel Andrews said outbreaks. continue with Nuwara Eliya District. a PCR test. Contd. on page 2 671 new coronavirus cases had Contd. on page 2 the social Muttaiah Muralitharan Contd. on page 2 Contd. on page 2

REPATRIATION OF EXPAT WORKERS STRIKE AT Called off after 40,000 registered to return BY SKANDHA GUNASEKARA in the Middle East who have registered of employment but steps were already Qatar had already found new jobs. discussion with PM to be brought back down,” Sri Lanka being taken to rectify the situation. He said that the repatriation process The strike at the Colombo called off after successful There are 900,000 expatriate workers Bureau of Foreign Employment Media “Several thousands have lost their jobs. will be expedited next week. Port by the port workers talks between unions and the currently in the Middle East, of which Spokesman K.P. Randeniya told The But we have asked our mission to come “As per the information we have, the over the East Container Prime Minister. 40,000 have registered to return, The Morning. up with a mechanism for re-employment airport will be partially reopened for Terminal (ECT) has been Contd. on page 2 Morning learnt. In addition, he said that 8,000 expats and some countries have extended their flights to come. The repatriation process “There are 40,000-plus Sri Lankans had informed Sri Lankan Missions of loss support,” Randeniya said, noting that will be sped up.” 2 the morning NEWS Monday , August 03, 2020

BRIBERY CASE AGAINST SENADHIPATHI AND MAJ. GEN. FERNANDO Interim order issued suspending trial The Court of Appeal issued an of an indictment, alleging commission of The said order of the Learned High Court Section 11 of the Act clearly stipulates Moreover, in the Supreme Court case of interim order suspending the several offences by the First and the Second Judge is a nullity. Hence, it depends on an that, upon investigation and finding of Kesara Senanayake V. Attorney General Colombo High Court trial on Accused Petitioners under the Bribery Act illegal indictment without a valid direction evidence, the commission shall direct the and Another a Rs. 35.5 million bribery case (as amended). The indictment consisted from the Commission to Investigate Director General of the Bribery Commission (2010) 1 S.L.R 149, held that even brought by the Commission to of 47 charges against the said Accused Allegations of Bribery or Corruption. to institute proceedings in the appropriate if the material facts of the case were Investigate Allegations of Bribery Petitioners including the charges of soliciting e. The position that criminal proceedings Court depending on the monetary limitations different to the case in hand, Hon. Shirani and Corruption (Complainants – and accepting gratification. The Learned cannot be instituted or continued against a as provided in the Act. Bandaranayake, J made it crystal clear that Respondents) against Avant Garde counsel for the Petitioners submitted to person based on strength of a nullity. Section 12 of the Act vests the power to a valid direction from the Commission is Chairman Nissanka Senadhpathi Court that the First Petitioner was holding Legal analysis file indictment by the Director General of the mandatory in order to initiate proceedings and Maj. Gen. (Retd.) Palitha the office as the Military Liaison Officer to Bribery Commission. Section 12(1) of the by the Director-General of the Bribery the Ministry of Defence of Sri Lanka and a. The Counsel for the Petitioner argued that CIABOC Act reads as follows: Commission. Fernando. the Second Accused Petitioner was holding the Learned High Court Judge of Colombo “Where proceedings are instituted in In light of the above discussed position, Senadhipathi claimed that the Bribery office as the Chairman of Avant Garde has failed to address the objection raised a High Court in pursuance of a direction my attention is drawn to two important Commission had filed the case without the Maritime Services (Pvt.) Ltd. as to the Jurisdiction of the Court to made by the Commission under Section 11 submissions made by the Learned State written approval of all three commission Upon service of notice by the High Court determine the case. by an indictment signed by the Director- Counsel for the Prosecution. At the stage members while he requested the court to of Colombo, both Petitioners appeared Having considered the submissions of General, such High Court shall receive such of the trial the Learned State Counsel in issue an interim order suspending the trial. before the Learned High Court Judge and the the parties in support of their respective indictment and shall have jurisdiction to try his submissions at Pg. 484 of the brief has Furthermore, the Court of Appeal ordered indictment was read over to the Petitioners positions, this court would first analyse the the offence described in such indictment referred to “gu»t«i°” and not “0O>siu”. the respondents to appear in court on 2 to which the Petitioners pleaded not guilty primary contention which is the Jurisdiction in all respects as if such indictment were In addition to the above-mentioned September. to each and every charge separately and the of the Court. In order to consider the above, an indictment presented by the Attorney- grounds we have considered the following Counsel appearing on behalf of matter was fixed for the trial by the Learned I wish to draw my attention to Section 11 General to such court.” grounds which was placed before this Senadhipathi and Maj. Gen. Fernando High Court Judge. and Section 12 of the CIABOC Act No. 19 Section 12 makes it mandatory for the Court. They are: (Accused – Petitioners) were Attorneys-at- On or about 14 November 2019, of 1994. Section 11 which is the basis for the Director-General to act upon the direction of 1. That there was no transparency. Law Eraj de Silva, Manjula Fernandopulle, the counsel for the Petitioner raised a above objection reads as follows: the Commission when proceedings are being 2. That Counsel for the Respondents had Niran Ankitell, and Harith Hettiarachchi, preliminary objection in open court that “Where the material received by the instituted in a High Court. In the instant case misused the word advice instead of while counsel appearing on behalf of the the purported indictment was not based Commission in the course of an investigation the Counsel for the Accused-Petitioners using directive at the submissions made Commission were Deputy Solicitor General on a valid direction by the commissioners conducted by it under this Act discloses the stated that, the decision of the Learned High to the High Court. Thusith Mudalige and Thushari Dayaratne. to institute proceedings in the High Court, commission of an offence by any person Court Judge of Colombo has overruled 3. The Learned High Court Judge had The case was heard before a two-judge where the Learned High Court Judge has under the Bribery Act or the Declaration of the objection without considering the legal misapplied the provisions of Section 114 bench comprising Justices Kumudini rejected the preliminary objection by his Assets and Liabilities Law, No. 1 of 1975, requirement in the Act. of the Evidence Ordinance. Wickremesinghe and Devika Abeyratne last order dated 11 March 2020. Being aggrieved the Commission shall direct the Director- b. The Learned Counsel for the Petitioners 4. The Learned High Court Judge was Friday (31 July). by the aforesaid order, the Petitioners filed General to institute criminal proceedings contended that the said order of the erred in Law by holding that direction in The full judgement on the case was as the instant revision application to set aside against such person in the appropriate court Learned High Court Judge has failed to terms of Section 11 of the Act is a mere follows: the impugned order. and the Director-General shall institute apply the ratio decidendi of the Anoma administrative rule. The Learned counsel for the Accused proceedings accordingly: Polwatta v Jayawickrema case (SC Writ 5. No certificate was submitted along with — Petitioners (hereinafter referred as the Grounds of the application Provided however that the material Application No.01/2011) and the High the indictment like in other cases. “Petitioners”) made submissions in order The Petitioners sought to issue formal received by the Commission in the course Court of Colombo has no jurisdiction Further, it is observed by this Court that to issue formal notice to the Respondents notice to the Respondents where the of an investigation conducted by it discloses to try and determine the case, hence it the documents pertaining to the direction purely on a question of law, on an order Petitioners have stated 19 exceptional an offence under Part II of the Bribery Act depends on an illegal indictment which was shown only to the Learned High Court dated 11 March 2020 made by the Provincial grounds in their revision application. and consisting of soliciting, accepting or is based on an invalid direction from the Judge and not the Petitioners. I don’t think High Court of the Western Province, However, in order to issue notice, this court offering, by any person, offer gratification Commission. it is necessary to discuss the aforesaid five Holden in Colombo dated 11 March wishes to consider the most vital grounds which or the value of which does not exceed The Supreme Court of Sri Lanka in grounds in detail at this preliminary stage 2020. Having heard the submissions of listed as follows: two thousand rupees, the Commission shall exercising its highest and final judicial of issuing notice. the Learned counsel for the Petitioners a. The said order of the Learned High Court direct the institution of proceedings against instance decided the Anoma Polwatta v In light of the above analysis, I am and Learned Deputy Solicitor General for Judge has not considered the objection such person before the Magistrate’s Court Jayawickrema case (supra) and established of the opinion that the Petitioners have the Respondents, the analysis is made as raised by the defence. and where such material discloses an offence a legal principle associating with Section established a prima facie exceptional follows: b. The High Court of Colombo has no under that Part and consisting of soliciting, 11 of the Act. The Supreme Court in its circumstances for this Court to issue The Second Respondent, the former jurisdiction to try and determine this case. accepting, or offering, by any person of analysis made it clear that, nevertheless the notice. Director General of the Commission c. The said order of the Learned High Court any gratification which or the value of Act does not make an express provision as Accordingly, this Court issue notice to to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Judge has failed to apply ratio decidendi which exceeds two thousand rupees, the to how the directive should be made but it is Respondents and stay further proceedings Corruption (hereinafter referred as the of the Commission shall direct the institution of a mandatory requirement on the part of the of the above-mentioned case No. HCB “Respondent”), has instituted proceedings Anoma Polwatta v Jayawickrema case, SC proceedings against such person in the High Commission to direct the Director-General 25/2017 as prayed for in prayer (a) and (b) before the High Court of Colombo by way Writ Application No. 01/2011. Court by indictment.” to institute proceedings. of the prayer of the petition.

Contd. from page 1

forward to serve the people. I am not into “The previous Government had signed another campaign rally. He added that he No decision... Covid-19... politics and I’m not a politician. Hence, agreements to give control of the East would take steps to return inherited lands for Accordingly, over 40,000 Sri Lankans are Two days later, she was admitted to the I introduced my brother to politics and I Container Terminal of the Colombo Port to cultivation purposes. The President stated waiting to return to Sri Lanka and as of now special unit of the Colombo East Base believe he would serve the people beyond a India and Japan. We will not allow this,” he that he would examine each and every issue around 12,000 have been repatriated. Hospital for coronavirus-infected expectant traditional politician,” Muralitharan said. said. He said the incumbent Government in order to successfully combat poverty and – Maheesha Mudugamuwa mothers. will renegotiate the agreements of the former uplift the lives of the people under a proper When it was discovered that she had gone Government. strategy. into labour, the doctors had to take special State... “We will have talks over this issue and Surveillance... precautions in order to make sure they did There are now 385 people in Victorian rework the agreement so the Sri Lankan Upuldeniya noted that such activities are not contract the virus during the delivery hospitals, 38 of whom are in intensive care. Government retains control of the East Handed to... prevalent in prisons located in Welikada, procedure. The State’s aged care outbreak has now Container Terminal of the Colombo Port.” He was taken into custody by the Negombo, and Mahara. The most recent Considering the delicate nature of the grown to 1,083 active cases. – Skandha Gunasekara Negombo HQI in Kurunegala, yesterday (2). attempt at smuggling narcotics was detected situation, a team of 35 medical personnel, The Premier said there was an On 22 July, following directions of the at the Welikada Prison, where a cat was used including doctors and microbiologists, aided “unacceptably high” number of community Attorney General (AG), the CID obtained to deliver heroin to the prison premises. The the caesarean operation. transmission cases, and the State had 760 Will work... arrest warrants on Anuruddha Sampayo and narcotics had been secured around the cat’s Colombo East Base Hospital Director Dr. active Covid-19 infections where the source President Rajapaksa assured that he three other officials of the Negombo Prison neck and detected by the prison guard. Priyantha Karunarathna said the mother and of the transmission was not known. will honour every promise in his policy from the Negombo Magistrate. Investigations are now being carried out the infant are in good health at the moment. “Those mysteries, that community framework “Vistas of Prosperity and Arrest warrants had been issued on to determine the origin of the consignment. This is reportedly the first instance a transmission, is in many respects our biggest Splendour” and following the general Sampayo, Chief Jailors Sarath Bandara and Likewise, investigations are also underway coronavirus-positive expectant mother challenge and the reason why we need to election, promised that 150,000 job Nishantha Senaratne, and Jailor Kalinga for the previous incidents, the Commissioner delivered a baby in Sri Lanka. move to a different set of rules,” he said. appointments will be granted for the Kaluaggala. Negombo Prisons Jailor Kalinga General added. The doctors said the newborn has been Since 6 p.m. last night (2), a state of underprivileged and graduates. Kaluaggala surrendered to the CID on 25 subjected to a PCR test. disaster was declared across Victoria, which In addition, the President also revealed July and was subsequently remanded while will act in addition to the state of emergency. a plan to provide employment for students Chief Jailors Sarath Bandara and Nishantha Expired... Further restrictions targeting workplaces who had succeeded in Ordinary Level (O/L) Senarathna surrendered to the Negombo Furthermore, returning migrant workers Murali... were to be announced today (3). and Advanced Level (A/L) examinations Magistrate’s Court on 29 July. They were are also required to produce their passport “President Gotabhaya Rajapaksa invited Residents of Metropolitan Melbourne following a satisfactory training programme. also remanded after being produced before at the polling centre as proof of travel and me to enter politics and contest at the and the Mitchell Shire are almost halfway The President has stated that every time a the court. identification. general election. I refused. The President through what was meant to be a six-week patriotic leader is elected to the highest office Meanwhile, the interdicted Sampayo had – Sarah Hannan continuously asked me to contest and come lockdown under Stage Three stay-at-home in the country, eventually conspirators and filed a writ petition at the Court of Appeal, orders. Andrews said the current strategy extremists would emerge to sabotage his/her seeking an injunction preventing him from undertaken by the Government so far had policies and vision. Meanwhile, the President being arrested by the CID and on 30 July, the avoided “thousands of thousands” of cases assured provisions from the annual Budget CID recorded statements from two siblings from overwhelming hospitals, but it was “not to resolve the shortage of drinking water in of Sampayo. Cartoon of the day working fast enough”. several districts. He said after much detailed analysis, the “During my tour across the country in the State’s health experts told him the current last two to three weeks, one of the major Scientific... strategy would not see the State reach a point issues I was presented by the people is the “We can’t just increase the number of tests, where it could reopen until the end of the scarcity of drinking water. This issue was because if we do increase it and if we get year. discussed with Prime Minister Mahinda false positives, the credibility of the tests will “Therefore, we have to do more and we Rajapaksa as well. The lack of drinking water be questioned. The test kits are expensive have to do more right now,” he said. is an issue which needs immediate attention and those have to be used carefully because and plans have been set in motion to address if a real second wave comes, there will be a it,” the President added. shortage of test kits,” he explained. Further, Called off... The President made these remarks at the the SLMA President noted that the test Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) Mahaweli Playground in Mahiyangana positivity rate in Sri Lanka is low, compared Chairman Gen. (Retd.) Daya Ratnayake during the election tour in the Badulla to countries like the US and the UK. told The Morning that positive discussions District, in support of the Sri Lanka Podujana In Sri Lanka, if we conduct 100 tests, only between Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa Peramuna (SLPP) candidates of Wednesday’s around five or even less than that would be and Ports Authority trade unions had been (5) general election, the PMD added. positive unlike other countries, he stressed, held on Saturday (1) morning. The President participated in the public adding that even though we are conducting “The Prime Minister met with the Unions rally organised at the playground in enough tests at present, the number can be last morning and explained to them that we close vicinity to Dowa Rajamaha Vihara, increased in a scientific way. have no intention of handing over the East Bandarawela and assured the crowd that he “The most important thing at present is Container Terminal to a foreign entity,” would take steps to resolve issues faced by contact tracing and isolation,” he added. Ratnayake said. the people in the Badulla District. According to statistics, a total of 151,324 He said that the Prime Minister had assured “I will implement a proper plan to PCR tests have been conducted to detect the unions that the Government intended to permanently resolve the elephant intrusions Covid-19-infected persons from 18 February keep ownership of the East Terminal at the and shortage of water supply for irrigation to 25 July. Colombo Port. in the area,” the President assured during – Maheesha Mudugamuwa the morning 3 Monday, August 3, 2020 business FCCISL and PwC study SEC introduces Real to formulate business- led recovery proposals Estate Investment Trusts The Federation of Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Sri Lanka (FCCISL), entering into a strategic collaboration with PwC Sri Lanka (PwC), has launched an (REITs) framework islandwide, multi-sector business resurgence study (PwC-FCCISL Business Resurgence Study), one of the largest of its kind to be conducted in Sri Lanka. The study will lay the foundation to pursue necessary action in five key areas: FCCISL Director Ruwan De Silva and PwC (a) Obtain a latest appreciation of Sri Lanka Head of Strategy Consulting the aspirations and ambitions Lasanga Abeysuriya of businesses in order to design unique opportunity to reimagine the suitable business acceleration possibilities for the country’s future programmes. and make bold and progressive (b) Formulate data-backed decisions to improve the local proposals and recommendations business climate and industry SEC Chairman Viraj Dayaratne PC handing over the REIT Framework to CSE Chairman Dumith Fernando. From left: CSE CEO Rajeeva Bandaranaike, SEC Corporate for relevant stakeholders to competitiveness. Sri Lanka has Affairs Director Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma, SEC Director General Chinthaka Mendis, SEC Chairman Viraj Dayaratne, CSE Chairman Dumith Fernando, and SEC Legal and Enforcement Director Ayanthi Abeywickrema address key policy matters and businesses that have achieved global marketplace challenges, stifling success despite the many challenges As exclusively reported income and value appreciation of the assets of the REIT,” the Benefits to the the growth of local industry and faced at home. Through this study, by The Morning Business on in the long term. Such pooled SEC said. country include: commerce. if we can make progress towards 9 July under the headline funds could be used to acquire Amongst the requirements is y (c) Promote new business addressing some of the lingering prime residential and commercial the mandatory distribution of y Optimise land usage due to opportunities and cross-industry pain points as well as more recent “SEC to introduce REITs by vertical high-rise building August”, the Securities and property, and income and wealth approximately 90% of income collaboration. challenges, the ingenuity of Sri derived from such property is to the unit holders, which is complexes and mixed (d) Design roadmaps for the Lankan people coupled with high- Exchange Commission of developments Sri Lanka (SEC) announced then shared with the unit holders currently not a requirement for improvement of industry quality FDIs into targeted sectors that it has facilitated the of the fund,” the SEC said in a any of the listed entities. Further, yy A catalyst for foreign capability and competitiveness. can truly transform the profile of statement. due to the availability of the investment (e) Campaign to secure financial local businesses and the broader introduction of a Real REITs have been available for tax pass through mechanism to and technical assistance economy.” Estate Investment Trusts some time and are developing Unit Trusts, REITs also could yy Liquidity added to market from local and international The web-based trilingual study is (REIT) framework. rapidly in Asia and are popular be a viable business concept to through listing development assistance and to be conducted during the months The proposed initiative particularly in Thailand, Sri Lanka that will open new yy Improved investor trade support organisations. of July-August 2020 and is open to provides real estate developers Malaysia, and India. The horizons for entrepreneurs to take confidence through increased PwC Sri Lanka will act as the registered businesses of any scale and owners to convert fully SEC said it, along with the the real estate industry to greater transparency created through knowledge partner and facilitator from recent startups to mature completed properties into a REIT other stakeholders, have been heights, the SEC added. the disclosure requirements for the above initiative and bring conglomerate companies. The study which will provide an avenue for contemplating the introduction together its extensive experience will comprise four main sections the general public of Sri Lanka to of the REITs framework in According to the SEC, yy Increased tax revenue of working with the private sector, in an easy to complete format. The benefits to investors make an investment and thereby Sri Lanka for quite some time yy Facilitation of planned multilateral and international sections will cover (a) business benefit from any property value although no finality has been include: urbanisation with controlled development agencies, as well as background including information increases. Corporate Bonds were reached. yy High dividend due to the congestion public sector and policy makers on the markets served and introduced to the capital market “The Sri Lankan REITs in order to explore relevant and supply chains used, (b) company requirement to pay at least yy Environmental benefits in Sri Lanka in 1997 and it is structure has considered the 90% of their income as a practical solutions within the study background including operating approximately after 23 years that local environment in which it dividend yy Employment creation areas. locations, scale, workforce size, and a new product, by way of REITs, is expected to operate and the Speaking of the initiative, composition, (c) Covid-19 impact is being introduced. SEC has brought in a regulatory yy Relatively stable income yy Contribution to the country’s FCCISL Director and Strategic on business strategy and operations “In Sri Lanka, owing to framework that is best suited stream due to long leases capital formation Committee member Ruwan De along with actions taken to date spiralling property prices, it is a to our market. The Rules that yy Investor protection ensured yy GDP growth Silva said: “ The private sector to cope with the impact, and (d) challenge for average citizens to have been introduced by the since regulated by SEC has been the driving force of the expectations about returning to finance real estate investments. SEC will be an extension of the yy Optimise capital allocation local economy for many years and level of stability and certainty along Therefore, a significant current Unit Trust Code and the yy Swift entry and exit “Many real estate owners/ more than ever must come together with opportunities for business proportion of the population of new Rules, which came into opportunities developers can immediately now to work with the Government improvement, revised strategic Sri Lanka is unable to benefit effect from 31 July 2020 is in yy Opportunity for portfolio benefit from the Unit Trust-based to address some of the lingering priorities, and short-medium term from the value appreciation the form of a gazette notification diversification REITs framework, which is now issues, as well as overcome new assistance and recommendations to of property and infrastructure published by the SEC. These enabled under the capital market challenges following the Covid-19 help recovery and growth efforts. development. The issue can Rules which are comprehensive, yy Professional investment framework of the SEC. In order pandemic. As a representative for “Unlike various studies carried be resolved by introducing a will govern the setting up of management at a relatively to promote transparency and businesses from all industries and out mainly to assess the Covid-19 mechanism where capital is and the conduct of a Sri Lankan low transaction and to distribute ownership among scale, the FCCISL aims to develop impact on local businesses, the pooled by people who are willing REIT. Specific provisions management cost people of Sri Lanka, REITs are the most comprehensive industry- PwC-FCCISL Business Resurgence to invest in prime commercial have been included for the yy An effective hedge against only allowed as listed REITs on backed proposals and submissions Study is more future-oriented with and residential property, and they verification of title and valuation inflation due to real estate the Colombo Stock Exchange,” to help local businesses manage the main purpose being to generate will benefit from property-related of property that will form part asset backing the SEC said. and improve resilience to overcome business-led proposals to overcome the current uncertainty, improve key challenges across various competitiveness, develop trade, and industry segments. A key aspect facilitate export market access. of the study is to also highlight Dell’s ‘Save the Waves’ sponsors five beach caretakers “The FCCISL will be using the individual industry requirements The “Save the Waves” Ruwan Gamage, MEPA findings from this study to plan with additional considerations foundation, a beach Chairperson Dharshani out a series of ongoing initiatives influenced by geographical region cleaning initiative funded Lahandapura, MEPA to support local business on key or scale of operations,” Abeysuriya and raised by Dell General Manager Dr. areas for recovery and growth. Our said, speaking of the study. Technologies recently P.B. Terney Pradeep collaboration with PwC opens a Parties representing local businesses signed a Memorandum Kumara, and MEPA new dimension to the manner in are encouraged and invited to of Understanding Deputy General Manager which we want to take an active role participate in the PwC-FCCISL (MoU) with the Marine A.J.M. Gunasekara. to support the growth of the local Business Resurgence Study to share Environment Protection Each sponsored industry and economy.” views and experiences that can help Authority (MEPA) to caretaker was assigned PwC Sri Lanka Head of Strategy design comprehensive industry sponsor five beach to clean a nearby Consulting Lasanga Abeysuriya support programmes. caretakers from low- beach stretch from said: “We need to come up with To participate, the access link to income families. the Uswatakeiyawa, sustainable solutions to re-emerge the study can be found on the home The MoU was Induruwa, Kalutara, stronger from the unprecedented web page of FCCISL (www.fccisl. signed between Wellawatta, and Waikkal Dell Technologies Marketing Manager Ruwan Gamage exchanges agreements with MEPA challenges caused by the global lk) and the media partner websites. Dell Technologies beaches constantly for a Chairperson Dharshani Lahandapura in the presence of MEPA Deputy General Manager A.J.M. pandemic. The current uncertainty The closing date for participation in Marketing Manager period of one year. Gunasekara and MEPA General Manager Dr. P.B. Terney Pradeep Kumara has also provided Sri Lankans a the study is 9 August 2020. SLT and Epic Group launch Helaviru online platform for farmers Sri Lanka Telecom and Epic suppliers, auxiliary products and service provider, we take pride SLT’s partnership, Helaviru will Technology Group has launched services suppliers, agro-insurance in partnering with such national revolutionise the agriculture the Helaviru Digital Economic providers, banks, and government initiatives. sector in Sri Lanka. Our Centre online platform for the institutes too will be connected to The Helaviru Digital Economic endeavour is not only to provide first time in South Asia on 31 facilitate the main stakeholders and Centre will have a great impact on an online trading platform for July 2020. The Helaviru agro- their commercial transactions on the farming and agricultural sector, agriculture sector stakeholders produce and commodities trading the platform. which is one of the leading trading but also to reduce the cost of agro platform is a cloud-based digital SLT as a partner will join Epic to platforms in our country. We are products to the end consumer, marketplace that facilitates trading operationalise the Helaviru Digital also keen to be part of reviving while increasing revenue to the activities (buying and selling) Economic Centre, while facilitating this sector that has been part of our agro-producer and aggregator. of agriculture and farm produce to host the platform in its state- civilisation for centuries. Taking Helaviru will not eliminate the and commodities among diverse of-the art SLT iDC, ensuring digital technology to the farmers is middleman in the supply chain stakeholders on a seamlessly reliability and security backed by one step towards enhancing them but will empower all stakeholders connected supply chain. professional support. to the next level. Bank of Ceylon including the middleman so that The Helaviru platform will create lso, users can experience SMS will be the payment gateway, every stakeholder will benefit an ecosystem of digitally connected and e-mail facilities along with providing secure transactions, and substantially, while preventing agro-producers (farmers and IVR facilities and call centre we are thankful to Epic Lanka for unwarranted manipulations growers), small-scale collectors, support. Through this project, SLT providing the digital solution for and obstacles and unnecessary wholesalers, retailers, large said it will actively endeavour the Helaviru Digital Economic costs due to waste,” said Epic consumers (supermarkets, food- to realise the national objectives Centre. Technology Group Executive processing industries, hotels, etc.) of the Government of Sri Lanka SLT together with Epic Group launched the Helaviru online platform for farmers “Epic is proud to have Chairman Dr. Nayana Dehigama. and agro-produce exporters, and in uplifting the livelihood of the on 31 July conceptualised the Helaviru Digital The Helaviru Digital Economic provide an easy and secure channel agriculture sector stakeholders in Over the years, Helaviru will analysis, trend forecasting, and Economic Centre platform, and Centre, true to its name, will be a to carry out their trading activities. Sri Lanka. also create a central database of critical decision making in the also delighted to have a partner like means of developing the heroes of In addition, diverse service The users can apply for financial agriculture sector stakeholders’ agriculture sector. SLT, who is no doubt the national the land, the farmers, by providing providers such as transport support from People’s Bank and behavioral statistics, commercial Commenting at the launch, SLT leader in telecommunications, to added exposure and a wide and delivery service providers, Bank of Ceylon, which are also the activities, and transactions which Group Chairman Rohan Fernando operationalise the project. platform to support their farming fertiliser suppliers, plants and seeds strategic partners of the platform. could be used for predictive stated: “As the national ICT We are certain that with requirements, SLT added. the morning 4 Monday , August 03, 2020 brunch

WORKING IN THE MATRIX A webinar on building online offices Indus Valley International through virtual work platforms Film Festival to screen Organised by The Sunday Morning Brunch in partnership with Microsoft Sri Lanka BY NAVEED ROZAIS ‘Thanha Rathi Ranga’ Covid-19 has brought with it an unprecedented shift in the way we BY DIMITHRI WIJESINGHE work, with vast proportions of the global workforce shifting to working The Indus Valley International remotely almost overnight. The Film Festival (IVIFF) 2020, conversation mostly focuses on said to be “South Asia’s what will happen to the physical First Borderless Digital Film workplace in light of this shift and Festival” will be held from how the physical workplace needs 1-9 August. “Thanha Rathi to change in order to stay relevant. Ranga” from Sri Lanka will be There is somewhat less focus, however, on what needs to happen screened at the event. virtually in order for businesses and The event is to be hosted online, free employees to function smoothly, possible with minimal disruption within the platform, Sameera shared of charge – registrations are open for all and what platforms to use for this within the platform. that this can often be achieved film enthusiasts on the IVIFF website. physical virtual shift to take place De Fonseka shared that AIA through the use of specific add- The South Asia Forum for Art and seamlessly and stay effective. Sri Lanka also was one of those ons and security patches. Creative Heritage (SAFACH) is behind The Working in the Matrix companies that adapted early on Abeywardena stressed that it is the IVIFF initiative and it was first webinar looked to deal with this to Microsoft Teams, integrating to important for virtual work platforms thought up to create South Asia’s first subject and answer some of the the platform in early-2019. With to be appropriately licensed, and travelling international film festival questions regarding virtual work the pandemic and lockdown, this while this can be an expense, a real and this first edition of the event will platforms. Working in the Matrix left them fairly well-prepared for security breach can cost companies be held in New Delhi and the event is was organised by The Sunday integrating to working remotely. a lot more money in the long run. set to showcase films from all South Morning Brunch in partnership There were issues, but this was more The panel also spoke about work- and Southeast Asian nations. with Microsoft Sri Lanka, with an to do with the whole country going life balance. De Fonseka shared The nine days will include screening eminent panel of business leaders into lockdown, and were overcome that while virtual work platforms films, workshops, master classes, music whose companies have adapted to fairly quickly with business as usual are meant for work, they can also concerts, and interactive sessions with working virtually, not simply in the seeing almost no interruption. sometimes be used for social film directors and actors. face of the Covid-19 pandemic but Discussing the limitations connection, sharing that AIA held About the decision to launch such an in a larger sense, recognising remote of virtual work platforms, a small virtual event via Microsoft event and the importance of celebrating working as an integral part of future Abeywardena commented that the Teams to mark Avurudu during the South and Southeast Asian cinema, Thanha Rathi Ranga Scriptwriters and Actors Kumara Thirimadura and work. The panel included Microsoft main challenge would be getting pandemic. Employees should also IVIFF Founder and Creative Director Sarath Kothalawala Sri Lanka and the Maldives Country people to commit to it and to use be given breathing space, with less Harsh Narayan said: “The South Asian PHOTO SAMAN ABESIRIWARDANA Director Hasitha Abeywardena, AIA it properly, which can be more of a “work, work, work” approach. region shares a combined cultural and Sri Lanka Chief Technology Officer challenging for some employees Abeywardena and Sameera both historical legacy, and cinema is an Umeshi De Fonseka, and Nations more than others. Disciplined commented on how work going important medium of expressing our speak to the heart; they are human Trust Bank Plc Chief Information practices like sticking to meeting forward would become a hybrid of continuously evolving artistic traditions. stories and what we explore is not tied Officer Sajith Sameera. times and working hours are also virtual work and coming into the South Asian art, music, and folk down to our country, ethnicity, or any Virtual work platforms are something that needs to be paid office and that maintaining work- traditions are interconnected, and they kind of origin. They are relatable across software that combine multi- attention to when adapting to virtual life balance would require setting evolve further through communicating the board. Therefore, films such as aspects of business functions work platforms. and understanding boundaries, and with each other.” Thanha Rathi Ranga often do well with like email, chat, file sharing, Maintaining employee taking small steps like creating an There is a selection of films that will a wide array of audiences. and video conferencing into one engagement is also important. office space at home and making be screened at the event – Bangladeshi Thirimadura also shared that for the cohesive platform for smooth Checking in to work, whether it clear to those working at home films “Nolok”, “Maya the Lost Mother”, uninitiated, if they do follow through working processes and workflows. virtually or physically doesn’t equal with families that though they are at “Qasida of Dhaka” (documentary), and with this festival and if they find that Abeywardena commented that work productivity. Effectively allocating home, they are still in fact working “Mala Bhabi”; Nepalese film “Dying his film speaks to them, then he is is not a place you go to simply work and monitoring performance is and are not to be disturbed. Candle”; Pakistani films “Moor” and currently working on something that work; it’s a place to meet people something to be considered. There The panel also addressed “Motorcycle Girl”; and Sri Lankan film would truly inspire some thought in our and be part of a culture, and it is are systems for this in virtual work paperwork and virtual work “Thanha Rathi Ranga”. supporting cast of veteran artists society; subject matter that is not often for businesses to reimagine how platforms like Microsoft Teams. platforms, with Abeywardena The Sri Lankan film that will be like Swarna Mallawarachchi, Anoja discussed widely in our culture. He said their workplaces and culture can Managers need to be more proactive sharing that paperwork is set to screened at the event, Thanha Rathi Weerasinghe, Neeta Fernando, and he is currently preparing to produce two go virtual with the help of a virtual with allocating work and ensuring become a thing of the past, and that Ranga, is a 2014 release. The film was Kamal Addararachchi. films, one which speaks to the racial work platform. employees are able to do the work there is functionality within virtual now renowned Sri Lankan director We spoke to Kumara Thirimadura, disparities that exist in our communities On integrating businesses to assigned to them in a virtual setting. work platforms for companies to Nilendra Deshapriya’s directorial debut who co-wrote the script with Sarath and another about women working in virtual work platforms, Sameera On maintaining security, go paperless, but that it is up to and since then Deshapriya has gone Kothalawala, about the significance these so called spas in Colombo, who commented that in NTB’s case, particularly the security of companies to reimagine systems on to become one of Sri Lanka’s most of Sri Lankan films being featured allegedly resort to performing sexual the company was already using information, Sameera weighed and processes to facilitate this. sought-after television personalities in international film festivals such as favours for their clients for meager Microsoft Teams as a virtual in sharing that this will fall on In closing, the panel noted that the who introduced the reality TV genre IVIFF. He stated that it is important to amounts of money. He stated that he workplace platform but it was used companies to ensure that information Covid-19 pandemic has been a huge to Lankan audiences, producing many create art for a global stage, and that is currently conducting his background within the physical office, and many is shared securely and only through catalyst for digital transformation, successful television formats such as there are no longer such limitations research, speaking to these people he people didn’t use it fully or used it the virtual work platforms. In the condensing two years of digital Super Star and also the franchised where you must focus on audiences is writing about to create a grounded only for particular things. The shift case of NTB, Sameera explained, transformation into two months, and version of “Who Wants To be A and their sensibilities based on their reality through his script. to needing to work virtually during employees are only allowed to that this transformation will give rise Millionaire”. Deshapriya is currently geography. Thirimadura said that the Sri Lankan the pandemic opened lots of eyes access the platform on devices to lots of new policies and systems involved in developing a novel concept He stated that there is a reason why film industry can really grow if we to the functionality and versatility provided by NTB, and that sharing that will make it easier to function – a performance art piece in multiple films such as Thanha Rathi Ranga realise that big budgets are not what we of a platform like Microsoft Teams, information across any other devices in a world that blends physical mediums under the title “9NINE”. and even his most recent film, which need. He shared that finding a narrative with the ability to email, share files, would be a violation of security. and digital, both on a personal and Thanha Rathi Ranga stars received much critical acclaim, titled that speaks to the heart, something that meet via video or chat; all being In terms of strengthening security professional level. Sarath Kothalawala and Kumara “Newspaper”, has been well received. holds up a mirror to our humanity, is Thirimadura, complete with a He said that it is because these films where success lies. Webinar on ‘Voices of Women Councillors Lakwimana launches ‘Celfie’ Lakwimana launched the Leading by Example’ concludes on a strong note first-ever digital gift “Celfie” for The webinar, organised by the European you to surprise your loved ones Union Delegation to Sri Lanka and the Maldives with their favourite celebrity in partnership with Chrysalis, to understand and wishing them personally, discuss the problems, challenges, and future granting the wish of every heart aspirations of Sri Lankan women political of all celebrity fans out there. representatives concluded on a strong note The world has evolved and recently. moved on from the era of Participating in the webinar titled autographs onto selfies. This “Pathfinders: Voices of Women Councillors has become a trend around Leading by Example” were councillors from the world, where selfies are the North, Central, and Uva Provinces namely, taken every time we meet our Karachi Pradeshiya Sabha Kilinochchi member favourite celebrities. Starting as Tharmalingam Selvarani, Kundasale Pradeshiya a gesture of remembrance of the Sabha member Ajantha Rathnayake, Point moment we had with them, it Pedro Pradeshiya Sabha member Santhadevi “For example, from the low-income-earning Sabha. That itself is a challenge we face. In has now turned into a lucrative Tharmaretnam, and Chandrani Kotuwegedara households to higher-income groups in society, order to conduct any political activity, the market where people buy representing the Rattota Pradeshiya Sabha. domestic violence is prevalent. As a nation we support of male Members of Parliament is autographs and sell them to the The event was moderated by Chrysalis Head are yet unable to provide a lasting solution very important. If we receive their support we celebrity fanbase. With Celfie, of Development Services Mohamed Niyaz to this pressing problem. In addition, even are able to accomplish a considerable amount you no longer have to wait in Ahamed Rislan. when distributing land among women, there is of work,” Kotuwegedara said. line to get their autographs and Explaining the aim of organising the event, inadequate lack of provisions. Also when setting Furthermore, Tharmaretnam noted: “The photos nor do you have to spend EU Delegation Head of Cooperation Frank Hess wages there is inequality, as when compared lack of allocating women and children-related money to buy their autographs Eastern market. The brand is options of Lakwimana that has noted that the European Union (EU) is engaged to what men receive as remuneration, wages provisions in Pradeshiya Sabha sub-committees, from a third party at the risk of known for its authenticity entered the market. The brand in contributing towards democracy, good of women are on a lower scale,” she stated. the non-participation and contribution of women the authenticity of the source. and the local touch it brings tied up with the most popular governance, public participation, transparency, Tharmalingam Selvarani spoke about in bidding committees, paying little attention Instead, you can now simply to its product portfolio. They and sought-after celebrities and and gender equality in Sri Lanka and this ongoing work and progress made towards towards the role of women political representatives get your favourite celebrity to are known for their array of influencers in Sri Lanka who webinar provides an ideal platform. “Women the betterment of children and women in during the distribution of Pradeshiya Sabha do a customised video wish, gifts which are unique and are looking at this platform as representatives in Sri Lanka are shouldering a the Karachi Pradeshiya Sabha and nearby resources, and the lack of understanding that greeting, or a message. interesting, and out-of-the-box a way of being able to reach revolutionary role. It is a timely opportunity areas under her jurisdiction. Kotuwegedara women political representatives also play a Lakwimana is an e-commerce ideas. With their strong journey out to their fanbase on a very that we discuss the problems and challenges explained the work that she has carried out in the dual role as homemakers are among the main establishment in the market in the expatriate market, the personal level. Celebrities and they face,” he noted. Rattota Pradeshiya Sabha and surrounding areas challenges faced.” focusing on the gifting brand has now boldly stepped influencers include Dinakshie, Expressing her viewpoint, Ajantha including solving problems faced by women, “99% of the women political representatives segment. The brand had its into the Sri Lankan market, Dasun, Shanudrie, Saranga, Rathnayake said that in a setting where 52% rehabilitation of roads, and other work towards in local government are individuals who are humble beginning and strongly offering the most unique gifting Rithu Akarsha, Tomi Lahren, of the nation’s total population and 56% of the social development. She also described the new to the political arena. Especially patriarchy established itself among the options. and many more. total voter base are women, Sri Lanka has been challenges encountered in conducting her work. that is prevailing in the local government is expatriate market across the Celfie is one of the many For more details visit www. unable to provide solutions for their political, “There are severe shortcomings in the among the greatest challenges that we face,” world, especially in the Middle unique first-ever digital gifting lakwimana.com. economic, and social issues to date. provisions that we receive from the Pradeshiya Tharmaretnam added. 5 the morning sports Monday , August 3, 2020 World’s fastest is Covid-19 positive ‘Insidious cult’ in NZ gymnastics Nick doesn’t go to the US Covid-19 can infect even the fittest. This time the 400 Media website Stuff has uncovered yet another “We can rebuild our sport and the economy, but we can m men’s world record holder (43.03 seconds), South sex scandal in sports, this time in New Zealand (NZ). never recover the lives lost.” Who says so? Nick Kyrgios, Africa’s Wayde van Niekerk, 28, has tested Seven former artistic and rhythmic gymnasts alleged the world’s no. 40 men’s tennis player from Australia. positive at his European residence in Italy they were physically and psychologically abused, He joined compatriot Ashleigh Barty by withdrawing on Saturday (1) to be the most high-profile revealing an “insidious” culture within the sport in NZ. from the US Open Grand Slam, slated for 31 August. athlete to contract the virus. The virus didn’t “We were punished with strenuous conditioning. We all “I’m sitting out for my Aussies and the Americans that care that Niekerk also ran 100 m under 10 cried at least once a session. It is a cult,” Olivia Jobsis, one have lost lives,” Kyrgios has said as Melbourne went seconds and 200 m under 20 seconds too. of the seven gymnasts, has told Stuff. deserted last night due to the virus-instigated curfew.

Catamarans elect Dharmadasa’s arrival Deshantha as new Head Deshantha Silva, 47, was unanimously elected the President of Catamarans Sports Club, Moratuwa at the 75th Annual General Meeting held on 12 July turns SLC into a at the Catamaran clubhouse. The newly elected committee of management of Catamarans SC is as follows: President – Deshantha Silva Immediate Past President – Upali Seneviratne Vice Presidents – Denver Brian ‘Malay pickle’ Coorey, Lalith Senanayaka, Deshantha Silva Lasla Fernando, and Lincoln Pathirana De Silva Bar Secretary – Ruwan Mendis z Ongoing SLC drama may lead to further pandemonium General Secretary – Mahesha Cricket Secretary – Trio Perera Fernando BY REVATHA S. SILVA Mathivanan was working in an envious Conflict between VPs Treasurer – Chaminda Pavilion Secretary – Deepal atmosphere altogether. Dharmadasa, Offering Jayantha Dharmadasa Suduarachchi Rajapaksha The resignation of former Mathivanan’s Presidential candidate responsibilities of international Assistant Secretary/Treasurer Committee Members – Sulesh Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) Vice last year, coming in to fill Mathivanan’s cricket has also annoyed other – Dilaksha Perera Coorey, Samantha De Mel, President Kangadaran vacancy at SLC is hilarious and also officials, particularly the other Vice Social Secretaries – Suranga Lalith Pathirana, Mohan Peiris, Mathivanan with exactly pathetic, many whom we talked to over President of SLC who previously Fernando and Chandana and Sumith Nishantha a week to go for the the situation commented. handled international cricket, Ravin parliamentary election in Wickremaratne. Sri Lanka created quite Wilcassim and Algama run “Cricket Age had published on 31 July the shock. This was further to SLC itself that Dharmadasa has been given the doubled when SLC President Meanwhile Dharmadasa’s long- responsibility of overseeing international time confidantes Shibley Wilcassim cricket at SLC, while another Vice Shammi Silva sought to and Priyantha Algama entered the President, Ravin Wickremaratne, will replace Mathivanan with SLC office last week to prepare their continue to look after domestic cricket Galle DCA elects Mathivanan’s close ally and Jayantha Dharmadasa boss’s room to the utter dismay of affairs,” the report explained. Silva’s rival candidate for he assumes duties after the election,” SLC staffers. Now Wickremaratne is left with only Helambage uncontested Presidency at the previous the above source said. On the developments, Cricket Age the responsibilities of domestic cricket, SLC election, Jayantha “It is a rash move on the part of website had the following to report reportedly, to the dismay of the veteran BY ISHANI UPATHARITHA IN GALLE Dharmadasa, within hours President Silva as well. An unnecessary yesterday (2): “Last (Wednesday, 29 official. after that resignation on tit for tat. Already, the board employees July) night, Mr. Shibley was there Yet there is no apparent international The Annual General Meeting Wednesday, 29 July. are laughing at what is happening inside instructing the workers. Only SLC cricket in the remainder of the year (AGM) of the Galle District their own walls. Silva will have more Head of Administration Aruna de due to the Covid-19 pandemic and Cricket Association (Galle This has led to a situation where chaos enemies within, rather than from Silva was there last night, who offered Dharmadasa, who is also the incumbent DCA) was held at Aradhana and pandemonium have superseded outside, because of his uninformed meals for them (both Wilcassim and National Film Corporation (NFC) Hotel, Richmond Hill in stability and calmness at Maitland decision,” he explained. Algama) by the board. The workers Chairman, might not have much work Galle on Saturday (1). Lalith Place which may result in high-level resumed work today (Thursday) to do at SLC. Helambage was unanimously governmental intervention in the local Pathetic move morning again,” an insider at SLC elected President, along with the cricket administration after the election Mathivanan, who was part of the told Cricket Age. Possibility of an interim rest of the other office bearers, on 5 August, an informed source told many SLC executive committees since “It is also learnt that along with committee uncontested for the ensuing year. The Morning Sports yesterday (2). 2005, resigned after holding office for Dharamadasa’s cabin, there are “It is hunger for posts and prestige. Chalana De Silva, a legal over 15 months since his election in two extra cabins that are also being I can’t figure out any other reason for officer from Sri Lanka Cricket Blunder by both February last year. made, most likely for Shibley and Dharmadasa to grab this post in this (SLC), participated as an observer Lalith Helambage Dharmadasa and Silva Mathivanan was the only member Algama. Shibley, a long-time associate kind of situation,” our source further at the AGM. “Dharmadasa’s sudden entry to be elected from the Dharmadasa- of Dharmadasa, runs The Cricket explained. More than 20 members from Vice Presidents – Wasantha has provided more problems than led camp in that election. He won Shop in Colpetty, Colombo and sells “This kind of unnecessary 12 clubs in the Galle District Helambage, Lalith Gamini, solutions for SLC and Shammi Silva’s while Dharmadasa, Arjuna Ranatunga, cricket goods. Algama runs few small pandemonium will prompt the probable attended this year’s AGM. and Aruna Jayasekara administration. The Dharmadasa and Nishantha Ranatunga, who businesses,” the report added. Gotabaya Rajapaksa Government to The Galle DCA Committee Secretary – Jayantha Jayaweera camp and the Silva camp (formerly also represented his team, lost Our source revealed that this soon look into cricket affairs and clear elected unanimously for 2020-21 Assistant Secretary – Mahesh the Thilanga Sumathipala camp) are comprehensively at the February 2019 reaction from Dharmadasa’s men the mess. Therefore, an appointment of is as follows: Sanjeewa traditional rivals. Dharmadasa will have SLC Annual General Meeting. can create repugnance among SLC an interim committee cannot be ruled President – Lalith Helambage Treasurer – Lal Ranasinghe to work in a hostile environment when Therefore for the past 15 months, staffers and all its stakeholders. out,” he predicted. SLC’s CEO and COO: Are you blameless or not? say senior staff, I refer to the Chief Executive SLC CEO Ashley players have been sanctioned in recent times are mentioned in dropdown menus but they SQUARE Officer (CEO), the Chief Operating Officer de Silva on disciplinary grounds. all lead nowhere. I emailed the address listed (COO), and the Chief Financial Officer Born in 1963 in Colombo, In May 2020, a national player was under the contact details requesting a copy CUTS (CFO). Ashley de Silva captained St. suspended for the possession of illegal of SLC’s code of conduct on 8 July but am Joseph’s College, Colombo in drugs. The incumbent Captain of the Test yet to receive a reply. SLC CEO Ashley de by Sudat Pasqual Tea and Sri Lanka’s cricket 1982 before playing first-class and ODI team was found guilty of causing Silva has been in office since March 2013. SLC is the most important sports cricket for the Tamil Union injury to a three-wheel driver while under COO Jerome Jayaratne has been in the role organisation in the island. SLC generates and Colombo Cricket Club as the influence of alcohol. Another player since 2016 but his relationship with SLC Much, if not the totality, of the public’s billions in revenue annually and provides a wicket-keeper batsman. He played for Sri Lanka in was recently involved in a motor vehicle ran years deeper. consternation at the goings on at Sri Lanka employment to players, coaches and support three Tests and four ODIs during 1986-93. De Silva accident that killed a cyclist. In 2018, the Jerome Jayaratne has been the Manager of Cricket (SLC) has been aimed at elected staff, umpires, match referees, scorers, was SLC’s Director of Cricket Operations from 2008 CFO of SLC was arrested for attempting the national team, the Coach of the national until he was appointed as its CEO, replacing Ajit officials and the Minister of Sports of that curators, and ground staff in addition to Jayasekara, in 2013. De Silva has been holding that to divert $ 5.5 million (approximately Rs. team, Head of the SLC Cricket Academy, time. Rightfully, considering that the power the staff at Maitland Crescent. When Sri position since then. 1 billion) of broadcast rights money to an and the Head of Coach Education (this may of decision making, selection of personnel, Lanka hosts international matches, tours, offshore account. be an incomplete list). As for the CFO, it and spending of funds rest with the executive and tournaments, hotels get a boost, as do SLC COO Jerome seems like the position is vacant since the committee of the SLC and the Minister. restaurants and vendors at venues. Tens of Jayaratne Has SLC management acted right? arrest of the then CFO in 2018, which leads These individuals call the shots at SLC and thousands of lives are directly impacted by Born in 1966, Jayaratne The senior management of SLC is not to the obvious question, “who is in charge the working stiffs follow those shots, or as the way the game is managed by SLC. played cricket for S. Thomas’ responsible for the wrongdoings of others of finances at SLC?” the case may be, pretend that they didn’t see, Then there’s the sense of pride of College, Mount Lavinia, and but they are responsible for establishing the hear, or take part in carrying out those shots. achievement that goes with the team’s Colombo Cricket Club as a standards of behaviour expected from staff, Shouldn’t they be Especially if those orders were sketchy and success. Cricket boosts Sri Lanka’s image seam-bowling all-rounder. players, and other personnel who are part of responsible too? most of us who have a functional intellect in our minds as well in the minds of other In the mid-1980s, he resolved the organisation. And they are responsible The post-2013 “Ashley de Silva/ are aware that many of those decisions fall nationals. Sri Lanka’s international identity to play club cricket in Australia, leaving behind his for upholding those standards. Jerome Jayaratne regime” has overseen prospects to play for Sri Lanka. But his reputation squarely into the sketchy category. is forever tied to the quality of its tea and the grew more as a coach. Since 2000, he was Manager When a person or persons fail to meet the the complete dismantling of a system performance of the national cricket team. of Coaching at SLC before being appointed as Head of expected standards, the CEO and his senior that was dysfunctional at certain levels Should CEO, COO, and CFO be Coaching in 2008. Jayaratne was appointed as Interim management must take corrective steps to but delivered where it mattered; on the condoned? Fixing, corruption, drugs, Head Coach of the Sri Lanka team in 2015 before avoid repetition of the same. At a minimum, field. Prior to the duo’s rise to the top, The reason why staff members carry out and accidents being appointed as SLC’s COO in June 2016, mainly the above-mentioned transgressions made it Sri Lanka had reached the final of three these orders or simply look the other way SLC’s image has taken a pounding in to supervise its HR, marketing, and IT departments. obvious that SLC needed to strengthen its ODI World Cups (1996, 2007, and 2011) is because their continuing employment at recent years due to an avalanche of mind- code of conduct, anti-corruption, and anti- and two T20 World Cups (2009 and 2012). SLC depends on them acting in that manner. boggling acts of hedonism; from elected doping protocols. Has it happened? Since Sri Lanka’s triumph at the 2014 T20 Does the fear of losing a job grant people officials, players, coaches, umpires, support protocol. One of the sanctioned was the World Cup, not much has gone right for absolution for ignoring an obviously wrongful personnel, to top executives of SLC. The Captain of the national team and subsequently Ashley and Jerome Sri Lanka’s cricket. act? list of wrongdoers is a long one. Seven past the Chairman of the selection committee. At The unsurprising answer would be a I would like to ask Messrs. de Silva and I am of the view that the inaction of SLC’s national players have been sanctioned for least two first-class players have also been resounding NO. SLC does not even have Jayaratne the following question: Is the senior staff when faced with wrongful acts violating the International Cricket Council’s similarly sanctioned along with a curator and the code of conduct, anti-corruption, or anti- state of cricket in Sri Lanka better today cannot and should not be condoned. When I (ICC) anti-corruption protocol or SLC’s two umpires. At least five active national doping protocols listed on their website. They than when you took over as CEO and COO?