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MR Sworn in As PM Injured Lankans Increase to 15

MR Sworn in As PM Injured Lankans Increase to 15

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 10, 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 19,894,246 Suwasariya 0112 695 112 PROTECT YOURSELF FROM 2,841 Promotion Ambulance DEATHS CASES DEATHS Bureau Service Govt. coronavirus hotline USA 5,160,141 165,199 COVID-19 DEATHS RECOVERED 1999 1990 0113071073 731,104 BRAZIL 3,013,369 100,543 2,199,101 44,048 PRESIDENTIAL FOR ESSENTIAL SERVICES RECOVERD 887,536 14,931 11 2,579 Telephone 0114354854, 0114733600 Fax 0112333066, 0114354882 Hotline 0113456200-4 Email [email protected] 12,774,152 S. AFRICA 553,188 10,210 THE ABOVE STATISTICS251 ARE CONFIRMED UP UNTIL 8.30 P.M. ON 9 AUGUST 2020 SOURCE: HEALTH PROMOTION BUREAU REJECTED VOTES AT POLLS EC to study reasons for increase BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA Ratnayake said the voter turnout of over 70% was a good The Election Commission (EC) yesterday (9) said rate and it was even higher than that they were still waiting for the report to that of the previous general elections. determine the reason for the high number of Mahinda yesterday (9) was sworn in as the Prime Minister of the new government before President rejected votes. The number of rejected votes, which totalled more than PHOTO LALITH PERERA Director General of votes, but that it would take 700,000 at this year’s general Elections Saman Sri some time. election, is higher than the Ratnayake told The He was responding to a query 249,435 votes garnered by the Morning that the EC asking whether the voters had (UNP) Director General would receive a report rejected the voting purposely and the 445,000 obtained by the MR sworn in as PM of Elections Saman on the reasons behind or whether it had happened as National People’s Power (NPP). BY SKANDHA GUNASEKARA held according to an auspicious tri-forces, representatives of Sri Ratnayake the number of rejected they were not aware of it. Contd. on page 2 time last morning at the Kelaniya foreign missions, the clergy, and Former President, former Prime Raja Maha Viharaya. members of the new Parliament. SJB NATIONAL LIST CONTROVERSY NEW CABINET Minister, and Podujana The ceremony was The Maha Sanga led by Kelaniya Peramuna (SLPP) Leader Mahinda attended by President Raja Maha Viharaya Chief Rajapaksa, yesterday (9) swore Gotabaya Rajapaksa, former Incumbent Ven. Prof. Kollupitiye Swearing Clash over SJB in as the Prime Minister of Sri President and newly elected Mahinda Sangharikkitha blessed Lanka for the fourth time. parliamentarian Maithripala the Premier following the in likely on parliamentary slots The swearing in ceremony was Sirisena, Commanders of the swearing in. The only his name has been confirmed Wednesday (SJB) is yet to decide on whom to enter through the National List. ELECTION LAW VIOLATORS The new Cabinet of Ministers will be to send to Parliament through “Only I have been selected warmly sworn in on Wednesday (12), according their National List, as a large as the first to enter through the to sources at the Presidential Secretariat. number of members are vying National List by our Party Leader congratulates MR Police awaits AG’s advice The swearing in ceremony of the new for parliamentary slots through .” The Police is awaiting the suspects arrested in connection Cabinet will be held at the Auditorium, the list, The Morning learnt. Meanwhile, recently elected Embassy of Chinese in Sri Lanka Chargé advice of the Attorney General with the pre and post-election Magul Maduwa in Kandy under the SJB General Secretary Ranjith SJB parliamentarian d’affaires Hu Wei on Saturday (8) called Sri (AG) regarding the suspects period election law violations.” patronage of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa Madduma Bandara said that Dr. , Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) Leader arrested and produced before One incident was reported and Prime Minister . the list is yet to be finalised. while refusing to Mahinda Rajapaksa on the eve of the latter’s the courts for violating election from the area When contacted by The Morning, Sri “We are still in discussion comment on the party’s re-assumption of premiership and the formation laws during the pre and post- and two suspects have been Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) General on whom to select to enter indecisiveness, noted that of the new Government. election period. arrested in connection with Secretary said that they Parliament through the the Party Leader and The Chinese envoy handed over a letter from Senior Deputy Inspector the incident. still did not know about the cabinet portfolios National List. There Madduma Bandara the Central Committee of the Communist Party General (DIG) in charge of The Police said that the given to SLFP as the decision was taken by are many candidates, were in charge of of China to the SLPP, warmly congratulating elections Priyantha Wijesuriya current security measures will the President and the Prime Minister. so we are still SJB General selection. the SLPP on its landslide victory in the general stated: “We will seek advice be further continued, enhancing Contd. on page 2 deliberating.” Secretary Ranjith Contd. on election. from the Attorney General on mobile patrols. He said that Madduma Bandara page 2 Contd. on page 2 forwarding the information of – Sarah Hannan 2020 GENERAL ELECTION PRISONS PREMISES NATIONAL LIST Athula Senanayake 6 NFF members to Parliament passes away Perimeter fence A total of six individuals from the NFF had been elected to List sent to EC is Athula Senanayake, the National Freedom Front (NFF) Parliament. “Five were elected husband of Mayor of have made it into Parliament, The from the NFF, including its leader and father to be raised Morning learnt. , while one final: SLPP of three, passed away last The Department of Prisons is preparing Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna was put in through the National Saturday (8) at the age of 64 to reinforce the perimeter fences at the (SLPP) General Secretary Sagara List,” Kariyawasam said. zDismisses reports of changes due to a sudden illness. He was Welikada Prison by raising their height Kariyawasam said that five from Contd. on page 2 The National List published amend the list, Kariyawasam, an entrepreneur by profession. to at least 15 feet, The Morning learnt. by the Sri Lanka Podujana denying such a request being Commissioner of Prisons Peramuna (SLPP) a few days made, said the list was final. (Administration and Rehabilitation) Schools reopen today ago was the final list and has Also responding to the allegations Chandana Ekanayake, in a media already been sent to the Election levelled against SLPP National Elected MPs’ statement, noted that the initiative was Academic activities at all will have school only on one day Commission (EC), SLPP List appointee taken to prevent contraband from being government schools will resume per week. Secretary on his citizenship, Kariyawasam names gazetted hurled over the wall of the female ward from today (10), the Ministry of The decision to reopen is also said yesterday (10). explained that Raghavan was a The Election Commission (EC) on Saturday at the Welikada Prison. Education stated. based on the number of students When asked if there was a dual citizen before, but before (8) night published the extraordinary gazette “Illegal substances, mobile phones, and As per the new schedule, only in the school. Accordingly, request from the Sri Lanka signing the nominations was notification containing the names of the 196 accessories have been constantly thrown at Grades Five, 10, 11, 12, and 13 schools with less than 200 Freedom Party (SLFP) to cleared as Sri Lankan citizen. new members of Parliament elected from last the prison’s female ward for some time now,” will be allowed to attend school students may reopen for all week’s general election. Ekanayaka said. on all five weekdays. grades starting from today. Contd. on page 2 Contd. on page 2 Grades One, Two, and Three Contd. on page 2 EXPLOSION IN BEIRUT INDIA INVITES SL TO SEND Injured Lankans increase to 15 First flight to newly BY SARAH HANNAN of ammonium nitrate that was seized Meanwhile, on ground, news in 2013. reports informed that the Lebanese Almost a week since the explosion The stock of explosive matter had Custom officials had informed the upgraded airport in the Port of Beirut in Lebanon, the been discovered in a dilapidated Lebanese Government to move the number of Sri Lankans injured by Russian ship which belonged to the seized goods out of the port storage India has extended an to Sri Lanka Gopal Baglay told the explosion had risen to 15, the company Rhosus. since it was considered as hazardous invitation to Sri Lanka to send this to Prime Minister Mahinda Sri Lankan Embassy in Lebanon Maritime experts revealed that material. the first international flight to Rajapaksa, conveying a message reported. the substance was listed under the However, the Lebanese Government Firefighters extinguish flames in damaged buildings its newly upgraded Kushinagar from Indian Prime Minister following a large explosion at the Port of Beirut on 4 The Lebanese Government last banned goods of shipping under the had continued to ignore all warnings Airport. . August 2020 week confirmed that the explosion International Maritime Dangerous and letters that were submitted. Indian High Commissioner Contd. on page 2 PHOTO BLOOMBERG was caused by 2,750 metric tonnes Goods (IMDG) Code. Contd. on page 2 2 the morning NEWS Monday , August 10, 2020

INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS Voters hand Rajapaksa strength to face India and China z Washington tweets its concern of the strategic island’s indebtedness to Beijing BY MARWAN MACAN-MARKAR that you cannot conduct foreign policy by giving out bits and pieces of our real Sri Lankan voters have already estate.” detected a whiff of what the Seasoned geopolitical observers reckon electoral landslide won by the that New Delhi, Tokyo, and Washington country’s most influential political recognise the edge China will enjoy under clan earlier this week means to a Rajapaksa administration. “India, Japan, the international community, or and the US have long been concerned that at least what it means to India, the Sri Lanka may go down Pakistan’s path: US, and Japan. Become another country in that is heavily indebted to China,” said Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi Aparna Pande, Director for the Initiative set the tone by going on a charm blitz. on the Future of India and South Asia at He called and tweeted at his counterpart, the Hudson Institute, a Washington-based caretaker Prime Minister Mahinda think tank. Rajapaksa, part of that political clan, even “(But) what Delhi-Tokyo-Washington before the final results were in, giving the will need to understand is that Colombo Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), a has access to a constant tap of dollars Rajapaksa political vehicle, 146 seats in from Beijing and that they will need to be the 225-member legislature. willing to disburse more money if they “We will work together to further want to play the game,” Pande added. advance all areas of bilateral co-operation Well-placed sources within Sri Lanka’s and to take our special ties to ever new financial sector point to the country’s heights,” Modi tweeted on Thursday (6), need for a financial lifeline as the $ 88 one day after the general election. billion economy teeters on the brink Hours later, the US embassy in of a worsening crisis. ’s Colombo, the island’s commercial capital, international reserves have shrunk to $ 6.5 reached out, also on Twitter. “As the billion, and growth is forecast to contract new parliament convenes, we hope the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna Leader Mahinda Rajapaksa yesterday (10) was sworn in as the Prime Minister of the new government by 1.3% this year, a further drop from the Government will renew its commitments 2.5% in 2019, the worst in 18 years. to building an inclusive economic Foreign policy insiders in the country political comeback after a five-year port trade union with ties to the Rajapaksa Gotabaya has already made desperate recovery, upholding human rights and the regard these rhetorical cues as a hint of lapse. In November, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, camp launched a protest to stop the appeals to India and China for relief from rule of law, and protecting the country’s the “diplomatic balancing act” that looms Mahinda’s younger brother, won a development of a container terminal that mounting external debt payments that will sovereignty,” the tweet says. for the new government in Sri Lanka, sweeping mandate in the presidential India, Japan, and Sri Lanka agreed to average over $ 4 billion a year until 2024. That “sovereignty” nudge was a increasingly wooed by China, India, the election. The brothers had risen to build last year. China has already stepped forward with reminder of the massive amount of loans US, and Japan, all covetous of the island’s dominate the country for a decade during Likewise, speakers on SLPP platforms a $ 500 million loan. India has pledged $ Sri Lanka has taken from China for strategic location in the Indian Ocean. Mahinda’s two terms as president, which during the campaign opposed Sri Lanka 450 million. infrastructure projects, one of which two Yet, the foreign policy insiders came to an end in January 2015. signing a deal for a $ 480 million “We need every dollar we can lay our years ago prompted are sanguine. The decisive electoral It was during Mahinda’s presidency grant from the US Government under hands on,” said the head of a Colombo- to write this headline: “How China Got mandate won by the SLPP will afford the that Sri Lanka tilted towards China, its so-called Millennium Challenge based financial sector company. “The Sri Lanka To Cough Up A Port”. That Rajapaksas enough political stability to ending decades of influence that India had Corporation, which is aimed at improving Rajapaksas cannot antagonise our allies was a dig at the $ 1.5 billion southern chart a firmer diplomatic course. enjoyed. Beijing poured in military assets logistics and transportation on the island. – they need foreign friends, not foreign port in Hambantota, built with Chinese “One thing out of the way with the that enabled the Rajapaksas to end Sri Anti-US sentiment was also stoked by enemies, to tap funds.” loans, which the debt-strapped Sri Lankan general elections is we will not have Lanka’s 30-year civil war and followed Washington’s Indo-Pacific strategy, which Japan, which holds 10% of Sri Lanka’s Government gave to the Chinese on a partisan quarrels over foreign policy,” it up with billions of dollars worth of mentions Sri Lanka and a need to counter debt, a share matched by China, will 99-year lease as part of a $ 1.1 billion said a veteran Sri Lankan diplomat, infrastructure loans to help revive the China’s presence in . matter in this equation. It appears not debt swap. referring to the previous coalition war-shattered economy. According to Palitha Kohona, a former to have been lost in Tokyo’s tweet The Sri Lankan public was not privy, government, one marked by disunity The general election also serves as a Sri Lankan Foreign Secretary, it will to congratulate the new Rajapaksa however, to the mood inside the Chinese when it came to foreign relations with reminder: Foreign-funded infrastructure be difficult to ignore the national mood administration. “Japan, as a longstanding Embassy on Friday, following the pro- China, India, and the US. “The people’s projects and foreign assistance have laid bare during the elections. “There is friend of Sri Lanka, will continue to China Rajapaksas’ triumph. mandate gives the Government a stable become political fodder and will pose pressure on the Government not to hand support Sri Lanka’s effort towards further They are “so happy”, was the sentiment domestic platform to deal with foreign an early foreign policy challenge for the over the terminal to Japan and India...and development as a hub of the Indian Ocean making the rounds within some Colombo- powers.” Rajapaksa brothers’ new administration. the political mood is entirely against the region,” it said. based diplomatic circles. The elections cemented the Rajapaksas’ On the eve of the election, a Colombo MCC,” Kohona said. “It is also a reaction (Nikkei Asian Review)

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Grades Seven, 10, 11, 12, 13 – Tuesday Kariyawasam said the new members to the airport. This is particularly significant to be sworn in after the EC publishes the EC to... Grades Eight, 10, 11, 12, 13 – Wednesday Cabinet would be exclusively selected by the Sri Lanka’s Buddhist pilgrims since the extraordinary gazette notification containing The rejected votes outnumbered the Grades Nine, 10, 11, 12, 13 – Thursday, President and the Prime Minister. airport is located close to a number of sites the names of the elected parliamentarians former ruling party, the UNP, in almost all Friday – Maheesha Mudugamuwa sacred to Buddhists. and National List nominees. districts at last week’s election. The number However, the time duration for a school High Commissioner Baglay further According to government sources, the of rejected votes in the District was day for Grades from Six to Nine will be said that Prime Minister Modi is keen Cabinet is scheduled to take oaths on 35,751 while the UNP obtained 18,968 from 7 a.m. till 1.30 p.m., while the duration Clash over... on promoting Buddhism and has placed coming Friday (14) at the King’s Court of votes, and the rejected votes in Matara was for Grades from 10-13 will be from 7.30 “I don’t want to comment right now as no a “specific focus” on initiating related the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in 22,578 while the UNP polled only 7,651. a.m. until 3.30 p.m. final decision on the list has been made. All projects not only in the area of tourism, but Kandy. Meanwhile, heads of schools have been I know is that Sajith Premadasa and Ranjith also in other sectors such as archaeology. Government sources also confirmed informed not to open school canteens until Madduma Bandara are the ones making In the meantime, Prime Minister that the new Cabinet will be limited to 26 Schools... health officials confirm that the prevailing these decisions,” he said, adding that Rajapaksa has expressed his condolences ministers. Grades One and Five – Monday situation is under control. Madduma Bandara was the only individual to all those affected by the Air India Primary schools with over 200 students. with a shoe in for the National List. crash that has so far killed 18 people, the Grades Two and Five – Tuesday – Skandha Gunasekara statement continued. Earlier in the day, Perimeter... Grades Three and Five – Wednesday Swearing... the Premier expressed his condolences on More than 10 people were arrested for Grades Four and Five – Thursday, Friday Meanwhile, when contacted by The Twitter, stating: “I’m shocked & saddened hurling parcels containing drugs, mobile Secondary schools with over 200 students Morning, Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna China warmly... to hear about the tragic plane crash at phones, and other illegal items over the wall Grades Six, 10, 11, 12, 13 – Monday (SLPP) General Secretary Sagara It also expressed China’s appreciation Kozhikode, Kerala. On behalf of the Gov. of the female ward at the Welikada Prison. of the friendship and exchanges between & People of #SriLanka, I express my The Department of Prisons said that an the two parties, strongly expressing its deepest condolences to bereaved families operation is underway to arrest individuals willingness to deepen mutual co-operation & wish the injured a speedy recovery. Our engaged in such practices, and the assistance between the two sides in the coming prayers are w/the people of India at this of will be obtained for this Cartoon of the day years. hour of grief.” purpose. Prime Minister Rajapaksa extended his In addition to ongoing projects, High – Sarah Hannan most sincere thanks to President Xi Jinping Commissioner Baglay said that India and the Communist Party of China for the would also be happy to assist Sri Lanka in congratulations and the long-term solidarity, areas such as water and sanitation. Prime Injured... praising the time-tested friendship between Minister Rajapaksa has said that irrigation The explosion took place in Beirut on 4 the two countries and reiterating the is another important area on which the two August 2020. On the day of the explosion, commitment to promote bilateral relations in countries can collaborate. two Sri Lankans were reported to have the future to a new height with joint efforts. He further has said that he was delighted sustained injuries, the Sri Lankan Embassy Priorities of future co-operation including to receive his Indian counterpart’s call in Lebanon reported. , Hambantota Port and yesterday, even before the final results While minor damages occurred at the Industrial Park, drinking water supply, were declared. premises of the Sri Lanka Embassy in agricultural irrigation, and more were also “It was clear as the sunrise,” the High Lebanon, located in Beirut, and in the discussed by the duo. Commissioner had said in response. “With residences of the Embassy officials, none of your blessings, we look forward to moving the Embassy officials were injured. forward.” Around 25,000 Sri Lankans presently First flight... reside in Lebanon and the Sri Lanka He called the Prime Minister at the Embassy continues to maintain 24-hour Saturday (8) afternoon to Elected MPs’... hotlines which are open for queries. relay his best wishes for the landslide The gazette notification carries the names victory at last week’s parliamentary of the general election candidates of each election, the Prime Minister’s Media political party who managed to secure seats 6 NFF... Division said in a statement. in the Parliament from the 22 electoral The NFF was a part of the coalition that In June this year, the Indian Government districts. contested the 2020 parliamentary election reached a decision to declare Kushinagar Meanwhile, the Cabinet of Ministers under the SLPP banner. Airport in Uttar Pradesh an international of the Ninth will – Skandha Gunasekara the morning Monday, August 10, 2020 3 business Are caveat notices strangling the condominium industry? BY KAPILA GAMAGE others before registering the to pay the balance through bank pure extortion. According to the as a result of a caveat notice that condominium property in the loans also become helpless as the Section 26 of the Registration of can be registered for a mere Rs. The condominium developers of Sri Lanka are being relevant land registry. Once the banks deny issuing loans. Document Ordinance, a caveat 2,500. The simple solution given terrorised by a new kind of a threat that is smothering the approvals and clearances from Property developers are also has to undergo proper inspection to the affected is to file a case in continuation of the industry, in addition to other limitations all these institutes are obtained, unable to continue loan repayments prior to registration. However, in a the district court, which is a time- that developers currently face. A group that has made it a and the condominium Deed of and face unwarranted interest letter sent to the Attorney General consuming and drawn-out process. practice to blackmail condominium developers with the Declaration is submitted to the land rates as a result, while having no (AG) by the Registrar General, Property developers are drowned threat of submitting caveat notices for planned projects registry, the so-called caveat potice fault from their end. As the prices dated 19 February 2020, practical in debt as interests continue to has been breeding in the recent past. As a result, many becomes a major barrier to the of the projects are already agreed limitations have been cited as the add to their borrowings. Also, condominium projects have experienced prolonged legal developer, which is fast becoming a and finalised with the buyers, the cause of not being able to conduct the condominium property processes, immensely endangering the progress. The regular occurrence. developers cannot increase the substantial investigations. Even developers have to continue to pay Since all registered sales and unit prices in order to cover this though the letter states that the unwarranted interests and potential submission of a single caveat can bring 10 to 15, or in certain purchase agreements become additional cost. Registrars of Lands have been buyers face longer waiting periods instances 100 to 200, transfers of properties to a standstill. unenforceable due to registered The ease in which a caveat notified regarding the same, there to claim ownership unless this A property developer has to Development Authority (UDA), caveat notices, all transfers of can be registered has made this does not seem to be any inspection matter is sorted out. undergo a rigorous approval local government authorities, apartments to the purchasers who situation lucrative for a group in reality. (The writer is an Attorney- process from a series of regulatory Condominium Management had paid in full come to a halt. The who have transformed it into Condominium developers are at-Law and condominium bodies, including the Urban Authority (CMA), and several rest of the buyers who are prepared a means of business through facing a loss of millions of rupees consultant) Perera & Sons celebrates New DG appointed 118th anniversary to Export Sri Lanka’s foremost quick service restaurant facility Development Board provider, Perera & Sons (P&S) recently celebrated its Chitranjali Dissanayake has Development, Product 118th anniversary. been appointed as the Director Management, and Industrial The rich history and General (DG) of Sri Lanka Products and Services. Prior legacy that has lasted over Export Development Board to her appointment as DG, she a century and close to two (EDB) with effect from 4 was the Director of Industrial more decades remains August 2020. Products division and Acting unprecedented in the food Dissanayake joined the EDB Additional Director General services industry of Sri as a Research Assistant in (Development). Lanka. 1986 and gained knowledge She holds a BA from the The beginnings of the and experience on export and multifaceted P&S business development during her MBA from the Postgraduate that continues to prosper 34 years of service in the Institute of Management even today began with divisions of Policy and of the University of Sri the hands of K.A. Charles Strategic Planning, Market Jayewardenepura. EDB DG Chitranjali Dissanayake Perera who hailed from the remote southern village of Kodagoda. When this pioneer baked his first loaf Ceylon Chamber, IASL, of bread at the turn of the P&S History 19th Century, he could never have guessed that in P&S setting the standard the exceptional qualities and leading in the art of Fairfirst Insurance webinar on he was about to establish and becoming a benchmark inherent in the business baking, P&S has surged an empire. Charles, using among the competition,” the operations of P&S. forward in its rate of not much more than an old company said. However, this has not been automation, innovation, and insurance industry tomorrow baking tray and his own From installing the first without change. Over time, branch operations in order to The Chamber Academy in on matters related to how Chamber of Commerce CEO ingenuity, went from door electric oven and setting the family-run business simultaneously synchronise partnership with the Insurance the insurance industry is Manjula de Silva. to door selling his products up cutting-edge production has realised that change over time with the products Association of Sri Lanka and dealing with the Covid-19 The areas of discussion – this was the start of the facilities, the company is unavoidable when in and services that they are Fairfirst Insurance will be consequences. The panellists will be on coverage under P&S legacy. Standing the now boasts a number of operation for so many years. experienced in,” P&S said. conducting an informative are Ceylinco General BI policies for the pandemic, test of time, P&S has lived production facilities in Thus, it has been their credo Today, P&S has moved webinar on the industry’s Insurance Ltd. Director importance of life insurance on through today’s fourth locales such as Hikkaduwa, to cater to the ever-changing beyond being just a family response towards the current (Technical) and Chief and customer services offered generation management of Kandy, , tastes of its loyal customers baker to being a leader in pandemic tomorrow (11) from Technical Officer Dr. Jagath by life companies during the the company. Pasyala, Matara, to the best of their abilities. the quick service restaurant 11 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. Alwis, Softlogic Life Chief curfew period, and medical “Quality has always been Pelmadulla, Mihintale, “P&S takes pride in industry with a diverse The objective of this Technical Officer Pranama insurance and health benefits of paramount importance Dambulla, Embilipitiya, and producing every great range of products from webinar is to create awareness Perera, Fairfirst Insurance under travel insurance vs. for P&S. This has been Kataragama. tasting item of food customised cake making to on how the insurance industry Ltd. General Manager Covid-19 and customer reflected since its inception. After 118 years of with care. With a strong outdoor catering. Having has reacted and adapted to (Underwriting, Portfolio, services offered by the general P&S won over a loyal and enhancing and expanding commitment to the stood the test of time so far, a pandemic-ridden world, and Reinsurance) Priyantha insurance industry during ever-growing customer their founder’s initial highest standards in food P&S is clearly a loved brand and how it is important now Perera, and Orient Insurance curfew/lockdown days. base due to these exacting business philosophy since preparation, no preservatives that is likely to remain with more than ever to have better Ltd. Senior Vice President To register, email quality standards. The 1902, more than 160 outlets are added to any of the food its doors open to customers insurance solutions. (Technical) Anuradha [email protected], undying support from the across seven provinces items prepared. Priding for many more generations An expert panel will come Siriwardane. The session [email protected], or brand’s customers resulted stand as a testament to themselves for pioneering to come. together to create awareness will be moderated by Ceylon [email protected]. Sampath Bank publishes carbon- New Land Rover Defender neutral annual report again launched in Sri Lanka Yet again proving such measures to minimise Climate Smart Initiatives Access Motors, a member of its environmental our carbon footprint, we CEO Eng. Buddika the Access Group of Companies consciousness, Sampath are driving our customers Hemashantha, voicing and the sole agent for Jaguar Land Bank published its and stakeholders to follow his thoughts on Sampath Rover in Sri Lanka, launched the integrated annual report suit and be environmentally Bank’s repeated efforts new Land Rover Defender in Sri 2019 as a carbon-neutral conscious citizens. As our to publish carbon-neutral Lanka on Friday. product for the fifth integrated annual report annual reports, stated: The first vehicle was officially consecutive year. has been a carbon-neutral “By producing a carbon- handed over to its new owner The carbon footprint of publication for the fifth neutral annual report for at the launch ceremony held at the publication has been consecutive year, it stands five consecutive years, their state-of-the-art showroom in From left: Access Motors Director Ayesh Fernando, CEO Ravi Perera, MD Theo measured and reported as an example of our Sampath Bank stands as Colombo 7. Fernando, and GM – Sales Sanjaya Jayasinghe with the new Land Rover Defender in accordance with the commitment to reduce a benchmark entity which “Across seven decades of designs, with up to six seats in powertrain will join the range requirements of ISO 14067: emissions that could cause has responded to the call of pioneering innovation, Land the 90 and the option of five, next year. 2018 (E) Standard and irreversible damage to the mother nature. In an effort Rovers have earned a unique six, or seven seating in the 110. Sharing his thoughts, Access Sampath Bank Annual Greenhouse Gas Protocol Report Cover environment.” to mitigate the climate place in the hearts of explorers, The model range comprises Motors Managing Director Theo (Life Cycle Accounting In order to map the change phenomena, it humanitarian agencies, and Defender, First Edition, and top Fernando stated: “This is an and Reporting Standard) under the UN Clean carbon footprint of Sampath is encouraging to see adventurers. Proven in the of the range Defender X models, extraordinary occasion in the developed by the World Development Mechanism. Bank’s integrated annual the motivation of the harshest environments on Earth, as well as standard, S, SE, HSE history of both Access Motors and Business Council for Speaking about this report, comprehensive private sector and their the new Defender maintains this specification packs. Customers Land Rover. The new Defender is Sustainable Development development, Sampath data was gathered by commitment to protect bloodline. Driven by a passion will be able to personalise their indeed an icon that has been built and World Resource Bank PLC Group Chief Climate Smart Initiatives planet earth through such and respect for the original, it vehicle in more ways than any upon the tough foundations of the Institute. Sampath Bank Financial Officer Ajantha (Pvt.) Ltd. Following this timely efforts. With the delivers transformational breadth previous Land Rover, with four original Defender and reimagined was able to offset their de Vas Gunasekara said: in-depth analysis, the total help of private sector of capability. Advanced all-terrain accessory packs – Explorer, to suit the needs of today’s integrated annual report’s “We at Sampath Bank amount of Greenhouse institutions such as technologies redefine adventure Adventure, Country, and Urban. Land Rover enthusiast. With its carbon footprint of 20.58 have always ensured Gas (GHG) emissions Sampath Bank, we can for the 21st Century, remaining A choice of advanced petrol and customary toughness, personalised tCO2e by purchasing that our corporate accumulated at each stage move from incremental true to the pioneering spirit that cleaner diesel engines ensure the looks, advanced technologies, and Certified values are inclusive of of the product lifecycle to transformational has been a Land Rover hallmark new Defender has the power, unmatched off-road capabilities, Emission Reductions achieving environmental of the annual report 2019 change that will for 71 years,” Access Motors said. control, and efficiency for any the new Defender is sure to fuel (CERs) from the project sustainability in our day-to- was then measured in CO2 bring environmental The new Defender will be environment, while a Plug-in the pioneering spirit of thousands activity 2,342 registered day operations. By taking equivalent. sustainability.” available in 90 and 110 body Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) of Sri Lankans.” the morning 4 Monday, August 10, 2020 brunch

BY DIMITHRI WIJESINGHE The British Council is committed to collaborative A virtual panel discussion was work; the TRANSFORM conducted courtesy of the British programme is currently working Council on post-pandemic closely with the Government education, supported by the of Sri Lanka, which is a critical TRANSFORM report, “Current step for its engagement in Challenges, Future Directions”. education reform The webinar took place on 28 July and The British Council’s featured a keynote address by National TRANSFORM research Education Commission Chairman  Prof. H. Abeygunawardena, followed report indicates evidence for by a panel discussion with key policy aspects of education reform, and decision-makers from both the which is key to economic education and private sectors to consider recovery through developing what actions can and need to be taken the knowledge, skills, and to support economic recovery. The behaviours that will allow young webinar also reflected on the findings people to build their own and the of the TRANSFORM report, addressing country’s future as well as access professionalisation, quality assurance, and opportunities in a global market transition to employment. We spoke to British Council Director language focuses on communications of Education and English Louise Cowcher skills. Of similar importance is, as the on the British Council’s involvement, panel discussed, linking the curriculum at via their TRANSFORM programme, British Council Director all levels to the world of work. in the systemic reform of the Lankan of Education and These issues were discussed with education system as they work closely English Louise Cowcher reference to the current effects of the with government bodies, engaging with Covid-19 pandemic and how we are relevant ministries and departments currently facing an unprecedented time of across secondary, vocational, and higher uncertainty as the pandemic continues its educational systems. progression across the globe. Cowcher shared that the aim of IS EDUCATION A KEY TO Cowcher shared that considering the TRANSFORM is for all young people to pandemic, communities are affected not have access to and benefit from learning only in terms of their health and wellbeing, opportunities provided by a fit-for- but also in terms of their livelihoods as purpose and relevant education system, the has been badly enabling them to contribute to Sri Lanka’s affected and our collective attention economic and social development and turns to economic recovery. The British growth. Council’s TRANSFORM research report The British Council is committed to indicates evidence for aspects of education collaborative work; the TRANSFORM reform, which is key to economic recovery programme is currently working closely ECONOMIC through developing the knowledge, skills, with the , which and behaviours that will allow young is a critical step for its engagement in people to build their own and the country’s education reform. Cowcher added that future as well as access opportunities in a the British Council works with multiple global market. government ministries and departments, On a closing note, Cowcher shared including the Ministry of Education, that the response to the research results University Grants Commission (UGC), has been uniformly positive, with the National Education Commission, Tertiary RECOVERY different ministries committed to utilising and Vocational Education Commission, the findings and recommendations of the and the Ministry of Labour Department. individual research reports in addressing She said that, as indicated in the the key challenges to develop a strong report, there is a recognised link between internationally benchmarked education education and employment, and therefore system. However, she also stressed, as TRANSFORM also engages with IN SRI LANKA? did the panel members, the importance employers, both as individual companies The webinar’s panel discussion language teacher language proficiency, the education. Given the importance of English of acting on these recommendations in a and through their representational and also brought into focus topics such as importance of student-centred learning, in the workplace, the current debate on timely way in the post-pandemic context. industry bodies. improving teacher education, English and improving research quality in higher the teaching and testing of the English PHOTO PRADEEP DAMBARAGE

Hameedia’s HATCH GLOBAL WEBINAR Making a maker’s culture in Sri Lanka Envoy and Le In conversation with Dale Dougherty on creating SL’s own Maker’s Movement BY NAVEED ROZAIS the first and most important step to Bond masks getting a maker culture going and Hatch Global, the discussion building an interactive community. Facemasks are a compulsory masks are designed in three platform of Hatch, hosted a live On how Sri Lanka can set accessory in daily wear today. options – Platinum, Classic, discussion with maker culture themselves apart as makers on a The Hameedia Envoy and Le and Staple – and give the pioneer Dale Dougherty on 5 August global stage, Dougherty commented Bond masks that have hit the wearer comfort in breathing. to discuss maker culture and how that originality and innovation are market enhance the wearer’s Since Envoy always stands it could potentially apply in a Sri what can set apart markets like fashion sense while helping ahead in providing exclusive Lanka context. Sri Lanka, explaining that large them combat the spread of the attention to customers, Dougherty is the Founder markets like China, while being Covid-19 virus. customised options such as and CEO of Maker Media, Inc. entrepreneurial in how makers want Hameedia Managing personal monogramming as headquartered in Sebastopol, USA. to connect with the larger world, Director Fouzul Hameed well as mixing and matching Maker Media produces Make can often lack originality, while said: “These three-ply masks with shirts are also possible, Magazine, which launched in smaller markets like Japan can lack reflect a unique sense of style thus enhancing that unique 2005, and Maker Faire, which was entrepreneurial ability while thriving in keeping with the elegant statement. held first in the San Francisco Bay on originality. designs of our trailblazing The Le Bond facemask Area in 2006. MAKE has been the A question raised during the brand. Designed with high- is designed to bring out the catalyst for a worldwide Maker webinar was the protection of quality fabric to prevent best and to keep your skin Movement that is transforming makers’ ideas from copycats and airborne infections, they are comfortable. This three-ply innovation in industry, hands-on larger companies. Dougherty tried and tested to enable facemask is made out of 100% learning in education, and the explained that it can be very hard, if maximum comfort for their cotton and has been designed personal lives of makers of all ages. impossible, for makers to completely customers. While fashion and to be used multiple times, since MAKE invites everyone to become protect their work. It can be looked safety are primarily the reasons they are reusable and washable. a maker and integrate creative goals as an intellectual property (IP) issue for their design, the economic These masks come in a with technical skills. and patents can give makers the factor plays a pivotal role.” variety of colours, patterns, and Dougherty popularised the “maker right to litigate, although this doesn’t These washable and reusable textures to suit one’s everyday culture”, which is a technology- always stop a maker from being three-ply masks, with prices needs. Easy to maintain, they based DIY method which revels taken advantage of by someone ranging from Rs. 390 to are lightweight and easy to fit in the creation of new devices as were doing, hopefully inspiring get products out to market because bigger than them. On a personal Rs. 990, are a cost effective on with a comfortable elastic well as tinkering with existing ones similar action and innovation by it gives makers the chance to get level, Dougherty shared that he has accessory for daily use. Each strap. using electronics, robotics, and creating spaces for makers and investment in from friends, family, always been inspired by open-source mask is individually sealed and 3D printing. His movement also creators to debate, ask questions, and general public and hopefully be and the process of sharing, and the packed in a poly bag to avoid birthed “makerspaces”, a place interact, and share tips and insight able to prototype and sell their idea belief that even if an idea is copied, contamination and is produced where people come together to use, with each other. by giving consumers the chance a maker can still sell and position under stringent health and and learn to use materials as well as Dougherty shared that makers are to support the products they want their idea to a different market or safety guidelines maintained at develop creative projects. accidental of entrepreneurs of sorts, to consume. However, this kind customer than their copycat. the Hameedia’s factory. The webinar was hosted by Hatch builders, and inventors with no formal of fundraising can be challenging On the future of the Maker The three-ply Envoy Global in collaboration with BYLC business plan or strategy, who are for makers who can’t raise enough Movement and makerspaces, facemasks have been designed Ventures, ProPakistani, and SEED. more interested in their projects and funds or have products that turn out Douhterty explained that the to ensure better protection The webinar also featured Hatch what they are doing before looking to be more complex than initially Covid-19 pandemic has created a without disrupting the Works Maker in Residence Florian at how it may work on a commercial expected. more collaborative environment wearer’s fashion-oriented Manderscheid and Co-Founder level. He explained that in the field On getting started on building a with self-organised groups coming lifestyle. These reusable Jeevan Gnanam. of making, it is also difficult for Makers Movement in Sri Lanka, together and designing and premium facemasks It discussed how Dougherty first accelerators and investors to predict Dougherty shared the best way to producing solutions for their local have special features became involved in making and which projects and ideas will be start building a culture is by holding communities, like medical gear and – they are made of leading the Maker Movement. He feasible in the long run. events for makers to interact – equipment, without depending on water-repellent fabric explained that it started from a place Gnanam raised the topic of digital sharing that he held his first Makers the state or local industries to take with a comfortable of awe when looking at people who platforms like Etsy, Indigogo, and Faire before his first “makerspace” action. This collaborative spirit searchable strap, in had skills in making things and that Kickstarter and how they apply to – and that getting people together, suggests a new role for makerspaces, addition to being he first started the MAKE Magazine makers, with Dougherty sharing particularly in ways they can interact where makers can come together as antibacterial and to help people learn about making that platforms of this nature are very with the general public and make teams as opposed to individuals and hypoallergenic. and see the cool things other people important for makers looking to connections with other makers, is work together in groups. The Envoy 5 the morning sports Monday, August 10, 2020 Max is maximum at F1’s ‘Vantage FA Cup’ kicked off Stokes flies, misses 70th b'day The pandemic is challenged. Test two Red Bull’s Max Verstappen took a sensational Competitive soccer began. England all-rounder Ben Stokes will miss the remainder surprise victory in the 70th Anniversary Grand Prix That’s in Colombo’s of the Test series against Pakistan for he is flying to last week. He thus brought Mercedes’ domination Racecourse on yesterday (9). New Zealand for a family reason. He has played all four to an end. His win was founded on his car being The FA Cup, sponsored by Tests so far this summer, including the one his side won kinder to its tyres than the Mercedes of Lewis Vantage Clothing of Ebony quite remarkably by three wickets against Pakistan Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas, BBC said yesterday Holdings (Pvt.) Ltd., saw Upcountry Lions taking Java on Saturday (8) at Manchester in a nerve-racking run (9). The Dutchman had capitalised brilliantly. Lane. The match ended in “three all” draw. chase of 277. Their next Test will start on Thursday (13).

BY REVATHA S. SILVA Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) is Namal new now planning to get out from the “blackout” of CAN LPL cricket in the pandemic with its franchise league Sports Minister? modelled in the “IPL format”, named the z Former SL ruggerite to get his first ministry portfolio Lankan Premier League 2020 GET OFF (LPL). But will it be a The Sports Minister of the newly elected Government will be Namal Rajapaksa, The success, or else, a none- Morning Sports learnt yesterday (9). starter? The questions are If Rajapaksa will be given the sports raised by, of all, the Indian ON TIME? ministry portfolio of the new Gotabaya media. Rajapaksa-led Cabinet, he will probably be z There are more problems the first rare one to hold the portfolio with “As per the last official the credential of having represented the release by SLC, the league is country at least in one sport discipline. scheduled to begin on 28 August than answers: Indo media Rajapaksa has represented Sri Lanka in 2020, i.e. less than three weeks rugby while also captaining the national from now. Neither SLC has team. made any official announcement about the teams, commercial S. Thomas’ to Sri Lanka career partners, or any other details Rajapaksa, 34, began his rugby at about the event,” reported S. Thomas’ College, Mount Lavinia, India-based popular sports and competing in all age groups before leading commercial website portal the college First XV in 2005. InsideSport yesterday (9). Earlier, he has led Sri Lanka U-16 in 2000 and the national U-19 team in 2004. Preparations are ok Rajapaksa followed his school career But a senior member of the with two separate stints at Cardiff and SLC executive committee told City Universities, London during 2005-09. The Morning Sports yesterday Returning to the country, he played for that from their side, everything while captaining them in is ready for the 28 August start. 2010-11. “Preparations from our part LPL was inaugurated in 2012 under the name Sri Lanka Premier League (SLPL) Namal Rajapaksa’s Sri Lanka is okay. Grounds are ready. The representation spanned from 2010 to logistics are also in place. We players have confirmed for the (the event holders) will have 2014, and in the latter year he retired after Namal Rajapaksa played for SL before will receive the Health Ministry Premier LPL; with Sri Lanka airport to do a lot of things. They will captaining the Sri Lanka team. 2015 as an MP guidelines on Wednesday (12). currently shut down, how will have to select the final 15 and Mahinda, Namal’s father and the newly But we can’t help matters cricket at last! international players or the so on.” Politics elected Prime Minister, and Chamal, his beyond our (SLC’s) control,” The Premier Cricket, halted organisers will come into Sri He also added the remaining Rajapaksa entered Parliament in 2010, other uncle. he clarified. due to the pandemic, will Lanka; who are the confirmed organisational part is mainly representing the native Hambantota begin today (10) after over sponsors for the league; will left to the event-right holders District. He polled the most number of Are Rajapaksas everywhere? Long list of questions months of uneasy wait. There players be selected via auction; IPG. votes from the district then and since kept Namal was recently asked if his family Innovative Production Group will be four "Super 8" games and are the potential franchises “We have sent the lists of all the record intact in the two following was monopolising Sri Lanka’s politics as (IPG), a Dubai-based company, along with three more Plate cleared by the International the players. So the event holder elections in 2015 and 2020. This could be well as the Cabinet whenever they are in last week announced they won matches fixed for today at Cricket Council (ICC) Anti- has to come up with the work his first cabinet portfolio. power. the event-holder rights of the various venues. Corruption Unit team? on the teams and the franchise Reportedly, there will be at least four He quipped, saying the following: “It is LPL for the next five years for a owners. The worst situation Rajapaksas in the new “small-sized” people who elect us with overwhelming sum of close to $ 2 million. Who are the franchises Ready to have it on time could be postponing the start. 26-member Cabinet of President Gotabaya majorities. And the Rajapaksas have all The above InsideSport for the LPL; when will the But the said SLC ex-co They will have to go for a Rajapaksa, Namal’s uncle, which is to served the country like all other politicians news item yesterday asked the franchises be announced; is official added: “They (the player draft and all. But the swear in on Friday (14). or even better than them. So there is no following questions regarding there a confirmed players list players) can now come and status quo is that we are ready The Cabinet is said to be including base or logic in your argument.” the LPL 2020: for LPL; which international play. But before coming, they have it on time.”

SQUARE CUTS SLC staff needs whistleblower protection by Sudat Pasqual SLC was riddled with corruption elected and hired, have over the from “top to bottom”. years repeatedly and consistently In order to justify the behaved in ways that have damaged Who is a whistleblower? A establishment of an internal the organisation’s financial security whistleblower is an individual whistleblower protocol in an and the public’s confidence in the who reveals an act or acts of an organisation, one must establish institution. Cricket is the premier organisation, of which he/she is a pattern of behaviour within that blue-chip sport in Sri Lanka and part, that are illegal, unethical, and/ body to show that there aren’t any the national team’s performance or improper because it is in the best credible internal procedures (such is eagerly followed by millions. interests of the public. In short, a as an independent ombudsman) The country gains a great deal of whistleblower feels compelled to act already in place to remedy the international goodwill when the due to a perceived eminent threat to situation. Once that threshold is team performs to their potential. the existence of the institution and/ met, the protocol must make certain or the welfare of the public. that the act of “whistleblowing” For SLC’s long-term survival Why does Sri Lanka Cricket will actually result in bringing The national team also earns (SLC) staff needs whistleblower about the desired change, which billions of rupees in income each protection? Well, because in spite of means that whistleblowers must be year through participation fees, decades of financial irregularities, briefed about documenting acts of team sponsorships, and broadcasting unethical business practices, wrongdoing in a manner that will rights. Cricket, directly and SLC officials, along with its former Competent Authority Kamal Pathmasiri (front row, centre), before COPE last September mismanagement of a billion-rupee withstand judicial scrutiny. In an indirectly, employs thousands organisation, no official associated instructed by COPE to shut down establishment such as SLC, there of Sri Lankans. SLC is the body with SLC has ever been found its charitable arm Cricket Aid on will always be a huge risk involved that is entrusted with protecting guilty of even a misdemeanour. account of misuse of funds. in blowing the whistle because and promoting the game, and decision-makers enjoy an almost mismanagement and financial COPE’s findings Straddling ethical absolute degree of immunity for malfeasance threatens all who make The last chief financial officer boundaries their actions and inaction. their livelihood through cricket. (CFO) was arrested for allegedly What is shocking is not so much By continuing to disregard their attempting to divert $ 5 million the above mentioned transgressions Threatening everyone's fiduciary obligations of responsible to an offshore account in 2018, for people are aware of the lives trusteeship to the stakeholders, the but details of how it took place, mismanagement, incompetence, The whistleblower may lose his executive committee of SLC and individuals involved, and whether and disregard for principles of or her job as a result of their actions the senior most executives of the the former CFO was prosecuted good governance at SLC, but the and may find other obstacles in organisation have failed in their have not been released to the public. arrogance of office holders of the The October 2019 audit report based on COPE findings, signed by Auditor General the path of their professional and duties and have compromised the Several former national players, organisation who refuse to accept W.P.C. Wickramaratne, recommended stiff action against SLC officers for their personal life as well. Individuals financial stability of SLC. They coaches, ground staffs, and umpires the legitimacy of public scrutiny shortcomings pertaining to the selling of TV rights of 2018 South Africa and England must be made aware of the dangers have also failed the thousands of tours of Sri Lanka have been sanctioned for violating of their actions, even by the of blowing the whistle and must people who depend on the game of protocols relating to match-fixing. country’s Parliament. The executive the organisation. Seven suspensions investigation of SLC for corrupt be provided concrete guarantees cricket to make a living. he parliamentary committee, the committee of SLC has become a of elected executive committees practices (a fact that has been that their sacrifices will not lead to Considering these, I submit Committee on Public Enterprises law unto itself. since 1996 by the government of publicly admitted by Sri Lanka’s financial or physical catastrophe. In that Sri Lanka Cricket meets (COPE), which held hearings It’s quite obvious that the the day is a clear recognition of that Minister of Sports in 2019). So is other words, whistleblowers must be the threshold of an institution on SLC in 2019, found various executive committee of SLC has for threat. the enactment of laws to criminalise provided guarantee of the security that would benefit from the instances of gross mismanagement, decades straddled ethical boundaries match-fixing by the same minister of their employment and immunity establishment of a credible regime ignorance of facts, negligence, by design or accident and that It is a huge risk too who accepted ICC’s branding of from prosecution for any complicity of whistleblower protocols. and unethical behaviour. At the behaviour is an imminent and So is the International Cricket SLC as one of the most corrupt in the acts. The long-term survival of the conclusion of the hearing, SLC was existential threat to the survival of Council’s (ICC) continuous organisations in the world and said The administrators of SLC, both organisation may depend on it.

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