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Inside Stories COVID-19 Slipping Out of Control? COVID-19 claimed the life of the 14th Sri Lankan on Thursday (22). Although the country may not have the epic number of deaths that are being recorded in other countries, the infected numbers were escalating by the 100s overnight. A4

Curfew declared SJB to Sack in Maradana, Dematagoda Betrayers Lab techs urge public to be wary By Dilanthi Jayamanne, Tharaka Samman and By Methmalie Kusum S. Hennadi (Kelaniya Correspondent) Dissanayake Indefinite quarantine curfew was imposed in The Samagi Jana Dematagoda and Maradana Police areas from Friday Balawegaya (SJB) has night. Meanwhile, quarantine curfew was also imposed in decided to sack its Payagala, Beruwala and Aluthgama Police areas until 5 Parliamentarians who a.m. Monday (26). Army Commander Lt. General voted in favour of the 20th Shavendra Silva also said Gulavita North and South, Amendment to the Wedawatte, Magurumaswila and Makandalawa villages in Constitution, Party Walallawita Divisional Secretariat Division in the Kalutara Secretary and MP Ranjith District declared as isolated areas until further notice. Maddumabandara said. Meanwhile, despite claims made by the Epidemiology Earlier, nine MPs of the Unit of the Health Ministry that there is no community SJB sent a letter to Party spread as far as the COVID-19 pandemic situation in the Secretary Ranjith Aravind Kumar Ali Sabri Raheem Faizal Cassim country is concerned, Medical Laboratory Technologists Maddumabandara, (MLTs) urged the public to act as if there was community demanding the removal of spread. those who voted in favour of the 20th Amendment Story Continued on page 2 Bill on 22 October. The 20th Amendment was passed with a two- 1987 Aranthalawa massacre thirds majority in Parliament. SJB National of Buddhist monks List MP Diana Gamage and six Members of the All Ceylon Makkal Congress (ACMC) and the AG instructs Muslim Congress (SLMC), which are constituent... H. M. M. Harees Habiz Nazeer M. S. Thoufeek

Story Continued on page 2 Acting IGP to Five contract killers Diana claims some SJB initiate probe in OCD crosshairs MPs approve her stance By Hansi Nanayakkara y eerthi endis Attorney General Dappula de B K M By W.K. Prasad Manju present Government thereby Livera has given instructions to the The Organised Crimes Division (OCD) said they are overhauling the 1978 Constitution, Acting Inspector General of Police currently keeping close tabs on five gunmen involved in (SJB) some of the SJB MPs, could back its Chandana D. Wickramaratne, to killing people on contract at the behest of underworld figures. National List Parliamentarian and its ratification in the Legislature.” commence a probe into the mass An officer from the OCD said, these five hit men had Assistant Secretary, Diana Gamage Gamage stressed that she had murder of Buddhist monks at earlier been arrested by the security forces on similar said, there are yet a few MPs in her voted for the 20th Amendment Aranthalawa in June, 33 years charges and produced in Court and remanded. political alliance agreeing with the proposed by the Government, as a ago. stance taken by her to vote for the President who was elected by the Story Continued on page 2 now ratified 20th Amendment Bill in vote of the masses, should be Story Continued on page 2 Parliament. allowed to perform his or her duties, She remarked, “When a fresh without being shackled by the Constitution is formulated by the Articles in the Constitution. Story Continued on page 2 Zaharan’s PM hopes widow UN will testifies continue its before PCoI support By Buddhika Samaraweera Prime Minister Mahinda Abdul Cader Fatima Hadiya, wife Rajapaksa, in his of the late National Thowheed message on the Jama’ath Leader Zaharan Hashim, 75th anniversary testified before the Presidential of the United Commission of Inquiry (PCoI) into Nations (UN), the 2019 Easter Sunday expressed hope bombings, on 23 October. the UN would She also appeared before the continue to Commission on 22 October. Her extend its support to Sri Lanka in evidence was not recorded... order to achieve Sustainable...

Story Continued on page 2 Story Continued on page 2

Committee on Public Finance Govt wins Chair By Gagani Weerakoon and Committee Members to decide on Methmalie Dissanayake the Chair. The motion received 87 votes for and 17 votes against it. Disagreements between When the motion was moved at Government ranks and the main the commencement of public Opposition Party legislators led business by Leader of the to a vote being taken on the House and Minister Dinesh motion regarding the Chair of Gunawardena, Samagi Jana the Committee on Public Balawegaya (SJB) Finance. Parliamentarians opposed it, It was passed with a saying, the Chair should be majority of 60 votes in given to the Opposition. Parliament on 23 SJB District October, thus MP Dr. enabling the got up and opposed...

Story Continued on page 2 A2 sunday 25 october 2020 news Appeal against HC sil cloth ruling Indian HC Defence Advisor tours East The Defence Adviser to the and Area Commander during these meetings. High Commission of , Security Forces Headquarters Sood visited the Sivananda Appellate Court Captain (IN) Vikas Sood, (East) on 16,17 and 20 Thapovanam, Trincomalee, called on the COMEAST Sri October, respectively. which runs an orphanage for Lanka Navy, GOC 22 Division Matters on bilateral defence about 50 children and a , cooperation and support to donation in kind was made Commandant Sri Lanka Air strengthen the defence and areas of support were Verdict on 13 Nov Force Academy, China Bay relationships were discussed discussed. By Kamal Weeraratna High Court (CHC) on the of the two appellants were charge of distributing sil made by Attorney Kanchana The Court of Appeal on 23 cloths in the run up to the Ratwatte on 4 October while October decided to announce 2015 Presidential Poll by the submissions on behalf of the verdict of the appeal filed misappropriating State funds, the Attorney General were by the former President’s on 13 November. made by Deputy Solicitor Secretary Lalith Weeratunga The appeal is being perused General Thusith Mudalige, and the former Head of the by a two-Judge Bench of the two days later. Telecommunications Court comprising Justices Accordingly, the Court Regulatory Commission Kumuduni Wickremasinghe announced that its verdict on Anusha Pelpita, against their and Devika Abeyratne. the appeal would be delivered convictions by the Colombo The submissions on behalf on the said date.

Podi Lassie’s petition fixed for support

By Kamal Weeraratne the Prison officials to take Claiming that he has measures to ensure his received serious threats to The Court of Appeal, on 23 personal safety. his life while in Prison, the October, fixed the petition The Court issued notice to petitioner noted that the filed by underworld figure the Superintendent of the Prison authorities are duty- Janith Madushanka alias Boossa Prison, the bound to ensure the safety of ‘Podi Lassie’, for support on Commissioner General of inmates. 10 November. Prisons, the Acting Inspector ‘Podi Lassie’ was named as The petition was taken up General of Police and several the second suspect in the Boost for Kilinochchi OBITUARY by the President of the Court, others, who were cited as the case filed over the death Justice A.H.M.D. Nawaz and respondents in the petition. threats made in public at the Justice Sobhitha Rajakaruna. ‘Podi Lassie’ is currently Boossa Prison, against the agri sector H. N. Karunawathi Through his petition, ‘Podi being held at the high- President, the Defence Minister of Fisheries Devananda had stated Lassie’, claims to have security Prison in Boossa Secretary and certain high- has that during the height of passes away received threats to his life and over several criminal ranking officers of the Prisons taken steps to release the war, some H.N. Karunawathi, the mother of has prayed the Court to order offences. Department. lands coming under the thousands of acres in the Mawbima Regional News Editor, purview of the the Kilinochchi, Ruwini Sumudumali Guruge, Department of Wildlife Vavuniya and passed away recently. Conservation in the Mullathivu Districts had Karunawathi, who was 71 at the Kilinochchi District, as a been abandoned, and time of her demise, was the spouse way to boost the observed that such of the late P.G. Cyril of Matara. Patient transferred to SJGH – Hemas agriculture sector in the lands could be utilised They had served at the Lanka area. towards the development SATHOSA before retiring. Hemas Hospital Thalawathugoda in a The Ministry of of the agriculture sector. The rest of the children of the statement to Media said, a patient who visited Fisheries stated that a He urged Ratnayake to couple are Tasila, Namini, Chamila, the Emergency Treatment Unit of the Hospital discussion in this regard release these lands Harshani, Lasanthi, Sandamali and on 19 October was transferred to the Sri had been held between coming under the Chandana Priyantha. Jayewardenepura General Hospital (SJGH) on the Minister of Wildlife purview of the The remains of the late the advice of the Consultant Nephrologists and Forest Conservation Department of Wildlife Karunawathi were placed at the where this patient tested COVID-19 positive on C.B. Ratnayake and Conservation in the said Boralesgamuwa Funeral Parlour 20 October. Devananda at the Districts for agricultural while her funeral took place on 23 The patient was not exposed to public areas former’s Ministry on 19 activities, to which the October. of the facility. October. latter consented.

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Govt wins Chair... Zaharan’s widow...... the moving of the motion, saying, Finance. Is the Government afraid ...that day since the Attorney General’s Department officials SJB to... it was undemocratic. The Chair of of me?” made some submissions to the Commission in that ...Parties of the SJB “Although ACMC the Committee should be given to the Gunawardena: “Dr. de Silva does connection. The Commission, then chose to announce its and Tamil Progressive Leader Rishad Opposition, he said. not know the facts. The decision to decision on 23 October, whether or not to obtain evidence Alliance MP Aravind Bathiudeen and SLMC Gunawardena: “How could you vest that power with the Committee from her. Hadiya was taken to the Commission at around 9 Kumar voted in favour of Leader say that we are undemocratic? Read was taken by the Committee itself. a.m. 23 October and the hearing of her evidence began at 11 the Bill. stuck to that pledge, the minutes of the Committee. Do The most democratic manner is a.m. Her testimony was not disclosed to the Media. The letter signed by MPs other Members of their not come here without reading the vesting the power of electing a Harin Fernanda, Nalin Parties voted in favour of minutes. This has been agreed in the Chairman to the Committee with the Bandara, Hector the Amendment. Committee.” Committee Members. The Appuhamy, Sujith Perera, Therefore, Bathiudeen SJB Kurunegala District MP Government commands the majority. , and Hakeem should : “As per the Standing If you do not agree, let’s put this for a , remove those Members Order Number 121, this post should vote in the House and we can act PM hopes... Mujibur Rahuman, from their Parties for be given to the Opposition.” according to the result of the vote.” ...Development Goals by 2030, moving past all obstacles on the Kingsley Nelson and betrayal,” the letter Dr. de Silva: “The Opposition has Speaker of the Parliament way. He expressed his wishes to the UN, which he described as Rohini Wijeratne stated, further urged. only one Chairmanship in all the : the pre-eminent organisation seeking to establish world peace and all the MPs of the SJB had The MPs warned that Committees. This is an issue of “Let’s move the House for a security, develop friendly relations among nations while pledged to vote against the they would take stern democratic practice in the House. vote.” establishing international cooperation. Amendment as it was a action if the Party failed I have been proposed by my Accordingly, the vote was He stated, Sri Lanka had always supported the UN by threat to democracy. to remove those MPs. Party for the post of the taken and the Government’s contributing peacekeeping forces when and where needed. He Chairman of the motion was passed with a noted that the UN had helped Sri Lanka develop its health, Committee on Public majority of 60 votes. economic, social indicators and protect human rights, and to rebuild the nation after the tsunami and the war. The COVID-19 pandemic reminds us of the importance of an organisation like the UN as without such, there would be no proper direction for the AG instructs... world to go, he pointed out. Coordinating Officer to The specific goals he mentioned concerned clean water and the AG, State Counsel Diana claims... sanitation facilities, economic development, a protected work Nishara Jayaratne said She emphasised that she had the 19th Amendment to the environment, developing industries, infrastructure and that the AG had instructed voted for the new Bill sans perks or Constitution. innovation, establishing sustainable cities and towns and habitat, the Acting IGP to record a privileges from the Sri Lanka She added, she was not afraid to responsible consumption and production, action on climate statement from the person Podujana Peramuna and averred face any disciplinary inquiry from change, protecting marine resources and marine life, biodiversity who survived the massacre that the President will not be able her Party and affirmed that she was and ecosystems, establishing a mechanism for peace, justice and of Buddhists monks at to develop this nation by being also resigning from her post as the fairness, eradicating poverty, qualitative education, gender Aranthalawa by the reduced to a mere puppet through Deputy Secretary of the SJB. equality and good health and wellbeing. Liberation Tigers of Tamil probe into the case. Eelam (LTTE) in 1987 and During the LTTE-led to initiate a criminal massacre at Aranthalawa investigation into the on 2 June 1987, 34 incident. Jayaratne added persons, including Curfew declared... that the AG had also members of the Buddhist President of the College of Medical Currently the private sector hospitals were not the quarantine law. Also, around 600 to 800 ordered the Acting IGP to clergy, lost their lives. Laboratory Science Sri Lanka, Ravi Kumudesh earning much of an income from laboratory persons had tested positive for COVID-19 from submit a report to him However, 12 Buddhist said though community physicians and testing or out-patient department channelling the Peliyagoda Fish Market on 23 October. The within the next fortnight monks had managed to epidemiologists claim that there is no and therefore it was through PCR tests that Medical Officer of Health of the area Dr. after having concluded the survive. community spread, it is however in the best they earned large sums of money, the official Chandima Wickramage said that of the 1,176 interests of the public to act as though the said adding that even some of the testing PCR tests conducted on employees and those person next to them was a carrier of the Virus which was done at the Bandaranaike who had come to purchase fish from the and to take safety measures accordingly. He International Airport (BIA) had been wrangled Peliyagoda Fish Market on 21 October, 870 noted that the public should strictly adhere to out of the hands of its PCR lab facility and the tests had come out positive for COVID-19. keeping a one-metre social distance, use hand MRI by certain persons who levied large sums A 100 random PCR tests were performed Five contract... sanitiser and wash their hands as regularly as of money when repatriating those living in after it was discovered that those from the Subsequently the He mentioned that most possible and wear a facemask. foreign countries. Brandix Minuwangoda cluster had been to the suspects had been of such criminal acts had Meanwhile, a top official of the Health Elsewhere, a 26-year-old youth infected with Fish Market in Peliyagoda to purchase fish. At released on bail and declined in the recent Ministry said that measures had been taken by COVID-19 who escaped from the Salawa the time, 49 of them tested positive. returned to their trade in past due to the the Ministry to wrest the conduct of Hospital in Kosgama on 23 October morning According to the Director General of the the underworld. imprisonment of these polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests out of was later found at a house in Sahasrapura, Government Information Department, Nalaka The OCD officer said, a contract hit men. the hands of the Medical Research Institute Borella. He had been admitted to the Hospital Kaluwewa, the total number of COVID-19 further 12 gunmen who The OCD officer also (MRI) and other Government PCR laboratory at around 1.40 a.m. on 23 October. He is said patients from the Brandix Facility in carried out contract said there was a shortage facilities in order to hand them over to the to have escaped at around 6 a.m. on the same Minuwangoda had reached 2,817. killings had fled the of illegal drugs in the private sector which was currently earning day. The youth is said to be a resident of There were 48 persons who were contacts country and most of them market. The help of the large sums of money as much as Rs 9,000 from Sedawatta, Wellampitiya. Other members of and staff from quarantine centres who had also have had security forces State Intelligence Service a single PCR test. his family too were said to have contracted the been infected. Further, five at the Galle training. was sought to crack down The said official also added that all PCR tests Disease. Fisheries Harbour and 20 at the Beruwala He added, a further 11 on these contract killer at the Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport The Police Media Unit said that legal action Fisheries Harbour also tested positive on 23 are currently in remand. gangs, he said. were done by private sector hospitals. would be taken against the youth for violating October. news sunday 25 cotober 2020 A3

In meetings with President, PM and FM Pompeo to Discuss U.S. Support for SL United States (US) Secretary of State Michael economic development and growth,” Thompson Pompeo will raise issues related to human rights, said. reconciliation, democracy and China, during his “Pompeo will also emphasise the ties between visit to Sri Lanka this week, US Principal Deputy our people, our shared commitment to Assistant Secretary of the Bureau of South and democracy, and the importance of our ongoing Central Asian Affairs, Dean Thompson said on 22 regional maritime security cooperation. We’ll October. continue to urge Sri Lanka to advance democratic Speaking to the Media via teleconferencing from governance, human rights, reconciliation, Washington DC, Thompson said that Pompeo’s religious freedom and justice, which promote the discussions around China will be on a more country’s long-term stability and prosperity and positive trajectory, where Sri Lanka is heading ensures the dignity and equality of all of Sri and on the ways and means of strengthening Lanka’s diverse communities,” he said. Colombo’s commitment to human rights, rule of Thompson said that Pompeo in his visit to law and democracy, the US State Department Colombo will meet with President Gotabaya said on 22 October. Rajapaksa, Prime Minister “In the interest of strengthening our long- and Foreign Minister to standing partnership with Sri Lanka and emphasise the US commitment to a strong, reinforcing our long-term commitment to the independent, and democratic Sri Lanka. “We region, we encourage Sri Lanka to review the want to partner with Sri Lanka on our shared options we offer for transparent and sustainable goals of sustainable economic development and a economic development in contrast to free and open Indo-Pacific,” he added. discriminatory and opaque practices. Pompeo, together with US Defence Secretary We urge Sri Lanka to make difficult but Mark Esper, will kick off his four-nation Asian necessary decisions to secure its economic tour today (Sunday, 25 October) with India, independence for long-term prosperity, and we followed by Sri Lanka, Maldives and Indonesia. stand ready to partner with Sri Lanka for its The tour ends on 30 October. (PA)

Calls for prompt action by Opposition not heeded – Rajitha

By Methmalie Dissanayake beds at the Neville Fernando Teaching Hospital of which 400 beds are used at present. When the Samagi Jana Balawegaya Hospital was taken over under my purview, I was Parliamentarian Dr. claimed blamed. The Government Medical Officers’ that had the Government heeded the calls from the Association criticised me for taking it over. If that Opposition to take timely action against the Hospital was not there, what would have been the outbreak of COVID-19, the country would have result?” been better off in its fight against the pandemic. “At the outbreak of the pandemic, we asked the Participating in a debate on the pandemic at the Government to close down the airports. We asked time of the adjournment of the House, he stated, the Government to go for a lockdown on 20 March. COVID-19 is not just a local problem but one of the Our calls were not heeded. Thereafter they had to greatest crises that befell the entire human do things as told us. But it was too late then. There civilisation. are variations of COVID-19. The ‘A’ version had “On 22 October alone, 2,297 suspected cases been found in Sri Lanka, Australia and the United were found and from among them, 167 were found States, among others. China had the B version to be positive. A total of 60 have left hospitals after while the C version was found in Europe. The recovery and 2,404 patients are receiving treatment advantage we have is being a tropical country at 27 centres while there are 2,077 beds in where humidity and temperature works against the hospitals to accommodate them. There are 186 virus. That should be capitalised on to fight beds remaining to treat others. This includes the against the virus,” the former Health Minister said. A4 sunday 25 october 2020 focus COVID-19 Slipping Out of Control? Sub clusters threatening to cause community spread By Dilanthi Jayamanne virus transmission,” WHO SEAR South-East Asia Region, Dr. Poonam COVID-19 claimed the life of the Khetrapal Singh said. 14th Sri Lankan on Thursday (22). She warned that the upcoming Although the country may not have festival season and the approaching the epic number of deaths that are winter cold season threatened to being recorded in other countries, the aggravate the situation. Seasonal infected numbers were escalating by influenza and COVID-19 may present the 100s overnight. Meanwhile, the challenges for health services and Epidemiology Unit of the Health health facilities, as both diseases Ministry continuous to hold present similar symptoms, she said. steadfastly to its stance that that The Public Health Inspectors’ Union there was no community spread of of Sri Lanka (PHIUSL) said they had COVID 19 till now. requested the support of the Police Spokesman of the Health Ministry, after some of their members had been Dr. Jayaruwan Bandara said that it threatened by those being sent to was best to safeguard oneself against quarantine and kept in home the virus rather than basking in the quarantine. assurance of scientific definitions Secretary of the PHIUSL, M. given by a certain sections of the Balasooriya said that there had been Health Ministry. incidents where persons being taken But the President of the College of for quarantining in the Gampaha and Medical Laboratory Science Sri Lanka Kuliyapitiya areas had threatened (CMLSSL) Ravi Kumudesh reiterated them with death while they were sent the call, of the World Health for quarantine. Organisation (WHO), to expect the Most of these people are taken as worst scenario when preventing and there are no possible means of controlling the virus. quarantining them due to lack of Secretary of the Government space in their houses. Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA) He noted however that although the Dr. Senal Fernando observed that one PHI union was viewing the situation of the definitions of community with empathy, legal action would be transmission of the COVID -19 was identified. diagnosed with COVID-19 Krishnapuram Kilinochchi taken against those who fail to comply when multiple clusters with unknown in the Katunayake Free Trade Zone as Maradankerney in Jaffna, under quarantine laws by obstructing origins were identified from the it employs over 32,000 people, as of Vidathalthivu in Mannar were to be the duties of PHIs. society. yesterday’s (19) morning. However, converted to facilities to treat and Police curfew was imposed in the six Currently the Epidemiology Unit, in PCR tests will be conducted on those isolate suspect COVID 19 patients Police areas in Colombo District from collaboration with the Health employees again. The World Health from the Brandix cluster at the facility Thursday (22).The areas are Ministry, has been able to trace the Tourism Minister Prasanna in Minuwangoda. Mattakkuliya, Mutwal, Bloemendhal, origin of all sub clusters to the Ranatunga said that there is no need Organisation has Sources said that the institution in Wellampitiya, Grandpass and existing Brandix cluster at its to close the Katunayake Free Trade cautioned against Krishnapuram Kilinochchi had been Kotahena after identifying of COVID- Minuwangoda facility. However unlike Zone yet, adding that further action used by the LTTE during the war to 19 cases from the Peliyagoda Fish in the other clusters, the country would be taken on the any relaxation of educate disabled LTTE cadres till it Market and surrounding areas in experienced during the first half of recommendations of the health response actions was taken over by the Sri Lanka addition to that which has been this year starting with the Tour guide sector. Army. imposed in the Gampaha District. cluster, there were clusters at Katunayake FTZ following the The Army was handing it over to Police Spokesman DIG Ajith Rohana Keselwatta Bandaranaike Place, the medical services to convert it to a said curfew will be in effect till 5 a.m. Welisara Navy Camp and the Nearly 5,000 employees of the recent slight Hospital with a 200-bed strength for on Monday, based on the Kandakadu Drug Rehabilitation Katunayake Free Trade Zone were decline in COVID- asymptomatic corona patients. recommendations of the Director Centre. The latter had one sub cluster subjected to PCR tests on 18 October. There has also been a call for the General of Health Services (Cover up). at Rajanganaya arising from a house The Minister also said that steps 19 cases in Epidemiology unit to reveal as to He urged the area residents to limit where there had been a funeral. had been taken to provide guidelines South-East Asia whether there was a community travelling and remain at home. Brandix Cluster for the deployment of Manpower transmission of COVID -19 without Railway services employees in factories within and Region (SEAR), leaving room for various persons to However, the current Brandix outside the Board of Investment (BoI) comment on the prevailing COVID-19 Several railway services of Sri Lanka Cluster, at its Minuwangoda Facility, Free Trade Zones. “These steps were saying the situation. Railway have been suspended until erupted into several sub clusters, the taken in accordance with the pandemic further notice while some others have latest is at the Colombo Dock Yard recommendations of the health Dilemma suspended services only on weekends and the Peliyagoda Fish Market. department. Accordingly, factory continues Also several hospitals have been due to the spread of COVID-19 within According to Public Health Inspectors owners have been instructed to faced with the dilemma of having . (PHIs) and Medical Officer of Health employ the same team of workers unabated. “Our dealt with patients who had The Media spokesman of Sri Lanka (MoH) the spread itself was due to when employing manpower in response only subsequently tested positive for the Railway Department, Nihal Rupasiri persons from the Brandix factories,” he added. virus or had staff who were related to noted that three railway services from Minuwangoda cluster going on leave The Minister said that the BoI is needs to be patients. The Executive Committee Colombo to Kandy, Maradana to to their homes situated in various paying special attention to the strengthened Member of the GMOA, Dr. Haritha Beliatta and Colombo Fort to parts of the country, including implementation of health guidelines Aluthge he said that the facts were Polonnarwa have been suspended Badulla and Jaffna. Further, in factories and that follow up is being further to curtail only known even to union members until further notice, while two trains, weddings held in the Udabaddawa carried out on a regular basis. as only incidents. “Thereby we know which travel to Kankesanturai from Kuliyapitiya and Divulapitiya The Education Ministry also virus that certain wards and even the ICU Colombo Fort and Mount Lavinia will developed into a wedding sub cluster. pledged to allocate more funds to transmission,” facilities of the National Hospital, operate only on the weekends. This Reports said that a nurse affiliated to safeguard students sitting for the Teaching Hospital Kuliyapitiya, decision was taken after monitoring the Hirdaramani apparels in GCE Advance Level examination. WHO SEAR Dambadenya and Minuwangoda were the movement of commuters at the Kahathuduwa attended the Wedding Director General of the Government amongst them. railway station and bookings received at Divulapitiya. She too was infected Information Department, said that South-East Asia The Union said that with quarantine by the Railway Department. with the virus and it resulted in the examinations were being held in Region, Dr. centres overcrowded, there was need Also, he noted that the railway Kahathuduwa Hirdaramani 2,648 centres. A sum of Rs 15,000 to revisit the quarantine method that services will not be available in employees being subjected to more would be deposited to School Poonam was being observed at present. GMOA quarantine curfew-imposed areas and PCR tests. Also, another sub cluster Development Funds of all schools at Khetrapal Singh Secretary, Dr. Senal Fernando said the trains will not stop in the areas of ensued at Mathugama. which the examination was being held that the union had written to the Ambepussa and Negombo, however, The Colombo Dockyard too allegedly on the instructions of Education said President in this regard as well. the students who sit for the General contracted the infection from person Minister, Prof. G.L. Peiris. The current method of placing all Certification of Education, Advance from the Minuwangoda Brandix Chief Public Health Inspector first contacts in quarantine centres Level can use their admission card as Facility who had visited Aluthgama. Negombo Municipal Council (NMC), had led to the overcrowding of those a pass to travel in the train by The said person had a connection to H.A. U.K. Gunaratne said that the places. A method should be informing that particular railway the Dockyard employee’s wife. Supermarket and Fair functioning Brandix cluster at the Minuwangoda introduced to quarantine first office. Thereby the alleged birth of yet under the Council had been facility, who had travelled in the bus. contacts in their homes if possible The virus may have had a another sub cluster. temporarily closed after a couple The woman is said to have travelled in under the observation of the area devastating impact on Sri Lanka’s Since then, patients have been owning a textile shop at the three buses starting from Colombo on Medical Officer of Health. The apparel industry which was one of the identified in Various Commercial Supermarket had been diagnosed 3 October 2020. She had got off the situation is such, at present, the chief earners of foreign revenue for Sri institutions such as BoC with COVID-19. bus at Puttalam when it had broken number of first contacts of the Lanka. With the first wave in late Polpithigama, Kurunegala, HNB Sources at the Colombo Municipal down and switched to buses from Brandix Minuwangoda Cluster had February, when all Board of Towers, and NDB Marine Drive, an Council (CMC) said that four persons, Puttalam to Kodikamum where she topped 2,300 while the number of Investment (BoI) factories too were institution in the World Trade Centre, including the cashier, and the owner changed buses once more to travel to those in quarantine centres had closed till about late April to Early the Customs, and the Police of a wholesale business in Fourth her destination in Punkuduthivu. exceeded 7,000. June, the expected loss at the time Department. Also, in addition to the Cross Street Pettah were tested Following the particular passenger Unlike when the country was faced amounted to U.S. Dollars 1.5 million. Paliyagoda Fishmarket, the Manning positive for COVID- 19. They said that testing positive for the virus, PCR with the cluster that was detected at However the industry is yet to Market, the Dehiwala Market, and the the cashier of a business who had tests were conducted on the driver Keselwatta, Bandaranaike Place, quantify its present loss. Fisheries harbours of Beruwala have been taken to Nawaloka due to a and the conductor of the bus as well. earlier this year, in which the Informed sources said that although already been closed. medical emergency had undergone a The first PCR test on the conductor situation was an exception due to the the apparel industry had not lost its The Chief Epidemiologist, Dr PCR test before being admitted and tested negative. However, he was situation of the area, some of the current orders yet, there was a Sudath Samaraweera said that those had tested positive for COVID. quarantined at his home in contacts of the patients, being question as to whether it would at the Brandix Facility in PCR tests were carried out on his Thumbhull. While a second PCR test identified in the present cluster, could receive more orders in the near future Minuwangoda had been to the daughter, on Friday (16) and she too done 15 days later tested positive. be quarantined in their homes under or whether those orders would be Peliyagoda Fish Market. While had tested positive for COVID. A PCR The area in which the conductor the observation of the MoH. He noted diverted to other countries. persons from outstations and fish carried out on Saturday (17) had and his family live was locked down. that the National Operation Centre for The country was managing to mongers had come to the market to revealed that the owner of the Sources said that a decision as to Prevention of COVID-19 Outbreak muddle through the day after having purchase fish to be sold in various business and two shop assistants had where the patient was to be (NOCPCO) was worried as these were been shut down for almost five parts of the country. One can only also tested positive. Measures were transferred for treatment was to be all first level contacts that had been months of this year. The economy imagine how far the virus would reach taken to quarantine all contacts while decided by the Health Ministry. identified. collapsed face down as a result with from then onwards. the patients were sent to treatment The Health Ministry has also lined The World Health Organisation has the daily wage earner just barely By the end of this week however the facilities. up several hospitals in the Northern cautioned against any relaxation of managing to earn a day’s pay. Can Sri Government Medical Officers’ The Conductor of a bus travelling Province to treat COVID-19 patients response actions following the recent Lanka afford to face a second blow to Association warned that the country from Kodikamum to Punkuduthivu, with mild symptoms. slight decline in COVID-19 cases in its economy? Moreover, can our free was on the verge of a community in the Jaffna District, tested positive Sources said that the Base South-East Asia Region (SEAR), health service sustain the growing spread of COVID-19. for the COVID 19 virus on Sunday Hospitals of Mankulam and saying the pandemic continues demand from the multiple sub By the beginning of this week over (17) after he allegedly came into Mullaithivu as well as a facility which unabated. “Our response only needs clusters that stem from the Brandix 300 COVID-19 patients had been contact with an employee of the had been under the armed forces in to be strengthened further to curtail Facility in Minuwangoda? news sunday 25 october 2020 A5 20A signals death knell for ETF membership democracy –

Janatha Vimukthi control the Parliament, Leader when the vote Peramuna (JVP) the Judiciary and the took place. That alone accounts stagnate Propaganda Secretary Cabinet of Ministers. shows that the SJB and Jathika Jana Those three institutions Leader cannot even By Paneetha Ameresekere 2019 and ETF collections, 2019 over YoY growth. Of the ETF Board’s Balawegaya (National have been turned into control his own MPs. He 2018 also increased by 8.47% Rs 319,150 million investment People’s Power) puppets and what good promises one thing to the Employees’ Trust Fund (ETF) Board (Rs 2,139 million) YoY to Rs 27,395 portfolio of 2019, Rs 248,725 million Parliamentarian Vijitha will come through it, people and does a totally Membership accounts stagnated at million to 2019. Further, membership (77.93%) were invested in Treasury (T) Herath reiterated that remains to be seen. The opposing thing in the 14.6 million last year (2019), year-on- balances increased by 20.64% (Rs 58 Bonds yielding interest from 8% to a the 20th Amendment to three main pillars of Parliament. Can such a year (YoY), the Labour Ministry’s 2019 billion) YoY to Rs 339 billion to 2019. high of 10.13%, respectively. the Constitution, which democracy, the person be entrusted Performance Report, tabled in Commensurate with these The next highest investments in was ratified by this Parliament, the Judiciary with the reins of this Parliament on 23 October, showed. developments, ETF Board’s assets YoY 2019 were on fixed deposits with a Government with a two- and the Executive country? This vote Commensurate with these grew by 9.58% (Rs 30 billion) to Rs 343 total of Rs 51,369 million comprising thirds majority, will Presidency will not be further exposed the MPs developments, the number of active billion and net profits increased by 16.1% of its total investment portfolio. signal the death knell for functioning from the Opposition and accounts managed by the ETF 11.16% (Rs 2.6 billion) to Rs 25.9 In related developments, the ETF democracy. independently in the the Government who stagnated at 2.6 million YoY to 2019. billion, YoY, in 2019. Meanwhile, the Board’s investments in equities The gravity of ratifying future. The Parliament would betray their souls Nevertheless, repayments to members ETF Board’s investment portfolio at the amounted to Rs 11,335 million or 3.5% this Bill will be felt by the and the Judiciary will be for personal gains, perks increased by 11.05 per cent (Rs 2,022 end of 2019 amounted to Rs 319,150 of its total investment portfolio in people not now but only now under the thumb of and privileges. The vote million) YoY to Rs 20,314 million in million, a 9.42% (Rs 27,485 million) 2019. in the future, he added the President as he for the 20th Amendment while addressing a media makes crucial proved once again that briefing at the JVP appointments”. neither the SLPP nor the headquarters. “This Government SJB are the saviours of “The Government ratified the new Bill with this nation’s democracy. CPRP Chair to President deceived the electorate the support of certain They will sell their soul saying that the MPs from the political for a pittance”. Prevent deaths of suspects in custody progressive clauses parties helmed by Rauf “The country’s contained in the 19th Hakeem and Rishad influential Buddhist By Ruwan Laknath Jayakody stock of heroin, had succumbed to He also questioned the narrative put Amendment to the Bathiudeen. If not for clergy even protested the injuries sustained in a crossfire ensuing forward by the Police to explain Constitution will be their support, the Sri introduction of the The Committee for Protecting the from a gun battle that had erupted Madush’s end, citing bad precedents retained through the Lanka Podujana clause for the dual Rights of Prisoners (CPRP) lodged a between the Police and a group of from the past where suspects had died 20th Amendment. But, Peramuna (SLPP) regime citizenship. But, this complaint with the Human Rights suspects at the said location. The while in Police custody when they had, this is not the case. They would have struggled to regime did not even heed Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL) on deceased Madush was also under according to the Police, attempted to are determined to turn pass this new the concerns raised by 23 October, seeking an investigation investigation in connection with murder escape from the Police by jumping into the Presidency into an all Amendment in the the Buddhist clergy and into the circumstances surrounding the and extortion. a body of water or attempted to attack encompassing figure, House. The Samagi Jana ratified it to enable a death of underworld kingpin and drug The Committee questioned the timing the Police by throwing grenades despite more or less, a dictator, Balawegaya (SJB) was member of the baron Makandure Madush. of the site visit cum raid and further being restrained. who will do whatever he also bought over by this Rajapaksa clan to enter The Committee stated, the said death queried as to why special additional “In the process of meting out justice, or she pleases. The new Government but their Parliament. They all should be probed on the basis of Article security was not provided to the there is a legal procedure to be followed Bill even exceeds the Leader before the vote seek to concentrate 13(4) of the Constitution and as to deceased detainee who was a treasure concerning how suspects or accused powers vested in the shouted from the power within one family whether a violation of it occurred in the trove of information and evidence parties are ultimately punished. 1978 Constitution rooftops that there were and they are least matter at hand. Article 13(4) holds concerning large scale criminal Punishment can only be imposed by the formulated by then no MPs in their ranks concerned about among others, that “No person activities. Courts in the Judiciary. What is taking President J.R. who would sell their resolving issues of the (includes suspects in Police custody, Speaking to Ceylon Today, Chairman place at present is contrary to and Jayewardene. The soul. In the end, eight people,” he further prisoners including those in remand of the Committee, Attorney Senaka outside this process. We don’t condone President will henceforth MPs betrayed the SJB claimed. custody, and persons who have been Perera said, the Committee had written this state of affairs.” deprived of their liberty) shall be to President Further, the Committee requested the punished with death except by the urging the latter to take necessary steps Commission to recommend to the order of a competent Court, made in to prevent such deaths from occurring Government to refrain from taking accordance with the procedure whilst suspects and accused parties are suspects or prisoners outside their established by the law”. in the custody of the State, which is confines, sans Judicial approval and The Police claimed that Madush, who theoretically considered to be the safest supervision, in order to locate arms (as was taken by the officers of the form of custody. such is risky) or to ascertain Colombo Crimes Division early 20 He said, with Madush’s demise and information. The Committee requested October, to an apartment in the the resultant destruction of evidence, that the Commission make available Laksetha Sevana housing complex in many others including criminals would their report in this regard to both the Apple Watta, Maligawatta, to locate a be able to evade the net of the law. Government and the public. A6 sunday 25 october 2020 focus

Amidst COVID-19 and US polls around the corner What Brings Pompeo to SL?

By Sulochana Ramiah Mohan business as per US Census Bureau data and that China is investing in A crucial event is waiting to unfold, strategic ports and port-related one not seen since former US industries and the Government of Sri Secretary of State John Kerry’s visit Lanka (GoSL) faces considerable to Sri Lanka on 3 May , 2015, domestic opposition to these trade immediately after Maithripala and investment deals and must work Sirisena was elected President and it hard to win over their opponents. took US-Lanka relations to the next Forecasting on the debt, the US level, but ‘sank’ over the years. report noted that Sri Lanka suffers Now it’s US State Secretary Michael from a large foreign debt burden. R. Pompeo’s turn to revive the Foreign debt is comprised of ‘souring ties’ as he visits the country concessional debt and commercial on 28 October. debt, including debt owed to China Pompeo’s visit to South East Asia, for infrastructure projects. While which includes India, Sri Lanka, official reserves amounted to USD 5.6 Maldives and Indonesia, braving the billion in February 2017, external coronavirus and just before during Trump and Pompeo US Secretary of State John Kerry greets Ven. Kollupitiye debt obligations payable are the US’s Presidential Poll next month, Mahinda Sangharakkhita Maha Thera at the Kelaniya Rajamaha approximately USD 2.5 billion in expresses nothing but the US-China Viharaya during a visit to Kelaniya 2017, increasing to US$3.2 billion in rivalry that is escalating in the 2018 and USD 3.7 billion in 2019. backdrop that is the Belt and Road to democracy, and the importance of guardianship. market for Sri Lankan exports. Speaking further on Chinese Initiative (BRI) by China has gone to their ongoing regional maritime There was also an uproar at the However, she also noted that Sri projects, the report noted that the great lengths while many security cooperation. “We’ll continue time when it was thought that Kerry Lankan investments in the US in Colombo Port is one of the most governments precisely India and US to urge Sri Lanka to advance was meddling with our internal 2019 amounted to USD 67mn, so not active in the region and is situated on became worried about the ulterior democratic governance, human affairs when he lauded Sri Lanka’s a huge amount and welcomed local a major global shipping lane. The Sri motive behind the BRI projects as the rights, reconciliation, religious attempt to bring about constitutional companies to partner with them as Lankan Government expects Chinese military capabilities are tied freedom, and justice, which promote and administrative reforms by the there is room for improvement. substantial strategic FDI from China to their digital technology and the country’s long-term stability and then Government to consolidate The US, Japan, Australia and some into ports and port related industries. network and satellite system, prosperity and ensure the dignity and democracy and rule of law. He said EU countries have come down strong The GoSL is debating selling a stake endangering their national security. equality of its diverse communities.” the new Sri Lankan leaders were not on Sri Lanka and from time to time of the Chinese-funded and built Powell’s visit But the reason for State Secretary afraid of handling difficult issues of top dignitaries from those countries, Hambantota Port to a Chinese Pompeo’s visit to India is the best out national importance. He also including Chinese (to counter), visit company and has approved a In 2005, Secretary of State Colin of the lot. They intend to accelerate discussed issues of bilateral, regional Sri Lanka and the Sri Lankan Chinese logistics and industrial zone Powell visited Sri Lanka when the their relationship with India. Stilwell and international concern for both Government kept having a tough time in Hambantota. Colombo Financial country was devastated by the said, “Indeed, we have an countries and both countries agreed to explain their need to stay non- City (formerly called Colombo Port Tsunami. The visit was solemn and outstanding opportunity to they would launch a Partnership aligned to them. The government still City) is a large–scale land reclamation calm as there wasn’t any geopolitical strengthen the US-India ties, which Dialogue to discuss on a regular reiterates that they want to continue and city development project being tensions in the South Asian region at is vital to security and stability both basis, bilateral and international ties with all countries and want developed by a Chinese company. the time except for the war with the in the region and in the world.” The issues with a view to further enhance investors to come to Sri Lanka but The FDIs from the United States, Tamil Tigers. top US diplomat will meet Prime engagement between the two nations. that does not seem to be the ground Europe and elsewhere has not Ceylon Today learns that members Minister Modi to discuss ways in When Prime Minister Ranil reality. materialised, they said. of Secretary of State Mike Pompeo’s which they can advance the US-India Wickremesinghe halted China’s Port To begin with, the US and Japan But China on the other hand staff have already arrived in Sri Comprehensive Global Strategic City project to review its proposal had no interest at all in Sri Lanka boasts many of its services to Sri Lanka to prepare for his visit and all Partnership. with the Rajapaksa regime, the US other than a decades-old trade Lanka besides servicing through aspects of their arrival and stay have Secretary Pompeo and Esper will was happy but the government lifted partnership which was going on loans. The Chinese Embassy in been organised in close coordination also meet their Indian counterparts, the ban after a year or so. China steadily. Colombo reiterates that the CICT with the Government of Sri Lanka. External Affairs Minister Jaishankar became the talk of the town when But when it became part of China’s terminal in Colombo Port has offered Ceylon Today also learns that a and Defence Minister Singh, for the they won more projects without any Strategic Cooperation in 2013 , 99% of jobs to locals. flight load of his security personnel third annual US-India 2+2 contest. China was keen to support Sri Lanka’s every move mattered for “The Hambantota Port Operation have also arrived and more such Ministerial Dialogue. “The 2+2 format Sri Lanka in any missions where Sri the US that formed the Quadrilateral transition is not a debt trap. It’s flights from the US are set to arrive is reserved for our closest friends and Lanka needed financial assistance or Security Dialogue or the Quad to absurd to see some local media copy before his visit on 28 October. partners and reflects our belief that material support. They offered oppose China because Chinese the western narratives,” notes an State Secretary Pompeo’s visit to the United States and India are financial grants but their biggest take investment projects in several official at the Chinese Embassy. India, Sri Lanka, Maldives and stronger, more secure, and more away was the Hambantota Port given countries was giving it too much The Chinese Embassy argued that Indonesia from October 25-30 with prosperous when we work together,” to them on a 99-year lease. influence in those States, they argue. the UK had leased the London his Defence Secretary Mark T. Esper, said Stilwell. In the meantime, attention was They say Chinese projects are seen Gateway Port to Dubai with no time speaks volumes. The 2+2 discussions will focus on focused on relations with the US as profitable in many instances but limit and Australia leased the Darwin The US State Department said in a global cooperation, pandemic when the Yahapalana government the US administration fears that Port to a Chinese company on a communiqué that Pompeo’s visit to response and challenges in the Indo- led by then PM these trade ties were also promoting 99-year lease and no one talks about Colombo is to underscore the Pacific: economic space and energy was in power between 2015 – 2019, Chinese influence in those countries sovereignty there. commitment of the US to a collaboration, people-to-people ties, when he took steps to sign the and international investments were China has several government partnership with a strong, sovereign and defence and security Millennium Challenge Corporation jeopardising not only their trade but grant projects in Sri Lanka such as Sri Lanka and to advance their cooperation. (MCC) Compact involving a USD 480 also the security in the Indian Ocean the Nelum Pokuna Theatre, a joint common goals for a free and open India is already closing in on an million grant, the Status of Forces region and also in the Indo-Pacific research and demonstration centre Indo-Pacific region. agreement with the US that will give Agreement (SOFA) and the region. for water technology, a National Pompeo is set to meet President it access to satellite data for better Acquisition and Cross Servicing China not only gave loans to Sri Kidney Disease Hospital, a new Gotabaya Rajapaksa, Prime Minister accuracy of missiles and drones that Agreement (ACSA) were seen as Lanka but also topped the list in outpatient department of the Mahinda Rajapaksa and Foreign would try to close the gap with the challenging Sri Lanka’s sovereignty. offering grants and medical supplies National Hospital, maintenance of Minister Dinesh Gunawardena to powerful Chinese military. The US assured that they were mere every time Sri Lanka faced an the BMICH and the renovation of the emphasise the US’s commitment to a The Indian Government has said grants but those who opposed the emergency. The last such grant from Supreme Court. strong, independent, and democratic that Indo-US ties are expected to agreements said it is attempting to China was a USD 90 million by Yang But the Quad, especially the US Sri Lanka. “We want to partner with announce a Pact during Pompeo’s make Sri Lanka a USA military base. Jie Chi, a Communist Party Politburo and Japan, have always noted that Sri Lanka on our shared goals of visit. Due to its political connotations, all member who visited Sri Lanka China would strengthen its influence sustainable economic development With Malé, Pompeo will want to these US Pacts were shelved by the several weeks ago. not only by loans but also with gifts and a free and open Indo-Pacific reaffirm their close bilateral current government. Even though China did not make a but surely China is not going to region,” the State Department relationship and advance the While US in its anti-China military pact with Sri Lanka, it is a admit to it but as usual it would communiqué said. partnership on issues ranging from propaganda openly accused Sri main contributor in terms of rubbish such backlashes in the US Assistant Secretary of Bureau regional maritime security to the fight Lanka of getting disproportionately technical assistance, military strongest terms. The tension between for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, against terrorism and he will meet close to China, local politicians and donations etc to the Tri-Forces. the US and China would keep going David R Stilwell, on 22 October said, with President Solih and Foreign several professionals were also seen China also gifted a powerful warship back and forth while the other “In the interest of strengthening our Minister Shahid in this regard. shouting anti-US slogans. in 2018 to - (SLNS countries watch the geopolitical longstanding partnership with Sri In Jakarta, the US State Secretary Additionally, the US’s Quad partners Parakramabahu) built in 1994 by the drama as long as it does not affect Lanka and reinforcing our long-term will meet with his Indonesian (Japan and India) have lately come People’s Liberation Army (Navy) of them personally. commitment to the region, we counterparts to affirm the two under heavy criticism in Sri Lanka China. Pompeo’s visit to Sri Lanka is all encourage Sri Lanka to review the countries’ vision of a free and open and that led US to realise that they India openly has said that China’s about strengthening ties and options we offer for a transparent and Indo-Pacific region. were losing their grip on Sri Lanka. presence in the Indian Ocean region applying pressure on the sustainable economic development in Kerry’s SL visit in 2015 To bolster the argument that the is a threat to their security. When the implementation of the MCC and other contrast to discriminatory and US is one of the best bilateral Hambantota Port and the CICT shelved agreements. The US may also opaque practices”. He also noted, Kerry’s visit to Sri Lanka was also partners of Sri Lanka, US terminal inside the Colombo Port caution Sri Lanka on the security of “We urge Sri Lanka to make difficult when the US realised that Sri Lanka Ambassador to Sri Lanka Alaina B were partnered with China, and the Indo-Pacific region and the but necessary decisions to secure its was tilting towards China and not Teplitz in her remarks to the Sri shelved many of the Quad’s projects, outcome would be explicitly seen in economic independence for long-term balancing the regional cooperation Lanka–US Business Council of the the US categorically said, ‘this is it’. the coming years how Sri Lanka prosperity and we stand ready to with others ever since Sri Lanka Ceylon Chamber of Commerce last The Custom Report on Sri Lanka by would be reacting to Pompeo’s visit partner with Sri Lanka for economic embarked on a Strategic Cooperative month, noted that Sri Lanka has the US Bureau of Economic and with China by its side. development and growth.” Partnership with China in 2013. exported close to USD 3 billion worth Business Affairs recently said that But US President Trump’s win next The US Office further noted that China’s strategy was fully economic of goods to the US in 2019, a the US is the largest single market for month will determine the latest they will emphasise the ties between and thereby kept the leadership of whopping 72% increase over the past Sri Lankan exports, capturing over scenario of the China-US rivalry. the people, their shared commitment those countries happy under their decade and is the largest single USD 2.8 billion worth of the total – [email protected] News sunday 25 October 2020 A7

Journalists who had come to Journalists covering Easter report the proceedings of the Presidential Commission of Inquiry into terror attacks were not provided with seating facilities on 23 October. attacks PCoI inconvenienced Previously, journalists were allowed to sit outside the Therefore, the journalists who had about this issue from Secretary of “There is no use talking with Commission when confidential come to cover the proceedings of the the Commission, Buwaneka Herath, them,” he said. evidence was being recorded, but no Commission on 23 October were he had said, there was no point in This was reported by Ceylon such facilities were provided on this highly inconvenienced. discussing such issues with Today’s journalist covering the day. When the journalists inquired journalists. Commission proceedings.

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Leadership and Teamwork The Bachelor in Business Administration (BBA) degree programme offered by the SLIIT Business School is designed to create the business leaders for existing industry needs. They are well equipped with the required academic knowledge and competencies that are essential in their employment. The BBA degree programme allows students to apply their theoretical knowledge effectively into practical scenarios with the communication skills that are being taught during their studies. Understanding that employers seek employees who are not only skillful, but also possess the right attitude and knowledge, the UGC approved BBA programme is developed to bring such competent graduates. The study programme is constructed to bring out the best in terms of academic capacity and skills in problem-solving, teamwork, critical thinking, and analytical skills, along with many more important soft skills. In a further attempt to develop students’ in communication, leadership, teambuilding, networking and time management, the faculty introduced separate subject pillars in addition to the course content of the BBA programme. Here, the SLIIT Business School provides numerous opportunities to the student to improve these skills while the faculty evaluates them through classroom activities, group projects, and workshops. Falling under those subject pillars, students who are in the second semester of their second academic year should complete the “Leadership and Teamwork” module which is aimed at enabling students A8 sunday 25 October 2020 Editorial Editorial sunday 25 October 2020 A9 20th Amendment Sails Ceylon Newspapers (Pvt) Ltd. No: 101, Rosmead Place, Colombo 07. Editorial Tel: 0117566522, 0117566526, 0117566527 Fax: 0117566545 Marketing Manager: 0117566550, 0117566551 Circulation Manager: 0117566580, 0117566581 E-mail : [email protected] Through Despite Reservations Can We Afford Another SJB MP replaces Brutus with Antonio Country-wide Lockdown? Mayantha, when questioned wears facemask inside out When the first tsunami wave of coronavirus cases hit Despite reservations and concerns, the racial features coming here. Roman literature mixed up. authorities. We made the request Sri Lanka in March this year, we were grossly Bill titled ‘Twentieth Amendment to the SLPP MP A.D. : The On Friday, she explained within 24 hours of imposition of the underprepared to handle the emerging health Constitution,’ was passed in Parliament Opposition MP read out an oath Parliament why she voted with the ban. We have informed the US State emergency. Fortunately, we had a highly skilled health with a two-thirds majority. The Bill was before the US flag. That oath should Government for the 20th Amendment. Department of our position and asked service, an efficient military and a Government that was passed with amendments during the Third be given before the US flag. He did the She said according to her conscience for the lifting of the ban. It was thanks willing to take daring decisions to curb the highly Reading, with 156 voting for and 65 same inside this House. This House on the previous day when the vote to the great betrayal the previous infectious virus from spreading. against. should not be permitted to give the was taken on the 20th amendment to Government did by co-sponsoring a However, we did not have enough facilities to treat a The Second Reading of the 20th oath of allegiance to the US. the Constitution because she loved UNHRC Resolution against this large number of patients that was sure to have been Amendment Bill received a two-thirds Minister the country over her party affiliations. country that these sanctions come. reported if prompt actions were not taken. The health majority, with 156 votes in favour and 65 requested the Chair not to let the Participating in a debate at the time Opposition Leader Preamdasa: authorities warned that an overwhelming number of against in the 225-member Legislature. Opposition MP to act against dignity of the adjournment of the House, MP There is no need to write letters. You patients would crash the system, as the healthcare There were only 221 out of 223 MPs and decorum of the House. “The Gamage said: We must love our get an opportunity to meet Pompeo professionals were the ones who would have been currently in Parliament. Only Polonnaruwa Opposition MP has smuggled in items country over political affiliations. I face to face, that request could be directly exposed to the virus. District MP was not not permitted in this House. An take an example from history. In made there. On top of that there was very little information present at the time of the vote. investigation must be held how he ancient Rome Caesar was stabbed. Minister Gunawardena: You regarding the virus itself: how it spread, its potency, its With the passage of the 20th had managed to bring them in here. Among those who stabbed Caesar was should have told that to your life-frame or who it would infect. Amendment, the hand of the Executive will Bathiudeen was brought to Parliament clad against me. They did not spare me even at He must be stopped making use of his close friend Antonio. After Government’s Foreign Minister before Therefore, at that initial point, the only logical step for be strengthened and the powers that were in Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as the time of placing nominations. After I this august assembly to display his stabbing Caesar, Antonio came to he was leading the co-sponsoring. the authorities was to impose country-wide curfew in stripped from the President under the 19th a precautionary measure. won the election, they tried to create undignified actions,” MP address Romans with the Your Government committed a grave order to minimise human interaction as much as Amendment would be restored. The SJB Vanni District MP is currently instability by saying that I have no right to Abeygunawardena said. bloodstained knife and told them offence. These are the consequences possible. And, it worked. By end of April we had All Government Members voted for the under 14-day quarantine at quarantine hold office. There are so many dual citizens what happened. Then the Romans of that betrayal. completely eliminated community spread of the virus. Bill, with several Opposition MPs also centre set up at the Pallansena Correction who’d like to serve this country. Let me do Haste makes waste questioned him and asked him how Opposition Leader Premadasa: At this juncture, two separate clusters emerged: one at voting for it. Centre, before being shifted to remand this at this instance and I assure you I will On Thursday, when SLPP National he being the close friend of Caesar You can ask former President the Welisara Navy Camp and the other at the Kandakadu Eight Opposition MPs, including SJB prison. resolve your concerns in the new beliefs and cultural values and create Amendment instead of the black List MP rising to a stabbed the latter. Antonio said that Maithripala Sirisena; he would Drug Rehabilitation Centre. In the case of both these Anuradhapura District MPs Ishak The MP was also allocated a special seat Constitution that will be introduced before a long lasting Constitution which is swastika in the white circle. Point of Order said “I am a new he loved Caesar but his love for Rome confirm that it was I who pushed his clusters, the contacts were traced immediately following Rahuman and M.S. Thowfeek, National List inside the Chamber so as to ensure social the end of November 2021,” President was inclusive, forward looking and will The motorcade with around 25 MPs member and pardon me if am wrong. was much more than that. Likewise I name for the post of Army the identification of the hotspots and the spread of the MP Diana Gamage, Digamadulla MPs distancing. quoted as saying by Minister Udaya serve as a catalyst for national unity, started from the Opposition Leader’s Generally, it is accepted that the did too when I voted with the Commander. General Shavendra virus to the wider society was prevented. H.M.M. Harees and Faizal Cassim, Badulla MP Bathuideen who was taken into Gammanpila. amity, progress and accelerate the office at the No. 30, Marcus Fernando presiding member or the Chair should Government. I have my Party but I Silva too knows it. You could ask him At the end of two months, when curfew was finally District MP A. Aravindh Kumar, SLMC custody on Monday and subsequently This was reassured by the Justice economic growth of our country.” Mawatha arrived at the Parliament be impartial. We are debating the love the stability of my country. That too. lifted, there were only a less than 150 active COVID-19 Batticaloa District MP Naseer Ahamad and remanded was brought to Parliament by Minister during his reply at the end the “I think we need to show empathy roundabout in the Polduwa Junction 20th Amendment Bill now. The was why I voted with the Government Minister Gunawardena said that cases in the country. Almost all the new cases were MNA Puttalam District MP A.S. Raheem prison authorities in keeping with a written two-day debate on the 20th Amendment and compassion. We respect our and proceeded along the road to presiding member is wearing ‘say no for the 20th Amendment. the Government has already reported from among Sri Lankans who had been voted with the Government MPs. request from the Serjeant-at-Arms. Bill. National Anthem. It says that we Parliament. After alighting from their to 20A mask. If you want we can “We all are representatives of the commenced a campaign under repatriated from countries where the virus was spreading The SJB, NPP, ITAK and several other Party Leaders in Parliament decided to Justice Minister Ali Sabry told should live as children of one mother. vehicles, the SJB MPs followed make arrangements to give you a public. We have a duty by our people. President Gotabaya Rajapaksa to out of control. Opposition MPs from different parties voted facilitate the MP to attend sittings in Parliament that the Government would However, for all these decades we Opposition Leader Premadasa fresh face mask.” It is the people who have borne our withdraw the co-sponsorship to The measures taken were effective in preventing a against the Bill. keeping with the Parliament (Powers & present the draft for a new Constitution to have not been able to live with such shouting ‘vissa epa’ (No to 20) around It was SJB MP Mayantha cost and the expenses of this House. rectify the mistakes committed by the health catastrophe. However, all this was not without a The final vote was taken last night, at the Privileges) Act. the House within one year. He said harmony. There is a saying ‘United we 9:45 a.m. Dissanayaka who was in the Chair So we must give priority to the people former Government and to stand by cost. Due to the prolonged curfew, a vast number of end of the two-day debate on the Bill, New Constitution in 2021 President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has stand – divided we fall’. When we fall, They remained wearing the presiding the sessions and he was and act according to their wishes. the war heroes’ interests in the people lost their employments. In particular, the daily which has been strongly opposed by appointed an expert committee consisting we fall together, irrespective of our protesting facemasks and armlets in evidently embarrassed and was in “I have a great respect for President international front. wage earners, casual labourers, garment factory Opposition lawmakers, but also by The concerns and reservations about the nine President’s Counsel under the race and religion; we will be dragging the Chamber but their protest did not haste to respond that he involuntarily Gotabaya Rajapaksa. People gave him United States Secretary of State workers, airline employees and contract employees lost members of the Buddhist and Catholic/ 20th Amendment did not solely come from leadership of Romesh De Silva PC to draft a each other down. There are two draw the support of other Opposition turned the same mask inside out and a mandate to develop this country. I Michael Pompeo will raise issues their jobs. A number of companies are still imposing pay- Christian clergy, and civil society groups. Opposition parties but at least included new Constitution. strong bonds that bind all of us parties including the JVP and TNA. wore it. Everyone was drowned in am sure that he would do that. He related to human rights, cuts on employees. On top of that a number of small During the Third Reading of the Bill nine constituent parties of the SLPP “We will also allow a representative from together, one is humanity, second is Parliament sittings commenced at momentary laughter as health cannot do that being shackled by the reconciliation, democracy and China, businesses were failing. (Committee Stage), the Government Government. Ministers and Legislators the estate-workers community in hill our nationality. 10 a.m. as scheduled and the session authorities repeatedly warn against 19th Amendment. You cannot expect during his visit to Sri Lanka this In response to small-scale business owners, the introduced several amendments, some in representing these parties openly voiced country to this Committee of experts. We “Delay in law is a major problem in proceeded without any hindrance. wearing same mask without a person whose hands are tied to week, US’ Principal Deputy Assistant President made an intervention to urge the Central Bank keeping with the determination of the their concerns mainly about four clauses. have appointed experts from all walks of the country at present. There are Unprecedented disinfecting or even to touch the swim against the current. We must Secretary of the Bureau of South and of Sri Lanka to introduce a series of relief measures, in Supreme Court and others suggested by With receiving two-thirds majority hanging life into this committee,” the Minister said. 4,000 cases before the Supreme outside of the mask with hands. In set him free and then hope he would Central Asian Affairs, Dean order to keep the economy afloat. The Government also those within the Government. in balance, President Gotabaya Rajapaksa Every citizen shall be proud of a new Court. There are 4,000 cases in the During the two-day debate on the haste Dissanayake’s purpose of swim. People wanted to do away with Thompson said. distributed Rs 5,000 monthly allowance among low- Chief Opposition Whip called these party leaders for a final Constitution that would strengthen the Sri Court of Appeal. There is only a very 20th Amendment, SJB MPs were seen wearing a facemask against COVID- the 19th Amendment. Therefore, I Pompeo’s discussions around China income earners who had lost their jobs due to the asked for a division on the clause on meeting as one of the main concerns had Lankan identity and such a constitution limited number of Judges to take up opting for innovative ways to express 19 was entirely lost. voted to pass the 20th Amendment. will be on a more positive trajectory, prolonged curfew. permitting dual citizens to enter been removing the barrier imposed on dual will turn a new leaf in our country’s all these cases. From 1978, the their views. Similarly, SJB Assistant Secretary “There could be criticisms and where Sri Lanka is heading and on Over the past few months, the economy has been Parliament, and when that particular citizenship which prevented such progress, Ministry Sabry said. number of Judges has not increased In an unprecedented turn of events, Diana Gamage was witnessed getting blaming against me. I do not care and the ways and means of strengthening struggling to reach pre-COVID-19 conditions. The import clause was put to a vote, it received 157 individuals from running for Parliamentary He said: “One cannot develop a country in our country. In India, since 1978, a flag of a foreign country was am not afraid of them. I voted Colombo’s commitment to human ban on a number of items has actually seen a revival of votes for and 64 votes against. ACMC or Presidential Election. by merely appointing some fake they have increased the number of displayed in the Chamber of according to my conscience and I can rights, rule of law and democracy, the local industries. Digamadulla District MP S.M.M. “This law was introduced not in the Commissions. We are dedicated to bring in Judges three times. So we have Parliament yesterday by an sleep without worries,” MP Gamage US State Department said on 22 However, all of this turned topsy-turvy with the sudden Musharaff, who voted against the 20th interest of the country. The Yahapalana a new Constitution within a year's time. brought in an amendment to solve Opposition legislator. said. October. and alarming emergency of another super cluster, this Amendment Bill at the Second Reading Government rushed it ever since there were Our attempt is to bring in a Constitution this issue. I would like to invite all the SJB Kurunegala District MP Nalin In her haste to prove her innocence “In the interest of strengthening our time stemming from a garment manufacturing facility in vote, however, cast his vote in favour of the speculations that I would run for which will embrace diversity among our Opposition MPs to support this Bandara Jayamaha during the against rumours that she along with longstanding partnership with Sri Minuwangoda, Gampaha. The first case was reported on clause. Presidency. Even after I renounced my US people, give the foremost place to amendment.” second day debate on the 20th other MPs from Opposition who voted Lanka and reinforcing our long-term 4 October and to this date well over 2,000 cases closely Remanded Parliamentarian Rishad citizenship, there were so many legal cases Buddhism, respect each other’s religious Opposition to 20A Amendment Bill showed the US in favour of 20th Amendment were commitment to the region, we connected to this cluster have been identified. Quite national flag and said that the sole bought over, she forgot it was not encourage Sri Lanka to review the alarmingly, the initial contact who introduced the virus The (TNA) purpose of bringing about the 20th Antonio that stabbed Caesar, but options we offer for transparent and to this cluster is yet to be determined. Subsequently, Leader R. Sampanthan said they Amendment to the Constitution was Brutus. sustainable economic development in cases were reported from a couple of other mass-scale would reject any Constitution that to enable persons holding US-Lankan It was actually Brutus who said ‘Not contrast to discriminatory and garment manufacturing factories as well. does not have wide national dual citizenship to become Members that I loved Caesar less, but that I opaque practices. We urge Sri Lanka In this midst, another super cluster emerged centring consensus including that of the Tamil of Parliament. “In her haste to loved Rome more’ Brutus said to to make difficult but necessary on the Central Fish Market Complex in Peliyagoda, people. Participating in the Second Reading prove her inno- justify the Romans why they decisions to secure its economic sending fear that virus may already be circulating The MP made this remark in a stage debate, the MP said: There cence against assassinated Caesar. independence for long-term around the country, faster than anyone imagined. By speech declaring the TNA’s and the would be a day soon the American Sajith wants to bargain prosperity, and we stand ready to Friday, large-scale markets such as the Manning Market, Illankai Tamil Arasu Katchi (ITAK)’s citizens coming here as MPs. The rumours that she partner with Sri Lanka for its Beruwala Fisheries Harbour were temporarily closed due decision to vote against the 20th 20th Amendment is to pave the way with US economic development and growth,” to random testing showing a high number of cases in Amendment to the Constitution. for that purpose.” along with other said Thompson. those places. He pointed out that the Tamil The MP read out the oath that MPs from Opposition Leader Sajith “Pompeo will also emphasise the The authorities immediately imposed curfew in community has consistently given should be taken by a foreigner when Premadasa in Parliament, on Friday, ties between our people, our shared Gamapaha when the first few cases were detected in their mandate for a new Constitution. becoming a US citizen and said that Opposition who asked whether the Government would commitment to democracy, and the Minuwangoda. What, was initially a few Police areas, has The democratic verdict of the people as per that oath, the person who voted in favour of ask US Secretary of State Mike importance of our ongoing regional now been extended to the whole of Gampaha District. A in the North and the East since 1956 takes that should give his or her first Pompeo to lift the ban when Pompeo maritime security cooperation. We’ll few days ago curfew was imposed in a number of areas in must be respected. priority to the American interests. 20th Amendment visits Sri Lanka in the coming days. continue to urge Sri Lanka to advance Colombo as well. Also, a number of villages in the “We have always endeavoured to “Where are those who wallow in were bought over, “There are Media reports that US democratic governance, human Kalutara District were declared isolated areas to prevent make our decisions based on patriotism today? They made use of Secretary of State Pompeo is to visit rights, reconciliation, religious the spread of the virus. principles. We will reject any patriotism to win elections but they she forgot it was Sri Lanka. During his stay here, he freedom and justice which promote However, with COVID-19 cases being reported from Constitution that does not have a pass laws against the country’s not Antonio that will meet Foreign Minister Dinesh the country’s long-term stability and areas around the country, the public were expecting substantial consensus of all the national interests. Soon there would Gunawardena. I request the prosperity and ensures the dignity another country-wide lockdown. But the question is people including the Tamil People,” he be day we would be among Americans stabbed Caesar, President, the Prime Minister and the and equality of all of Sri Lanka’s whether we can afford to go through a prolonged period added. would become MPs,” the MP said. but Brutus. Foreign Minister to ask Pompeo to lift diverse communities,” he said. of lockdown? If, in case, we go for a lockdown, there is no Sampanthan further said that the “The danger is that this Bill would the travel ban on our Army Thompson said that Pompeo in his doubt that our already fragile economy will be in people of Sri Lanka have not given not only allow Americans but also It was actually Commander. That should be done for visit to Colombo will meet with shambles. There won’t be an easy recovery from that. anyone a mandate to turn the country Chinese too. Chinese too can become the sake of all war heroes,” President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, Prime Instead, what we must do is take extreme precautions. from a democracy to a dictatorship. MPs here,” he said showing the US Brutus who said Premadasa said. Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa and Work from home as much as possible. Leave home only The attempt by main opposition flag. ‘Not that I loved The United States blacklisting and Foreign Minister Dinesh to attend to essential work. If you must leave home, Samagi Jana Balawegaya to disrupt SLPP MP Weerakumara imposing a travel ban on Army Chief, Gunawardena to emphasise the US follow health guidelines to a tee: wear a face mask to Parliament sittings by staging a Dissanayake: MP Jayamaha had Caesar less, but Lieutenant General Shavendra Silva commitment to a strong, cover your nose and mouth, maintain 1-metre distance protest against the 20th Amendment brought here the loin cloth of his that I loved Rome was one of the fall outs of Yahapalana independent, and democratic Sri and most importantly, if you have any symptoms, inform to the Constitution became a damp former leader Ranil Wickremesinghe. Government’s 2015 decision to Lanka. ‘We want to partner with Sri your area PHI. squib due to sheer lack of manpower That should be removed from the more’ to justify to co-sponsor the UN Human Rights Lanka on our shared goals of What we must keep in mind is that a Government and improper coordination. House. the Romans why Council (UNHRC) Resolution No: sustainable economic development alone cannot fight a public health emergency. We have a SJB MPs arrived in Parliament in a MP Jayamaha wearing a mask 30/1, Parliament was told. and a free and open Indo-Pacific,’ he responsibility as the public, to make sure that we follow motorcade led by Opposition Leader showing the face of a black they assassinated “It was due to that betrayal of our added. all the necessary precautions. Hiding symptoms, and proceeded in a American said: This House Caesar.” war heroes the US imposed sanctions Pompeo, together with US Defence running away from authorities, refusing to be walk to the Chamber wearing comprises Sinhala, Tamil and Muslim on them,” Leader of the House, Secretary Mark Esper, will kick off his quarantined is not going to help the situation. In fact, it facemasks printed with ‘vinashakari MPs. When we stand together it is Foreign Minister Dinesh four nation Asian tour today (Sunday, is going to make things worse. vissa epa’ (No to destructive 20) and difficult to identify who is Tamil, who Gunawardena told Parliament. 25 October) with India, followed by Sri It’s simple, don’t be a COVIDiot! red armlets similar to the Nazi is Sinhala who is Muslim. But this Minister Gunawardena: We have Lanka, Maldives and Indonesia. The armband with a logo against the 20th Bill would help those with different already made that request to relevant tour ends on 30 October. A10 Sunday 25 october 2020 Focus

The Civi-Mec condo at Dehiwala

Can authorities approve and then cancel a plan for a condo? ‘Un-real’ Estate: Colombo’s Faulty Tower Rip-off

By Sulochana Ramiah Mohan luxury apartment and had not issued Some tenants have deeds for those who are already 17-Floor plan rejected after approval After the bloody 30-year conflict came occupying it. The residents have filed a – Dehiwala MC Official to a close in 2009, Sri Lanka was still not received their case against him with the ambitious to rebuild. Using this deeds - CMA official Condominium Management Authority A planning officer at the Dehiwala maximum of nine floors will be opportunity, property developers began (CMA) and they are filing a case against MC said the previous mayor had approved if it is built on 43 perches to embark on building luxury Legal Officer at the CMA the developer. approved the 17-floor condo but the of land. “We have a chart compiled apartments, hotels and condominiums. Nisansala Ilayperuma noted that According to the CMA, after a plans were cancelled after three by the UDA. Every client should But the rapidly growing construction they were informed about the building is completed, the property months. come and check with us whether the business also duped customers by Ramanathan Avenue project. She developer should obtain Common “The matter with the CM Condo plan is correct or not.” presenting project plans with fake said that that the same developer Element and Common Amenities has reached us and CID officers “We will classify a condo that has approvals obtained from officials. had failed to meet the Common (CECA) certification for each flat with visited our MC several times to probe over five units and sometimes a Constructing luxury apartments is a Element and Common Amenities which he is able to obtain deeds. the matter,” the official who wanted building with two units could be lucrative business where a developer Certification of another luxury This CMA process begins as soon as to remain anonymous said. called a condo. A developer could could easily make 50 per cent profit. It’s apartment (name withheld) in 2018. the condominium is ready for He also added that this particular build two storeys with a ground floor a high yielding market because they “He has not yet obtained deeds for occupancy and within the first 18 property had been issued with on 10 perches of land and only nine only buy a plot of land to begin with. those clients who are already months the developer should obtain the ground floor plus 17 storeys but was floors can be approved for 43 Several cases of fraud by property occupying the luxury apartment,” certification and deeds for each client. later cancelled. However he said the perches. That plan was illegal, but developers are mounting at the she said. The CMA, established by Act No. 24 of Mayor alone wouldn’t have approved the number of floors was reduced to Condominium Management Authority She said the Common Element 2003, has powers to administer, it because such approvals come after nine storeys plus a ground floor (CMA) and at the Urban Development certification should be issued to control, manage and maintain they are discussed with UDA within three months. Before 2017, Authority (UDA). Several Municipal every flat. “The developer should get condominiums, both public and private officials. He said that he had no MCs had power to approve a Councils (MCs) are also charged with certified for guarantee and in areas such as water, sewage, information regarding it since he had property development plan but even issuing fake approvals and CID officials warrantee the building ,water, drainage, gas, electricity, garbage joined recently. then the MCs discuss with the UDA are in and out of these places over electricity, common land certified, disposal, air conditioning, telephone However, he noted that a before a plan is approved.” clients’ complaints. generators if using, staircase, services, roads, access roads, parks, foundation, beams and washing lawns, playgrounds, walking spaces, Dream homes areas etc., under Act No. 11 of 1973 etc. was deduced that the project was not started lodging complaints to the CID. One such incident left 54 families in that was amended as Act No. 45 of This particular luxury apartment was viable. the lurch by a property developer, 1982 and amended again as Act advertised online with attractive Afterwards, the developer closed his Auctioning off Ceylon Today learns. An attractive No. 39 of 2003. After this graphics of the complex’s interior which office and went into hiding, he had also The bank was considering auction for 17-storey condominium in Dehiwala certification he should proceed to went viral and drew in customers. bought the land in Ramanathan Rs 167 million with interest but instead was the dream of doctors, engineers, obtain deeds for those clients which One customer who returned from Avenue for Rs 103 million which he had started looking to sell based on the lawyers and many retired persons. A he did not do. It was then that the overseas with his hard-earned money mortgaged at the private bank. current market value and that is only for down payment of Rs 470 million was clients came to us demanding deeds was intending to buy an apartment for the property and not for the structures. paid to the developer but now the bank for their flats.” She also said while his family. Disgruntled buyers A stay order was issued preventing the that lent the money for the project is the CMA are handling the matter “I visited their office and they The destitute buyers subsequently auction by the Commercial High Courts readying to auction off the land at the related to the deeds of the other convinced me as they had developed made complaints to the Police, CID and due to an injunction filed by Civi-Mec end of this month. property, they are also about to file five other apartments in Colombo. the Fraud Bureau. Also some buyers which was concluded by lifting the said The condo was to be built at No.14, a case against the condo at There wasn’t any doubt because I was had filed civil suits against the director stay order and allowing the bank to Ramanathan Avenue, Dehiwala by M/s Ramanathan Avenue. “We are filing taken to the site too. The price of each of Civi-Mec and Amalathas was recover an accumulated sum and other Civi-Mec Construction (Pvt) Ltd but a legal case against non-registration apartment was Rs 10.5 million.” subsequently arrested. He was released costs totalling Rs 160 million. their CM Towers condominium project, of the condominium plan.” The client had to pay Rs 500,000 on bail by the Magistrates Court of The bank has again notified the put forward by M/s Civi-Mec She said she cannot endorse non-refundable deposit initially and Mount Lavinia. auction of the property for 28 October Construction (Pvt) Ltd by Edward whether there was fraud or not but then in few weeks had deposited Rs 3 These clients have formed the which will jeopardise the hopes of the 52 Anton Amalathas, who was a director, said that the developer did not million as instructed. “They gave me ‘Ramanathan Avenue CM Condo plus and other unknown buyers, who came to a standstill. His office was at obtain those certifications at the three different bank accounts and all Buyers Association’ to seek justice. had invested their life savings to own a Colombo 6. CMA. However she said that the payments were deposited to the They say the authorities have cheated house. This particular condominium was CMA does probe whether the property developer’s name.” them of their money and destroyed In the event the bank auctions the designed on a 43-perch land. To build a building is constructed according to They had told the buyer to settle the their dreams. property, it will leave everybody with no 17-storey condo with a ground floor is the UDA plan. She said that is the balance payment in 36 monthly So far the developer had collected a legal right or claim for the property against the law but the developer duty of the UDA. instalments and the client had settled total sum of Rs 550 Million without any thereafter. However, if the complex is showed the UDA’s and Dehiwala MC’s She also said they have received Rs 7.08 million before the developer interest calculated. constructed to be a seventeen-floor approval to his clients. more than 300 complaints from got into a legal battle. Citing the default sum of Rs 120 building with 112 units, it may alleviate It is said that only nine storeys can be different clients related to It was in 2014 when the lavish million loaned towards the project, the the current housing issues. built on 43 perches of land, including purchasing of condominiums for apartment units were advertised and lending bank exercised powers vested There are many cases where the ground floor. According to law, the residence and commercial purposes. the construction began having to its Board of Directors and initiated developers had sold apartments built number of floors is determined by the obtained approval from the then Mayor the process to recover the said loan by on land mortgaged with money lending land area. of Dehiwala Mount Lavinia Municipal auctioning the property. institutions. Many apartment owners, It was the Ministry of Water Supply But reducing the 17-floor condo to a Council Dhanasiri Amaratunga. The Currently the Ramanathan Avenue being unaware of the mortgage had and Drainage who declined to approve nine-floor one sucked millions of rupees approval was for a ground floor plus 17 condo comprises only the ground floor bought apartments at unit rate with the the water supply for the condo when out of the clients who had saved that storey housing complex containing with columns and structures up to the transaction being done on a sale they noticed that the UDA was in fault money for decades. 112 middle-class apartment units second floor. agreement to later realise that they are for approving 17 floors. The clients have written to President including a four-floor car park. One client who booked a two- unable to obtain a deed and that the It is still unclear how construction Gotabaya Rajapaksa, Prime Minister The company started building the bedroom - 815 square feet unit on the developer is missing. went ahead since the Mayor and UDA Mahinda Rajapaksa, Human Rights complex by laying the foundation and sixth floor said that he became There are also instances where even have to discuss before plans are Commission, the Ministry of Justice, mortgaged the said land to a private suspicious with the delays. “The the land is not mortgaged and the approved. So how this particular Central Bank and the Ministry of bank and presented the approved apartment should have been handed transaction is done again on a sale project got green light is a mystery. Finance, pleading for help in this plan. over to us in 2018 after four years of agreement, just with no deed. Such Prior to 2017, all construction plans situation because those responsible are Thereupon Civi-Mec Construction construction.” circumstances cause immense were approved by the MC’s Mayor after the ones in Government offices who entered into sales agreements with Apparently the property developer hardships to new home-owners and holding discussion with the UDA. It is had first approved the project and then many buyers who had made down had joined hands with another partner, many end up with long drawn litigation. alleged that this approval was issued in cancelled it for reasons unknown. payments and subsequently the and in 2018 there had been a general This has to stop and a proper system a similar manner but was cancelled balance in instalments. manager and chairman, but the should be in place so that people cannot within three months by the UDA and The swindle Having seen the project approval the customers could not trace them as be taken for a ride by so-called property that matter was not conveyed to the Ceylon Today also found out that this private bank agreed to finance the there was no e-mail or phone numbers developers who dupe their clients with customers, Ceylon Today learns. property developer had built a similar condo at first but stopped short after it to contact them. It was then they had hopes of owning a dream apartment. focus sunday 25 October 2020 A11 Putting an End to Single-use Plastics Ban to be introduced in several phases CEA to promote less harmful alternatives

The Lifecycle of Plastic

The Lifecycle of Plastic

By Faadhila Thassim recommendations to promote the recycling of all plastic products. The negative impact of single-use plastic on the environment has been a Appeals made long established fact, the continuous In 2019 a letter addressed to the effort of the Ministry of Environment President, Prime Minister, the and the Central Environment Plastic bag Coffee cup Plastic straw 6-pack plastic rings Speaker of the Parliament and Authority (CEA) to ban the Ministers by the Centre for manufacture and use of these 20 years 30 years 200 years 400 years Environmental Justice emphasised harmful products have been of the need to ban of single-use plastic success with the recent decision of by emphasising that over 60,000 sq the Cabinet to ban single-use plastic Km of the Bay of Bengal has now and polythene from January 2021. become a dead zone due to the A proposal was put before the dumping of plastics. Cabinet of Ministers in August with The letter also emphasised on how focus on the ban on sachets and Sri Lanka is among the five countries water bottles considering the adverse that has badly dealt with plastics and impact that the production and Plastic water Coffee pod Plastic cup Plastic that we are losing tourism due to the continuous use these single-use Disposable diaper toothbrush dirty beaches. plastic could have on the bottle The CEJ further noted that it is also environment. an established fact that the packaging Director of the CEA, Hemantha 450 years 500 years 450 years 500 years 500 years industry is responsible for 90 per cent Jayasinghe stated that this has been of the single-use plastics and 50 per a continuous effort from 2017 of cent of the total plastics around the several entities including the Ministry world and in Sri Lanka. of Environment and the CEA with the and that therefore, the alternatives for their productions but that use banned material in their issuing of a number of gazettes would be the most effective for however, despite the ban of polythene productions adding that the Other efforts curtailing the use of plastic and attaining the purpose of such ban. bags, lunch sheets and food wrappers Amendment to the Act that is to be Regulations such as a ban on the polythene and that the proposal for However, the suggested alternatives in 2018, there is still the production made to the Environmental Act will production of polythene of 20 microns the ban of single-use plastic will now for packaging of chemicals and and trade of these products especially also permit the CEA to take actions or less, a ban on the manufacture of be put into effect in 2021. pesticides are the use of packaging in Pettah. against offenders and while legal polythene food wrappers and a ban on made ideally of glass or other He added that since 2018, up to actions have been consistently taken the burning of polythene in the open Categories that will be recyclable products, while cotton date, several products have been against those who ignored the ban environment had been enacted from 1 banned buds and toys have also been taken into custody during raids imposed in 2017, legal actions will September 2017 in order to reduce encouraged to be made with the use of across the country and that several also be taken against those the environmental damage while steps Thereby the types of single-use eco-friendly, hygienic and producers are ignoring the ban manufacturing using materials that had also been taken by the CEA to plastic and polythene that will be biodegradable alternatives. imposed on the manufacture of such will be banned in 2021. promote an alternative to the banned banned from January 2021 are the He added that while relevant hazardous products that are polythene while the regulations are in packaging of chemicals or pesticides authorities are involved in finding immensely harmful for the Production factories force. in Poly Ethylene Terephthalate (PET) alternatives, it is also the environment. An officer attached to a production There were also discussions being and Vinyl Chloride (PVC) containers, responsibility of the production of Jayasinghe further added that of single-use plastic factory speaking held in August 2020 for the ban of sachets made of polythene and plastic single-use plastic and polythene polythene bags are still being to Ceylon Today stated that the import of plastic in a bid to protect less than 20 ml/20g use of packages industries to research and discover produced in small unmonitored relevant authorities had duly wild elephants. of 100 ml/100g or more as an alternatives that is environment spaces and are still being marketed as informed them of the ban in January alternative. friendly while marketing their in total ignorance of the ban imposed. 2021 and that there are alternatives Worldwide efforts However, the ban imposed on products in an effective manner too. He added apart from the licence been formulated with different In October 2018, the European sachets does not include those When queried if producers of the provided for the manufacture of such material combinations. Parliament approved a ban on single- produced for food and medicine. mentioned single-use plastic and products, there are those involved in He noted that however, during the use plastics with the measures Furthermore, a ban will also be polythene that will be banned have the manufacture without permitted initial implementation of the ban, expected to come into effect in 2021 imposed on inflatable toys made of been notified given that there is a licences and that if this continues there could be a drop of the volume of while in South Korea, the Ministry of plastic excluding balloons, balls and short period for implementation, following the ban of single-use plastic the products manufactured that could Environment announced an initiative floating toys together with a ban on Jaysinghe added that all relevant and polythene ban in 2021 the result in a decline in income. in 2018, to reduce waste from stores plastic cotton buds excluding hygiene producers have been informed and purpose of such ban will be When queried if as a single-use to zero per cent by 2027 while the products. there has been sufficient time given ineffective. plastic product manufacturer if it is Government is encouraging Further the ban of plastic bottles, for such producers to switch to eco- Jaysinghe also noted that one understood that the ban will be of companies and individuals to engage straws, yoghurt cups and that of friendly and biodegradable materials important message that has to be benefit to the environment, he stated in what it calls ‘precycling’ – the plastic cutlery will take place in for the productions of these products. passed to the public is of the support that although it is understood that decision to not use wasteful products different phases after April 2021. He added that the use of paper as that they could provide to the relevant this is for the protection of the such as plastic straws and single-use Alternatives an alternative has not been authorities by not purchasing from environment, one important factor cups. discouraged as it has a comparatively such manufacturers and lodging that has been ignored by authorities Considering the growing Jaysinghe added that the intention less impact on the environment and complaints against producers that over the years is that even if they environmental concerns around the behind advocating such ban is to the marine ecology as opposed to they are aware of who are using switch to the use of recyclable world, it is evident that the ban on ensure that the alternatives are single-use plastic that has been prohibited materials as the public is material, the recycling efforts of the single-use plastic would be of benefit comparatively less harmful to the negligently dumped across the now aware of the ban implemented in Government has been ineffective and in the long run, which could also be environment adding that steps have country and as paper is 2017 and that is to be implemented in there is in most situations no seen as the first step towards the been undertaken by the CEA to biodegradable, they could easily be 2021. mechanism for the recycling of such complete reduction of the use of promote alternatives. used as an alternative for food material. plastic in Sri Lanka and globally. He further said that alternatives are packaging. Actions against violators However, the recent Cabinet Such ban would also help mitigate being discussed with the Consumer Jaysinghe noted that it is the Jayasinghe added that the decisions however, emphasised that the negative impact that the negligent Affairs Authority, the Ministry of responsibility of producers to ensure Environmental Act permits legal there would be mandating to indicate disposal of plastics would have on the Health and all the relevant sectors that they do not use banned material actions to be taken against those who the 1-7 international marine eco-system. A12 sunday 25 october 2020 focus

By Nabiya Vaffoor same price that we get because it will not even cover the transporting Though there were Press releases expense of the stock. Though the and gazettes issued that the prices of Government told us to sell according essential goods, including coconuts, to sizes, none of these wholesale were reduced considering the price sellers sold us the nuts in such way. hike consumers had to face with the They sell those nuts in various sizes pandemic and the shortage of but for the same price. We never got coconuts, not even the public in small coconuts for Rs 60-65 no areas that were under lockdown matter whether it’s small or big. So found the reduced priced essentials we sell it at the same price. If the in Sathosa stores. It attracted many customer demands bigger coconuts a Media and public attention that the for the price they pay, we let them availability of price reduced essential choose bigger coconuts from the goods being only limited to stock,” noted Rizana. Government Press releases. Zamiya Imran is another women “Some vendors are heartless who sells various types homemade enough to sell the smallest sized flour and scrapped coconut for her coconut above Rs100, therefore to living. support the consumer; Consumer “I don’t sell coconuts as nuts, I Affairs Authority (CAA) has taken scrape them and sell them. I get a this step to gazette a particular price nut for Rs 80 from Pettah as a whole range according to the size range of bulk and scrape them in this electric coconuts,” Chairman of CAA- Asela machine and pack it in polythene Bandara, told Ceylon Today. bags and sell them for Rs 100. Being the fourth-largest exporter of According to the gazette the coconut products in the world, Government issued, it’s hard to price coconuts accounts for approximately the coconuts according to size. It’s 12 per cent of all agricultural easier to sell it scrapped because the produce in Sri Lanka. But there is an Zamiya Imran people are the ones who choose the annual issue that every Sri Lankan nut they want, I just scrape it and consumer faces during off-season; pack it for them and I get the same the price hike. Being one of the When things go nuts price for all of them no matter the staple ingredients in Sri Lankan size. Since there are people who run cuisine, a minor shortage of the small hotels around, it’s easier for coconut harvest can bring a huge them to get scraped coconuts rather impact on the market and price than getting the whole nut and range. 2020 Anxieties scrapping it later,” noted Zamiya. Vendors stopped selling We spoke with a couple of hotel owners and food vendors who coconuts purchase coconuts on a daily basis to check how the price and the Observing the local markets we Driving Coconuts to shortage of coconuts have affected found out that some vendors have them after the CAA’s coconut stopped selling coconuts because of gazette. the conflict of the gazette price and “I got coconuts for Rs 90 before the size of coconuts and because gazette and still the same price suppliers are not ready to sell their Artificial Scarcity remains. There’s no change to it. It coconuts for that price. Some take the was a bit hard to find coconuts risk of selling coconuts for higher “The wholesale business owners, every shop we raid. Mostly, we around, therefore I had to purchase prices for the same price as they get who are supposed to supply us understand that it’s not the small them from Pettah in bulk and store it from the suppliers without bothering coconuts, have stopped supplying shop owners who increase the price for the whole week. Previously, I to sort them according to sizes them because of the controlled price or violate the size range of the didn’t stock up on coconuts for the mentioned in the gazette. Some have that was issued on coconuts. I sold coconuts. It is the wholesale supplier whole week since the vendors have stopped selling coconuts altogether the previous stock that I had to the who doesn’t supply it according to stopped selling coconuts because which has created an impression that price that I got them and didn’t gazette guidelines. Mostly, we warn they have to price them according to there is a shortage of coconuts, purchase another stock because it is the minor business owners to sell it size, I didn’t want to face the risk of causing consumers to buy coconuts not profitable to sell them at Rs70, according to the gazette guidelines. running out of coconuts when we wherever they see for whatever price which doesn’t even cover the Firstly, we should understand that needed it the most,” noted 55-year- or size the vendor makes available. wholesale price that we bought it the pricing the coconuts according to old Razik Ilmy- owner of Asha Speaking with Ceylon Today many for.” sizes is not something new, it’s Bakery. consumers claimed that though the Walking a bit further another already a practice that we see in the Then we spoke to Samina who sells Government deducted coconut prices vendor who didn’t want to reveal his local coconut market. We had to string hoppers to daily wage workers through a gazette and informed the or his shop’s identity in Malay Street gazette this in order to control the and residents around her area for public that essential goods are noted that suppliers don’t want to price violations that some suppliers supper. available in Sathosas, many have sell coconuts for less than Rs 80. and vendors make during low “It’s hard to find coconuts these failed to find them at the co-op stores. Therefore, he had stopped buying harvest seasons.” days since the vendors who I “Especially when it comes to coconuts because he can’t sell them A wholesale seller, Bandara purchase goods from have stopped coconuts,” 55-year-old Nazly claimed. higher than the gazette price as well Karunathilake noted that he had to selling coconuts after they have to He said he visited several Sathosas as lower than the price he bought. stop selling coconuts for a short price it according to the size. I need around Colombo to buy some coconuts Then we met 42-year-old Asitha, period because of the Rs 4 loss he five coconuts per day to provide according to the gazette price and all owner of Asitha stores. He gets Asha bakery had to incur for each coconut that he coconut milk and pol-sambol as the stores that he visited didn’t have coconuts for Rs85 from his wholesale sold till 5 October. sides to the string hoppers that I sell. any coconuts left. Despite being supplier and sells them at Rs 90. “We brought 2,000 coconuts until Those days I used to buy them for inconvenienced, Nazly had to buy When we asked him why he didn’t 5 October for Rs 74 and had to sell Rs 75-85. But now since this gazette some coconuts from a nearby shop at question his supplier on not selling them for Rs 70. Also because all was issued, I had to buy packaged his area for a higher price; each Rs 95. his products according to the gazette these coconuts were supplied to us scrapped coconuts for Rs 100 from a To find out where these issues are price, he noted that he cannot in various sizes, we cannot measure shop nearby because there aren’t being created in the coconut market question the suppliers because they each and every coconut that we get any coconuts for cheaper price we also spoke to a couple of shop say that if we really want the from the stock which was sold to us elsewhere,” she added. owners who sell coconuts. products they should buy it at the in bulk. Since the gazette was issued Though the CAA and relevant Heading to a famous market area in price that they charge or they may that coconuts should be sold for authorities in this regard claim that Colombo we spoke to the owners of just leave. Rs 70 I had to give this at that price steps such as controlled prices were Asian Groceries store. There we “I get coconuts for Rs 85 and sell it to the ones who buy from me taken to support the consumer it is witnessed a vendor who has stopped for Rs 90 if it’s scrapped it will be wholesale. I supply hotels who buy still questionable whether the steps selling coconuts in his store because of Rs 100,” he added. When we fielded a coconuts from me at Rs 70 though I they took were really supportive the said conflict that was created question, whether the public still incur Rs 4 loss for each coconut I sell enough or had added a burden to the between suppliers and the CAA buys his products though it is and I stopped purchasing them since public? coconut gazette. overpriced, he noted that since some I can’t take the loss each and every (Pix by Eunice Ruth) vendors have stopped selling time. There are some vendors who coconuts because of the price and sell these coconuts for Rs 100. We size conflict after the CAA coconut can’t blame them because if they get gazette was issued, it has been hard it for Rs 80 per nut they will have to for the public to find coconuts. keep at least Rs 5-10 to cover the Therefore no matter whatever the Coconuts transporting expenses, daily wage to price is, people still keep buying it the workers and drivers who work in since they need it,” he added. the vehicle and the rent of the shop. “The controlled price will not work If the Government can supply these because the authorities don’t check coconuts deducting Rs 5 for each nut whether wholesale suppliers are according to the price range that was selling coconuts at the allocated gazetted, we could have sold them price. None of these suppliers sell without any problem according to their coconuts according to the price We can’t sell the the gazette price. If we are getting it range that was issued in the gazette, for the same price that was gazetted nor according to the sizes mentioned coconuts for the or for a higher price that was in the gazette. We are the ones who gazetted, forget about the profit; we get caught if we sell these over the same price that we can’t even cover the basic expenses price. They say that they have get because it will of that business. The coconut gazetted an appropriate size and harvest is low around this time each prices are set according to the sizes not even cover the year therefore the coconut prices to bring a standard to the coconut transporting increase generally but the coconut market, but the standard is only cultivation owners cannot decrease limited to the gazette document. The expense of the the wage that they pay workers who Razik Ilmy raids were only carried out around stock. Though the pluck and husk coconuts. These Bandara Karunathilake small shops and businesses like us. expenses also include the The officials should carry these raids Government told us transportation of these nuts and so on the wholesale suppliers who sell to sell according to on. If the Government is trying to these nuts without following any of regulate the price range of coconut those guidelines mentioned in the sizes, none of these they should buy the harvest from all gazette. We weren’t supplied these wholesale sellers the coconut cultivation owners at a nuts assorted according to sizes fixed price and distribute them to mentioned in the gazettes or the sold us the nuts in sellers so we all can sell that for the prices that has been mentioned. We such way. They sell same price with Rs 3-5 benefit. Else, can’t question the suppliers because this will create an unwanted they say that we either buy it those nuts in vari- shortage of coconuts in the market. according to their prices or just ous sizes but for the Since I’ve stopped bringing in the leave,” noted Asitha. nuts I have lost a couple of wholesale same price. We Fixing the price orders. Though vain I haven’t got any never got small other solutions.” Fielding a question about the said Then we spoke to Rizana who sell issue, Chairman of CAA, Asela coconuts for Rs coconuts in her house. Bandara said, “We carried out more 60-65 no matter “We buy about 250 coconuts from than 200 raids on vendors who Pettah every morning for Rs 70 each violate the gazette prices and sizes of whether it’s small nut. We have to spend more than coconuts, and legal actions will be Rs 400 everyday to transport the taken on all these raided suppliers. or big. So we sell it stock; therefore we sell each coconut Though we raid a lot of locations we at the same price for Rs 90, if it’s scrapped its Rs 100. Asitha stores don’t take legal actions on each and We can’t sell the coconuts for the Rizana focus sunday 25 October 2020 A13

Easter Sunday attacks A Case of Gross Negligence

By Buddhika Samaraweera said that he did not remember receiving such a phone call. The people are well aware that Meanwhile, the Commission also former President, Defence Minister drew his attention to the incident of and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed It clearly states several Buddha statues being Forced, Maithripala Sirisena, vandalised at several places in the continuously refuses to accept the through which Mawanella area during the period from responsibility for not preventing the institution, through 23 to 26 December 2018. bombings that claimed nearly 260 He was questioned regarding the innocent lives on Easter Sunday, 21 which officers, and in incident where one of his Coordinating April, 2019. Secretaries, Mohammad Tasleem was The main reason he gives for this is what manner the shot in early 2019. Tasleem had that no one informed him about the provided information to the operation, foreign intelligence information relevant work should which discovered a stock of explosives received on 4 April, 2019 about the be done, whether in in the Wanathawilluwa area. possibility of an attack which could be In response, the witness said that he carried out by the National Thowheed writing or orally. had introduced Tasleem to assist the Jama’at (NTJ) leader, Zaharan Hashim CID in its investigation into the and his followers. When considering explosives found in the However, recent revelations before the matter of making Wanathawilluwa area. the Presidential Commission of Inquiry “He has a sound knowledge of the into the Easter Sunday bombings, the President aware society and roads. Only the CID have now raised some questions as to officers and I knew that Thasleem had whether the former President was Maithripala Sirisena of certain intelligence Hemasiri Fernando assisted in this operation, but actually unaware of the possibility of someone shot Thasleem after this an attack. information, Wanathawilluwa operation and I Raising this suspicion, it was, only according to most of informed the Cabinet of Ministers recently, revealed before the about this. I also pointed out that it Commission that a total of 14 the evidence was a threat to my life as well,” he telephone conversations had taken added. place between the then Director of the presented before the According to him, former President State Intelligence Service (SIS), Senior Commission, it Maithripala Sirisena had then Deputy Inspector General of Police informed Hashim that he would be (SDIG) Nilantha Jayawardena, the first should have been invited to the National Security to receive foreign intelligence Council (NSC) one day. Former information on a possible terrorist done through the President said I could discuss all these attack and one telephone number of matters at the NSC. However, I was former President’s official residence at Defence Secretary not invited to the NSC, he explained. Paget Road. These telephone Hashim further said that all the conversations are also said to have Muslim ministers resigned after the taken place from 4 April, 2019, the Easter Sunday bombings without date on which the SIS received foreign stages after the initial attack on 21 supporting the No-Confidence Motion intelligence information on a possible April, 2019. against then Minister Rishad terror attack, to 21 April, 2019, the He also said that during the Bathiudeen, not in the hope of date of Easter Sunday bombings. investigations into the bombings on protecting him. Recently, the former SIS Director Easter Sunday, TID was able to “At that time I was the Chairman of testified before the Commission and uncover information that by March the . The was cross-examined by President’s 2019, there had been a conflict Opposition brought a No-Confidence Counsel Shamil Perera, who is Pujith Jayasundara between Zaharan and Naufer Moulavi, Nilantha Jayawardena Motion in Parliament against appearing for Malcolm Cardinal who is believed to be the mentor of NTJ Bathiudeen saying that he was Ranjith, the Archbishop of Colombo. through the Defence Secretary. and Zaharan, and also the mastermind Hashim could expire within 15 days. connected to the bombings, but it Perera asked the witness if he, as the But it is now clear that these tasks of Easter Sunday bombings. They were, therefore, of the opinion seemed to be against the entire SIS Director had the opportunity to were not carried out properly during The witness further said that that the attack should be carried out Government. At that time our communicate with the President on a the tenure of Sirisena. They have often Alawdeen Ahamed Muaad, who carried within 15 days and the plan was made Ministers said that we could not win daily basis. In response, the witness been caused by his personal views and out the suicide bombing at St. to carry out the attack and the this. Our own people told we would not said that despite such a possibility, he are not decisions made collectively. Anthony’s church in Kochchikade and decision to carry out the attack on 21 be able to go to village if we voted in had contacted the former President by Especially if the Director of SIS was Abdul Latheef Jameel Mohamed, who April, 2019 was reached at the NTJ favour of Bathiudeen. I, then spoke to telephone only on 61 occasions from 1 doing the job that Defence Secretary carried out the attack at Tropical Inn safe house in Negombo, the witness the then Prime Minister Ranil December 2018 to 1 May, 2019. should be doing, the former President lodge in Dehiwala, on 27 April, 2019 said. Wickremesinghe. Then we, Muslim However, according to telephone should have informed him that it had been trying to resolve the conflict At that time, Muaad, the suicide ministers decided to resign from all the detail reports, 139 telephone calls have should not have happened in that way between Zaharan and Naufer Moulavi. bomber of the St. Anthony’s Church in ministerial posts since Bathiudeen been exchanged between Jayawardena and handed it over to Defence Testifying further, the TID officer Kochchikade has said that there was a would have to resign as well. When and the former President’s official Secretary. Also, be it the former went on to say “during the church in Kochchikade near his house Bathiudeen was just an MP, the Police residence on Paget Road between 1 President or any other official, they investigations it was also revealed that and that he would commit suicide could have carried out investigations January and 31 March, 2019 alone, must realise that they are responsible Muaad and Mohamed had arrived in a there, he added. easily,” he added. Perera pointed out to the Commission. for the consequences of allowing these car near Mount Lavinia Railway According to the investigations Another shortcoming The former President, also admitted processes to change based on their Station and picked up another three carried out by the TID, Zaharan, had before the Commission that he had personal needs. members of the NTJ on a certain date. once summoned members of his group Indicating another shortcoming instructed SDIG Jayawardena at the Meanwhile, Anura Maddegoda, PC, They had then gone to Zaharan’s safe in the Malwana area and has obtained during the last Government, former National Security Council (NSC) to appearing for the former IGP Pujith house in Panadura to discuss the plan signatures. He has also asked them to IGP Jayasundara said that although personally inform him of any matter Jayasundara, asked SDIG to resolve the conflict between Zaharan choose whether to commit suicide or there were about 14,200 community that could pose a problem to the Jayawardena whether the foreign and Noufer Maulavi,” die in the war while sacrificing their Police units established with the aim of National Security. He said that the intelligence agency, which provided He further said that Zaharan and lives for Jihad. Zaharan had not obtaining information on various former SIS Director had personally initial intelligence information on the suicide bomber of St. Sebastian’s decided the date of attack until 24 crimes and suspicious individuals at informed him about such matters on possibility of an attack had given him Church in Katuwapitiya, Atchchi March, 2019. the village level, the Police did not several occasions. any special message in the morning of Muhammadu Muhammadu Hastun receive as much information as Affirming this further, former 21 April, 2019. had also been inside the safe house at Evidence mounting expected. Defence Secretary Hemasiri Fernando SDIG Jayawardena, in response, that time of arrival of Muaad and A member of the Commission then He was testifying before Commission also said that he, as the Defence said that the foreign intelligence Mohamed. questioned the witness as to whether of Inquiry on 15 October. Secretary, had never informed the agency had provided information that Responding to a question by an Zaharan, during the said discussion Chairman of the Commission President about intelligence an attack was likely to take place Additional Solicitor General (ASG) as had made a statement that he would questioned Jayasundara on the information during his tenure. He said between 6:00 and 10:00 a.m. on that to what had been discussed on the launch an attack outside Colombo. In number of meetings held to discuss that although it was usually the day at around 8:27 a.m. He said that it day, the witness said that the NTJ had response, he said “Zaharan has Islamist extremism, just like he Defence Secretary who should do it, he was then referred to the then Defence had a Shura Council with 13 members planned to visit Nuwara-Eliya to find convened senior Police officers to had instructed SDIG Jayawardena to Secretary Fernando at around 8:46 and one of them, Milhan, had the whereabouts of foreigners and to discuss drug raids on the instructions continue informing the President on a.m. He further said that the first two presented 19 allegations against launch an attack, but they have left in of the then President. such matters after learning that he bombs were detonated when he was Zaharan. fear,” When Jayasundara replied that he (Jayawardena) was informing the informing Fernando of the intelligence “Milhan had suggested that Zaharan It was also revealed before the could not recall the number of President directly about intelligence information over the phone. be removed and Noufer Moulavi be Commission that, two days before meetings, the Commission members information. When Maddegoda, PC suggested appointed as the NTJ leader. During Easter Sunday bombings, a (147- questioned whether not a single So, if Sirisena had been so keen on that he (SDIG Jayawardena) had the discussion they had also decided second) telephone conversation had meeting had been held to discuss what could be a threat to National actually received the said message at to share their properties. However, taken place between former Minister Islamist extremism. Security, and had instructed SDIG 6:30 a.m., the witness denied it. Mohamed Ibrahim Ilham Ahmed, who and Abdul Latheef Former IGP, in reply, said, “I do not Jayawardena to personally inform him Meanwhile, the Commission warned carried out the suicide bombing at Hakeem Mohamed, the brother of accept that. At that time we had set up of such information, can it be believed him about the manner in which he had Shangri- la Hotel in Colombo had Abdul Latheef Jameel Mohamed, who community Police units and assigned that the former President was not answered the lawyers’ questions. opposed Milhan’s suggestion. He had detonated the suicide bomb at Tropical officers to look into four matters. The informed of the information received Chairman of the Commission informed also been a member of the NTJ Shura Inn lodge in Dehiwala. main thing out of them was to ensure from a prestigious foreign intelligence him to answer only the questions being council and had said he did not give This was revealed when Hashim national security. We discussed the agency that the Zaharan-led group asked without arguing and that, if not money to the NTJ, but to Zaharan. He testified before the Commission on an information received at the Grama could carry out a ? legal action would be taken. had also suggested that Noufer earlier date. Niladhari level,” Moulavi be given a house and a A Senior State Counsel (SSC) asked Meanwhile, the Commission asked Irregularities during A shocking revelation weapon,” the witness added. the witness whether he had received a the witness whether there was a need Sirisena tenure Also, making a shocking revelation, He also said that Zaharan had call from one of the suicide bombers to set up community Police units to an officer attached to the Terrorism planned for a retaliation again the two days before the attack. obtain information as the State The proceedings in any sector of any Investigations Division (TID) who Christchurch attack in New Zealand In response, he said, “I will explain Intelligence Service (SIS) had provided country are carried out as it has been testified before the Commission said and the attacks in Syria. Zaharan has this. I was summoned to the Criminal clear information on Islamist for a long time. It clearly states the Zaharan Hashim- led group had had plans to attack places such as Investigations Department (CID) in extremism. In reply, Jayasundara through which institution, through initially planned to carry out the hotels, casinos and churches where December last year, where I was told acknowledged that some priority had which officers, and in what manner the bombings on Easter Sunday, with foreigners visited in large numbers, he that I had received a 147-second been given to seeking information relevant work should be done, whether involvement of 20 suicide bombers said. phone call from a person named relevant to former President in writing or orally. When considering targeting crowded places including A Senior State Counsel (SSC) Hakeem two days before the Easter Maithripala Sirisena’s drug eradication the matter of making the President hospitals. questioned the witness as to what was attacks. I said I did not remember. I programme. He also said that the aware of certain intelligence According to him, a member of the the time period in which Zaharan had was then informed that Hakeem was community Police units operating in information, according to most of the Zaharan- led group, who is in custody, planned to carry out the attack. In the brother of the person who the Kattankudy area had not received evidence presented before the had said that they were planning to reply, he said the explosives made by detonated the bomb at Tropical Inn any information about the activities of Commission, it should have been done carry out a series of attacks in three Zaharan and his brother Rilwan lodge in Dehiwala,” However, Hashim Zaharan. A14 sunday 25 october 2020 interview President gave us his word Leader of the National Freedom for it? A: Majority of the support came from Front (NFF) Minister Wimal A: We openly expressed our opinion Hakeem's party. As far as I know only Weerawansa explains, in an about this. But, when the President the Anuradhapura MP of Rishad's interview, why he gave into the had acceded to 90 per cent of our party voted in favour. Another MP from President’s request to support the requests, we had a responsibility to – Wimal Puttalam,who contested from a dual citizenship Clause in the 20th listen to his one request. We supported different party and won voted in favour Amendment to the Constitution. 20A based on the assurances he gave of the 20A. to us. It is alleged that these MPs By Aruni Mallawarachchi What was the request made voted in favour of the 20A by President that made you in hopes of joining the The people wanted a new withdraw your opposition to Government? Constitution. But, what the clause? was passed on 22 October A: Although it is only one MP from was another constitutional A: The dual citizenship clause was Rishad's party and we cannot really amendment? included in 19A to prevent the oppose him voting in favour, it will be President from entering politics. So, he going against the mandate if he was A: This is not the final. The ultimate said let’s remove this impediment from given a Government post. goal is to bring in a new Constitution. 20A and re-impose it in the new It is the responsibility of this Constitution. Justice Minister Ali Are you certain that such a Government and the President. A Sabri, PC, said the same thing in thing will not happen? Committee has already been appointed Parliament and it is now in the A: We believe that it won't happen. for this. They have assured to deliver a Hansard too. Our stance is that such a post should framework within three months. It will not be given to a henchman of Rishad. then be subjected to discussions both, With this request, has your within and outside Parliament for a stance changed? Eight out of 54 SJB MPs period of six months. Then, required A: Our stance on dual citizens has voted in favour of 20A. How amendments will be introduced and it not changed. What we thought was, were they persuaded? What will be tabled in Parliament. since two-thirds of our requests have tricks were used? been accepted, it was not correct to If a new Constitution is harp over just one issue. We elected A: I personally didn't take part in already in the pipeline, this President. Therefore, we trust him. any discussions held to convince them then why bring in the 20th and therefore I don't know whether Amendment at all? What makes you certain that they thought independently and voted this clause will not be in the going with their consciences or voted A: The 19th Amendment caused new Constitution? eying some future benefits. some complications. 20A was brought A: The President gave us his word. in to resolve those issues. During the We will make sure that dual citizens How should the new Yahapalana regime, the Prime Minister will not be able to enter Parliament, or Constitution be? had some doubts about the President. hold posts such as President, Prime A: First of all, it should strengthen Therefore, they brought in 19A to take Minister, diplomatic and other high the unitary status of the country, away some of the powers vested in the postings. Although the legal barrier constitutional councils and hearings are over, but the judgment empower the citizens, simplify the President, such as making certain high was removed, the moral barrier independent commissions, and take has not been announced yet. Did that governance, and strengthen the profile appointments, and to give such remains, which is more powerful. decisions on public matters. They happen due to judicial independence? Government to face any future powers to the Prime Minister, directly dragged on over important urgent If they were truly independent, they adversities. We expect a Constitution or indirectly. If there is going to be a new matters. should have announced the judgment. that strengthens the Government This situation stood in the way of the Constitution soon and this We are in an economic depression Why didn’t they do that? If they did, instead of weakening it. We need a President fulfilling the aspirations of clause will not be included due to the coronavirus health the FCID would have been cancelled. Constitution that empowers both the the people who elected him. 20A took in it, then, what is the point emergency. We will not be able to face And, everything they did against us people and the Government of the away this impediment. of getting it included in a these challenges if we allow the would have become illegal. Is that what country while ensuring democracy and temporary amendment? Government to weaken. That is why we judicial independence mean? human rights. Does this now mean that the wanted to strengthen the President’s Didn’t ’s voice President has no obstruction A: The President believes that 19A powers. We cannot wait another year recordings reveal interferences into It seems as if the to serve the public? was brought in to target him; until the new Constitution is brought, ’s case? Did that Government has forgotten A: The first year of the President’s especially the dual citizenship clause. to do that. happen because the Judiciary was about the pandemic amidst term was spent fighting the He argues that now that he is the independent? 19A didn’t make the the 20th Amendment coronavirus. The economy is in President, he should be able to Why are you against the Judiciary independent. Why couldn’t depression. In such a situation, it is reintroduce that clause. barrier set against dual Eva Wanasundara progress in her A: The Government, the healthcare not wise to weaken the Government. citizens? career? Such people were made sector and the Defence authorities This is why we wanted to consolidate One would say this is an A: In many countries dual citizens redundant. There are many examples collectively managed to face the first the President’s powers. It will take attempt by the President cannot enter Parliament or hold a top like this. wave but unfortunately, the second another year to bring in a new to obtain temporary post in Government. If a Sri Lankan wave is coming through Brandix. The Constitution. We must address social, satisfaction? citizen becomes a US citizen, his US Hasn’t 20A curtailed the issue is that these workers were not economic and cultural challenges. To citizenship is more powerful. Such a Prime Minister’s powers? cared for when they were getting sick do that, the President needs to wield A: Perhaps. person holding high post is not A: The Prime Minister was also a and fainting while working. The time sufficient powers. beneficial for the country, because proponent of 20A. Although there are these patients have spent inside the Do you believe that too? their loyalty is split. They may be no conflicts between him and the factory and outside of it is too long. The Opposition claims 20A A: Someone might think so. amenable to certain persuasions. President, such a situation may arise Even the doctors who treated these gives the President unlimited in the future. PM Mahinda Rajapaksa workers have acted irresponsibly. They powers. Isn’t this dangerous? Will not your voters become But, you did not have a believes the President should be given were identified much later and as a A: Even if that is the case, it won’t disappointed when you problem when Gotabaya clearly defined powers. He made a result, more patients were reported. have any detrimental effects on the change your stances? Rajapaksa served as the speech in this regard in Parliament. country. The President doesn’t even A: There is no reason for that. As I Defence Secretary while Are you saying that there is There is a debate on the use his official residence. He lives in said before, although the legal barrier being a dual citizen? still no community spread? his own house. He even uses minimum was removed, it is not easy to President’s immunity? A: According to the officials of VIP security and doesn’t allow his overcome the moral barrier. The legal A: You’re right. This topic became a A: According to a judgment, COVID-19 Task Force every patient is portrait to be hung in Government barrier was also removed for a very subject of discussion only after 19A. Fundamental Rights petitions can be accounted for as to how they offices. Powers in the hands of such a brief period. They were targeting the Rajapaksas. filed. But, remember, if this was there contracted the virus and their President will be beneficial to the But, do other countries also have these during the war, then there would have contacts. That's why they are saying country, not detrimental. But, this What is the guarantee that limitations targeting Rajapaksas? been a string of FR cases against that there is not community spread Amendment is not giving such during this brief period, a In Egypt, dual citizens cannot enter President Mahinda Rajapaksa. Then yet. limitless powers to the President. dual citizen will not enter Parliament or serve in the Police. Same he would not have been able to end the Parliament or be appointed in Israel and Australia. Recently, the war. Then the President would have to The damage the Pandemic Your party handed over a to a high post in the Australian Prime Minister had to be on tip-toes wondering when caused to the economy of the letter to the President with Government? resign due to a similar issue. In Russia someone is going to file a case. All country is not a minor one. three proposals? they cannot enter Parliament, or hold these NGO people have different How does this affect duties of A: Yes. The Maha Sangha, the A: If something like that were to State or Judicial positions. There, it is agendas behind their human rights your Ministry? Bishops and we pointed out some happen, it would cause immense a crime not to disclose your dual talks. Therefore, I personally believe shortcomings in the proposed 20A. political damage. I doubt the President citizenship. there is no harm in giving immunity. A: As the Ministry of Industries we The President accepted two out of the would risk that. It is the same in Estonia, Lithuania, are the ones who are faced with the three proposals. In particular, the Latvia. Have they imposed all these What is your opinion on the biggest challenges due to this proposal to retain auditing of certain Some interpret this as a sanctions to target Rajapaksas? It is President’s getting the power pandemic. Industrialists are the ones public institutions and limiting sudden defeat for you? for the benefit of the country. Although to dissolve Parliament after affected the most. Due to the lockdown draft Bills to instances of national A: Some may regard not winning the we only started talking about this now, two and a half years? in India our industrialists are receiving disasters and national security. It was entire pound of flesh as a defeat. We we believe this is an essential thing, more orders but this pandemic has also decided to retain the limit imposed agreed to it subjected to a condition. considering the trend in other A: It used to be after one year. Then, deprived the industrialists the on the number of Cabinet Ministers. As a constituent partner of this countries. under 19A it was made four and a half opportunity to fulfill these orders We only couldn’t get the Clause on Government, we were the first to write years. When we wanted to return to properly. We hope the second Brandix dual citizenship removed. to the President regarding this issue. Many claim that you are only one year, the Supreme Court wanted wave will be dealt with within the next The other parties joined the fray after opposed to ? us to go for a referendum. But, told us two or three weeks for the country's Will the President’s and the that. Our struggle was 90 per cent A: Anyone can give it a narrow that if it’s two and a half years, it does economy to be better than before from Prime Minister’s offices be successful. Some might regard this as interpretation like that. We cannot not require one. But, this does not at least next January. subjected to auditing? a defeat, but we were given an influence Basil Rajapaksa’s political mean he is going to dissolve A: Of course. We can also audit State assurance. decisions. Anyone can say such Parliament in two and a half years. In Isn't there a need for Corporations which have more than 50 things, but that is not the case here. case there is some sort of instability in a national policy on per cent public funds. Some says Rajapaksas get This is about all dual citizens in this the country and that a fresh mandate industries? their way, no matter what? country. is required then the President has the A: We have already started making Is there a danger of bringing A: Yes, there is something that the powers to arrive at such a decision. the policy and expect it to be in sudden Bills using national Rajapaksas want. But, we must not What is the guarantee that completed within next six, seven security as an excuse? forget there were things that the people allowing the President You always bore a negative months. After that we plan to discuss A: No, it won’t happen under our wanted too, such as the audit matter, to make Superior Court attitude towards Rishad the policy out in the open allowing watch. sudden Bills and the Cabinet. appointments and members Bathiudeen and Rauff people to express their opinions and Hakeem but you would not concerns regarding the policy. We plan You spoke against the dual Does this mean, the of the judicial and other have been able to secure to present the national policy on citizenship clause from the President can now work commissions will not impede 2/3rd majority if it weren't industries to the parliament and get it beginning. Why did you without any impediment? judicial independence? passed before the end of next year. for the votes of MPs of their change your mind and vote A: 19A allowed NGO loyalists who A: I mentioned about a case filed by had no people’s mandate to be part of the civil society against the FCID. The parties right? (Pic by Akila Jayawardana) sports sunday 25 october 2020 A15

Europa League Savindu, Isipathana’s Milan win at Celtic Alkmaar stun Napoli, Spurs star all-rounder and Arsenal win AC Milan withstood a late onslaught to beat Celtic 3-1, and AZ Savindu Uthsara was one of PLAYER PROFILE Alkmaar overcame the loss of 13 players with positive COVID-19 Isipathana College Colombo’s Name: W.A. SavinduUthsara tests to secure a shock 1-0 win at Napoli as the Europa League star all-rounder in the ‘Singer School: Isipathana College, Colombo group stage got underway on Thursday. Trophy’ Under-19 Division London sides Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal also made Born on: 2002.06.19 Fared this Season Batting Bowling One inter Schools Cricket (Two Lumbini Colombo 05 2/49 winning starts, as did fellow Premier League club Leicester City. day) tournament 2019/20 Batting Style: LHB Dutch team Alkmaar were under pressure for the whole game as season conducted by Sri Bowling Style: LALS Mahinda Galle 53 1/38 & 3/38 Napoli dominated possession and peppered their goal, but Dani de Royal Colombo 06 & 49 0/23 Lanka Schools Cricket M I NO Runs Ave 100’s 50’s Wit scored in the 57th minute for a stunning victory in Group ‘F’. Association. With Milan’s defence well marshalled by Danish centre-back 16 24 03 610 29.5 - 05 De Mazenod Kandana 10 2/22 The left hander scored 610 St. Benedict’s Kotahena 22 6/40 & 4/13 Simon Kjaer, they looked to be cruising to an easy win at Celtic runs in 16 matches with five Highest Score: 90 Maliyadeva College Kurunegala after first-half goals from Rade Krunic and Brahim Diaz. half centuries and claimed 48 50’s: 05 (Vs Mahinda Galle 53, Vs St. St. Sylvester’s Kandy 18 & 51 4/37 & 0/9 However, the Scottish champions came roaring back in the wickets for 745 runs. Sylvester’s Kandy 51, Vs Maliyadeva Kurunegala 90, Vs Wesley Colombo 23 0/49 second half and reduced the deficit through Mohamed Savindu commenced his Kingswood Kandy 50*, Vs Thurstan Colombo 70) Maliyadeva Kurunegala 90 & 18 3/17 Elyounoussi. Milan needed a late goal from Jens Petter Hauge, his cricket career from under-13 W R Ave BBI BBM 5W’s 10W’s St. Joseph’s Colombo 29 & 00 5/86 first for the club, to put the Group ‘H’ game out of reach. level in 2013. Initially was in 48 745 15.52 6/40 10/53 02 01 Mahanama Colombo 21 & 00* 3/74 Kemar Roofe scored a superb stoppage-time goal for Rangers, the ‘C’ team and scored only bustling past three players from the edge of his own area before against St. Benedict’s Kotahena 144 runs with a half century BBI: 6/40 Maris Stella Negombo 02 3/6 & 0/33 lobbing goalkeeper Arnaud Bodart from the halfway line as his and claimed six wickets. He BBM: 10/53 against St. Benedict’s Kotahena St. Aloysius Galle 07 & 00 0/5 & 2/11 side won 2-0 at Standard Liege in Group ‘D’. was elevated to the ‘A’ team in 5W’s: 02 (Vs St. Benedict’s Kotahena 6/40, vs St. D.S. Senanayake Colombo 34 1/50 “The goal was a moment of genius - a world-class moment. I 2014 and captured 15 wickets. Joseph’s Colombo 5/86) Prince of Wales Moratuwa 19 1/53 have been playing football professionally since 1998 and it is the In 2015 he led the ‘A’ team and 10W’s: 01 (Vs St. Benedict’s Kotahena 10/53) best goal I have ever seen live with my own eyes,” Rangers Manager scored 200 runs with a fifty Best all-round performance: (Vs Kingswood Kandy Kingswood Kandy 06 & 50* 4/15 & 4/45 Steven Gerrard told Rangers TV. and claimed 12 wickets. 06 & 50*, 4/15 & 4/45) Thurstan Colombo 70 & 27* 0/32 Villarreal and Turkey’s Sivasspor played out an eight-goal In 2015 he was in the under- thriller in Group ‘I’, with the Spanish side grabbing a 5-3 win 15 team and scored 105 runs thanks to a late double from striker Paco Alcacer. with a fifty and claimed 12 Arsenal, who have not claimed an European trophy since lifting wickets. He represented the the old Cup Winners’ Cup in 1994, went behind at Rapid Vienna, Colombo District under-15 team in 2017. He scored 270 scored 280 runs with a half He represented the college but defender David Luiz and striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang team and Western Province runs with a century and two century and claimed 13 first XI team as a fresher struck late on for a 2-1 Group ‘B’ win. Central team in the Inter fifties and claimed 30 wickets including a hat during the 2018/19 season. Fellow Premier League sides Leicester City and Tottenham Provincial Prima Champions wickets. trick. In 2019 he scored only He scored 232 runs and Hotspur cruised to comfortable 3-0 wins, with the Foxes downing Trophy Tournament the same He represented the college 104 runs with a half century claimed 32 wickets with a visiting Ukrainian side FK Zorya Luhansk in Group ‘G’, while hosts year. He led the under-15 under-17 team in 2018 and and took six wickets. five-wicket haul. Spurs beat Austrians LASK in Group ‘J’. Tottenham’s fine performance, including an assist from Gareth Bale on his first start back at the club on loan from Real Madrid, spurred on the London side who lost the 2019 Champions League final to Liverpool. “We went out there today and did a great Ronaldo may miss game against Barca job. We were solid and threatening and the most important thing in these games The Italian giants’ Portuguese for the coronavirus at least seven at the start is to get the three superstar Cristiano Ronaldo again days earlier before he can be points,” Bale told BT Sport. tested positive for COVID-19, granted for participation in a Bayer Leverkusen went on the reported Marca on Thursday. That Champions League game. rampage against French side meant he is very likely to miss Wednesday was the deadline for Nice in a 6-2 victory that saw Juventus’ game against Barcelona Juventus to submit the required winger Karim Bellarabi score in Group ‘G’ in the UEFA medical paperwork to clear twice late on for the home side Champions League on 28 October. Ronaldo for the game. Ronaldo in Group ‘C’. Ronaldo first tested positive for testing positive again meant AS Roma came back from a the coronavirus on 13 October, Juventus could only pray that the goal down to beat Swiss side and then he was ruled out of the UEFA will make an exception for Young Boys 2-1 away thanks to Portuguese national team roster. him if, of course, he tests negative two goals in five second-half He then returned to Turin for in the coming days. minutes by Bruno Peres and quarantine. The five-time Ballon Ronaldo and Messi became the Marash Kumbulla in Group ‘A’. d’Or winner has shown no greatest rivals locking horns in Granada and Real Sociedad had symptoms and posted photos of the football world after the 2-1 and 1-0 away wins over PSV him training with a new hairstyle Portuguese moved to Real Madrid Eindhoven and Rijeka in Group ‘E’ on Twitter. You can tell neither in 2009. As Ronaldo left for Italy and ‘F’ Ronaldo nor Juventus want him in 2018, it became less easy for respectively, to miss the contest with Lionel the two to meet on the field. while Benfica Messi next Wednesday. Meanwhile, judging by their ages, chalked up a However, the latest positive test there may be increasingly fewer 4-2 victory over result may ruin all of that. showdowns between them on the Lech Poznan in According to UEFA rules, a player top stage. Group ‘D’. must prove that he tests negative (Agencies) (Reuters) Arsenal’s Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang in action SRH keep playoff hopes alive Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) Manish Pandey, though, Natarajan in the 18th over, 30. returned to winning ways came out all guns blazing. He hitting him for two fours and a Steve Smith and Jos Buttler after they beat Rajasthan hammered 83* (47 balls, 4x4; six. However, SRH struck took RR past hundred in the Royals (RR) by eight wickets in 8x6), and along with Vijay through Holder as he 15th over, Vijay got Match 40 of the Dream11 Shankar (52 not out), the two dismissed both – Smith and Buttler out for 9 after the Indian Premier League (IPL) put up an unbroken 140-run Riyan Parag – in the batsman was caught at 2020 at the Dubai stand off 93 balls to seal an penultimate over. While Smith backward point by Shahbaz International Cricket Stadium eight-wicket win with 11 balls was caught at long-on by Nadeem. on Thursday. to spare. The 100-run stand Manish Pandey, Riyan Parag Jofra Archer played a cameo Defending 154, RR were off came in the 15th over. was dismissed after David of 16* off 7 balls as RR to a fine start after Ben Stokes Earlier, RR retained the Warner completed a fine catch eventually posted 154/6 on took a flying catch in the same playing XI while SRH running backwards from mid- the board. second slip to get David made two changes to their off. It was only the duo of Brief Scores: Warner out in the first over off line-up, bringing in Shahbaz Stokes and Samson who RR: 154/6 (Sanju Samson Jofra Archer. Nadeem and Jason Holder in completed a 50-run stand in 36, Ben Stokes 30; Jason The right-arm pacer struck place of Basil Thampi and the 12th over, but lost both in Holder 3/33) for the second time in the injured Kane Williamson. quick succession. First, SRH: 156/2 (Manish powerplay as he disturbed the RR were 118/4 after 17 Samson got out for 36 after Pandey 83*, Vijay Shankar timber to dismiss Jonny overs and needed some quick Holder picked his first wicket 52*, Jofra Archer 2/21) Bairstow in the third over. runs. Riyan Parag took on T of the match, while Stokes got (Agencies)

Allow families to travel with players: BCCI urges CA

Arguably the biggest where the first ODI is the players will remain cricketing series on the expected to take place in, it would be in their international calendar, on 27 November, while interest if the families India tour of Australia, the fourth and final can be with them in is into the final stage of Test is likely to be held Australia, at least for its discussion, with the on 15 January in some time. Hopefully, itinerary suggesting Brisbane. the issue will be the first match is likely As per a report in The sorted out soon,” a to take place on 27 Hindu, the BCCI and BCCI insider told the November. The Board CA have agreed on the paper. of Control for Cricket in tour schedule. The two In the IPL, the BCCI India (BCCI) and Boards, however, have had left the decision of Cricket Australia (CA) different views as far as allowing families to still have a few details the prospect of families accompany the to finalise including the being allowed to travel players or not with the decision whether to with the players is franchises. While allow families to travel concerned. Anushka Sharma and with the players or not. “CA has advised Ritika Sajdeh were On Thursday, the families of players to be among those who Indian team also got barred from travelling, travelled with their the nod to quarantine considering the husbands to the UAE, in Sydney as they leave sensitivity and sanctity Sakshi Dhoni (wife of from Dubai following of the bio-bubble. But MS Dhoni) remained the IPL 13 final on 10 given the prolonged home in Ranchi. November. It is Sydney duration of the bubble (Agencies) A16 sunday 25 october 2020 SPORTS

Anjelo Mathews (Colombo Kings)

Lasith Malinga Dasun Shanaka (Galle Gladiators) (Dambulla Hawks) Lanka Premier League

Thisara Perera (Jaffna Stallions) Colombo to Lock Horns

with Galle in Opener Kusal Perera (Kandy Tuskers)

The schedule for the Miller and Carlos Brathwaite are while Pakistan great Shahid Namal Rajapaksa also said Lanka Premier League some of the big names that are Afridi and Colin Ingram are the that LPL will position Sri (LPL) was announced on expected to feature at the two overseas signing. The team Lanka on the global sports Thursday (22) with inaugural tournament. will be coached by Moin Khan. map and will attract the Colombo taking on Galle Coached by Sri Lanka-born Among others, Kandy Tuskers attention of local and in the opening match of former Australian player and picked up Kusal Janith as the international sports the tournament on 21 coach Dav Whatmore and Local Icon, while Chris Gayle and spectators. Rajapaksa also November at the assisted by Sri Lanka great Liam Plunkett were picked as the said the Government will Mahinda Rajapaksa Chaminda Vaas, the Colombo two overseas signing. The team extend all possible support International Cricket Kings team has a strong outfit will be coached by Hashan to make LPL an annual Stadium in Hambantota. with former Sri Lanka Captain Tillakaratne. sports property of Sri Lanka The two semi-finals and the Angelo Mathews leading the side, Dasun Shanaka is the Local much on the lines of final are scheduled to be along with former South Africa Icon for Dambulla Hawks while the Indian Premier League played at Pallekele limited-over skipper Faf du David Miller and Carlos (IPL) in India. International Cricket Stadium Plessis and West Indies all- Brathwaite are the overseas However, considering the in Kandy. The final of the rounder Andre Russel (with more signing. The Hawks team will be current situation in Sri tournament will be played on than 300 T20 matches under coached by Jon Lewis. Lanka on Covid-19 the 13 December, with 14 their belts), being some of the top Meanwhile, Jaffna Stallions inaugural tournament is likely December being kept as a names picked by Colombo Kings. have Thisara Perera as the Local to be pushed back again to reserve day. On the other hand Galle Icon and Dawid Malan as the meet the quarantine Chris Gayle, Andre Gladiators have Sri Lankan pacer overseas signing. requirements imposed by the Russell, Faf du Plessis, David Lasith Malinga as the Local Icon, Earlier Sports Minister health authorities.

Chakabva, Maruma test Australia’s Pocock SL Women retires from all rugby positive for COVID-19 Former Australia flanker Zimbabwe but political lose to and captain David Pocock unrest in the country forced Kept on standby for Pakistan tour has retired from all rugby his family to move to Zimbabwe Cricket has also tested positive. and will now concentrate Australia in 2002. Philippines confirmed that Regis They were tested after on campaigning for He made his debut for the Chakabva and Timycen having come in close conservation causes and Wallabies in 2008 and his in QF Maruma – the players on contact with the two work on rugby development first Rugby World Cup in standby for the players. The facility has programmes. 2011 when he was almost The Sri Lanka Women’s upcoming tour of now been shut Pocock stepped down single-handedly responsible National Team lost to the Pakistan – have tested temporarily for from international rugby for Australia beating South Philippine Women’s National Team positive for coronavirus disinfection. following last year’s Rugby Africa in the quarter-finals. 7 points to 1 in two games (White and have been placed in Zimbabwe’s main World Cup in Japan after Pocock was appointed and Black) in the quarter-final self-isolation as per squad for the Pakistan 83 caps, but stayed in the captain in 2012 to succeed (Knock-out) of the Asian Nations COVID-19 protocols. An tour stayed in a country to play for an injured James Horwill, Cup 2020 online Chess official release stated secluded wing of a Panasonic Wild Knights in but suffered the first of Championships conducted by the that the two were different hotel, away the Top League. several serious knee Asian Chess Federation on Friday roommates in a bio- from the standby “While it was a tough injuries in 2013 and was (23). The Philippine’s team secure bubble set up for players, and tested decision, it really feels like then replaced as the advanced to the semi-final. The the standby players at negative before the right one now, and as a Wallabies first choice final is scheduled for 25 October. the ZC Academy House departing for Islamabad, lot of former athletes talk about, it’s number seven by current captain Tharushi Niklesha and Sachini in Harare. and upon reaching not going to be smooth sailing but it’s Michael Hooper. Ranasinghe scored 0.5 points The two were there. They have to going to be a great challenge,” the Successive coaches tried to play the each. Sri Lankan team comprised roommates for a week undergo another test at 32-year-old told Rugby Australia on pair in the same team Sachini Ranasinghe (Captain), while in a bio-secure the end of their Friday. with Pocock often playing number Nethmi Fernando, Sandeepani bubble set up for players quarantine period on Pocock was considered one of the eight, which created issues with the Tharushi, Ashvini Pavalachandran placed on standby at the Tuesday. finest openside flankers to play the balance of the side, although they and Tharushi Niklesha. ZC Academy House in Harare. The limited-over tour, comprising game, with his toughness over the still made the 2015 Rugby World Cup (IR) Besides them, two other members three ODIs and as many T20Is, will ball at the breakdown often final against New Zealand. of staff who were providing support begin on 30 October. unmatched. He was born in (Reuters) services at the same facility have (Agencies)

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