Phis Weary of Government Assurance

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www.themorning.lk epaper.themorning.lk www.themorning.lk epaper.themorning.lk www.aruna.lk epaper.aruna.lk MONDAY, JUNE 29, 2020 www.aruna.lk epaper.aruna.lk TOTAL CASES For verified information on the Quarantine Unit COVID-19 TOTAL CASES coronavirus (Covid-19) contact any 0112 112 705 ACTIVE CASES of the following authorities CASES IN Epidemiology Unit THE WORLD 10,162,062 Health Suwasariya PROTECT YOURSELF FROM 2,036 Promotion 0112 695 112 CASES DEATHS Ambulance DEATHS Bureau Service Govt. coronavirus hotline USA 2,615,417 128,233 COVID-19 DEATHS RECOVERED 1999 1990 0113071073 502,606 BRAZIL 1,319,274 57,149 RUSSIA 634,437 9,073 PRESIDENTIAL SPECIAL TASK FORCE FOR ESSENTIAL SERVICES RECOVERD INDIA 548,154 16,466 10 1,661 Telephone 0114354854, 0114733600 Fax 0112333066, 0114354882 Hotline 0113456200-4 Email [email protected] 5,503,309 UK 311,151 43,550 THE ABOVE STATISTICS364 ARE CONFIRMED UP UNTIL 10.00 P.M. ON 28 JUNE 2020 SOURCE: HEALTH PROMOTION BUREAU GAZETTING HEALTH GUIDELINES PHIs weary of Government assurance BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA at last week’s meeting, the Minister z PHIs seek more powers to act against quarantine law violators had informed the PHIs that a sudden Public Health Inspector’s Union of them to properly carry out their duties promised the union that necessary At the last meeting held with Department to gazette the election decision to give more powers to them Sri Lanka (PHIUSL) says they have during the Covid-19 pandemic. powers would be given but to date Wanniarachchi, she had asked the related Covid-19 health guidelines. couldn’t be made and that it could no confidence in Minister of Health Speaking to The Morning, PHIUSL had failed to do so. union to give her two or three days Yet, she has failed to do so, Mudalige only be done after seeking the opinion Pavithra Wanniarachchi of issuing Treasurer D.Y.S.R.R. Mudalige said “Until we see the gazette, we won’t more to finalise the amendments stressed. of the AG. gazette notifications to empower the Minister had on several occasions trust the promises now,” he stressed. with the Attorney General’s (AG) However, as learnt by The Morning, Contd. on page 2

RESIGNATION OF A CC MEMBER REOPENING FOR FOREIGNERS ON 1 AUGUST CC to continue until new Council zNew Council to be formed by next Parliament BIA reopening The Constitutional Council despite one absentee. (CC) meetings would be held Furthermore, Ratnayake said as usual despite the resignation a new CC would be appointed of one of its members under the new Parliament. representing civil society, Dr. As learnt by The Morning, the Jayanta Dhanapala, until a reason behind Dr. Dhanapala’s new council is formed by the resignation was the fact that he next Parliament, according to resides in Kandy and is unable in mid-August CC representative and former to attend the meetings on a Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna regular basis. z Influx of repatriates cause for delay z Strain on PCR testing and quarantine facilities (JVP) parliamentarian Bimal While Speaker Karu Ratnayake. Jayasuriya is the Chairman of BY SKANDHA GUNASEKARA AND Airport and Aviation Services (Sri cannot open the airport for tourists could prevent Lankans from returning He told The Morning that the the CC, Prime Minister Mahinda MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA Lanka) Ltd. (AASL) Chairman Major just yet. The process should conclude would crop up. vacancy could only be replaced Rajapaksa and Opposition Bandaranaike International Airport General (Retd.) G.A. Chandrasiri told in about three weeks and we hope to “If we open the airport on 1 August, only after the next Parliament is Leader Sajith Premadasa are (BIA) would not be reopened on 1 The Morning that the airport would open the airport by the second week then tourists could book flights here, convened and up until then, the appointed to the Council in August as previously scheduled due to most likely be opened in mid-August. of August,” he stated. possibly hindering the repatriation Council would meet as usual as their official capacities. the influx of repatriates, The Morning “We are still carrying out the He said that if the airport opened process. the quorum would be completed Contd. on page 2 learnt. repatriation process and therefore we earlier, issues like flight congestion that Contd. on page 2

Islandwide curfew I’ve got this! WEARING FACEMASK IN PUBLIC SPACES completely lifted Police to gather data The islandwide curfew imposed in zNo legal provision to penalise violators order to curtail the spread of Covid- BY SARAH HANNAN able to report back to work, 19 has been completely lifted, the many have returned to their President’s Media Division (PMD) The Police is to observe daily routines. announced. whether the public adheres to However, law enforcement This decision came into effect respiratory etiquette (RE) by authorities are required to yesterday (28). wearing facemasks when entering monitor whether people adhere public spaces with heavy crowd to the health guidelines set forth density for a period of one week when the country came out of CRACKDOWN ON NARCOTICS starting from today (29). a three-month lockdown which With the country’s economic was imposed as a measure to operation now returning to prevent the spread of Covid-19. 340 arrested in normal and the workforce being Contd. on page 2 special op During a 24-hour special operation carried out in the Western Province, Health guidelines a 340 persons have been arrested for the possession of heroin and other narcotics. United National Party (UNP) Leader Ranil Wickremesinghe having a chat with former MP Daya Gamage (right) at the launch of must: Army Chief The special operation had been the party’s digital advertising campaign yesterday (28) while former MP Sagala Ratnayaka looks on Commander of the Army washing hands with soap. carried out from 6 a.m. on Saturday PHOTO SAMAN ABESIRIWARDANA Lieutenant General Shavendra The Army Commander (27) to 6 a.m. last morning (28) on Silva appealed to the made these remarks last the instructions of the Senior DIG COUNTRIES PERMITTED TO ENTER EU general public to continue Saturday afternoon (27), of the Western Province. Karuna’s matter only following guidelines set by speaking to the media health authorities for the in Kandy regarding DENGUE BREEDING SITES Sri Lanka not prevention of Covid-19 the Covid-19 control a distraction: PM within the country. measures in place Prime Minister Mahinda In a speech delivered yesterday, This included in the country, Legal action filed Rajapaksa yesterday (28) claimed titled “Defeating domestic and on draft list the use of the Sri Lanka The National Dengue Control that the former regime was trying foreign conspiracies against Sri Sri Lanka has not been included in the draft face masks, Army said in Unit (NDCU) during their recent to capitalise on a comment made Lanka”, the Prime Minister accused list consisting of 54 countries that will benefit maintaining a statement. eradication programmes detected by Vinayagamoorthi Muralitharan the Opposition of obscuring the from the reopening of the European Union (EU) social Contd. 22% of the construction sites across alias Karuna Amman and obscure bigger picture by bringing other external borders, which is expected to happen distance, and on page 2 the country as breeding sites for the the broader achievements matters to the attention of the people. by the beginning of July. Aedes aegypti mosquito, with 4% of of the current Government. Contd. on page 2 Contd. on page 2 households across the country too DISPLAY OF CANDIDATES’ NAMES being recognised as breeding sites. CPC LOSSES No official decision: EC Lankan elephant z Regional regulations, not by Election Commission Govt. owes Rs. 135 billion z Former President Sirisena’s name to be blocked euthanized in US zoo BY SKANDHA GUNASEKARA SriLankan Airlines. Weerasooriya, explaining The decision to block out Secretariat. It is possible that the The Smithsonian’s National Zoo “The Government owes the breakdown of the the former President’s name in regional elections office took and Conservation Biology Institute The Government owes a Rs. 135 billion to the CPC, government debt, revealed plaques was a regional regulation, such a decision,” Commissioner community is mourning the loss of whopping Rs. 135 billion including what is owed by that SriLankan Airlines CPC the Election Secretariat stated. General of Elections Saman Sri Chairman Shanthi, the beloved member of its to the Ceylon Petroleum Srilankan Airlines and the owed the lion’s share Sumith “Blocking out candidates’ Ratnayake said. Asian elephant herd and ambassador Corporation (CPC) for Ceylon Electricity Board of government debt to Wijesinghe names displayed on plaques Two weeks ago, former for her species. various services including (CEB) which also includes the CPC, which is an set on buildings, development President Maithripala Sirisena was fuel subsidies. the independent power plant,” estimated Rs. 45 projects, or places where asked to refrain from distributing CPC Chairman Sumith he said. billion. foundation stones were laid is school stationery that was arranged SEE FULL STORIES Wijesinghe told The Morning CPC Deputy General Contd. on an impractical exercise. It is not at a school in Polonnaruwa. ON PAGE 2 that this included debt from Manager of Finance Varuna page 2 a directive issued by the Election Contd. on page 2 2 the morning TRIBUTE/NEWS Monday, June 29, 2020

BY SELYNA PEIRIS I remember my first encounter with CBK so vividly. Seven Tribute to CBK on her 75th birthday years ago, around mid- morning in late August, I hopes and aspirations. be able to do so. She would invite an official gathering. She has created the deep fear and insecurity she must returned a missed call on Later, during my engagement with us to share our opinions and ideas the recipe for the best crab curry I have had to sleep through, after she my phone. I made the usual her at the South Asia Policy and and would act on our submissions if have ever tasted and makes sure we almost lost her life to a suicide bomb greeting and asked who it was Research Institute (SAPRI), where they were valid. In a country where are served with the most delicious attack. We mustn’t forget that she that I had missed a call from, she is the Founding Chair, and while seniority defines career progression ambarella juice just because she is now a grandmother who yearns and an authoritative voice at my full-time role at the Office for and as a leader of an organisation knows we like it. She personally for a month of peace to spend time replied: “This is Chandrika National Unity and Reconciliation myself, I deeply value this training chooses the colours for her curtains with her grandchildren. She has had (ONUR), her commitment to a she set by example. and her upholstery. Walking around and continues to have hopes and Bandaranaike Kumaratunga.” united Sri Lanka was made clearer. Then there were times when her garden, you can clearly see she dreams as a woman, just like we Fair to say, I was stunned for In fact, the creation of ONUR we would implore of her not to has a green thumb and that she takes all do. Some may disagree, but she a few moments and I faintly was her brainchild and the initial make controversial statements, but pride in beauty around her. She never has sacrificed for our nation and remember asking if the blueprint meant to create a body she insisted that as leaders, it was steps out of her house without being we mustn’t forget or belittle that. person on the other end was within the government to catalyse necessary that the undesirables immaculately dressed and that too She has shown by example what joking. Fast forward to 2020, and incubate programmes that were spoken of, even at the risk of with the greatest taste and class; we perseverance can look like – that no I’m honoured to be able to pen would work towards promoting unpopularity. We learnt from her have often had long conversations on matter how hard you are hit, you are a few words about her role in reconciliation among the various that being brave could be a hard and Sri Lankan crafts and life in Europe. only hurt if you don’t get up. my life and in the lives of the communities in the country. I will lonely journey. From the start of her I write this because it is important Final thoughts many young professionals treasure those initial documents career and when she had much more that our country understands that who have been privileged in the hope of using them again from all over the island to speak with to lose, bold and fearless statements before she became a leader, that she I have been very lucky in my life one day, as within them were a one voice of their common pain. made by her defined the “Sudu was a daughter – a daughter who to be mentored by great women and enough to work with her in mechanism that would ensure this We brought together religious and Neluma” movement and inspired the saw her father assassinated and the she is undoubtedly one of them. As a the past few years. taboo subject was mainstreamed and community leaders from all across peace processes in our country. She pressures her mother and the family woman who intends to play a role in At the outset, I want to make it integrated into the entire government the country so that they could ignite has been fearless in this regard and had, having to step into his shoes. the public discourse of this country, clear that this is neither an analysis of machinery. the healing process so very needed in the respect she has earned, from all I’m not sure many of us would have I will forever value the unreserved her political career nor her political Following her clear vision and this country. We dreamt of creating those who share her vision across been able to withstand this first insights that she has unselfishly alliances, but simply a genuine together as one team, we made plans a better land for all those who called the world, is a testimony to this fact. blow, let alone what was to come. shared with me – with us. tribute to a leader, a mentor, and a on reforming our education system this country home. I have sat at meetings with world We shouldn’t forget that she was a Dear Madam, you have trusted us mother who is by nature a friend. to enable an incoming generation Working with CBK taught me leaders who have looked up to her in young and hopeful wife when her and given us the confidence to rise to believe that we Sri Lankans were some very valuable life skills. For admiration for all that she continues husband too was assassinated and to the occasion and that is a very National unity and one and that our history would instance, we all learnt how to think to stand for. Even though as a nation that as a young mother she was left rare characteristic among people of reconciliation never hold us back. We created on our feet. She had a plan in her we have many more miles to go, to fend for two young children in an your status and calibre. The leaders Many who know CBK will programmes where students who had head, which more often than not CBK continues to be a guiding light extremely volatile context. It’s not an of our country have much to learn strongly agree with me that the never met anyone from a different we didn’t know of, and after many for the arduous journey ahead. easy decision to have made to set up from your humility and your love for driving passion of her life is to race and religion could meet together trials and errors, we learnt the trick life in the UK to protect her children all our people. Thank you, Madam, ensure this island and its peoples in student camps, where arts and was to always be able to think three Crab curry and and then to have made an equally for continuing to be a friend to all prosper in unity. In fact, the reason culture were an integral tool used steps ahead. We learnt to work on ambarella juice hard decision to come back to take of us. May you have the strength to she had initially called me was for this bonding. We developed time – deadlines were set and were I often joke with “Madam”, as I her mother’s place in the Sri Lanka continue to do what drives you. to discuss the very same subject, applications to provide easy access to followed up on meticulously and fondly call her, that if she weren’t Freedom Party. (The writer is an Attorney-at-Law, following my involvement in the translation and interpretation services believe it or not, the one time I was a former President, she would have You can’t take away the fact – social entrepreneur, and social and 2013 Rally for Unity campaign to so that the National Languages late, she came early! Uncertainty was probably run one of the country’s even though we have a long way political activist. She was formerly ensure that “Hate Has No Place In Policy could be fully implemented. the nature of the game and it brought most successful restaurant chains. to go – that by winning a landslide the Deputy Director Programmes at Sri Lanka”. On her invitation, several We looked into sustainable models to the best out in us. She also taught us What the world may not see is that victory to be Sri Lanka’s first woman the Office for National Unity and colleagues and I shared our vision provide basic social and livelihood the value of listening, especially to she is a proud homemaker and a President, she is among the few Reconciliation. She continues to for this country and at that young needs to the vulnerable populations raw, young talent – she is one of the mother. To this date, she plans what who paved the way for women to be be a strong advocate for equitable age, it was inspiring for us to receive in the North and East. We initiated very few political figures, whom I her guests would eat and drink when active in electoral politics. We will development, especially for the such high-level validation of our activities for war-affected women have met, who has the humility to invited over for either a friendly or probably never be able to understand women of Sri Lanka)

Contd. from page 1

who would not be wearing a facemask will be Mamer said last Thursday (25), adding that its for the remainder of the unexpired term of his/ Lanka where future generations will be able BIA... sent for a 14-day quarantine, revealed that the decisions are “based on health criteria”. her predecessor. to live freely and be proud of? I need not spell Also, PCR testing and quarantine will also get Police will only reprimand anyone who is not On 11 June, the Commission presented its –Maheesha Mudugamuwa it out; every Sri Lankan knows the answer to bogged down with additional tourist traffic,” the wearing a facemask in designated areas. recommendations on the reopening of internal those questions,” Rajapaksa added. AASL Chairman said. “We do not have the legal provisions to penalise Schengen borders on 15 June, so that Europeans Meanwhile, Director General of Health anyone who does not wear a mask. However, can travel within the borderless area freely just Islandwide... Services (DGHS) Dr. Anil Jasinghe stressed this week we have directed our officers posted in as they did pre-pandemic. At the same time, the Previously, the curfew imposed on the whole Govt. owes... that the threat the country would face with the all cities, especially areas where there is a heavy Commission recommended that the member states country from 20 March was partially lifted with “The SriLankan debt dates back to 2014. In reopening of airports is that Covid-19 could enter footfall of people, to monitor the number of should start allowing third country nationals to the country gradually returning to normalcy. addition, the CEB debt, including the debt from the country once again, adding that therefore it persons that adhere to the requirements of wearing gradually and partially enter the EU starting from Accordingly, the curfew was only in effect the independent power station, amounts to Rs. 90 is important to follow Covid-19-related health a facemask when stated,” SP Senaratne told The 1 July, based on the epidemiological situation in from 12 midnight until 4 a.m. daily until today. billion,” Weerasooriya said, adding that the CEB guidelines to prevent the virus from spreading. Morning. He further noted that the police officers each third country. outstanding payments are from February 2019. “Our main target is to prevent the transmission will request any person entering or walking into a He noted that the CPC has been receiving of the virus within the community along with public space to wear the facemask. Furthermore, Karuna’s... payments in installments. “The SriLankan Airlines the reopening of airports,” he added. they are also required to obtain the person’s No official... “We saw the manner in which the Yahapalana debt has been blocked off as a loan and is being name, ID number, and contact details (residential Media reports noted that the stationery that was cabal made a hue and cry about a comment made paid in installments. However, there has been a address and phone number) and make a note of to be distributed bore the former President’s name. by Karuna Amman to the effect that he had been delay with the Covid-19 impact. The CEB too PHIs... it along with the time and place the person was The Polonnaruwa Election Office had advised responsible for the deaths of thousands of soldiers has been paying gradually,” Weerasooriya said. The PHIUSL last week said that a decision asked to wear the facemask. the former President to refrain from distributing in attacks on Army camps when he was in the on whether to quit from Covid-10-related duties The public is requested to wear a facemask such material as it was viewed as non-adherence LTTE (Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam). This would be taken this week after postponing the when travelling in public transport, entering to election campaigning guidelines. shows how easy it is to obscure the broader picture 340 arrested... trade union action that was scheduled for last business premises and retail premises, entering – Sarah Hannan by bringing other issues to the fore. Suspects have been arrested with narcotic week. At present, there are about 2,650 PHIs in cities, entering religious establishments, and “After I became the President in November substances such as heroin, cannabis, and ice, as the country. Under the guideline titled “Health any place where it is stipulated. He also stated 2005, we destroyed the LTTE completely. Because well as illicit liquor and Goda. Guidelines for Conducting the Election amidst that people are not required to wear a facemask Health... he had by the time given up both terrorism the Covid-19 Outbreak”, PHIs are assigned to within their private residences, within their office He also thanked the public for the overwhelming and separatism and surrendered to military supervise all election booths prior to and on the environment, or in open spaces where they will support they have extended towards the near intelligence, Karuna was not destroyed along Legal action... election day. They will also organise and carry not come into contact with persons they are not successful control of the spread of the pandemic. with the LTTE. It was Karuna who formally “All sites that housed mosquito breeding sites out disinfection activities and will be assigned acquainted with. “Thanks to the efforts of all stakeholders identified Prabhakaran’s dead body for us. have been recorded. Since we repeatedly advise with other election-related duties by the Medical including public health inspectors (PHIs), health “If we look at the doings of those who are the public to keep their household and construction Officer of Health. Mudalige stressed that it was workers, and tri-service troops, we locally asking the people to vote for the Yahapalana camp environments clean, the detected households and difficult to take some legal actions under the Sri Lanka... recorded the last Covid-19-affected Sri Lankan because of what Karuna said, some interesting construction sites were subjected to legal action,” Quarantine and Prevention of Diseases Ordinance According to sources of Euronews, EU officials some two months back, but foreign arrivals facts emerge.” NDCU Director Dr. Anura Jayasekara told The for those who violate Covid-19 guidelines due had failed to agree upon a common list of the continue to report a couple of infected cases The Prime Minister claimed that those now in Morning. With the southwestern monsoon now to the lack of powers given to them. However, countries that would definitely be banned from from time to time. Yet, they are also mostly the Yahapalana camp gave lorry loads of weapons in effect, the number of dengue cases reported PHIs warned that they would quit election-related entering the block upon the reopening of the Sri Lankan brethren and countrymen who are and gunny bags full of cash to the LTTE in 1989 islandwide have seen a sharp increase. activities pertaining to the outbreak, unless the border. However, they have managed to create a being repatriated due to the intervention of the in a foolish attempt to win them over. From 1 January 2020 until 26 June 2020, the Government meets their demands. list of the countries with a better epidemiological President and the Government.” “For years afterwards, the LTTE attacked us total number of dengue cases recorded by the situation, the citizens of which will be able to Moreover, Lieutenant General Silva said it is with our own weapons. In 2002, the Yahapalana Epidemiology Unit stood at 21,649, while the enter Europe by the end of next week. the duty of the country’s people to take care of camp virtually ceded the Northern and Eastern highest number of cases reported within a month Police... “The EU has an internal process to determine them too as countrymen while adopting maximum Provinces to Prabhakaran through the ceasefire was recorded in January at 11,595. Police Media Spokesperson SP Jaliya from which countries it would be safe to accept health and safety precautions. The armed forces agreement. The Yahapalana Government drafted – Sarah Hannan Senaratne, refuting the speculation that anyone travellers,” EU Commission Spokesman Eric in quarantine centres across the country are now a new constitution to divide the country. Then, well adapted and fully geared to take care of they incorporated the conceptual framework these individuals through practice, and hence, of that constitution in their 2019 presidential Lankan elephant... it is essential for people to continue their daily election manifesto as well. After decades of managing and treating health practices, the Army Commander added. “From the time Karuna Amman was murdering Shanthi’s osteoarthritis, animal care staff recently Cartoon of the day people and after he had given up doing so, right noted that her physical condition had irreversibly up to the present day, what has been right at declined. They elected to humanely euthanize CC to... the top of the Yahapalana agenda has been the her on 26 June. Minister Mahinda Samarasinghe was division of this country. Karuna may have given Born in Sri Lanka around 1975, Shanthi lived appointed the President’s representative, while up murdering people, but the Yahapalana cabal at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage until 1976 R. Sampanthan was appointed the Opposition has not given up trying to divide the country. when she arrived at the Smithsonian’s National Leader’s representative. That is what we have to realise here. In any case, Zoo as a gift from the children of Sri Lanka. Thalatha Atukorala was appointed the Prime the CID (Criminal Investigation Department) is “Generations of staff and visitors have come Minister’s representative, while MP Bimal carrying out an investigation into what Karuna to know and love Shanthi and, by extension, Rathnayake was appointed the minority party said. If we allow ourselves to be distracted and Asian elephants,” said Smithsonian’s National representative. Dr. Jayantha Dhanapala, Ahmen forget the broader picture even for a moment, Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute John Javid Yusuf, and Naganathan Selvakumaran are the consequences could be disastrous. That and Adrienne Mars Director Steven Monfort. also in the CC, representing civil society. is why I always stress the importance of the “Her contributions to research and medicine As per the 19th Amendment to the Constitution, broader picture. have made an indelible mark on our efforts it is the duty of the Speaker, as Chairman, to ensure “If people cast their votes on the basis to save her wild counterparts from extinction nominations for appointments to the CC-appointed of various minor distractions, we will lose as well as improve the lives of her fellow seats (the non-ex officio members) are made, everything – our country, our nationhood, animal ambassadors. Over the past few years whenever an occasion for such nominations arises. our religion, our culture, and the future of in particular, our elephant and veterinary teams Members can vacate the office by resigning in unborn generations. The people should always have gone the extra mile to ensure Shanthi’s the form of writing addressed to the President. ask themselves who can rule this country physical, social, and mental wellbeing. They The President shall, within two weeks, if there effectively, ensure economic development, have her best interest at heart, and I am grateful is a vacancy of any of the appointed members, eliminate terrorism, and ensure the security of for their professionalism in providing her with appoint another person to succeed that member. the nation? Who can safeguard democracy by extraordinary care and compassion.” The newly-appointed member shall hold office holding elections on time? Who can build a Sri (www.nationalzoo.si.edu) the morning 3 Monday, June 29, 2020 business Central Bank introduces long-awaited credit guarantee for banks The Central Bank of Sri Lanka 26 June and that the scheme would 80% for smaller loans to 50% for additional liquidity of close to Rs. (CBSL) announced yesterday be launched on 1 July 2020. relatively large loans, enabling 180 billion provided by the Central (28) that it will introduce This scheme will operate in banks to grant loans to address Bank through the cumulative a credit guarantee and parallel with the Saubhagya working capital requirements reduction in the Statutory Reserve interest subsidy scheme to Covid-19 Renaissance Facility and of the affected businesses. With Ratio (SRR) of 300 basis points accelerate lending by banks the new facility approved by the CBSL absorbing a significantly thus far during the pandemic to businesses adversely Monetary Board under Section 83 higher percentage of the credit risk, period, to grant loans at 4% to affected by the Covid-19 of the Monetary Law Act, within banks can extend their lending to businesses. The Central Bank will pandemic. the already announced threshold of vulnerable businesses focusing on provide an interest subsidy of 5% Rs. 150 billion. the viability and cash flows of such to cover the cost of funds of banks. The banking sector regulator said Under this scheme, the Central businesses rather than collateral. Operating instructions on this the Monetary Board had arrived at Bank will provide a credit Banks are expected to use scheme will be issued to banks in this decision at its meeting held on guarantee to banks, ranging from their own funds, particularly the immediate due course. Commercial Bank conducts CSE appoints Asia Securities’ Dumith 51st AGM on virtual platform Fernando as Chairman The Colombo Stock Economic Policy Steering member of that firm’s Exchange (CSE) yesterday Committee of the Ceylon Global Leadership Council. (28) announced the Chamber of Commerce. He holds a BA in appointment of Dumith With 25 years of Physics and Economics Fernando as the Chairman experience in international from Middlebury College Commercial Bank’s Board of Directors at the virtual AGM of the Board of Directors of and Sri Lankan capital in the US and an MBA The 51st annual general platform for the first time on proceedings were streamed live voting platform called eBallot, CSE with effect from 1 July markets, Fernando spent from Harvard Business meeting (AGM) of Commercial Thursday, 25 June. This was via Zoom from the auditorium of the bank said. Sri Lanka’s largest 2020. Fernando has served much of his career in global School. Bank of Ceylon PLC, Sri organised to maintain social the bank’s Union Place branch, and most awarded private bank, on the Board of the CSE financial centres – New Lanka’s benchmark private distancing as necessitated by and shareholders were provided Commercial Bank celebrated its since 2017 and succeeds York and Hong Kong – bank, was conducted on a virtual the Covid-19 pandemic. The the facility to vote via an online 100th anniversary this year. Ray Abeywardena, who with global banking giants steps down as the Chairman JPMorgan Chase and after completing his three- Credit Suisse. There, he year tenure. held various roles across Huawei launches five devices in Sri Lanka Fernando is the equities, investment Chairman of Asia Securities banking, private equity, Chinese tech giant Huawei recently Holdings (Pvt.) Ltd., one and corporate strategy. launched multiple smart devices – namely of the leading investment Until returning to Sri Lanka Huawei Y6p, Y5p, Huawei MatePad T 8, banking firms, engaged in in 2013, Fernando was the Huawei MateBook 13, and MateBook D corporate finance advisory, Managing Director and 15 – at the first-ever mega online launch on stockbroking, research, and Group Chief Operating 24 June, with what the company termed “a wealth management, all of Officer for Credit Suisse massive audience and high engagement”. which he has led for the last Asia Pacific, a $ 2.5 Sharing his thoughts, Huawei Devices six years. He also serves as billion revenue Sri Lanka Country Head Peter Liu stated: an Independent Director of business “We just experienced an amazing online Union Assurance PLC and across 12 launch event that featured the launch of five Singer (Sri Lanka) PLC, as countries, Huawei devices that cater to the needs of well as as a member of the and a Newly appointed CSE Chairman Dumith Fernando a wider customer base. Innovation is a key factor in manufacturing of smart devices and we are primarily focusing on coming up with innovative additions to our ever Singer launches optimised growing product range. These devices are results of our innovative concepts that enable a seamless connectivity and engagement in cloud-based website this digital era.” Singer, the country’s while scrolling through e-commerce websites in Huawei Y6p has a 4 GB RAM + 64 GB premier consumer their favourite products. the world. This allows storage and comes with a triple camera durables retailer, recently “Singer is always us to present our product setup, which consists of a 13 mp main launched its new striving to build a lifelong portfolio in the digital camera, 5 mp wide-angle camera, and a 2 website on www.singer. relationship with our space with industry mp depth camera. A high-capacity 5,000 lk, which is designed loyal customers, enabling leading standards to our mAh battery is packed inside the Huawei to help each customer them to fully embrace ever-increasing customer Y6p for an uninterrupted usage throughout with product browsing, an unmatched user base. The virtual store the day. The Huawei Y6p comes in phantom Huawei launches five devices in Sri Lanka product purchasing, experience together with brings more convenience purple, emerald green, and midnight black long-lasting battery that provides more than match it with a mobile phone that has NFC order placement, an ease our strong service focus. to the users who will be colours and will be available in Sri Lanka at 12 hours of continuous video playback and feature and runs EMUI 10 and supports in checkout process, Our newly launched welcomed with special an introductory price of Rs. 30,499. web surfing. Huawei MatePad T 8 will Multi-Screen Collaboration. Huawei and secured payment website will facilitate online offers and a simple Huawei Y5p features a 2 GB RAM and an be entering the Sri Lankan market for an Matebook 13 comes with Intel and AMD gateways. Singer offered the ever-increasing user interface that fast- internal storage of 32 GB. The smartphone introductory price of Rs. 28,999. versions and Huawei Matebook 13 Intel will special discounts up to e-commerce buyers, track product purchases,” is powered with a 3,020 mAh battery and Huawei MateBook 13 is a 13-inch ultra- be available at Rs. 224,999 while Huawei 20% on a wide range of which is expected to said Singer Marketing comes in three colors, namely midnight slim laptop with a 88% screen-to-body MateBook 13 AMD will be priced at Rs. products from 26-28 June escalate rapidly in the Director Shanil Perera. black, phantom blue, and mint green. This ratio for an immersive viewing experience. 179,999. to mark the re-launch of days to come,” shared Singer has the largest compact device is designed for convenient The laptop features Huawei’s multi-screen Huawei MateBook D 15 also made an the website. Singer (Sri Lanka) PLC distribution network in single-handed operation with a 5.45-inch collaboration designed to enhance the user appearance at the mega online launch event The new platform has Group CEO Mahesh Sri Lanka with over 430 HD display offering an immersive viewing experience of Huawei PC devices. It allows featuring a large 15.6-inch display and is a responsive design that Wijewardene. sales outlets and 2,800 experience. Huawei Y5p will be available users to mirror the smartphone screen on the powered by an AMD Ryzen processor that works on any device The website is hosted dealers spread islandwide, in Sri Lanka for an introductory price of Rs. laptop making it easier to focus on work at boosts performance. The power button of the seamlessly. It provides in the cloud, providing and an equally established 18,999. hand without being disturbed by smartphone laptop has a built-in fingerprint sensor that a faster and convenient a fast and flexible user after sales service Huawei MatePad T 8 comes with a notifications and be in the comfort of using allows users to easily and securely log in browsing experience to experience, and its traffic network. Singer’s product portable, ultra-slim design featuring 80% a single device with its capabilities such with just one press. The laptop also features the users than the old will be easily manageable portfolio expands up to screen-to-body ratio and 8-inch display. This as drag and drop files between the two Multi-Screen Collaboration that optimises website and incorporates due to its high scalability 600 electronic items and compact tablet is powered by an Octa-core devices. In order to enjoy Multi-Screen productivity and efficiency while engaging a simplified, swift, and options. 1,200 home appliances chipset, delivering rapid processing speeds Collaboration, users can update the laptop’s in professional tasks. Huawei MateBook D agile purchasing system “The new website is on from more than 50 for a seamless tablet experience in a larger PC Manager to Version 10 or later (versions 15 will be available for an introductory price that enables users to easily a par with the facilities internationally renowned screen. MatePad T 8 features a 5,100 mAh that support cross-system collaboration) and of Rs. 149,999. place an online order offered through prominent brands. Sri Lanka’s Heritage Partners wins international award Heritage Partners, Sri Business Advisory category. as JP Morgan, HSBC, and balanced pillars: Wealth and economic unit in Sri Lanka Lanka’s newest multi family Heritage Partners was also DBS Bank in London and investment advisory services; and throughout much of office (MFO) and independent acclaimed in the Best Family Singapore. family advisory and planning Asia, are a powerful force for advisor to families, has struck Office Offering category. Heritage Partners said it services; philanthropy, good. Despite being a young gold at the Global Private Established in 2019, is committed to providing community, and giving back; business, we are honoured to Banking Innovation Awards Heritage Partners was set up families throughout Sri Lanka and family office support be recognised with this Family 2020 in Singapore. as a joint venture between as well as select frontier services. Business Advisory Award and The awards ceremony, the Capital Alliance Group and international markets Commenting on the award, extend a sincere thanks to our organised by The Digital (CAL) and Rob Ioannou, a with independent advice and Heritage Partners Managing clients and partners who place Banker and Global Private private banker and senior guidance on the financial as Director Rob Ioannou said: their trust in us.” Banker, recognised Heritage wealth advisor with over 20 well as non-financial issues “At Heritage Partners, we Heritage Partners is based Partners with a winning entry years of experience in global that matter most to them. Its believe family businesses, in the heart of Colombo’s in the outstanding Family financial institutions such service offering rests on four which are often the default Cinnamon Gardens district. Heritage Partners Managing Director Rob Ioannou 4 the morning brunch Monday, June 29, 2020 Music in the digital age Batik-inspired reception by Ena de Silva and Anil Gamini Jayasuriya Webinar for artistes on creating quality music and achieving success

Cinnamon Bentota Beach invites BY NAVEED ROZAIS to make an impact and be able to other channels like your to effectively monetise their own website, Spotify, and guests to experience paradise The entertainment industry is music or content. iTunes where music becoming more and more digital He also explained can be purchased. He with each passing day. From how monetisation also noted that for amidst heritage, art, and luxury of content through musicians, YouTube streaming platforms like YouTube platforms like is not a very effective Rediscover paradise at and Netflix for visual content to YouTube and even money-making Cinnamon Bentota Beach, audio streaming and distribution Facebook (who has platform because where the river meets the platforms like Spotify and iTunes, recently announced music content is short sea along the golden coast the digital age is here to stay, plans for monetising – typically being about of Sri Lanka. Boasting bringing with it the need for Facebook content) three minutes long – vistas of the Indian Ocean artistes and creators to adapt. worked and that many and doesn’t lend well to and the Bentara river, ChoKoLAATe magazine creators find monetisation on a video- the 159-room resort is in partnership with the themselves locked driven platform like YouTube. an architectural tribute Nawaloka College of into agreements and Hibshi Jayathilleke explained how to Geoffrey Bawa and Higher Studies (NCHE) contracts with there’s room in the local music infuses heritage with invited a select group platforms and MCNs market for labels like her own online label luxury to offer travellers of musicians and that limit how they can “Shehara – Sri Lankan Music” that allows an inspiring destination Peacock salon and bar ceiling producers to share use their own content local artistes to sell their music locally experience. as well as how much and receive payments and royalties easily. a variety of pizzas and of our time through the their insights and The property has money they can earn This is a problem with international pasta together with juicy work of Geoffrey Bawa, strategies on how implemented a series of from it. Rodrigo also labels, where artistes often find premium cuts of steak and Ismeth Raheem, Lucky aspiring artistes can comprehensive health explained that in the themselves unable to access their royalties features a choice of Italian Senanayake, and Ena De create quality music and safety protocols in wake of the pandemic, because of payment methods that are wines among many other Silva. We look forward to and become successful line with the measures Sri Lanka’s not available in Sri Lanka as unique culinary offerings. celebrating this timeless musicians and producers given by the Government online well as not being able to Cinnamon Hotels resort with our guests and within the context of the and the World Health community collect maximum royalties and Resorts Sector Head offer you an immersive digital age. Organisation (WHO) via has grown because of commissions and John Keells Group experience of culture, art, The webinar took place on Shehara Jayathilleke “Cinnamon Care”, the massively and similar deductions. Executive Vice President and history.” 27 June and was moderated by Cinnamon standard for and that in the coming The panel Hishan Singhawansa The property is the singer, metal vocalist, and songwriter care and cleanliness. months and next also noted that commented: “Cinnamon newest addition to the Shehara Jayathilleke, who consulted with Dating back to the year, the potential international and Bentota Beach is a luxury Cinnamon Hotels and rapper, producer, vocalist, and beatboxer 60s, this luxury beach to monetise content larger labels did give five-star resort steeped Resorts chain which is Costa; TV Derana Head of Digital Arm resort was first expertly for the Sri Lankan artistes very effective in the history of Bentota Sri Lanka’s hospitality Janeeth Rodrigo; producer and songwriter designed by one of Asia’s market would be huge, channels to promote and influenced by the trendsetter, now Sasith Gamage, also known as iClown; most influential architects, not just in terms of their work and provide art of the area. The hotel comprising 15 hotels and producer and songwriter Hibshi. Geoffrey Manning Bawa, making money through support to artistes when offers exquisite culinary and resorts located in The discussion commenced with the who helped inspire an advertisements and similar, their work is stolen or experiences and the best key locations across Sri panel commenting on how aspiring architectural style known but also in being able misused. water sports facility in the Lanka and the Maldives. artistes need to put a lot of time as tropical modernism to convince customers Costa Furthermore, they discussed area and is in proximity The chain has evolved and effort into mastering when building the resort. to make purchases Intellectual Property (IP) laws in to a variety of attractions. to become synonymous their crafts, adding that Art and creations by online. Sri Lanka and the lack of comprehensive Here at Cinnamon Bentota with “inspired living”, the most important thing Bawa’s acquaintances The panel also laws that protect creative content like Beach, our guests could promising wholesome an aspiring artiste need and other local artists are discussed the music. Rodrigo commented that Sri expect only the finest experiences that cater to is being consistent featured in all elements of challenges faced by Lanka is making positive advances in luxury accommodation the interests and requisites and dedicated the property to maintain local musicians in this regard, with services available for including 16 suites which of the quintessential to developing the iconic design of Bawa. making a mark in the those who have had their IP violated, have been uniquely traveller. the right level of The concept of digital music industry, like the Sri Lanka Computer Emergency themed and decorated by For more information skill to be able to culinary authenticity which is dominated Readiness Team (SLCERT). local artists with artworks on special offers compete locally and is evident at this resort by English Overall, the panel stressed created out of 100% and ongoing globally. The panel where its six specialised music with the importance of Sri Lanka’s locally sourced material. promotions, visit www. also commented on how restaurants offer unique non-English aspiring artistes to focus The resort also pays cinnamonhotels.com or high-quality equipment dining experiences with music on quality above all, and tribute to iconic artists call 011-2161161. and software don’t guarantee the highlight being quality but skill does, and that Janeeth Rodrigo being at a that once consistent Nossa, its all-day dining good music, like any other form of disadvantage quality has been restaurant offering creative content, will always make a mark when gaining traction. achieved, exposure, different types of cuisine. for itself. Costa explained numbers and success Additionally, the specialty Rodrigo, who also serves as the that an effective will follow. seafood restaurant General Manager of IdeaHell, Sri Lanka’s strategy for aspiring, The panel also Sea.Meats.Spice and first YouTube creator space and multi- independent artistes encouraged the Sri Asian restaurant Zest channel network (MCN), shared that looking to make their Lankan community specialising in Sri Lankan, music, like any other art form, needs to be music known is through to support local artists Indian, and Chinese monetised to keep artistes creating, if for leveraging platforms like by investing in them as cuisines pay homage to nothing else, also noting that musicians YouTube for exposure and well as purchasing music and dishes from this part of should think like content creators in order using Youtube to drive listeners Sasith Gamage merchandise by local artistes. the world. Ottimo serves Heritage Wing of Cinnamon Bentota Beach

BY DIMITHRI WIJESINGHE The British School in Colombo held Sri Lanka’s first-ever drive-through graduation ceremony on 25 June Drive-through graduations for their graduating class of 2020. De Hoedt shared that customarily, distance and wearing protective gear. One This special graduation was the they would hold this graduation in June such example has been school leavers brainchild of Principal Dr. John Scarth because many students are set to travel A sign of the times celebrating the end of their school careers and the administration. The purpose to various universities around the world and their next step into either higher was to provide this year’s school leavers to begin their tertiary education. As most school, saw teaching staff stand in line to inspiration leaders and artists to celebrate education or the job market. with a sense of finality and ceremony to school years abroad begin soon after, the side at a temporary podium decorated graduates, their families, and their While the pandemic has made it so recognise and honour the achievements, students are not in Sri Lanka for their in school colours with the names of the communities online. that some of us are unable to go about in hard work, and dedication of the students main prize giving held in September. students being called up over the intercom. Live streamed on 8 June, students the traditional way, life has managed to during their 13 years of school life. He shared that this year too they hope Each student was driven right up to the graduating all over the world were afforded go on and we are fortunate to have been The British School in Colombo to host the main prize giving ceremony podium in their private vehicles, stepped the opportunity to receive a commencement healthy and seen another day, and on that Head of Administration Warren De come September, if all is well with the out, received their award and graduation address by the likes of Google CEO Sundar thought, we would like to join Warren De Hoedt, speaking to The Morning Brunch, status of the pandemic. However, at the certificate from school officials, and drove Pichai, Barack and Michelle Obama, and Hoedt of The British School in Colombo shared that The British School would moment, this is what they could provide away immediately after. even American pop stars like Beyoncé and who shared that he wishes to extend his traditionally have a grand celebration to for their students, and the administration Drive-through graduations are South Korean idols BTS, all of whom gave warmest congratulations not only to the recognise the students’ achievements in was pleased that they could add a sense a step up we have come to witness out commencement addresses specifically graduating class of 2020 at The British late June, adding that as the timing does of ceremony and create for the students a globally in the past few months, as we for the graduating class of 2020. School in Colombo, but all others who not allow for such fanfare, this was the momentous occasion despite the current also saw tech giant Google produce a As the situation of the pandemic is are celebrating this important milestone best they could offer for their students state of the world. YouTube Originals series titled “Dear getting more under control and contained, in their student lives. We join him in who very much deserve a memorable send The drive-through graduation, which Class of 2020”, a virtual commencement we have begun to see more events congratulating you all and wishing the off. was held at the main driveway of the celebration that brought together multiple happening while maintaining the social best for your bright future! the morning sports Monday, June 29, 2020 Man of the Century! SL tennis ready for Arsenal in FA Cup semis Muttiah Muralitharan was named the Most Valuable ‘new normal’ Arsenal remain in the hunt for Test Player of the 21st Century (2000-20) by the Wisden The Sri Lanka Tennis Association (SLTA) put a silverware to brighten their Cricket Monthly, in consultation with CricViz, the world’s giant step towards staging tournaments in the underwhelming season after Dani leading cricket analytics company. Out of Murali’s total “post Covid-19 realms” last Saturday (27). They Ceballos’ 91st-minute winner took 800 Test wickets, 573 came in 85 matches from 2000-10. staged a model, pilot tournament at its Colombo them through to the FA Cup semi- CricViz’s new “Match Impact” model sheds new light on premises with girls and boys from all age finals at Sheffield United’s expense a player’s contribution allowing analysts to delve deeper, categories taking part in, following all stipulated yesterday (28). revealing unrivalled impact of players during eras. health guidelines. Now they are ready to go!

Soothsaying or toss fixing? On Friday, 1 April 2011 in Mumbai, one former World Cup- Aravinda before winning captain has shown another former World Cup-winning captain an SMS on his mobile phone. That had quite astonishingly predicted that the following day’s toss for the World Cup final at Wankhede will be made Put off, put off, twice. Is it one such incredible prophesies by an Indian SIU tomorrow spiritualist, or a bitter sign that a multimillion fix has and put off again z ICC’s Anti-Corruption Head Alex Marshall contacts Aluthgamage been made on the toss, the two legendary skippers (till 8 July) had later pondered. BY REVATHA S. SILVA DIG Jagath Fonseka a 2011 matter can be taken up by an Act z SLC broadcasting rights (left) with Secretary to passed in 2019 will be decided by the AG. The Special Investigative Unit (SIU) on the Ministry of Sports We as police officers have powers under K.A.D.S. Ruwanchandra for 2020-23 sports-related corruption, attached to the the Criminal Procedure Code too to do this The deadline for the closure of Sri Lanka Ministry of Sports and Sri Lanka Police, will investigation,” he added. Cricket’s (SLC) decisive television broadcasting record a statement from Aravinda de Silva, “Therefore, we can call someone and ask rights tender for the next three years has been the Chief of national cricket selectors during questions, and record statements. Sometimes postponed once again by one week, from 30 the 2011 World Cup, tomorrow (30). if someone has got money illegally (in this June to 8 July, marking probably the seventh Sports Minister at the time Mahindananda match-fixing case), this investigation may time the closing date was put off in less than Aluthgamage resurfaced on 18 June the highly come under the Acts pertaining to money four months. contentious allegation that the final of the laundering as well,” DIG Fonseka further “Firstly, it is the Covid-19 situation. Most of 2011 50-over World Cup, the flagship event explained. the representatives of the interested parties are of the International Cricket Council (ICC), in India. They are unable to come (due to travel was fixed. ICC contacts Aluthgamage restrictions). We don’t want to close it because SIU Chief Senior Deputy Inspector General Meanwhile, Aluthgamage told media on one may later complain that we closed without (DIG) Jagath Fonseka told The Morning Sports Saturday (27) that he was contacted by the considering the situation,” a senior SLC official yesterday (28) that his Unit has informed de Head of the ICC Anti-Corruption Unit (Alex told The Morning Sports on Saturday (27). Silva to be present before the investigative Marshall) the previous day. There are three bidders – namely Sony Pictures panel on Tuesday (30). conduct the investigation, DIG Fonseka winners? “We have not decided to contact the “I will send him all the details (of Network, ITW, and Sports Technologies of asserted they are doing it fast. Indian cricket board. That too we will decide his allegation) for them to conduct an Dream 11 – who had shown interest when SLC Will players be inquired? “It is a very difficult inquiry about something after Aravinda’s statement,” he answered. investigation. Therefore, there will be first issued Invitation to Tender (ITT). SLC is “According to the former Sports Minister’s that has happened long time ago. We have to “It’s a serious allegation. We have power investigations conducted both locally and expecting over $ 30 million (Rs. 5 billion) this allegation, we are planning to record a get the assistance from our intelligence service to investigate under the 2019 Act No. 24. internationally.” time from its three-year broadcasting rights statement from then (2011) Chairman of and other private informants. Then only we According to that act, if someone is going to portfolio. The Morning Sports reported on 20 selectors Aravinda de Silva on Tuesday. After will be able to verify about the exact duration be charged, it has to be done by the honourable We need to corporate with May that Sony, who held SLC rights last time that only, we will be able to decide who else of the investigation. Anyway, we are hoping AG (Attorney General Dappula de Livera). them – SLC also, is the most likely winner of the broadcasting will need to give statements,” DIG Fonseka to do it fast.” From the beginning (of the establishment of SLC General Secretary Mohan de Silva rights this time. said. He further explained: “Even the ICC this unit), they had appointed Senior Solicitor told The Morning Sports yesterday that the “We can’t go on (postponing the closure of “We have our panel including our Deputy (International Cricket Council) have talked General Sumathi Dharmaratne and a team to Cricket Board needs to corporate with the tender) like this because if either Bangladesh Director General and other investigation to us. The residence officer (of the ICC Anti- assist us in our investigative unit. If someone SIU in this investigation. or India expresses their readiness to tour here officers. After recording de Silva’s statement, Corruption Unit) in Sri Lanka is not here now is found to have committed an offence under “The investigation is done by the Ministry somewhere in August with Sri Lanka’s (Covid- we will discuss and move further,” he further due to the pandemic. He is in Dubai. We can this act, the case will be heard in the High of Sports. Therefore, we will have to corporate 19) situation improving faster, then we will be added. “We got all the information from the get assistance from them also to get some Court in Sri Lanka. So, the cases in this unit with them. We are unaware of anything about in a spot of bother because we won’t have a cricket board (Sri Lanka Cricket), (about) information.” have to be handled by the State Councillors. the investigation that is going on. But they broadcasting partner by then,” the said official the players and the pool, everybody (who Police can’t do it.” (the SIU) have taken various documents from explained. participated in the 2011 World Cup).” BCCI’s support the board for their investigation,” he said. “Therefore, we may not be able to go beyond How about any assistance from the Board Money laundering “They got details of the 2011 Sri Lanka 8 July anyway,” he added. Seek ICC assistance of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the “Mr. Dharmaratne has advised us to do squad and details of the then selection When asked how long they are going to controlling board of the 2011 World Cup the inquiry and submit the report. Whether committee as well.” Now who’s fixing and who’s getting fixed? happenings that may or may not have been not batted in two of the matches SQUARE of consequence. (Especially, the solution to losing a key player By stating that he as the Minister was not was to bring in a player who was not even CUTS kept informed of the final team selection, in the squad – Suraj Randiv – and another – by Sudat Pasqual is Aluthgamage saying that he would have Chamara Kapugedera – who had played one vetoed some of the selection decisions if he match in the whole tournament and scored was kept informed? Is there a precedent to two runs in that game against Canada, Sri support Minister’s thinking, if that is what he Lanka’s first match of the tournament. To Here we go again. The enforced quiet of a means to convey? recap, the selectors included two players pandemic has been blown apart by a former In terms of actual dodgy decision-making who had played a total of one match in the minister’s allegations that certain individuals, prior to and during the final, let’s take a look! whole tournament to replace one of the most involved intimately with the day-to-day affairs 1. Ajantha Mendis has had a good World Cup important players in the team.) of team Sri Lanka, were involved in fixing the going into the final. Mendis had played five 6. The inclusion of Kapugedera seems strange final result of the 2011 Cricket World Cup. matches and had taken six wickets, including considering Chamara Silva has played in six Mahindananda Aluthgamage, current MP and three wickets in the semis, at an economy of the matches, including the semis, and had Minister of Sports at the time of the alleged rate of 3.2 but was dropped from the final scored 57 in the team’s only loss to Pakistan incident, has accused Sri Lanka of throwing 2. Rangana Herath had played against England by 11 runs that game in favour of India. and Pakistan where he had bowled his full 7. Selectors had two specialist spinners in the The former Minister is on record as saying quota of overs (20) and taken two wickets squad who had bowled a total of 62 overs, that he’s certain that decisions taken by the at an economy rate of 4.65. Herath was also taken eight wickets, while conceding 3.2 run Selection Committee of Sri Lanka Cricket dropped from the final XI per an over (Ajantha Mendis) and 4.65 runs just prior to the start of the final game and 3. Suraj Randiv who was not in the World Cup per an over (Rangana Herath), respectively, some decisions taken by Sri Lanka’s Captain squad was included as a specialist spinner but opted to field a spinner who was not even Kumar Sangakkara during crucial periods of in the final XI in the squad to play in the most important the game, especially when India were in a bit Selectors had two specialist spinners in the squad but opted to field spinner Suraj Randiv who was not 4. Chairman of selectors Aravinda de Silva match of the tournament of bother chasing a target of 275 under lights, even in the squad to play in the most important match of the tournament is on record saying that the loss of Angelo 8. Maybe the inclusion of Randiv, who is a were meant to ease the pressure off India and Mathews created a massive problem in specialist off-spinner, was a cover for Mutthiah to turn the tide in favour of them. In support, and did not congratulate Mahela Jayawardene to find out whether there was unusual betting terms of finding the right balance of the Muralitharan who had admitted that he was the former Minister has raised many questions on his century, which he seems to be seeing activity during that time window. team and two of the changes in the final XI nursing a groin injury going into the final. that are based on circumstantial evidence. as another clue which points to Sangakkara Aluthgamage asks why Suraj Randiv was was to plug the hole created by Mathews’ being party to the conspiracy. included in the final XI to replace injured absence. Kumar Sangakkara has voiced Where does all this lead? A conspiracy Angelo Mathews when Randiv was not even in similar concerns after the tournament At first glance, the evidence presented by Minister Aluhthgamage’s claims are based on More grey areas the original World Cup squad. The Minister has 5. In the tournament before he received his the former Minister to support his claim that what he terms “suspicious personnel changes” The Minister has also implied that reportedly thrown in some information about injury, Mathews scored 94 runs in seven Sri Lanka deliberately lost the 2011 World taken just prior to the final by the Selection Jayawardene and Muttiah Muralitharan were alleged meetings of the Selection Committee innings and took six wickets bowling a total Cup final is thin. Committee headed by Aravinda de Silva. unhappy with Sangakkara’s captaincy (maybe prior and up to the morning of the final that to of 36 overs. Sometimes, runs and wickets Yes, some of the decisions taken by the The Minister alleges that these decisions were suggesting that Sangakkara was not interested him were not at all kosher. Plus, he says as the do not tell the whole story but it seems a bit selection panel were poor and skipper Sangakkara detrimental to the interests of the Sri Lankan in winning) and points to what appears to be Minister of Sports, he should have been kept dodgy to conclude that Sri Lanka needed to may not have executed his bowling plan as team. The Minister implies, reportedly, that de a heated discussion between the three during informed of selection changes but was not. make two changes to balance the team by the judiciously as he could have but that’s a bit Silva masterminded the plan and was seen on the dying stages of the match. loss of a player who averaged five overs per short of conclusive. the phone during much of the final. The Minister says an investigation should List of dodgy decisions match and had a run aggregate of 94 from Possible, yes. Probable, but maybe not... He has allegedly said that skipper Sangakkara scrutinise skipper Sangakkara’s on-field Almost all of the Minister’s conclusions seven matches. Mathews had scored almost (The second part of this article will be was chain smoking while Sri Lanka was batting decisions from midway point of India’s reply are based on conjecture and circumstantial half of those runs (41) against NZ and had continued next Monday, 6 July)