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highlights monday 9 november 2020 Biden’s Latest Edition Precarious Vol: 09/270 Price : Rs 30.00 Victory In Sports SLC releases page A6 re-scheduled LPL The Heroic fixtures The new schedule for the Lanka Panadura Premier League (LPL) 2020 was announced on Sunday, with Beach and Kandy meeting in the opener. All matches will take place at the Rescue Mahinda Rajapaksa... A16 page A7 Biden wins U.S. Political Victimisation PCoI Presidential Election Calls for healing in appeal to Trump voters Five SJB MPs Ordered to President-elect Joe Biden declared it was "time to heal" a deeply divided America in his first speech after winning in a bitter election, even as Appear Before Commission President Donald Trump refused to concede and pressed ahead with legal fights against the outcome. To be informed Violating Biden's victory on Saturday in Pennsylvania put him over the threshold of 270 Electoral of legal action PCoI Act and College votes he needed to clinch the presidency, ending four days of nail-biting suspense and sending his against them Constitution supporters into the streets of major cities in celebration. The Presidential Commission of Inquiry probing acts of Political Victimisation during the previous UNF-led Story Continued on page 2 regime,issued notice to five Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) MPs yesterday, ordering them to be present before the Commission today, in order to be notified of legal action being instituted against them, on charges of President, PM issuing derogatory statements to the Media, on the conduct of the Commission’s activities. In the notice issued by the Secretary to the congratulate new Commission, Pearl Weerasinghe, it has been stated that the five MPs had committed punishable offences by flouting Article 105 (3) U.S. President of the Constitution and also for having President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and Prime Minister violated provisions contained in Section 10 Mahinda Rajapaksa congratulated the new of the Presidential Commission of Inquiry President of the United States of America, Joe Biden. Act. In a Twitter message, President Gotabaya Hence,Weerasinghe has noticed SJB Rajapaksa has said this is a historic victory and that MPs Harin Fernando, Nalin Bandara he wishes that in future it will be possible to Jayamaha, J.C. Alawathuwala,... strengthen bilateral ties between America and . Story Continued on page 2 At the same time, the message in the Twitter Account says that Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa too joins in congratulating the new American President Joe Biden and Kamala Harris State Katina Pinkama held 35 COVID-19 who was elected as Vice President. under President’s patronage death reported By Dilanthi Jayamanne

Quarantine curfew The 35th COVID 19 death was reported yesterday. The victim was 78 in several areas years old male. He was dead when admitting to the hospital and post- mortem confirmed that he has in WP lifted succumbed to death due heart attack relating to COVID 19 complications. High risk zones declared Meanwhile, The College of Medical Laboratory Science Sri Lanka (CMLSSL) isolated areas urged the President and the Health Ministry to take timely precautionary By Thameenah Razeek measures of validating the reagents required for the antibody test on Except for 12 Police divisions in the Colombo COVID-19 patients within a week, and District and several housing complexes, the establish it in the laboratory service, quarantine curfew imposed in several areas before the third wave of the viral including the Western Province was lifted today (9)at infection. 5 a.m. CMLSSL President, Ravi Kumudesh, These areas and housing complexes have been said although opening the Western identified as high risk areas, since the majority of Province was not such a good idea at COVID-19 cases found in these areas in the this juncture owing to the COVID-19 Colombo District will be isolated. In addition,... situation in certain areas, it was the best possible course of action for the Story Continued on country’s economy. page 9 The State Katina Pinkama was held under premises in Polonnaruwa yesterday (8). the patronage of President Gotabaya This is said to be the first occasion since the Story Continued on page 2 Past 48 hours Rajapaksa at the historic Somawathi reign of King Parakramabahu II for a state... After a period of 7 to 10 days Police arrest 150 Story Continued on page 2 for violating curfew Asymptomatic Office trains SL scammer arrested COVID-19 patients By Thameenah Razeek in Tamil Nadu can’t transmit virus Police arrested 150 individuals and seized 22 back on track By Antony Fernando vehicles during the past 48 hours for violating By Buddhika Samaraweera –Prof. Malewige curfew regulations. A Sri Lankan businessman was arrested Police Spokesman, DIG Ajith Rohana yesterday The Railway Department will operate along with his wife and minor son after By W. K. Prasad Manju (8) said since curfew was imposed on 4 October, office trains on all railway lines from landing in Kodiyakarai illegally. His company 2,832 suspects have been arrested while 425 today (9) morning, following health has been accused of cheating hundreds of Professor Neelika vehicles have been seized. guidelines introduced to prevent the investors out of billions of rupees. Malewige of the spread of COVID-19. The 45-year-old businessman Ahamed Immunology and Story Continued on page 9 Trains are scheduled to as usual Shareem Mohamed Shihab,... Molecular Medicine both in the morning and evening. Studies Division However, the Railway Department Story Continued on page 2 told Ceylon Today announced that trains would not stop at the WHO has New COVID-19 railway stations in areas where declared following quarantine curfew has been imposed Zaharan’s wife infected medical research Transport Policy soon and designated as isolated areas. that individuals Trains will not stop at Dematagoda, with COVID-19 who have Temporary hike of minimum Kelaniya, Wanawasala, Horape, contracted the bus fare mulled Ragama, Batuwatta, Walpola and By Buddhika Samaraweera COVID-19 virus Enderamulla stations on the main and do not show By Thameenah Razeek railway line and Peralanda, Ja-Ela, Abdul Cadre Fatima Hadiya, widow of any symptoms and those who display Thudella, Kudahakapola, Kurana, National Thowheed Jama’at (NTJ) leader minor symptoms could not transmit the In a bid to prevent transport services from Negombo and Kattuwa stations on the Zaharan Hashim has been infected with the disease after a period of 7 to 10 days. collapsing, the Government will temporarily revise Puttalam railway line. COVID- 19 virus. Although PCR tests are carried out in bus fares, if needed, based on a new COVID-19 Also, trains running on the coastal She was in CID custody on detention orders Europe and Latin American countries Transport Policy after lifting the curfew,... railway line will not stop at Panadura... in connection with the Easter Sunday... only on those who display symptoms...

Story Continued on page 2 Story Continued on page 2 Story Continued on page 2 Story Continued on page 9 A2 monday 9 november 2020 news

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Five SJB MPs... Zaharan’s wife...... Sujith Sanjaya Perera and 10, 12 and 7 of the Presidential actions of the Commission had exceeded ... bombings for more than 18 19 Treatment Centre in Mayantha Dissanayake who have been Commission of Inquiry Act against the the powers and regulations contained in months and was remanded after Welikanda, Polonnaruwa on 7 named as respondents, to be present actions of the MPs concerned. the Articles of the Constitution. being produced in Court on 22 November under tight Police before the Commission this morning. The five SJB MPs had lodged a A controversial statement made to the October. It has been revealed security. She had further informed the MPs complaint with the Bribery Commission, media by the five MPs, soon after leaving that more than 20 inmates of Hadiya testified in camera on concerned that the Commission has on 6 November, urging it to conduct a the Bribery Commission,after having the Welikada Prison have been two occasions before the decided to make submissions to the probe against the Commission on lodged the complaint, had prompted the infected with the Virus and Presidential Commission of Court of Appeal regarding the violation provisions contained in Section 70 of the Presidential Commission to issue notice Hadiya is among them. Inquiry into the Easter Sunday of the provisions contained in Sections Bribery Act as they had alleged that the to them. She was taken to the COVID- bombings.

SL scammer arrested... 35 COVID-19...... from Colombo in Sri Lanka, was boat had left for Sri Lanka after dropping getting any profits. The alleged scam He said the best possible The GMOA Secretary stressed wanted based on complaints regarding them. The Marine Police, along with the triggered protests and hunger strikes. move by the Health Ministry the need for the Epidemiology misappropriation of funds and was Law and Order Unit, started looking for The scammed amount is said to be was to strengthen the Unit to conduct such an arrested at Kodiyakarai in Vedaranyam suspects with unusual appearances on about Rs 1,200 crores in Sri Lankan laboratory service to its fullest assessment and tell the block in Nagapattinam District on Friday the shores. They found a family of three currency (Rs 482 crores in Indian capacity in view of the pending country its situation level and night. He had landed at Kodiyakarai near Kodiyakarai Bus Stand. currency). The scam was addressed in threat of a third and large help governing bodies take the along with his wife, Fathima Farzana The family was taken into Police the Sri Lankan Parliament in October, cluster. As it is there were decisions. Markar, aged 39, and his ten-year-old custody and interrogated. after the victims started to request relief delays with PCR testing. But Dr. Fernando said earlier the son. This The New Indian Express reporter from the Sri Lankan Government. with a multiple laboratory WHO had separated the level of “We secured the family near learnt that Ahamed Shareem Mohamed The Marine Police handed the family to service approach, the country transmission into four Kodiyakarai Bus Stand around Shihab alias Shiham Shereeb and his the Law and Order Unit on Saturday at would be on a better footing to categories, namely the stage midnight. They gave us false aliases wife Fathima Farzana Markar are 4:00 p.m. after completing the initial face a bigger crisis with regard where there were no active when we secured them. We checked founding directors of Privelth Global investigation. "The family had to the viral infection. cases, the sporadic cases, their identities and found they were Private Ltd. They had founded the themselves smuggled through a network Kumudesh said the rapid patient clusters and lying. We learnt later that the family was company in February 2014. Thousands of smugglers. We have booked Ahamed antigen test kit that was being community transmission from on the run after scamming people in Sri had allegedly invested in the company Shareem Mohamed Shihab, Fathima made available could only test level 1 to 4. In its interim guide, Lanka,” Inspector M. Selvaraj from which is headquartered in Colombo and Farzana Markar and their son under for the virus between one to however, the WHO has divided Marine Police Station in Vedaranyam has branches in Sammanthurai, Section 12 of Passport Act 1967 for seven days. It does not indicate the situation level from ‘0 to 4,’ told The New Indian Express. Kalmunai, Eravur, Pottuvil and illegal landing. We will produce them what could be done with regard he said. According to Police, the Marine Police Nintavurin, the Eastern Province in Sri before a Magistrate," Inspector S. to patients who arrive after the By doing a situational received information from the fishers Lanka, according to Sri Lankan news Ravichandran from Vedaranyam Police lapse of those number of days. assessment, Sri Lanka too that a Sri Lankan family was landing reports. Station told The New Indian Express. Theoretically and practically could take a decision regarding near dense casuarina plantations at the The New Indian Express learnt that The Police said the couple would be the antigen depletes after the the best way forward under the shores of Kodiyakarai on Friday night this company Privelth Global Private Ltd lodged in Central Prison in Puzhal in lapse of seven days, while the current crisis situation. Dr. around 10:00 p.m. They had arrived in a was caught in a major controversy in Chennai and the boy could be sent to a presence of the viral infection Fernando said the WHO had Sri Lankan boat from Jaffna District recent months, after the investors juvenile home. could be detected after that placed the transmissions levels with the help of a smuggling group. The started to complain that they are not (www.newindianexpress.com) with the antibody test. from 0 to 4 in the interim guide. It is why the health service Situation level ‘0’ there is “no conducts an antibody test even transmission of SARS-COV2 in on dengue patients. The the preceding 28 days, the antigen test has to be coupled health system and public with the antibody test for better health authorities are ready to New COVID-19... Office trains... success. He said the antibody respond but there should be no ... State Minister of Transport Dilum Amunugama claimed. ... and Pinwatta railway stations, while trains on test was also ideal to test restrictions on daily activities,” Steps will be taken to commence bus services based on the COVID- Kelani Valley railway line will not stop at Baseline and asymptomatic patients who he said quoting the WHO. 19risk andthe policy will consist of measures to ensure the safety of Cotta Road railway stations. were discharged after a lapse of However, at situation level 4 passengers among others. The Railway Department also announced that ten to 14 days without a PCR the scenario is different, as by Sri Lanka Transport Board Chairman, Kingsley Ranawaka said trains running on the Northern railway line will not test. then the viral infection is an long distance buses also will start operating from today, without stop at Kurunegala and Muttettugala railway The CMLSSL President said uncontrolled epidemic with stopping in isolated areas. stations. the technology for the antibody limited or no additional health The State Minister said private bus owners despite incurring test was available in Sri Lanka system response capacity massive losses have operated buses during the COVID-19 crisis up to the base hospital level. available, thereby requiring period and accordingly based on the new policy bus fares will be Unfortunately, the National extensive measures to evade revised. But added that if health authorities will allow operators to Medicines Regulatory Authority overwhelming of health services function without any restrictions, then bus fares will not be revised. (NMRA) has continuously and substantial excess disease “Despite the increase in fares to revive the collapsed bus industry, State Katina... blocked the validation of its and death, as has happened in the amended bus fares would be revoked as soon as the Government ... sponsored Katina Pinkama to be held. reagents. He also accused the several other countries. announces that risk had been eliminated. Sri Lanka Transport It is the tradition since the days of ancient kings to Health Ministry of failing to Currently, the number of Board buses will function according to the timetable and long- cultivate cotton, spin yarn and use the cotton cloth come up with an algorithm for COVID-19 cases in Sri Lanka distance buses will also operate if restrictions are lifted,” he noted. woven from the yarn to sew the Cheevara (Bhikkus a multiple approach of testing has risen to over 13,419. The Amunugama says three methods of COVID-19 transportation have robes) and present it to the Maha Sangha. even after a lapse of over seven number of deaths to 34. been introduced so far. Arriving at the Katina Cheevara Pooja ceremony months. A report on how the The GMOA, in April, with its “Although not yet launched, we have introduced three methods of organised with the approval of Prime Minister lab service should be Exit Strategy, presented some transport to the Army Commander and the health sector. It deals Mahinda Rajapaksa, President Rajapaksa met the accelerated for laboratory of the measures that needed to with how to safely transport passengers under COVID-19 conditions. Chief Incumbent of Somawathi Raja Maha Vihara testing during COVID-19 was be taken if or when the country We will not increase bus fares if the passengers are both seated and Ven. Pahamune Sumangala Thera and received submitted to the Health was to reach this stage, such as standing as per the normal mode of operation. The other method is blessings. Following religious rituals, the President Ministry in April this year, he the closing of schools. Also, to transport passengers only up to the available number of seats. attended the ceremony. Minister Dayasiri Jayasekara added. Meanwhile Director social distancing measures The third method is to allocating only one passenger per seat if the brought the Katina Cheevara followed by alms and General of Health Services have been taken, while areas health department informs us that there is a threat in a quarantine the Pesident handed it over to the Maha Sangha. (DGHS), Dr. Asela have been isolated from the area. We will have to make some fee revisions for the last these two Anunayaka Thera of the Malwatte Chapter Ven. Gunawardena, when contacted lowest administrative level in methods,” he noted. Dimbulkumbure Wimaladhamma Thera delivered the for comment regarding the the country, namely at Grama According to the proposed increase in fares, the current minimum main sermon. validation report for the rapid Niladhari levels, he said. bus fare should be increased from Rs12 to Rs 18, but the minimum Former President Maithripala Sirisena, State antigen test which should be Epidemiology Chief Dr. fare will be revised to Rs 20, said the President of the Lanka Private Ministers Siripala Gamlath, Roshan Ranasinghe and submitted to the Health Sudath Samaraweera urged the Bus Owners' Association Gemunu Wijeratne. several others were present. Secretary, Maj. Gen. Dr. public living in areas where the Sanjeewa Munasinghe, said the quarantine curfew was being Secretary was scheduled to lifted today (09) to maintain all receive the report at least by health safety guidelines as it Monday (9). The validations was still unsafe. were being conducted by the “The country is still at risk of Biden wins U.S.... National Institute for Infectious the further spread of the "The people of this Nation have break one of the most substantial White House to rejoice outside a security Diseases (NIID), the Medical COVID-19,” he warned. “Lifting spoken. They have delivered us a clear barriers that exists in our country, and fence as the sound of fireworks boomed Research Institute (MRI) and quarantine curfew does not victory, a convincing victory," Biden told select a woman as his Vice President," in the distance. Teaching Hospital Karapitiya. mean that the public could honking and cheering supporters in a Harris said. Trump supporters reacted with a mix He said after receiving the revert to a normal routine. parking lot in his hometown of Congratulations poured in from of disappointment, suspicion and report there are a few more People should follow the safety Wilmington, Delaware. abroad, including from conservative resignation, highlighting the difficult procedures to be followed, such guidelines as the risk still The Democrat pledged that as British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, task that Biden faces winning over many as training strategies for prevails.” He said. President he will seek to unify the Canadian Prime Minister Justin Americans, especially in more rural personnel utilising the testing. Dr. Samaraweera said that country and "marshal the forces of Trudeau, German Chancellor Angela areas, who believe Trump was the first There is an expert committee at cases of the viral infection decency" to battle the COVID-19 Merkel and Israeli Prime Minister president to govern with their interests the Health Ministry who would continued to be reported not pandemic, rebuild economic prosperity, Benjamin Netanyahu, making it hard for at heart. have to look into all the only from the Colombo city but secure healthcare for American families Trump to push his repeated claims, "It's sickening and sad," said Kayla procedures that need to be also from other parts of the and root out systemic racism. without evidence, that the election was Doyle, a 35-year-old Trump supporter followed, he said. country. in addition, cases Without addressing his Republican rigged against him. and manager of the Gridiron Pub on The Epidemiology Unit (EU) were being reported from rival, Biden spoke directly to the 70 Trump, who was golfing when the Main Street in the small town of should conduct a situation institutions in Colombo and million Americans who cast ballots in major television networks projected his Mifflintown, Pennsylvania. "I think it's assessment utilising the World elsewhere. support of Trump, some of whom took to rival had won, immediately accused rigged." Health Organization’s (WHO’s) He urged the people to the streets on Saturday to demonstrate Biden of "rushing to falsely pose as the Angry pro-Trump "Stop the Steal" scoring system and tell the restrict unnecessary movement against the results. winner." demonstrators gathered at state capitol country where it stands with and adhere to health safety "For all those of you who voted for "This election is far from over," he said buildings in Michigan, Pennsylvania and regard to COVID-19, the guidelines of wearing the mask, President Trump, I understand the in a statement. Arizona. Government Medical Officers’ washing hands or using disappointment tonight. I've lost a The President has been unusually Protesters in Phoenix chanted "We Association (GMOA) said. sanitiser when there was no couple times myself. But now, let's give quiet on Twitter, not posting a message want audits!" One speaker told the GMOA Secretary, Dr. Senal availability of handwashing each other a chance. since Saturday afternoon. CNN reported crowd: "We will win in Court!" Fernando, said the WHO had facilities. Also maintaining the It's time to put away the harsh that top adviser Jared Kushner, Trump's There were isolated instances of issued an interim guidance in one-metre distance wherever rhetoric, lower the temperature, see each son-in-law, has approached him about Trump and Biden supporters early November on the possible was pramount. other again, listen to each other again," conceding the election. confronting each other, as occurred guideline on Public Health and Meanwhile, the number of he said. Biden spokeswoman Kate Bedingfield between two groups of about 100 each in Social Measures (PHSM) on COVID-19 cases increased to "This is the time to heal in America." told CNN on Saturday evening that there Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, but there COVID-19, in which it had 13,702 by yesterday evening He also thanked Black voters, saying had been no contact between Biden and were no immediate reports of the stated the decision to increase while 34 deaths were reported. that even at his campaign's lowest Trump. violence many had feared. The pro- restrictions, loosen them The Number of COVID 19 moments, the African-American Trump has filed a raft of lawsuits to Trump protests mostly faded as the should be considered in a cases reported in the second community had stood up for him. "They challenge the results, but elections results sank in. holistic aspect. In addition to wave alone has topped 10,000 always have my back, and I'll have officials in states across the country say Former and present political leaders the public health threat posed last evening. The total number yours," he said. there has been no evidence of significant also weighed in, including by COVID-19, consideration of cases from the Brandix Biden was introduced by his running fraud, and legal experts say Trump's congratulations from former Democratic should be given to the facility in Minuwangoda and mate, US Senator Kamala Harris, who efforts are unlikely to succeed. President Barack Obama, for whom economic situation of the the Peliyagoda Fish market will be the first woman, the first Black As the news of Biden's win broke, Biden served as Vice President, and country, its security, human clusters by 7 pm yesterday (9) American and the first American of cheers and applause were heard around Republican US Senator Mitt Romney. rights, and the mental and was 10,220. The Government Asian descent to serve as vice president, Washington, with people emerging onto Senator Lindsey Graham, a Trump ally, psychological well-being of the Information Department said the country's No. 2 office. balconies, honking car horns and called on the Justice Department to population should be 283 new cases were diagnosed "What a testament it is to Joe's banging pots. investigate claims of voting irregularities. considered before taking a from the Peliyagoda fish market character that he had the audacity to Throngs of people streamed to the (Reuters) decision. cluster. news monday 9 november 2020 A3 Getting down 50% of students Navy seize Education Secy consults over 5,711 kg dried turmeric provincial authorities By Nabiya Vaffoor turmeric stuffed into 45 sacks, during a search By Thameenah Razeek and discussions were held with to expand the e-Thaksalawa and implemented at the provincial Six suspects, including conducted in provincial, zonal and divisional set up a Learning Management level with the involvement of four Indians engaged in Mohoththuwaram on 6 Secretary of Education, Prof. education authorities, regarding System (LMS) under the online principals and teachers, to smuggling over 5,711 kg November, and the Kapila Perera, sought the views the manner in which schools system. educate children, and even of dried turmeric, were hidden consignment of the provincial authorities on should be run, if they are to The Secretary further added schoolchildren who do not have arrested by the Sri contained 1,256 kg of the possibility of getting down 50 commence on 23 November. that steps will be taken to Internet facilities, television or Lanka Navy (SLN) during dried turmeric. per cent of students to conduct However, discussions were further develop and implement radio facilities have been special operations The Navy also found lessons in schools, practicing also held with the provincial the Gurugedara Rupavahini provided with self-tutorial conducted in the 1,237 kg of dried social distancing and hygienic authorities on possible measures education programme series for printed learning kits,” he said, Northwestern Naval turmeric smuggled by practices, without changing to be taken to continue the Grade 5 scholarship, Grade 6-11 adding that arrangements will be Command, on 6 racketeers, during school hours. education of the children if and Advanced Level education made to bring between 50 and November. another search operation Prof. Perera said although the health authorities do not receive programmes targeting the third 100 students and less than 50 The Navy managed to conducted on the third term was scheduled to any recommendation to start term. students to school or to assist seize 3,218 kg dried Thudawa Beach in commence on 9 November, a schools. “Various programmes and them, with a view to ensure turmeric, brought in an Kalpitiya. The two-week extension was granted, The Ministry has taken steps methods have already been health and safety. Indian dhow, while being consignment left behind loaded onto a local at the beach had been dinghy at the stuffed into 48 sacks. International Maritime The two suspects Boundary Line (IMBL) off arrested during these Immunity-boosting measures the Kudiramalai Point on operations are residents Musharraff meets 6 November. Dried of Kalpitiya, aged 26 and turmeric was stuffed into 28. Meanwhile, the Nintavur Ayurvedic Pottuvil manufacturers 78 sacks. Moreover, two dinghy used by the Sri Lankans and four suspects and 695 kg of Hospital in awareness prog By Naalir Jamaldeen They stressed the Indians engaged in dried turmeric loaded necessity of improving the racketeering were also aboard were handed over The Nintavur District A meeting was held quality of their products. detained by the Navy. to the Silawathura Government Ayurvedic between All Ceylon Makkal A few manufacturers said The Indians, along with Police, together with the Hospital has been Congress (ACMC) Ampara if they were provided with their dhow, were suspects. Further conducting awareness District Parliamentarian, technical training and repatriated to Indian investigations are programmes on ‘Immunity- Attorney-at-Law S.M.M. guidelines, the production waters, due to the currently underway with boosting measures for self- Musharraff and capacity can be increased COVID-19 pandemic. regard to the remaining care during COVID-19 manufacturers in Pottuvil, significantly. Meanwhile, the Navy consignments of dried crisis,’ as a comprehensive yesterday (8), at his office. They further stated owing were able to seize a turmeric seized by the management for prevention, Many manufacturers to lack of modern marketing hidden stock of dried Navy. and issuing packs of participated in the meeting opportunities, they were immunity booster to and Musharraff inquired facing many challenges to Government Officers, about obstacles faced in uplift the industry. Security Forces and other running their industries and Musharraff promised that Officers in the Ampara the practical problems that he would take steps to District. arise in day-to-day market the products Govt. has not A programme was held at operations. The through Sathosa and private Alayadivembu Divisional manufacturers said they are businesses. Secretariat on Friday, under engaged in the handloom Musharraff will summon taken steps to the auspices of Divisional textile industry, garment manufacturers in other Secretary, Alayadivembu and handicraft production areas to discuss their Director of Nintavur District Government control COVID-19 V. Pabakaran. for a long time and their problems and provide Ayurvedic Hospital, Dr. K.L.M. Nakfer, hands By Nabiya Vaffoor over a packet of immunity booster to Divisional (Pic by M.A.P. Deen - products are in demand. sustainable solutions. Secretary, V. Pabakaran Ampara Correspondent) – Tilvin The COVID-19 affected by the pandemic has been epidemic. A turned into a money- comprehensive laundering racket by programme should be To rid country of COVID-19 AHRC distributes government allies, Tilvin implemented to prevent Silva said. the spread of the medical equipment “Health experts say disease. The Religious observances the COVID-19 pandemic Government should could continue for immediately intervene another two to three to answer the basic held islandwide years. It is clear from issues that have the money allocated to affected all the people as the Ministry of Health in well as children’s next year's budget that education,” he added. the Government has not Silva further noted taken the necessary that it is useless to steps to control the advise the general disease. The amount public to follow health allocated to the Health rules without making a Trincomalee Aham Lavakusarasa (left) Ministry is Rs. 159 proper plan. Humanitarian Resource handing over a billion, this is not “When the curfew is Centre (AHRC) which has consignment of Medical enough anyway. The lifted in the Western been playing a pivotal role Equipment to Trincomalee Ministry of Health, Province, there should in extending its Regional Director of Health which has the most be a programme to humanitarian services to Services Dr. Premanath responsibility, has not control the movement of those were affected by (fourth from right) in the been given the required the people. For example, COVID-19 virus in the presence of District amount. This will be according to the Covid- Eastern region, has now Government Agent Saman less than Rs. 159 billion 19 guidelines how can Buddhist, Hindu and Islamic Kaaliyamman Kovil under the distributed a consignment Dharsana Paandikkorala, for next year,” he busses travel and religious observances are being patronage of the Chief Trustee of of Medical Equipment to Additional Government claimed. transport passengers held islandwide to eradicate the the Temple, K. Suntharalingam. A Quarantine Treatment Agent M.A.Anas, AGA N. He further claimed while maintaining COVID-19 virus and pray for the special pooja was conducted by the Centre housed in Pretheepan, Asst. Director that the Government distance of one metre? safety of citizens, on the request of Chief Priest, Guru Thathiru K. Eechchilampattu DMC K.Sugunathaas, was not getting accurate The bus revenue will Prime Minister Mahinda Yoganandam and a large number of Divisional Hospital in Administrative Office, reports about the decrease if they started Rajapaksa. devotees participated in this. Trincomalee District. Our Kachcheri S.K.D.Niranjan disease because the following it. A religious observance was held (Pic by M.A.P. Deen - Ampara picture shows AHRC’s and AHRC’s Asst. number of infected will Therefore, there is a at the Akkaraipattu Sri Weeramma Correspondent) Chief Coordinator K. Coordinator A,.Mathan. increase if more demand to increase bus individuals are tested. fares. The Government “Health officials say should intervene and the number of infected provide relief to the patients will increase if private sector for a Cremating Muslim COVID-19 victims still continuing more patients are while. Only then will it tested. If that happens be possible to carry a By Naalir Jamaldeen He said nine Muslims who had must remain quiet", Shifan said. we will have to allocate limited number of contracted the virus were He claimed that despite – Shifan more space in hospitals. passengers. Adequate The Kalmunai Municipal cremated. Shifan further stated Opposition Leader, Sajith Muslim COVID-19 victims using At present, even number of buses should Council Member Attorney-at-Law that there is resistance against Premadasa extending a request to his executive power is no big deal patients in hospitals are be deployed. There is no P. M. Shifan yesterday (8) claimed the cremation of Muslim COVID- the Government to allow Muslims for him, however cremations were being sent home as point in making a law that despite there being several 19 victims from various factions to bury the bodies of COVID-19 continuing. soon as possible. without doing so. thousands of COVID-19 patients with the outbreak of second wave victims according to Muslim rites He said he had a doubt as to Previously cured This cannot be done in India, they protested of COVID-19.He alleged that the and as there is nobody to question whether any invisible force was patients were sent home by rules and advice demanding the Government to Government which subtly the Government it is arbitrarily dominating the Government. with a PCR test. If this alone. There is no point stop the cremation of Muslims approached the issue, tackled it cremating bodies of Muslim Meanwhile, the recent is done with numbers, in making laws without who died from COVID-19. with the help of Muslim COVID-19 victims thus the statement made by Justice the disease will be making a plan,” he Shifan further said the situation politicians. Government must take the Minister Ali Sabry in Parliament completely out of added. would change soon. "Under the guise of submitting a responsibility. that they have sought a committee control. General Sectretary of He lamented that the Cabinet Paper through Justice Shifan stated that after the 20th of medical experts to explore the Government Janatha Vimukthi Government was continuing to Minister Ali Sabry, we have Amendment was passed, possibilities of burying bodies of authorities should act Peramuna (JVP) Tilvin cremate bodies of Muslim COVID- silenced ourselves. Objections President Gotabaya Rajapaksa Muslim COVID-19 victims, has responsibly in this Silva expressed these 19 victims by muting social media which were exposed in the Media said the statements he makes given a sense of relief as to regard. Minimum relief views yesterday (8) in a and individuals who fought have been successfully stopped could be taken as circulars and whether the practice will stop, should be provided to press briefing at JVP the against cremation. and now the Muslim community thus halting the cremation of Shifan added. the entire people Headquarters.

Development activities will be carried out regardless of party affiliation

Development activities will be implement development the National Programme for the Lanza told the gathering, that President Gotabhaya implemented throughout Sri activities throughout Sri Lanka Development of 100,000 km, in order to bring products of Rajapaksa promised the people – Lanza Lanka for the benefit of that will benefit all Sri the development of three the rural people, including to develop 100,000 km of rural economy through the promotion everyone, irrespective of party Lankans, regardless of party kilometers in Pampamadu – agricultural and animal roads. The Government hopes of local products. He further affiliation, State Minister for affiliation. Kadipakapuram stretch and products, to the market in a to strengthen the rural stated that development work Rural Roads and Other The Minister expressed these 1.7 kilometres in Palamaikkal - timely manner and to get a manufacturing economy by will be carried forward by Infrastructure, Nimal Lanza views while inaugurating rural Nelukkulam stretch was good price, there must be a achieving that goal. controlling the situation in Sri said. Minister Lanza stated the road development projects in initiated. Rs 127 million has good road network to transport The Government has made it Lanka, especially in the face of Government's objective is to the Vavuniya District. Under been allocated in this regard. their produce. Realising this, a priority to strengthen the local the global crisis. A4 monday 9 november 2020 column Vested Interests Deprived Plantation Workers

By P. K. Balachandran Angela Little adds that the Kanganis or Sirima’s Government. labour contractors also set up schools, Right from the beginning of the but here again, the curriculum was Grant of Citizenship and plantation economy in Sri Lanka, entirely religious and it was Hinduism. Franchise vested interests had kept the The Kanganis’ idea was to conserve the plantation workers economically, existing values of the labour Thanks to the combined efforts of socially and educationally backward. community based on Hinduistic the Ceylon Workers Congress led by S. The need of British planters to have fatalism and the caste hierarchy. Thondaman and the leaders of the large numbers of cheap and docile To the dismay of Christian SLFP and the UNP, all plantation labourers resulted in workers being missionaries, the British planters also workers were eventually given Sri denied an education even though the began to promote Hindu religious Lankan citizenship. This made a big rest of Sri Lanka, or Ceylon as it was instruction in preference to Christian difference to the plantation workers called, was advancing educationally. instruction because Hinduism helped and the education of their children. In his book Confrontations with the higher Kanganis lord over their low Thondaman had been able to get colonialism -1796-1920 P. V. J. caste recruits. Planters helped build citizenship for his people by Jayasekera says that, initially, in the Hindu kovils, and participated in their cooperating with successive first half of the 19th Century, the ceremonies, Jayasekera points out. Governments, and more importantly, British coffee planters used Sinhalese In 1903 the lack of educational by keeping the plantation workers villagers to work on their plantations. facilities in the plantations became the away from the violent separatist But given the low wages, the Sinhalese subject of a political debate in the movement launched by the North and soon opted out, forcing the planters to British parliament. Despite the profits East . look for cheap labour in the poverty- from tea and the offer from the colonial Commenting on the effect of the stricken and famine- affected districts Government of grants-in- aid for grant of citizenship on education, Estate Children - The poor from Tamil Nadu were willing to work for any wage to keep of Tamil Nadu across the Palk Strait. education, planters were reluctant to body and soul together Angela Little says: “Many families The poor from Tamil Nadu were willing promote secular education among the could now look forward to a future as to work for any wage, anywhere in the workers. Pressed by the planters, the citizens of Sri Lanka. A growing world, only to keep body and soul 1907 Rural Schools Ordinance had repatriated because of differences children be taught together in the number of young people were gaining together. separate and less restrictive clauses between the Governments of Sri Lanka same school, with Sinhala as the jobs through education. These young Once the labourers were imported, pertaining to Estate education. and India on the principles of medium of instruction. The plantation people provided role models for estate they had to be kept in backwardness However, successive ordinances in the repatriation. The resultant uncertainty Tamil leaders were keen on the parents and their children.” so that they had no option but to work 1920s, 1930s and 1940s resulted in affected school going in the integration of their schools into a The political rehabilitation of the at low wages with minimum facilities. the number of “officially recognised plantations. The period 1946 to 1981 national mainstream but they wished Estate workers by the grant of Towards this end, education was schools” in the plantations growing was a period of decline in Estate the schools to be maintained as citizenship to all, also resulted in an deliberately denied them. from 43 in 1904 to 968 in 1948, Angela education. separate institutions or streams, in increase in their bargaining power vis- In her paper, Progress among the Little says. “The Free Education Act of 1945, which children learned through the à-vis the Government and the major Indian Tamil Minority in the which had carried enormous medium of Tamil. This position political parties. The latter, in turn, is Plantations of Sri Lanka, Angela W. Franchise issue significance for the enfranchised prevailed eventually. The plantation having a favorable effect on their Little says that in the first half of the In the early 1930s, when franchise masses of the Sinhalese and also the schools thus lost a chance to benefit educational development. 19th century when coffee was the was given to Sri Lankans, nationalists Sri Lankan Tamil community, had less from the progress that the educational The availability of foreign funds for main commercial crop, the opposed its extension to the Indian impact on the plantation Tamil system was making in the rest of Sri development has supported the requirement for labour was seasonal. plantation workers on the grounds community. Although the 1947 Lanka. building and rehabilitation of Estate The Indian migrant workers were all that they were not permanent ordinance had prescribed that the schools. India is helping to rebuild male with no families. So, there was no residents of the island with a State would be responsible for Other factors nine schools. need to open schools. But when coffee permanent interest in the welfare of establishing new schools in the The declining terms of trade for Sri gave way to tea there was a need for a the country. However, despite some plantations, there is no evidence of the Lankan plantation crops in the world Long way still to go permanently resident labour force restrictions on the numbers allowed to State establishing any new schools on market, the nationalisation of But education in the Estate sector because the work was not seasonal. vote, plantation Tamils proved a the estates under the provisions of this plantations by the leftist Government still has a long way to go. While The switch to tea brought in families significant constituency in the first ordinance. Between 1948 and 1951 a of Sirima Bandaranaike, and the enrolment in the primary classes in with their children. And the planters Election after independence, sending large number of schools were closed disenfranchisement of a substantial the Estate sector matches those in the had to give some education to the seven members to Parliament. down or amalgamated, and 24 were section of the labour, led to the Sri Lankan Urban and Rural sectors, workers’ children. But this rang alarm bells in the taken over between 1948 and 1955,” planters losing interest in Estate there is a huge gap at Ordinary and dominant Sri Lankan political Angela Little says. education. Advanced levels. In 2009-2010, Religious education community and many plantation The Sirima Bandaranaike enrolment at the O level in urban areas But the education given was not workers were denied citizenship under Language issue Government took over schools as part was 92.3 per cent and at the A level meant to advance the workers’ social the Citizenship Acts of 1948 and 1949. Then there was the language issue - of its leftist ideology, though the 45.8 per cent. In the Rural areas, it or economic status but to give them The percentage of Indian Tamils in the whether the medium of instruction in takeover of plantation schools was not was 81.4 per cent and 39.7 per cent values suited to the planters. In total population declined from 11.7 per the plantation schools should be Tamil a priority. With the Government poised respectively. collaboration with Christian cent in 1946 to 9.4 per cent in 1971 or Sinhala. According to Little, the to take over plantation schools, the But in the Estate sector it was 53.8 missionaries the planters saw to it that and 5.6 per cent by 1981 partly due to Sinhalese who supported integration planters lost interest in the schools per cent at the O level and 12.8 per the education given was purely repatriation to India under pacts with of the general and plantation schools, they were running. The problem was cent at the A level. There is thus a religious not secular. According to India in 1954 and 1964. recommended that Sinhala be taught accentuated by the decline of the yawning gap between the Estate sector Jayasekera, the curriculum comprised But lakhs of workers who were due as a compulsory language, or that plantation sector following the and the rest of Sri Lanka at the O and only Christian catechism in Tamil. to be repatriated to India were not rural Sinhala and plantation Tamil nationalisation of plantations by A Levels.

Where Gold Speaks Every Tongue is Silent

By R.S. Karunaratne a chemist developed the cyanide anyone.” It was also stated Lateral extraction process, it took almost negatively by the Chinese sage Gold begets in brethren hate; five tons of ore from South Africa’s Confucius and other teachers of Gold in families debate; mines to yield a single ounce of gold. ethics. Gold does friendship separate; thinking A large number of miners are Gold does civil wars create. recruited from tribal villages to work Gold standard - Abraham Cowley hi-tech industries. It is so malleable in mines and tunnels. They work in Another term used in the 19th that a small amount of gold can be extremely difficult conditions. century was “Gold standard” which Gold is a yellow precious metal, beaten into a big gold leaf. With one Although there are safety measures, was a monetary system wherein all the chemical element of atomic ton of gold you can make a thread there are many annual fatalities in forms of legal tender were converted number 79, valued especially for use reaching up to the moon and back. A gold mines. into fixed quantities of fine gold. The in jewellery and decoration, and to gold-coated astronaut’s clothing can gold standard was a byproduct of guarantee the value of currencies; shield him from radiation and solar Lingering belief the industrial revolution which taken as a type of something that is heat. Gold is used in firefighters’ Government and private brought about a vast increase in the precious, beautiful, or brilliant. The masks to protect their faces from organisations are in possession of production of goods. The first word ‘gold’ is recorded from old high temperatures. With a little about 43 per cent of the world’s gold. country to go on the gold standard English, and is of Germanic origin, electric current, gold can keep plane Another 24 per cent of the world’s was Great Britain. Sometime later from an Indo-European root shared and train windshields clear of snow, gold is held in bullion as private the United States and several other by yellow. Gold is also the world’s sleet, ice and fog. investments. A Japanese hotel owns countries adopted it. However, in the most sought after metal. Gold has many other uses. On a large number of gold objects 20th century they decided to Gold is extremely beautiful, skyscraper windows gold is used to including a 313.5-pound bathtub in abandon the gold standard. imperishable and rare. It has been transmit daylight without glare. which bathers soak for $2 a minute. In the 19th century there was a the cause of a worldwide epidemic Gold also blocks outdoor heat and There is a lingering belief that gold rush or a rapid movement of gold fever. Frenetic trading of gold reflects indoor heat, saving air- bathing in gold prolongs life. people to a newly discovered goes on around the world, conditioning and heating costs. Rich people buy gold bars, gold goldfield. The first major gold rush particularly in Hong Kong, Zurich, Modern architects put gilded domes certificates, gold futures, and gold took place in California in 1848. It London, New York, Honolulu, and on building for ornament. In coins. But ordinary people with was followed by other instances of Tokyo. On the exchange floors, men addition, architects gild whole Tutankhamun’s gold mask, 18th-dynasty limited income buy gold jewellery gold rush in the United States, of ancient Egyptian. Massive gold inlaid shriek in the ritual dance of buildings with a gold film bonded to with lapis lazuli, carnelian, obsidian, which can be carried anywhere Australia and South Africa. competitive bidding. Others try to the ceramic tiles of outer walls. This turquoise and glass paste easily. There is a ready market for Gold has enriched the English know the price of gold from distant makes buildings more beautiful and gold jewellery. It can be sold or language. A proverb says, “All that exchanges to fix their own prices. durable. centuries would weigh about 97,000 pawned at any time. The only glitters is not gold.” It warns you not The people of Switzerland buy gold Unlike other metals, gold is tons. New gold dug from the earth problem is that those who wear gold to judge a thing by its attractive bars as birthday and Christmas indestructible, reusable and is in would amount to less than 1,650 jewellery have to be extra careful as appearance. If a child is good as presents, usually for children. high demand in many parts of the tons a year. Even if you add gold in there are snatch thieves everywhere. gold, he is well behaved. Sometimes French people have a tradition of world. Gold dug from the earth more known deposits it would amount to However, Sri Lankan women still you may have come across a gold hoarding gold. In India billions of than 6,000 years ago is still said to half its present size. This shows that wear gold jewellery and travel alone digger, a woman who is friendly dollar worth of the world’s gold is in be around. The legendary King gold is not freely available. Hence its in buses and trains. Very often they towards men merely for the sake of the hands of rich people. Indian Solomon had in his possession more cost and value are going up with become victims of snatch thieves. the presents they give her. women are very fond of wearing gold than half the world’s gold in his day. every passing year. Gold is so precious that it has To sum up, a vain man’s motto is jewellery, especially on their In museums in Cairo, we see gold Once the world’s largest producer given rise to many expressions. The “Win gold and wear it.” A generous wedding days. Some of them wear among Tutankhamun’s treasures, of gold was the United States. Golden Rule is the precept of man’s motto is “Win gold and share gold jewellery almost every day. the Mysenaean mask called However, today it occupies the altruistic behaviour. According to it.” A miser’s motto is “Win gold and Agamemnon’s in Athens, Scythian fourth place. Canada remains in the the rule, people should do to others hoard it.” A profligate’s motto is Gold injections gold in Leningrad and Kiev, Celtic third place producing only 4 per cent as they would have others do to “Win gold and spend it.” A broker’s Gold is used in medical and dental gold in Dublin, Inca and Aztec gold of gold. South Africa remains the them. With the Ten Commandments, motto is “Win gold and lend it.” A fields. In the past many sufferers of in Lima, Bogota and Mexico City. biggest producer of gold with 52 per it serves as a proverbial guideline of gambler’s motto is “Win gold and certain types of rheumatic arthritis cent of the share. Russia remains in conduct for Christians, Jews, and lose it.” A wise man’s motto is “Win were treated with gold injections. Weight of gold the second place with 23 per cent of others. The negative form of the rule gold and use it.” The dental industry also uses a large According to some estimates, gold production. was found in Jewish literature: amount of gold. Gold is also used in gathered during the past 60 Until two Glasgow physicians and “What you hate, do not do to [email protected] column monday 9 november 2020 A5

By Dr. C. G. Ilangakoon SLPP started mobilising around the doctrine of Sri Lankanism with the The Governance of Government, in recognition of original community the popular parlage, is just like rights, the commonsense story was peregrinating in a voyage-blended US that Sri Lankan politics represented a Nimitz Class Aircraft Super Carrier contest among two different War Ship. The war ship is huge. The community doctrines: (1) One larger load is extremely heavy. The propelling Sri Lankan identity consolidation, not machines are fixed in both, left and recognizing the rights of the original right sides. The bridge is in the front. community or recognizing such rights The service crew and the voyagers are only in the lip-service (2) Political sub- accommodated at the back. identities of religious racism and Nevertheless, the most Central Power, communal terrorism that acted as a which manages the total and balanced bulwark against the consolidation of control of all the above constituents, is pluralism. They will never let a the Ship . Now, the strangest consolidated Sri Lankan identity to and the most beautiful and enigmatic emerge. Basil formulated the third aspect to be noted is, the Master of the vision, with a mission to structure the ship is not to be seen. He sails the doctrine of Sri Lankanism, respecting ship. The load is carried. The exact and recognizing the rights of both, prescribed marine rout is followed. The original and minority communities. passengers enjoy the voyage in delight The wish of the majority made last the with absolute respect and trust. Yet, first and first and second the last. the captain is present only in absence. The people have done their duty to The travelers are, well and discernibly the best of their ability. Now it is the aware of the presence of the Captain. responsibility of the Ship’s Captain to But, they can’t see him. This Captainic initiate new voyages for the truth comprises a pragmatic passengers, to reach destinations, they resemblance of pertinence to the never were before. Why? He is unique, gigantic SLPP Ship, which carries the exceptional and exclusive too, colossal weight of the governance of Sri contrasted with the ordinary Masters Lanka. The Parliament, which is the of normal vessels. bridge, is in the front. The propelling The Voyage Culminated, Destination Reached machine is the President. The load is Intelligent Use of UNP the mission uploaded by the SLPP Blunders Election Manifesto. The voyagers, who are delighted in the journey with trust, The SLPP campaign was not based are the voters and the public in basically on the economic prosperity. general, who mandated the vision via The Captain Their fulcrum was Motherland’s franchise. Now, who is the Captain? defense and the rights of the original The passengers want to see him, majority community, harmoniously respect him, to exercise their gratitude blended with the rights of minorities. to him and just to be with him. The The biggest blunder the UNP Master must come out. The people are leadership made was, it not interested in the name. What is Must Come Out underestimated the value and the pivotal for them is the actual Captain. country and to the President. He is the the archeological remains of their depth of above mentioned two aspects, The Master of the SLPP war ship differs force unseen that ensured that no religion and ancestry were destroyed the people of Sri Lanka were so much from the Captains of ordinary vessels. harm would come to Sri Lanka or its by religious racists. The communal circumspect of. The ship’s Master He is unique, exceptional and people from within and without during segregation was in the order of the day farsightedly understood that the UNP exclusive too. This majestic difference trying times. A person of modesty, who The people have in place of the ethnic unity. The people pushed the voters in to a judgment, lies, in the mighty wish of the SLPP is a loving father, a trusted brother done their duty to were fed up. They needed a radicalized which was against itself. Many of us, war ship passengers to be profited and a trustworthy friend, his change in to the concept of Sri the present writer too included, further, with more destination and commitment and dedication to any the best of their Lankanism, wherein, all Sinhala became the merciless critics of the mission visions of the ship’s Captain, task, as a leader of self-reliance is Buddhist, Tamil Hindu, Muslim and UNP. The writers like us had to cry in after reaching the first destination. unswerving. These are the events that ability. Now it is other communities could co-exist and desperation and did our level best to Hence, once again, the passengers produced the unique difference. the responsibility live together. The reason so many Sri convince the public to take the demand: “Come Out”. Lankans adore the Rajapaksa challenge very seriously. The Ship’s 2019 Presidential and 2020 General Dream of transcendence of the Ship’s leadership is, because the SLPP, Captain of the SLPP war ship produced Elections were handily won and two The people of Sri Lanka have a much Captain to initiate structured by Basil transcended their the truth-rooted evidence and caused five-year terms were bestowed by the hoped beautiful dream. Their dream is preferred conception in to perfection voters to feel that the UNP order was voters across Sri Lanka to the SLPP, transcendence. They need new voyages for i.e. the “State Sri Lankanism” and the really crumbling so deeply and so cementing control of the Rajapaksa transcendence, since, right now, they notion of Sri Lankan Nation. No other profoundly and it is tagged not only as regime and making clear its formidable are locked in stagnation, conditioned the passengers, to explanation for these results is as corrupt, but also as Motherland and popularity. Not only did the SLPP by UNP wild ass liberalism, disrespect reach compelling. Hence, the backdrop is not religion-ruining and the Buddhism- politics of consensus and nationalism to nationalism, minority worship to the the right space for the SLPP war ship’s destroying, with the UNP endeavors of show surprising strength in parts of infraction of majority community destinations, they Captain. introducing Secularism to Sri Lanka. the country, where it had historically rights and the blind politicized cult of The voters, including the UNP ones been weaker, but the crushing defeat the West. They were fed up of 72 years never were SLPP Wisdom Components failed to point to anything, as a sign, of the UNP, SLFP, JVP alliance meant inertia, with no chance to change. The before. Why? He Whether one agreed or disagreed, or that the things that made the UNP that there is no real alternative to SLPP fortunes, bestowed by God, to enjoy a believed or disbelieved, the SLPP weak, are being transformed for an rule. The defeat of the UNP, JVP delightful difference, were destroyed by is unique, Vision of Governance, the striking inclusive political ascendance. Right Government was so humiliating, even egoistic party and minority politics. exceptional and thing about the 2020 General Election here the Master’s vision ran a platform the UNP leader Ranil Wickremesinghe Now, the transcendence is the only campaign was how much it which said and proved that it was lost the seat in his own Colombo alternative. To be transcended, one exclusive too, concentrated on issues of economic against the unpatriotic politics of UNP, fortress. The lucky winners of two has to be ready, to be transformed. The prosperity and how much it tried to the SLPP war ship was sailing to shoot third majorities in Parliament will now frustrated preparedness of the people, contrasted with spin a narrative of hope for Sri Lanka. missiles. have almost five more years to pursue to be transformed had no space to the ordinary What was emphatic about this the designed agenda, with even less explode their voice. Transcendence, for campaign was that the two things Conclusion opposition. All the above achievements its materialization, requires a fitting Masters of which dominated it were, all- Hence, it is wonderful that the did not descend down from the blue foundational backdrop. It was Basil embracing nationalism of Sri Messiah Captain of SLPP (1) saved the skies spontaneously. There was a Rajapaksa, who consciously normal vessels Lankanism and the nod-nod-wink- Motherland from the traitors of hidden power, unfortunately, bathed comprehended this very much needed wink gesture towards the recognition unpatriotism (2) produced a President, with all sorts of blames, which was imperative. He created the required of original community rights— a Prime Minister, Ministers and MPs pragmatically operating clandestinely, space. That space was SLPP. The was, is and will be that: “To live in Sri consistently. So the SLPP self- (3) is actively operative in the battle working hard as a workaholic. That people of Sri Lanka have respectfully Lanka as Sri Lankans, we must be presentation was clearly much, much against the covid-19 endemic (4) was, was none other than Basil Rajapaksa- accepted it. The dream now can come able to change”.This is the bus, which, more visibly the pluralism of Sri is and will be full of plans and projects the National Organiser of the SLPP true. Yet, the ship’s Captain must Ranil Wickremesinghe and Maithripala Lankanism, recognising the rights of for the production of wealth and and the present Chairman of the come out. Sirisena missed. They were confident the original community. Second, the economic prosperity, but now, the Presidential task force on Prosperity The Vision that SLFPers have blue blood, the Sri Lankan economy had been backdrop is not his right place. The Production. UNPers green and the JVPers have red destroyed by the UNP governance not absolute majority of the voters of this The limelight was not the wish he Yes, indeed, the victory was blood. No qualitative and quantitative only utterly, but also totally. And I country are in dire need and well dreamt for. His talents and political absolutely unprecedented. Not only do mutation is possible. Basil think, for a political party to win this aware of him, of the tremendous wisdom were not known by many. Yet we not have any framework to transformed the impossibility of kind of mandate in a context where service the Ship Captain rendered and Basil Rajapaksa has been the understand what’s happened, but, mutation in to a possibility. During the there is no rosy economy is a dream can render from today and onwards for empirically operative talented theorist since Sri Lanka’s independence, governing epochs, antecedent to the story in the land of never-never. the country. The voyage is finished. of the political landscape revolution of actually, I don’t think there has been a SLPP governance, the original and the Nevertheless, Basil played the game on The required destination reached. The Sri Lanka, right from the times of the mandate which concentrates power in absolute majority community of Sri the public trust on Gotabaya Ship Captain must come out. No other advent of the veteran politician one party to the extent that this Lanka, the Sinhala Buddhists, were Rajapaksa military leadership and option left. Mahinda Rajapaksa in to politics. He is mandate does. What is the reason? compelled to live as refugees, though Mahinda Rajapaksa popularity, About the writer: a meticulous planner, a brilliant The vision, Basil always entertained the lip-service of the governing UNP nourishing the former with his own Dr. Gamini Ilangakoon is a strategist, a balancing negotiator and was the reason. It was also a vision politics was equality. They had no mission-strategy and got it. The next Lawyer, specialising in International above all a hard worker. He is a augmented with a mission. The rights. Were not equal before the law. feature that was very striking is, Treaty Laws patriot, loyal to the people of the mission-based Basil Rajapaksa vision The rulers were in deep sleep, when typically, from 2016 onward, when the Lockdown fuels Child Trafficking By Kieran Guilbert Nottingham University’s understanding, county lines phone, the study showed. Rights Lab found. Thousands actors develop their tactics.” “It’s clearly a worry that England’s month-long of children in Britain are The number of suspected tightening of restrictions ... COVID-19 lockdown will estimated to be used to carry child county lines victims along with the strain on family hinder efforts to spot and drugs into the countryside referred to the Government finances ... may increase support children trafficked by from urban areas as part of last year for support rose by children’s vulnerability to drug gangs, researchers said the so-called ‘county lines’ half to 1,019. exploitation,” said James on Friday, warning that more drug trade, and many are About 379 such cases were Simmonds-Read, a girls and young people from trapped by debt bondage or identified between April and programme manager at The wealthy families were being threats of violence and rape, June - a quarterly record - and Children’s Society, a charity. targeted on social Media. authorities say. a further 362 were flagged Police Detective People were ordered to stay During the first lockdown, between July and September, Superintendent Timothy at home from Thursday to gangs adapted their tactics - according to the latest official Champion, who is deputy head combat a surge in infections sending children by car data. The research found of the National County Lines that scientists say could, if instead of train and delivering gangs were increasingly using Coordination Centre, said unchecked, cause more in public areas rather than social media apps such as officers were aware of the deaths than the first wave. from homes - to avoid Instagram and TikTok to issues raised in the report. The United Kingdom is detection, found the ongoing recruit children during “We conduct many grappling with more than study into COVID-19’s impact lockdown, and targeting girls operations ... not only to tackle 20,000 new COVID-19 cases a on organised crime. and more affluent young the violence associated with day. The Nation’s first “It is likely that lessons people who would be less likely county lines but significantly lockdown from March to July learned by criminals during to be picked up by the police. the real harm brought through did not curb the use of the pandemic will ... make Frontline professionals who the criminal exploitation of children as drug mules by offending harder to detect,” work with vulnerable children young people by organised criminals, but made it more said Ben Brewster, the found it harder in that period gangs,” he told the Thomson difficult for social workers to Nottingham University to monitor risks and Reuters Foundation. engage with young people academic who led the study. encourage young people to Thomson Reuters face-to-face, research by “As police develop their share concerns over the Foundation UK police less likely to pick up children used as drug mules during lockdown A6 Monday 9 November 2020 Editorial

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Custodial deaths utterly deplorable! Biden’s Precarious It was reported recently that an inmate of the Moneragala Prison had died and a jailor had sustained injuries during an altercation that took place between jailors and inmates at the Prison. According to reports, the incident had started when an inmate hurled a rock at a Victory jailor. In response to the incident, two other jailors at the Prison had allegedly assaulted the inmate, and as a , the inmate in question had succumbed to injuries after being admitted to the Moneragala Hospital. According to reports, the brawl had begun after a heated argument that ensued between the two parties over a delay in opening the inmate’s cell. When the incident had escalated into a heated argument between the two, the inmate had got hold of a rock and attacked the jailor. Also, last month, a 21-year-old youth who was in the custody of the Pugoda Police died after being admitted to the Ragama hospital following a ‘sudden illness’. Special investigations were launched into the incident, and later it was reported that the Officer-in- Charge of the Pugoda Police Station was interdicted while legal action was taken against several other Police officers attached to the same Police Station. These are merely two incidents that were reported in the past few weeks. Incidents of torture in Police custody and inhumane treatment by the Police have been reported on a number of occasions in Sri Lanka’s history. ‘Prisoners are human beings’, is a famous statement displayed on the walls of the Welikda Prison, one of Sri Lanka’s most prominent By Eric Posner and the Presidency will not boss, Barack Obama. election will likely have a prisons. This statement gives the society a occur. More likely, Americans With a likely understaffed lasting effect. If Trump commendable message – it reminds us that Joe Biden has survived a will have to endure sporadic Executive branch and a hostile succeeds in delegitimising the being a prisoner does not invalidate the fact grueling election campaign and Government shutdowns amid a Judiciary, Biden will have outcome in the eyes of enough they are still human beings, like you, me and a cliff-hanger election. Next, he cold civil war that maintains a trouble exercising Executive voters, Biden will have even us, and that their lives are as valuable as ours. must fend off legal challenges status quo of paralysis – at power. Federal agencies have more trouble securing support However, this statement also raises a serious from US President Donald best. suffered a loss of morale – and for his policies from alienated question. Why did we have to emphasise that Trump’s campaign. While he Many of Biden’s nominations qualified staff – during the Republicans and their elected prisoners are human beings too? Is it because will most likely enter the White will also face hostility in a Trump era, and will most likely representatives. Moreover, of the society’s tendency to think that once a House on 20 January 2021, he Republican-controlled Senate. take quite a while to regroup. Biden also will be contending criminal will always be a criminal, or, has our will wonder when he gets there Republicans probably will not Efforts to undo the damage with a fractious Democratic society come to a point where we consider a whether the prize he sought for deny him a Secretary of State that Trump did to coalition that could explode at person convicted of a crime to be less of a so long is a poisoned chalice. or an Attorney General, but environmental, health, and any moment into a battle human being and therefore does not deserve to A President Biden will enter they will ensure that the safety regulation will come among leftists, moderates, and be treated humanely, or, does our society think office confronting widespread Executive branch is slowly from the depleted anti-Trump independents. that a convicted criminal cannot become a law- economic distress, the seasonal understaffed. Having incurred agencies, and all changes will For all of these reasons, abiding citizen even after completing his jail escalation of a deadly no electoral punishment for be met with judicial skepticism Biden will not benefit from the term? pandemic, and a brutal their hardball tactics over from Republican-appointed – traditional honeymoon period Of all the countries in the world, Sri Lanka, as international environment. judicial nominations, they will and especially Trump- that other newly elected a country that has a culture nourished by These challenges would test block and delay all appointed – Federal judges. Presidents have enjoyed. He Buddhism, should acknowledge that prisoners even the most skilled leader. confirmations of Federal Similarly, ambitious uses of ran as a unifier, but, like have every right to be treated humanely like all But Biden will be further judges. regulatory and executive power Obama before him, he will of us. It is tragic that we have almost forgotten hampered by a divided to reform immigration or quickly learn that you cannot the fact that a person being a prisoner or a Government, a hostile Formidable obstacles address climate change (on the win over those who despise criminal is temporary, but they will always be Judiciary, a weakened Federal Even if Democrats win a model pioneered by Obama) will you. That said, Trump’s defeat human beings. bureaucracy, and lingering majority in the Senate, Biden receive a frigid reception at the is a triumph for American A person sentenced to prison is still a member Trumpian populism among the will face formidable obstacles. Court. Biden will inherit democracy. Trump has been of our society and a citizen of our country, even public. With the confirmation of Amy substantial legal authority to the most divisive and though his deeds may be questionable and In the past, a newly elected Coney Barrett a week before take measures to contain the destructive President of unacceptable. People tend to see them as a President could expect some the election, Republicans will pandemic; but Trump-appointed modern times. His failure to threat to society, which is understandable. cooperation from the opposing enjoy a 6-3 majority on a judges will push back when that win a second term, despite the However, the ills in the society that compel party in passing legislation. Supreme Court that was authority conflicts with religious numerous advantages of them to do engage in illegal activities are the Biden should expect nothing of already leaning more rightward liberty and property rights, as incumbency, will send a signal biggest, real threat to the society. It is with the the kind. Republican members than any Court since the they have already done when to ambitious politicians that intention of making the society a safer place of Congress largely beat 1930s. Today’s Court will Governors issued similar orders. populism and demagoguery are that they are being sent to prison. The time a expectations in the election continue chipping away at the not the keys to victory. The convicted offender spends in prison is meant to and will see no reason for legal foundations of US Elusive issue of moment should be savoured be both a punishment and a rehabilitation compromise. If Republicans regulatory agencies and public opinion for that reason – if for nothing period. During this period they spend in prison, retain their majority in the advancing socially conservative else. they are entitled to law-enforcement officials’ Senate, they can and will try to values, as it has for the last two Finally, there is the elusive Eric Posner, a professor at protection to live a peaceful life, and guidance undermine the Biden decades. Even if Biden can issue of public opinion. Though the University of Chicago to change their lives and become law-abiding administration, to create the push progressive legislation Biden won the popular vote, Law School, is the author, citizens. Most importantly, they deserve conditions for an anti- through a divided Congress, he the American electorate most recently, of The humane treatment. If and when they receive it Democratic backlash in the will still face the prospect of the remains deeply divided. Demagogue’s Playbook: The only will they come out as changed people, who 2022 midterm elections. Court striking it down. Indeed, Trump’s lawsuits claiming Battle for American are no longer a burden to the society. Progressive Bills will be dead the Court might finally deal a electoral fraud are unlikely to Democracy from the on arrival, and sorely needed deathblow to the Affordable succeed, but his attempts to Founders to Trump. constitutional reforms of the Care Act, the signature persuade Republican voters (Courtesy-www.project- Electoral College, voting laws, achievement of Biden’s former that Democrats stole the syndicate.org) Column Monday 9 November 2020 A7 The Heroic Panadura Beach Rescue By Shivanthi Ranasinghe Somalian piracy After decades of helplessly watching Last week the Navy, Coastguard and this blatant poaching, Somalian volunteers from the area, including the fishermen decided to take matters State Minister, Kanchana Wijesekera into their hands. The armed conflict carried out the risky but most within the country made available the successful whale rescue mission off necessary arms and gave birth to Panadura beach. About 123 short- Somalian piracy that terrorises the finned whales were found mysteriously entire sea routes in the region. beached and struggling for their lives. Since then, many cargo ships enter After a grueling effort of over 48 hours, these waters suitably armed and with all but three of these majestic creatures experienced fighters like the retired were saved and directed back to the officers and men from Sri Lanka deep seas. It was a rare and difficult military. This has put a stop to victory and should have been celebrated Somalian piracy but with the real by all animal lovers world over. Instead, pirates continuing to steal from it was just another news item in both Somalians the resources that is rightly local and international press. theirs, the situation is not redressed First and foremost, all those who but is on a ticking bomb. took part in this heroic mission must be saluted. The whales are between Palk Strait poachers 10-18 feet in length and weigh about Sri Lanka’s northern coast too is 1,000-3,000 kg. Caught in a ‘treadmill’ facing a similar situation with Indian effect, where the crashing waves kept The Navy, Coastguards and volunteers saved more than 120 short-finned pilot whales off Panadura Beach last week. Did a joint Quad deep sea trawlers poaching in our pushing them back on to the beach, naval exercise disrupt the whale’s sonar? waters. This is more than daylight the whales were exhausted, explained robbery from fellow fishermen living Dr Asha de Vos in her FB post. conservation authority fought a them to daily walks, a varied and export sector. Out of nearly USD 246 across the thin Palk Strait. The bottom difficult fight dousing the fire. After specially designed diet and long baths. million revenue, 40 per cent comes trawling literally scrapes the seabed Dedication and boarding the vessel with the raging fire They are treated with adored respect by from the EU. The ban was imposed destroying all marine life. Curiously, determination and rescuing the crew, the rescuers their mahouts and onlookers alike. for failing to comply with regulations this is a matter that has received took every measure to prevent an oil When these elephants enter residential agreed upon at the Indian Ocean neither the international condemnation With the whales naturally frightened spill and minimise the damage to the areas that make part of their walking Tuna Commission. The objective is for nor the local concern it deserves. and fighting for their lives, thrashing environment - especially marine life. routes, people rush to greet them as countries engaged in high seas fishing wildly in desperation, the rescuers Quick measures were also adopted to honored guests. to comply with international Faroe Islands brutal placed at great risk worked non-stop dissolve the oil originating from the oil It is true that living in chains is regulations to ensure sustainability of massacre for two days with only the glare of leak in the ship’s engine. definitely not a life for an elephant. common resources and fish stocks headlights from four-wheel vehicles at That however is true for all whilst limiting environmental The other fact that needs to be night. The men undertook the Downplayed achievements domesticated animals. The wild damage. After failing to comply or addressed by EU-IUU fishing is the mammoth task of keeping the animals Such success stories are rather rare. elephants too are not having a picnic show compliance with repeated annual macabre fest in Danish owned upright and the blowhole, which was In most cases, relevant authorities in today as can be attested by the human- warnings to Sri Lanka when the Faroe Islands. Known as the on top of their heads free so the whales other countries have not been able to elephant conflict. Yet, in comparison to subject was under then Minister grindadráp, this is the brutal could breath, whilst pushing them avert oil spills. The resulting harm to the concerns raised over elephants in Rajitha Senaratne, the ban was slaughtering of pilot whales. On 23 back to the sea to a depth greater than the marine life as well as the temples, there is paucity in the enforced. July 2015 alone, 250 whales were the rescuers’ own height. The rescuers dependents on marine life is concerns raised or viable solutions massacred on two beaches in Bøur and themselves were exhausted, noted Dr horrendous. Therefore, these two explored with regard to this situation. Actions against poaching Tórshavn. de Vos. Yet, they continued as fast as victories Sri Lanka achieved months This was an interesting development Fishermen in power boats and they could with their efforts to save the apart should not be treated Elephant lovers on two accounts. The EU-IUU holds the dinghies close in on large school of whales. Finally they were able to save nonchalantly as ‘news of the day’. Elephants are also deeply affected by country in question responsible for whales and force them towards nearly all the whales, to speak of their Instead, the important take away environmental polluters. The numbers illegal, unregulated and unreported beaches. Locals in wetsuits with spinal dedication and determination. Earlier lessons from these successful attempts of elephants who die after ingesting fishing. Yet it is unclear if adequate or lances wait and wade in violently this year on 23 September, two pods of must become a continuing dialogue. plastic substances are increasing. This effective actions are taken against dragging the distressed animals up the pilot whales were found similarly On the other hand, stories that can too is hardly addressed by elephant countries that allow their fishermen to beach. The trapped animals are then stranded on Tasmanian beaches. Yet, the be held against Sri Lanka builds in lovers. poach in other’s territories. This is a slayed by severing the animal’s spinal Australian rescuers were able to only save momentum and are often sustained for Elephants in the Zoo are intimidated serious issue that is confronting not cord and its main blood supply to the about 30 whales despite rescue efforts a considerable time. For instance, there into performing absurd circus acts only Sri Lanka but most poor countries brain. The locals then begin to cut 380 whales died. This heartbreaking is an effort to brew a controversy over such as balancing their entire body on with a rich marine diversity. down the animals. episode should help put our own elephants in the temples. Various civil a stool that is proportionately The very basis of Somalian piracy is It is against these kind of macabre successful mission in proper perspective. societies and social influencers spend a minuscule. These creatures, when not the illegal fishing by deep-sea fishing events that annually kill about 800 considerable effort to keep this topic performing are chained to one spot, trawlers from Yemen, China, India, long finned pilot whales, illegal Saving New Diamond alive. Ironically one such influencer is which stresses them greatly. Yet, the Iran and even Djibouti. This deeply poaching that turns desperate Regretfully positive stories from Sri a person who got the first career break plight of the elephants in the zoo, just affects the poverty stricken country fishermen into dangerous pirates Lanka rarely get more than a cursory from selling eggs and thereafter like the ones in the wild is not and is a direct and physical threat to that we must reflect the nod of acknowledgement from the proceeded to earn enormous profits addressed with the same concern as for Somali artisanal fishers. These illegal magnanimous rescue missions as international and local press or from leather and silk merchandise. the elephants in the temples. foreign vessels directly compete for fish, the one in Panadura beach. As the relevant interest bodies. The New Ironically the same energy is not spent thereby reducing fish populations and recent failed attempts in the Diamond ship that caught fire off Sri canvassing against the plight of EU-IUU destroying their marine habitat Tasmanian beaches prove, this was Lanka’s coast was just another story elephants in the Dehiwela Zoo. On 14 October 2014, the EU-IUU through bottom trawling. Somalian not an easy feat. As such, we need to that died off after the fires were (Illegal, Unreported and unregulated) fishermen accuse them of purposely also understand the reasons for extinguished. There too the Sri Lanka Who saves Zoo elephants? announced a ban on Sri Lanka fish. ramming their dinghies or shooting some events to develop into stories Navy with the help of the Air Force and Most temples look after their This ban was enforced three months them on sight to chase them from their and others to fade. officers from the coastguard elephants with great care, treating later, affecting our ninth largest own waters. [email protected]

Electing People’s Representatives Indisputable Democratic Voting System By Sugeeswara Senadhira franchise way back in 1931. Elections, entered Parliament under the per cent of the members through the a proper balance. The first-past-the- National List making a mockery of Proportional Representation system. post system had many flaws. Minority The pros and cons of different systems Proportional representation democracy. parties, in particular, that do not fully of electing people’s representatives However, one has to acknowledge that Emphasising the need for electoral Delimitation Report conform to the values of majority under the principle of democracy came there are many shortcomings in the reforms, Leader of the House, Dinesh The Government has passed an parties, would be easily side-lined in to international focus once again last Electoral Systems of the 1978 Gunawardena, told Parliament that the amendment to the Provincial Councils such a system. For example, in 1970, week when contradictory views were Constitution with regard to electing commitment of all political parties was Election Act. But it cannot be the SLFP won only 48 per cent of the expressed on the Presidential Election representatives to the Parliament and needed for a quick change over to a new implemented because of the delays in votes and still acquired 76.7 per cent system in the United States. Many other electoral bodies. The system of Electoral System based on proper mix of finalising the Delimitation Report. In the of the seats in Parliament and in 1977; questions were posed as to the propriety proportional representation could not first-past-the-post and proportional new amendment it was proposed to set the UNP won only 50.6 per cent of the of the system of ‘Electoral Colleges’ to be considered a perfect system of representation. a quota allocating a guaranteed 25 per votes and acquired 83 per cent of the elect the American President and the democratic Elections. A massive district Speaking during an adjournment cent of the seats to women in all seats in Parliament. In August 2020 losing candidate openly alleged that the is made an electorate where only debate in the House, he said it was the Provincial Councils. This was done to General Elections, the SLPP would system did not reflect the genuine candidates with huge sums of money Government’s belief that there should increase women’s participation. have won more than 180 seats, if the preference of the majority of the people. can afford to contest and spend on the be an Electoral System, under which a Currently, there is a very low turnout of Elections were held under the first- The US system allows the candidate Election campaign. Potential majority of MPs should be elected under women in politics. Only 5.8 per cent of past-the-post system. The who got majority of ‘Electoral Colleges’ candidates without huge campaign the first-past-the post system and the the Parliamentary seats are held by Proportional Representation system to be the President, while a rival funds are unable to do so. rest on proportional representation women and only 3.9 per cent of had its advantages. It ensured candidate, who poll more votes lose the system. “We have already implemented Provincial Councils were comprised of minority representation and Election. First-past-the-post a mixed Electoral System at the local women. Even in the past it has been no accommodated smaller parties, which 1978 Republican The first-past-the-post system was Government level in the local different. As of 2004, women comprised introduced joint policies. cost effective, less violent and elected a Government Elections in February only 5 per cent of the seats in Provincial Present system reforms Constitution representative of a particular electorate, 2019. It is essential to extend such a Councils, and in 1999 women it meant that if a representative did not system to Parliament.” The proposed comprised only 3.2 per cent of the seats. Former Provincial Council Minister The architects of the 1978 fulfill the desires of the people, the mixed system is undeniably a welcome It is also important to note that most Faizer Mustapha said, “We must Republican Constitution of Sri Lanka people could vote for a different change to the electoral system. This was of the women, who have been elected to evaluate from the perspective of the succeeded in establishing a direct, representative at the next Election. It originally the recommendation made at power, emerge from political Committee Stage Amendment in the first-past-the-post system for electing also allowed for single party the Parliamentary Select Committee by backgrounds. Women political activists interests of democracy, keeping in mind the Executive President. As a further Governments, which meant party Dinesh Gunawardena. openly say that a woman who seeks to the recommendations of the Dinesh endorsement to ensure the majority policies did not have to be watered enter the fold of politics is usually Gunawardena Select Committee report choice is represented, a clause to down. The opposition is equally vibrant Provincial Councils deterred and undermined by male and introduce the mixed system to count the second preference votes of in such a system too. The Provincial Councils completed politicians. Hence, it is essential to address the prevailing issues under the the candidates except the first two, their 5-year terms, more than a year reserve a women’s quota. In 1995, the current Electoral System”. was added in the event of the winner National List MPs ago, and the Commission of Elections is Fourth World Conference on Women in The majority of the experts are in getting less than 50 per cent, plus one The 1978 system of appointing unable to hold fresh Elections because Beijing introduced the suggestion of favour of reforms to the present system vote in the first count. This system is, National List MPs by political parties the Delimitation Report with regard to guaranteeing 30 per cent women leading towards a Mixed System of a arguably a perfect system of people’s was not a proper people’s electorates has not been finalised to representation in National combination of first-past-the-post and representation.No wonder, the representation. The nominations in the implement the new Electoral System. Governments. Today, the Governments proportional representation systems. visiting US Secretary of State Mike National List quota gave undemocratic The Provincial Council Elections Act that implemented these measures have The Dinesh Gunawardena Committee Pompeo thought it fit to underscore advantage to influential candidates to seeks to introduce a change to the reached a higher pedestal in politics. was of the view that a mixed system be Sri Lanka’s proud place in the enter Parliament through the backdoor. electoral process by electing 60 per cent adopted which includes elements of democratic world, being the first The democratic champions were aghast of Provincial Council Members through Proposed mixed system first-past-the-post and proportional country in Asia to introduce adult when few candidates who lost the the First Past the Post system and 40 The proposed mixed system will make Representation systems. A8 monday 9 november 2020 column Afghans in Sri Lanka By Dr Tuan. M. Zameer towards their guests or visitors, they Careem MD were extremely hospitable people. K.P.S. Menon describes them as From the early nineteenth till the follows: “They made good friends. If an mid-twentieth century, Ceylon was Afghan, or a Pathan, was your friend, home to a thriving community of he would be your friend unto death. He Afghans, who hailed not only from was eminently hospitable; he had a Afghanistan but also the North- code of honour in which hospitality Western Frontiers, Sindh, and came first. He was distinguished by his Baluchistan Agency of British India courage and his capacity for (now ). In Ceylon, the Afghans endurance”. In the 1930s, it was were referred to by an array of different suggested that the Slave Island quarter terms such as Pattani, Pattaniya, in Colombo be renamed as either Afghan karayo, Kabul Manishen, Malay Town or Afghan town, but to no Bangali manishen/ orang, and Gini poli avail. As most Afghans had not karayo. But the most common term brought with them their womenfolk, employed by the Ceylonese was, Bhai, they married locally and established which was often recorded by Colonial families in Ceylon. Some even shed officials as the surname of Afghans. their own mores and completely By mid-20th Century, the kinship integrated into their wives’ term ‘Bhai’ which was closely communities. Children born to Afghan associated with the Afghans, had fathers and native mothers were often become a collective misnomer to registered under the mother’s identify anyone of North Indian ethnicity. Some families even shed descent. It is said that the British their Afghan surnames to assimilate forbade, the Afghans, particularly better into the Lankan society. those living in Colombo, from using ‘Khan’, which was a popular surname Faith And Festivities among the highly influential ‘Parsis’ Turbaned Afghan footman during the Czarevitch visit to Ceylon The majority of them were Sunni (Zoroastrians). Startling as it may Muslims who followed the Hanafi appear to some readers, the famous called, were a prominent community in catered to the needs of the elite, so jurisprudence, while others practised Khan clock tower in Pettah was erected Ceylon. when the poorer sections of the society Sufism. It is highly likely that the in memory of a Parsi Business Baron, From Rags To Riches were saddled with financial difficulties Afghan Sufis introduced, ‘Dhikr/Zikr’ Framjee Bhikhajee Khan, the man they approached the Afghans, known locally as ‘halara’, an ecstatic after whom the ‘Khan Gold Medal for In the 1860s the British imported Chetties, and Indian-Moor form of worship that involves Chemistry’ at the University of Afghans to work as horse-keepers moneylenders, who provided ‘credit litany. The Hanafi (Red) Mosque on Colombo is named. (grooms) and indentured labourers in and banking services’. Castle Street, Kandy, and the mosque Ceylon. Some were employed as on Shorts Road, Colombo were built Pre-colonial history coachmen, then a coveted position Cultural identity upon the contributions made by the Since time immemorial, Ceylon has reserved only for the Burghers and According to the Census of 1921, Afghans and Moors. During Eid and maintained strong ties with Eurasians in Ceylon. In fact, my there were 304 Afghans, 145 Pathans Nowruz, the Afghans gathered together Afghanistan, which was once a paternal great-grandfather, Carim and 164 Baluchis in Ceylon, while that on Galle-face esplanade for their thriving centre of Buddhist learning, Gunney Baay Khan, was an Afghan of 1946 recorded 551 Afghans and 51 worship, after which they indulged in innovation and pilgrimages. The coachman of Pashtun extraction, who Baluchis. Besides Pashto, Dari and wrestling (Pahlawani), dancing (Attan), advent of Afghan monks can be traced settled permanently on the Balochi, the Afghans were also fluent Roosterfighting, goat pulling back to the early second century B.C. island, following his marriage to a lady in Sinhala, Tamil, and Sri Lankan (buzkashi), and egg pacqueing. They According to the Lankan chronicle of mixed Ceylonese Malay and Indian Malay. They used the Perso-Arabic also enjoyed playing dhaam. An Mahawamsa, Mahadharmaraksita parentage. Until the late 19th century, script for writing. Their distinctive garb illustration by German artist, C.W. Thera came to Ceylon with thirty the public relied on stagecoaches or comprised baggy white trousers, Allers (1899), depicts an Afghan thousand monks from Alasandra of private carriages driven by Afghans for shalwar or partug, and a knee-length moneylender playing Dhaam or Yona Rata, surmised to be either transport. The introduction of upper tunic called a kameeze/ Checkers with a local on the roadside Bagram or Qandahar in present-day locomotives, tramcars, and motor Ceylon Afghan Pataniya ca.1830 perahan/ Khet, over which they wore a in Kandy. The Afghans had their own Afghanistan, for the dedication vehicles, deprived the Afghans of their very ornade-looking jacket. Their chiefs, who settled disputes through ceremony of the Maha Thupa main source of livelihood and this heads were swathed in exotic turbans the Jirga (assembly) system. Though popularly called Ruwanwelisaya. For made them resort to other jobs. Most and their feet were clad in military they were often cast in a rather the same ceremony, a Buddhist monk of them took to peddling and sold boots and in their cummerbunds, they negative light by Colonial writers, they named Attinna the elder visited Ceylon textiles and goods of Indian Since time carried grooming kits and daggers did have a nicer side to them. Most of with an entourage of two hundred and manufacture, mainly on the immemorial, called, ‘pesh-kabz’. Their compelling the Afghans lent money without eighty thousand monks from instalment system of payment. Some physique also caught much attention interest to widows, students, and Gandhara, which encompasses worked as watchers, butlers, and Ceylon has among the Ceylonese. There was clerics; they had financed the present-day Afghanistan and North- footmen in the homes of native squires maintained scarcely one among them who was not education of many students who grew West Pakistan. Pilgrims from Ceylon and British officials. In 1891, when six feet high and virtually all had up in the Slave Island quarter. They frequented Balkh, now Wazirabad in Emperor Nicholas II of Russia, strong ties with hawked noses, light eyes, long visages, also had a strong affection for their northwest Afghanistan, and it is where Czarevitch and heir apparent visited thick beards, and well proportioned, ancestral land, and the brethren of Lord Buddha’s first two lay-disciples, Ceylon, a turbaned Afghan served as a Afghanistan, muscular frames. Their typical meal their faith, and a great reverence for Tappasu and Bhallika lived. Bhallika, footman, as evinced by the illustration which was once comprised naan bread, rice, Kabuli God. When the Anglo-Afghan war as recorded in the Pali texts, was depicting the reception of the Palao, kebabs, mantus, bonjan, broke out, it was rumoured that the ordained into monkhood by Lord Czarevitch in Colombo. The Afghans a thriving centre poultry, a variety of vegetable dishes Afghans in Ceylon were being drilled Buddha at Rājagriha, identified by also drudged away as porters at the and salads. Tomatoes, Yoghurt and sent back to Afghanistan to fight Hiuen Thsang as Po Ho or Railway stations, as guards in of Buddhist (masteh), dried fruits, legumes, nuts, the British. In February 1948, when Balkh. Founder prophet of plantations, and some were absorbed learning, innova- and spices were used extensively in Pakistan’s Minister Abdur Rab Nishtar Zoroastrianism, Zarathustra, is into the Ceylon’s postal their cuisine. They were fond of masala visited Ceylon, he was presented with thought to have died at Ariana service. According to Henry Cave 1904, tion and pilgrim- chaii and some had confectionary a generous sum of two thousand (Balkh). According to the Tamil Afghans were involved in supplying ages. The advent shops in Colombo and Kandy that sold Rupees for the Quaid-i-Azam Relief narrative, ‘Mattakkalappu elephants to the courts of the Rajas in sharbat, Faludas, candy floss (Bombay Fund by the Ceylon Pathan (Afghan) Maanmiyam’ (Glory of Batticaloa), a India. They were allowed to do this of Afghan m ittai), Sheer Yakh (kulfi) and lots of Association in Kandy. schooner carrying Pathan or Afghan upon paying the Ceylon Government other tantalising delicacies. merchants, was washed ashore by a ten rupees for each elephant captured, monks can be lived across the Island, while the Their Downfall storm in Batticaloa somewhere in the and royalty of two hundred rupees for traced back to Baluchis were mostly concentrated in And Exodus 15th century. Legend has it that the each one exported. Some Afghans, who Colombo, and a majority of them lived Afghans who sought refuge in a initially worked in Ceylon, later the early second on Kew Lane, Slave Island, while the The money lending ordinance of Mukkuvar hamlet helped the migrated to Australia. According to the Pashtuns had their chummeries on 1918, sharply curtailed their mean of Mukkuvars redeem the villages of details supplied by Penny Todd to the century B.C. Java Lane, Union Place, Union Lane, livelihood. Then in 1931, the State Eravur and Akkaraipattu, from the web portal Farina Restoration, her According to the Vauxhall St. Rifle St, Mews St, Church Mortgage Bank was instituted, which clutches of Thimilars and coastal grand-father-in-law, Gool Mohomet St, Shorts Rd and Lake Rd. Until the was soon followed by the Income Tax Veddhas. Several place names in from Smilekenerra near Kabul, worked Lankan chroni- 1970s there stood a colossal mansion Ordinance of 1932, the Estate Duty Batticaloa, like “Vantharumoolai’, for some years in Colombo, before cle Mahawamsa, called “Pathan Haveli”, known among Ordinance No 1 of 1938, and in 1939, ‘Santhiveli’, ‘Sathurukondan’, ‘and moving to Australia. Likewise, an the locals as “Afghan Chummery”, in the Bank of Ceylon was “Vathiyai-thookia-palai” appertain to Afghan Cameleer Muhammed Saleh, Mahadhar- the environs of the Union Place Post founded. Unfettered by the legislative the battles, fought between the who contributed to the costs of the Office, and it served as the enactments, the Afghans continued Afghans and Thimilars. They also Perth Mosque, had worked initially in maraksita Thera headquarters for the Afghans living in their business. Hakim Bhai, an Afghan helped resolve the age-old feud Ceylon. Some records identify him as, came to Ceylon Slave Island. Most of the Afghan moneylender who carried on his between the Mukkuvars and other ‘Cinghalese’ . He was probably of chummeries were divided into three business in Colombo, appealed against local tribes, and many Afghans settled mixed Afghan and Sinhala/Malay with thirty thou- portions, the front was the living room; the assessment of his income made for permanently in Ceylon, following their descent. By the turn of the twentieth sand monks the centre for sleeping, and the rear for the year. Weerasooriya in 1973 writes, marriages to local women. century, almost all Afghans in Ceylon kitchen and bathroom, all partitioned “The Commissioners were quick to had become full-time usurers, lending from Alasandra by saloon or batwing doors. The condemn the Afghan money-lenders Colonial times money on the security of promissory Afghan homes didn’t possess much and even recommended that they In 1762, King Kirti Sri Rajasinghe of notes or IOUs. In Ceylon, the Afghans of Yona Rata furniture, instead, they accoutred the should be banned from coming into Kandy, sent to Madras an envoy suffered under the same hostility interiors with mattresses, pillows, and the island. Their harsh words and named Uduma Lebbe (alias Makandar which the Jews experienced in other cushions and mostly, the floors were strictures were reserved for the Moodliar), son of Maula Muhandiram, countries where the locals were the Afghans. When Mahatma Gandhi, carpeted. Most of the homes inhabited Afghan”. It seemed impossible for the a Ceylonese Muslim Courtier, to improvident . India’s first foreign visited Ceylon in November 1927, he by Afghans had double-leaf entrance Afghans to carry on their business in negotiate for the assistance of the secretary, K.P.S. Menon, during his was kept informed of the hardships the doors, which were left open all day and major cities like Colombo, Kandy, and British to oust the Dutch from time as the Agent of the Government of Ceylonese endured at the hands of the often into the night to provide free Galle, so many fled to the Ceylon. In compliance with the India in Ceylon, befriended an Afghan Afghan and Chetty moneylenders. It ingress and egress of the inmates and highlands. The Citizenship Act No 18 Kandyan King’s request, Governor named Kabir Bhai, who became his should be noted however that the visitors. Whatever else they were, they of 1948 made most Afghans ‘Stateless’ George Pigot of Madras, sent to Ceylon Pashto teacher and a close ally to his European run Banks in Ceylon, weren’t definitely discourteous & aloof and those who didn’t possess the an English emissary, John Pybus, family, and this caused a brouhaha needful documents were forcibly accompanied by two Pathans and a among his Ceylonese friends and repatriated. Their plight was further contingent of soldiers. They were household staff. His Tamil chauffeur, worsened by the Indian and Pakistani housed at Rammolle Adigar’s manor Rama Kurup, asked Mr Menon why he Residents Act No 3 of 1949. The on Nagaha vidiyai. After a sojourn of was in contact with an Afghan when Finance Act No 11 of 1963, which about forty days at Kandy, Pybus and he earns a handsome salary and leads forbade any foreigner from indulging in his suite left Ceylon, and Rajasinghe’s a comfortable life. The Ceylonese money-lending or pawn-broking, was a efforts proved unavailing. From the approached Afghans, only when they major blow to the Afghans, who were late eighteenth century up until the were in dire need of money, and except left no other choice but to leave the early 1900s, Pathans are reported to for borrowing money, there was no country. By the 1970s, almost all have made regular trading voyages other interaction with them. In the Afghans had left Ceylon. between Ceylon and India. A Pathan words of Menon (1981) “The Ceylonese Special thanks to H.E. M. Ashraf trader inscribed as ‘Pattaniya’ in did not mind borrowing money from Haidari, Ambassador Extraordinary Sinhala is among the sixty-three hand- them (Afghans) but socially kept them and Plenipotentiary of the Islamic painted images of men and women of at arm’s length”. Almost the entire Republic of Afghanistan to Sri Lanka the various castes, religious and ethnic railway officialdom and the staff of the for supporting me in all my groups in Ceylon, depicted in an Colombo Commercials and Revenue ventures. illustrated album made around 1830 Collector’s Office (Kachcheris) were The writer is an MPhil candidate for Mr. Wells, now held at the Victoria indebted to the Afghans. It is said that, at the University of Colombo, who and Albert Museum, London. Even as Lady Jean Lachore established the has written extensively on the far back as the 1830s, Afghans or “Lady Lochore Loan Fund” in 1927, to history of medicine and ethnic Pattaniyas as they were popularly provide debt relief to those hassled by Afghan moneylender playing Checkers by German artist Christian Wilhelm Allers ca. 1890 groups of Sri Lanka. Asia monday 9 november 2020 A9

Yangon, Myanmar Thai Protesters Urge As election gets underway Suu Kyi King to Reach Out favoured to win Myanmar voted on voters in masks, face Sunday in an election seen shields and with hair as a referendum on a coverings waiting patiently fledgling democratic in evenly spaced lines as Royalists also gather government whose the sun came up. reputation collapsed Sai Kyaw Latt Phyo, 31, Thai protesters called on King Maha overseas amid allegations said it was the first time he Vajiralongkorn to reach out for dialogue on of genocide, but which had left his home in three Sunday as they gathered for the latest remains popular at home. months. Myanmar is demonstration in months of protests, while Leader Aung San Suu seeing on average nearly counter-protesters chanted royalist slogans Kyi’s National League for 1,100 new daily nearby. Democracy (NLD) is coronavirus cases, Protests since July have increasingly expected to win a second compared to a handful called for reforms to the powerful term in the second General each day in early August. monarchy, breaking a long-standing taboo Election since the end of “I think it is worth the against criticising the institution, as well decades of military-backed risk,” he told Reuters. “We for the removal of Prime Minister Prayuth rule. must take the risk in such Chan-ocha and a new Constitution. She is supported by a a crucial situation for our “We hope you will change your behaviour population that largely country.” once and for all and become a King of all sees her as a heroine of Chaw Ei Twin, 38, said people,” rights lawyer and protest leader democracy, though her she was doing her civic Arnon Nampa said in a letter to the King win will likely be by a duty. posted online. “I hope Your Majesty will lesser margin than the “I gave my vote to a party open your mind and reach out to dialogue landslide victory that which can transform the with us to solve the crises together.” propelled her to power in country. I voted the same The Royal Palace was not available for 2015. party last time,” she said, comment. It has not commented since the More than 37 million without disclosing which start of the protests, but the King said a people are registered to party. week ago that the protesters were still loved vote, but fears over the Suu Kyi’s defenders say Anti-government protesters attend a mass rally to call for the ouster of Prime Minister Prayuth and that Thailand was a land of Chan-ocha’s government and reforms in the monarchy in Bangkok, Thailand (Reuters) rapid spread of COVID-19 critics are unrealistic to compromise. Criticism of the monarchy can in recent months may expect rapid change in the be punished with 15 years in jail under messages would be delivered. pictures of the King and his late father, dampen turnout. country after half a Thailand’s lèse-majesté laws, but it has Police told a news conference that public King Bhumibol Adulyadej. In the biggest city, century of military rule become widespread in recent weeks. gatherings were banned within 150 metres “I want to protect the monarchy and the Yangon, queues formed at and are hampering efforts Protesters at Bangkok’s Democracy of royal buildings. King,” said Chutima Liamthong, 58. “The polling stations even before to secure gradual progress. Monument were asked to bring letters for Several dozen royalists also gathered on monarchy is the identity of Thailand. We balloting started, with (Reuters) the King. Some of the more than 1,000 who the other side of Democracy Monument, cannot stand without the monarchy,” she gathered there had folded letters into paper wearing yellow shirts in the colour of the said. darts. Organisers have not said how the King and waving Thai flags. Many held up (Reuters)

Chennai, India Election of Harris as U.S. VP Manila, Philippines World Court Indians offer Philippines to back People wearing face masks wait to cast their ballots for the prayers of gratitude General Election at a polling station in Yangon, Myanmar (Reuters) Indians burst firecrackers on Hindu temple to thank the gods China’s candidate Sunday and offered prayers of for the victory that she and The Philippines’ Foreign gratitude over the election of president-elect Joe Biden won. Minister ordered the country’s Kamala Harris as the next US Priests at the temple in mission to the United Nations Vice President, declaring it a Thulasendrapuram village on Sunday to vote for China’s Tokyo, Japan proud moment for Indian- bathed the local deity in milk and candidate to fill one of the five Americans. Harris, born to an prayed. seats at the International Court Crown Prince Akishino Indian mother and a Jamaican Women drew murals in the of Justice (ICJ) that will become father, both of whom immigrated courtyard and musicians played vacant next year. to the United States to study, traditional music. “A woman “You are instructed to cast heir to Japanese throne made history by becoming the hailing from this small village the Philippine vote for the Japan formally Princess Aiko, is first woman to win the second- now holds one of highest Chinese candidate to the proclaimed Crown Prince ineligible. Moves to amend highest US office in the election. positions in US. It’s a proud International Court of Justice. Philippines Foreign Secretary Akishino the first in line the law lost steam when At her ancestral village in moment,” said R. Kamaraj, a That is your only clear Teodoro Locsin Jr. attends a as heir to the throne on Akishino’s wife bore a news conference in Beijing, Southern India, about 8,000 km government minister in the instruction,” Foreign Affairs China (Reuters) Sunday, the last of a son, Hisahito, in 2006. “I (4,970 miles) from Washington Southern State of Tamil Nadu Secretary Teodoro Locsin said series of ceremonies after deeply ponder the D.C., children clutched posters of who joined the celebrations. on Twitter without elaborating. the Philippines nominated his elder brother, responsibility of Crown Harris as people gathered at a (Reuters) Four of the eight candidates another candidate, Japanese Emperor Naruhito, Prince and will discharge contesting the five positions are Judge Yuji Iwasawa, but not became monarch last year my duties,” Akishino in incumbent Judges whose nine- Xue. The Foreign Ministry said following their father’s orange robe said in front year terms are due to expire on the Philippines can support abdication. The day-long of attendees, most of 5 February next year. One of more than one candidate at the ceremonies at the palace whom were wearing the four is Chinese Judge Xue 11 November election, as there had been scheduled for masks, according to Hanqin, who is also the Vice will be five vacancies. April, but were postponed footage by public President of the ICJ, also Since coming to power in because of the broadcaster NHK. known as the World Court. 2016, President Rodrigo coronavirus pandemic Akishino, 54, is one of The ICJ, the highest United Duterte has pursued better and have been scaled just three heirs to the Nations Court for inter-State relations with Beijing, though back as infection keeps throne along with disputes, is composed of 15 the Philippines, particularly its rising, although Japan Hisahito, 14, and Prince Judges elected to nine-year military, has harboured a deep has escaped the explosive Hitachi, 84, the younger terms of office by the United mistrust of China over what it outbreak seen in many brother of Emperor Nations General Assembly and sees as intrusions into its other countries. Emeritus Akihito, who the Security Council. Judges territory, bullying of its Under Japanese law, stepped down last year in A man drives past a banner of US Democratic vice presidential nominee Kamala Harris at the entrance to the village of Thulasendrapuram, where are eligible for re-election.A fishermen and denial of access only males can inherit the Japan’s first abdication in Harris’ maternal grandfather was born and grew up, in the Southern United Nations document to its energy resources. throne, so Naruhito’s only two centuries. Indian State of Tamil Nadu, India (Reuters) dated 29 June 2020 showed (Reuters) offspring, 18-year-old (Reuters)

Continued from page 2 Quarantine curfew... Police arrest...... eight police Negombo, Pamunugama, Sevana, Mihijaya temperature of those He said additional manpower will be to ascertain the ground situation and divisions in the Ja-Ela and Sewana, Ranmina entering also provide deployed in Colombo today to ensure requested the public to render their Gampaha District, two Sapugaskanda Police Sewana in Modera, employees facilities to that people adhere to COVID-19 safety support and cooperation to identify Police Divisions in the areas. Kalutara District: Sirisanda Uyana in wash their hands as they guidelines. The DIG added that health close contacts of COVID-19 positive Kalutara area, two Police Horana and Ingiriya Dematagoda, and NHS enter the workplace. authorities and Police will visit areas, cases. Divisions in the Kegalle Police divisions and in Maligawatte, will “Correct and accurate area and the Kuliyapitiya Wekada-West Grama remain. Meanwhile, information of visitors Police Division will also Niladari Division Police spokesman DIG are required to be be isolated. Kurunegala District: Ajith Rohana yesterday entered in a log, as Asymptomatic COVID-19... Mattakkuliya, Modera, Kurunegala Municipal (8) said no one is allowed required by the recently ... of the virus, it has been reported that only about 4,000 patients would have Bloemendhal, Kotahena, Council area and to enter or exit from issued Gazette a number of groups of persons who have been reported, Professor Malewige said. Grandpass, Foreshore, Kuliyapitiya isolated areas except for Notification,” he noted. not shown any symptoms have also been She further said that persons who do not Barber Street, Kegalle District: a medical need. DIG Rohana said affected with the virus, Professor Malewige have any symptoms of COVID-19 and Maligawatte, Mawanella and He urged factory individuals with health pointed out. individuals who only display minor Dematagoda, Ruwanwella police supervisors and other issues, including Even though it is so in Europe and Latin symptoms and do not infect others within Wellampitiya, Borella, divisions. Meanwhile the officials to access the expectant mothers American countries, the local health a period of seven to 10 days are sent home and Keselwatta Police movement of residents of website of the Ministry of residing within isolated sector, security forces and intelligence to self-quarantine for another period of 14 areas will be isolated several housing Health and obtain areas, could proceed to sector were making great effort to look for days to be on the safe side. The world areas until further complexes in Colombo insight into how they the nearest hospitals close contacts of those affected with the population is approximately 7,100 million notice. has been restricted with must maintain factory without a curfew permit virus, even though they do not display any and 10% have contracted the virus In addition, the effect from today. and office premises and urged them to symptoms. Meanwhile, she pointed out according to the WHO and although 710 following areas will The National according to guidelines remain at home. that a large number of persons infected million persons should have been infected continue to remain Operations Centre for and parameters of the “Individuals could with the virus have been found but did as of now, research has confirmed that under isolation until Prevention of COVID- 19 new normal situation. pass through isolated not showany symptoms. only about 50 million persons have been further notice. Outbreak (NOCPCO) The management of areas but could not stop Had that not happened, more than confirmed to be suffering from the COVID- Gampaha District: stated that restrictions institutions should or board passengers 13,000 COVID-19 infected persons would 19 virus. These facts, Professor Malewige Wattala, Peliyagoda, imposed on apartment enable facilities from isolated areas,” he not have been reported from this country further said are being pointed out in Kadawatha, Ragama, complexes, Methsanda including checking the noted. as of now and there was a possibility that reports of the WHO. A10 monday 9 november 2020 WORLD

Guatemala City, Guatemala Fresh landslides halt search in Guatemalan hamlet

People react as they watch a speech by Joe Biden on Times Square in New York City, US (Reuters) The wreckage of a trailer is seen at an area hit by a mudslide, caused by heavy rains brought by Storm Eta, as the search for Washington, United States victims continue in the buried village of Queja, Alta Verapaz, Guatemala (Reuters)

To celebrate Biden victory Fresh landslides have halted Some of the houses in Guatemalan rescue workers' Queja are under 50 feet of efforts to dig through mud as mud, Leal said, with much as 50 ft (15 metres) relentless rain making the deep to reach houses soil too loose to safely work, swamped by a devastating and new landslides forcing storm that has killed dozens of workers to flee to safer Thousands take people across Central America ground in the village. and southern Mexico. Gloria Cac, a member of Storm Eta's torrential the Poqomchi people and a downpours toppled trees, resident of Queja, said 22 engorged swift-moving rivers, family members were missing and ripped down parts of a after the mountain collapsed. mountainside above the "All her family is gone, to U.S. streets village of Queja in the central she's the only survivor. Her Days of pent-up post- size and scope compared after polls closed on boomed in the distance. Guatemalan region of Alta dad, mom, siblings, aunts election anxiety gave way to with the festive crowds that Tuesday, the reaction to "I was on the bus and I Verapaz, burying dozens of and uncles, grandparents, spontaneous street turned out by the news that Pennsylvania and jumped off the bus to come people in their homes. they're all gone. Twenty-two celebrations as Joe Biden thousands in some cities for its 20 Electoral College right down here to the White The rains triggered more family members and it's just supporters on Saturday Biden. votes had carried Biden House," Washington resident mudslides in Queja late on her alive," a visibly cheered news of his While there were some over the line was almost Donna Thomas said. "It is Saturday, and the head of a distraught Cac, carrying a presidential win with a isolated confrontations instantaneous. something to celebrate. We local emergency worker team small child in her arms, said cacophony of banging pots between Trump and Biden Minutes after major have been waiting so long." said rescue efforts had been through an interpreter in a and pans, honking horns supporters, as occurred television networks called Duane Fitzhugh, 52, a called off, possibly recorded video. and dance music in cities between two opposing the race in the former Vice teacher celebrating outside permanently. Queja had been home to across the United States. groups of about 100 each in President's favour, throngs the Trump International "We are coordinating so that about 1,300 people, Rallies by hundreds of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, of people - most wearing Hotel, on Pennsylvania all the personal are evacuated according to government supporters of Republican there were no immediate masks to curb the spread of Avenue blocks from the in the morning because we data. Not all its houses were President Donald Trump, reports of violence or other COVID-19 - streamed to the White House, compared the can't work there. If we stay, destroyed, and most who insisted on Saturday unruly behaviour. White House to rejoice moment to the lifting of an lives will be lost," said the survivors have already been ‘this election is far from After a nerve-wracking outside a security fence as evil spell. emergency worker, Juan evacuated, officials say. over,’ were more muted in four-day wait for results the sound of fireworks (Reuters) Alberto Leal. (Reuters)

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Baku, Azerbaijan London, United Kingdom In escalating conflict UK Military Chief says Azerbaijan announces Global uncertainty People of could risk World Tigray risk capture of Shusha War Three Current global uncertainty and anxiety Armenia denies it amid the economic crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic could risk another displacement world war, the Head of Britain’s armed forces has warned. In an interview aired to – UN coincide with Remembrance Sunday, the annual commemorations for those who Nine million people risk displacement from the have been killed and wounded in conflict, escalating conflict in Ethiopia's Tigray region, the Nick Carter, Britain’s Chief of the Defence United Nations said, warning that the federal Staff, said an escalation in regional government's declaration of a State of emergency was tensions and errors of judgement could blocking food and other aid. ultimately lead to widespread conflict. Prime Minster Abiy Ahmed is pressing ahead with a “I think we are living at a moment in military campaign he announced on Wednesday time where the world is a very uncertain against the northern region, despite international and anxious place and of course, the pleas to pursue dialogue with the Tigray People's dynamic of global competition is a feature Liberation Front (TPLF). The group led the country's of our lives as well, and I think the real multi-ethnic ruling coalition until Abiy took office in risk we have with quite a lot of the regional 2018. On Friday he vowed air strikes in Tigray would conflicts that are going on at the moment, continue. Though the initial strikes targeted arms is you could see escalation lead to depots and military sites, Abiy cautioned civilians to miscalculation,” Carter told Sky News. avoid mass gatherings lest they become ‘collateral Asked if that meant there was a genuine damage,’ further raising fears. threat of another world war, Carter About 600,000 people in Tigray depend on food aid replied: “I’m saying it’s a risk and we need to survive, while another one million receive other to be conscious of those risks.” forms of support, all of which are disrupted, the UN Carter, who became the British Military Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs Chief in 2018, said it was important to (OCHA) said in a report released Saturday. Clashes remember those who had died in previous between federal troops and Tigrayan forces had broken wars as a warning to those who might out in eight locations in the region, according to the repeat past mistakes. report. Six combatants were killed and more than 60 (Reuters) wounded in fighting near the border between the Tigray and Amhara regions, a humanitarian source A man drives a car past a damaged building following recent shelling in the town of Shushi (Shusha), in told Reuters on Sunday. Both sides suffered casualties the course of a military conflict over the breakaway region of Nagorno-Karabakh (Reuters) and some of the wounded were brought to hospitals in and near the town of Gondar, the source said. Azeris celebrated on the populated and controlled by enemy," the Nagorno- A desert locust infestation in East Africa has hit streets of Baku after ethnic Armenians. Karabakh Rescue Service Tigray particularly hard and efforts to combat the President Ilham Aliyev said "(This day) will become a said. insect swarms are feared to have stopped because of on Sunday his country's great day in the history of Armenia's Defence the conflict, risking further damage to crops, the UN forces had taken Shusha, Azerbaijan," Aliyev said, Ministry said heavy fighting report read. the second-largest city in the announcing that Baku's for the strategic site (Reuters) Nagorno-Karabakh enclave, troops had taken Shusha/ continues, while the but Armenian officials Shushi. Defence Army of Nagorno- denied the city had been In Baku, Azeris gathered Karabakh said they had captured. in large numbers to repelled multiple attempts Shusha, which Armenians celebrate, waving flags and by the Azeri side to advance call Shushi, is of cultural chanting slogans, while on the town. and strategic importance to drivers sounded their car Emboldened by Turkish both sides and is located 15 horns. support, Azerbaijan has the km (9 miles) south of the Officials from the upper hand in the bloodiest enclave's largest city Nagorno-Karabakh region fighting in more than 25 Stepanakert. and Armenia's Defence years in the South At least 1,000 people have Ministry denied Aliyev's Caucasus. In just over a died in nearly six weeks of statement. month, it has retaken much fighting in and around "Shushi remains an of the land in and around Nagorno-Karabakh, a unattainable pipe dream for Nagorno-Karabakh that it Britain's Chief of Defence Staff, General Orthodox faithful attend the Sunday morning prayer mountainous enclave Azerbaijan. Despite heavy lost in a previous war over Nick Carter, appears on BBC TV's The session at the St. George Church in Bahir Dar, Amhara internationally recognised as destruction, the fortress city the territory in the 1990s. Andrew Marr Show in London, Britain Region in Ethiopia (Reuters) part of Azerbaijan but withstands the blows of the (Reuters) (Reuters) monday 9 november 2020 b11 SL Can Benefit Equally From Indo-Pacific Strategy and BRI

By Rajiesh Seetharam Colombo Port through highways Hambantota Port for 99 years to Disputes between India and and better railway facilities”, China. We do not want to lose Pakistan are one of the major The Government’s foreign stated Balasuriya. the right to our national assets obstacles to the development of policy emphasises economic We see both China and India or intend giving national assets South Asian Association for diplomacy, along with political both as strategic partners, on long-term leases, asserted Regional Cooperation (SAARC), diplomacy, stated Sri Lankan replied Balasuriya when Balasuriya. claimed Balasuriya. “Intra State Minister of Regional questioned regarding difficulties With regard to the Millennium regional trade in the SAARC Cooperation Tharaka Balasuriya in balancing India and China Challenge Corporation (MCC) region is 5%, while in the ASEAN at a virtual conference relations. pact, Minister Balasuriya said region it is around 25%. Taking conducted by Nepal Institute of “China was our largest creditor that certain terms of that this into account SAARC should International Cooperation and in 2019. It has surpassed Japan, agreement violates the think about economic Engagement (NICE). the World Bank and the Asian sovereignty of Sri Lanka, and diplomacy, leaving aside political Inflationary FVMP Debt Up Rs 32.23B The government’s main foreign Development Bank (ADB) in this without changing these terms, it disputes. SAARC and BIMSTEC Friday Markets policy directive is neutrality, regard. While maintaining a good would be unlikely Sri Lanka will are both valuable organisations, similar to Switzerland, noted relationship with China, we are sign it. despite some features Balasuriya. also sensitive to India’s security Speaking on the Indian Ocean overlapping. Strengthening one “We see both United States of concerns.” and Maritime trade, the Minister does not mean the demise of the Shares hit America’s (USA) Indo-Pacific When questioned regarding stated, “More than half of other.” Strategy and China’s Belt and claims that Sri Lanka is falling Maritime trade is carried out in Balasuriya further noted that Road Initiative (BRI) as economic into a Chinese debt trap, areas surrounding the Indian they were exploring the 10-month high development strategies. Sri Balasuriya replied, “We do have Ocean, and more than 70% of possibility of direct flights By Mario Andree Lanka can benefit from both. We issues repaying debt, but to global trade is maritime trade. between Sri Lanka and Nepal to don’t see these as mutually blame China is wrong, these Ships are getting bigger. In the increase tourism between the The Colombo Stock Exchange ended the first exclusive strategies. Both stories are being spread for 1950s, a Container ship carried two countries. He further week of the month on a high note as the strategies can work in tandem. political mileage. Our debt to around 500 containers, now suggested that Nepali logistics benchmark index on Friday (6) gained for a During his recent visit US China is only around 10% of the Triple e-Class container ships companies could use Sri Lankan fourth consecutive session to record a more Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo total debt. We need to have a carry 18,000 containers, and ports as a logistics hub as Nepal than 10-month high on a higher turnover acknowledged that as a better fiscal management. In within a few months, ships doesn’t have access to such a despite continued foreign exits from the Bourse. Sovereign State, Sri Lanka is 2015, when our regime lost might develop further, to carry hub at present. While To curb the spread of COVID-19, the entitled to make its own power to the Yahapalana 24,000 containers. As per mentioning the Nepali business Government imposed a curfew in the Western decisions. The US, for its part, government, the Debt to GDP projections, by 2050 ships could conglomerate Chaudhry group’s Province on Thursday (29) night and extended it emphasised the freedom of was 70%. Now the debt to GDP develop the capacity to carry investment in the local till today (9). However, the Colombo Stock navigation, respect for ratio has risen to 81% due to 50,000 containers. Thus, there hospitality sector, the Minister Exchange continues to operate. The benchmark international rules-based poor administration by that would be more demand for ports urged Nepali industrialists to All Share Price Index (ASPI) on Friday (6) gained maritime order and protection of regime”, he said. which can include large ships. invest in the Hambantota 1.27 per cent (75.98 points) to close at 6,080.09 shared resources. Minister Balasuriya explained The Hambantota Port has the Industrial Zone and take points, its highest since 3 January this year, As far as the BRI is concerned, that their government’s policy is capacity to handle large ships advantage of it due to its while the more liquid S&P SL20 gained 0.98 per we are working on the to uphold ownership of national and we hope that would make it strategic location and growing cent (22.90 points) to close at 2,370.30 points. Hambantota Free Trade Zone, assets, unlike the previous a major transshipment hub in hub status of the Hambantota The daily turnover at the CSE stood at Rs 4.9 enhancing connectivity with the government which leased out the the Indian Ocean.” Port. billion, higher than the Rs 4.2 billion recorded the previous market day. More than 215.7 million shares changed hands during 40,114 trades. Shares of 268 companies were traded, of which 149 emerged winners ahead of 47 losers. Parsimonious increase in MAYs Foreigners were net sellers for the twenty- second consecutive session. Net foreign outflow during the day amounted to Rs 151 million, as Uncertainty clouds foreigners sold shares worth Rs 245 million as against purchases worth Rs 94 million. Wednesday’s T-Bill Auction The top ten gainers during the day were Industrial Asphalt, Lanka Walltile, Swisstek, By Paneetha Ameresekere Meanwhile, at last week’s T-Bill Royal Ceramic, Lanka Tiles, Watawala, HNB auction, CBSL was able to sell only Assurance, Lanka Ceramic, Hayleys and The Central Bank of Sri Lanka 47.53 per cent (Rs 19,011 million) of Colombo Fort Investments. (CBSL) has increased the maximum the original issue (Rs 40 billion), with Top ten losers were SMB Leasing (non-voting), administered yields (MAYs) that the the weighted average yields (WAYs) Tess Agro, Tess Agro (non-voting), Nuwara Eliya market can quote for Wednesday’s fetched for the 91, 182 and 364-day Hotels Company, Mullers, Anilana Hotels, (11 ) Rs 40 billion T-Bill auction by a tenures being 4.57per cent, 4.69 per Bogala Graphite, Kelani Valley, Autodrome and parsimonious three and one basis cent and 4.96per cent, in tandem Kotmale Holdings. point (bps) each to 4.60 per cent, with their respective fixed MAYs, 4.70 per cent and 4.97 per cent for then. the respective 91, and 182 and 364 For similar reasons, the 27 October United Kingdom supermarket day tenures on offer, compared to the weekly T-Bill auction saw CBSL chain Waitrose & Partners MAYs offered at the previous week’s being able to sell only 81.23 per cent Uncertainty auction. (Rs 32, 492 million) T-Bills from the With islandwide inflation at 6.4 per original parcel of Rs 40,000 million continues to Continue to source cent as at September according to offered. However, the 27 October latest official data, the market may auction saw the WAYs fetched for the dominate Treasuries, find these MAYs offered too low to 91,182 and 364-day T-Bills at Yellowfin Tuna from make investments in T-Bills a 4.57per cent, 4.69per cent and FX Markets justification. However, the only balm 4.96per cent, being two bps down Maldives and Sri Lanka being sluggish private sector credit each in respect of the MAYs By Paneetha Ameresekere growth due to uncertainty, thereby permissible for the 91 and 182-day United Kingdom those pledged by the giving the market no option other T-Bills and down one bonus point of The benchmark ‘spot’ remained unchanged to supermarket chain, Maldives are critically than to invest their money in T-Bills the MAY fixed for the 364-day T-Bill, be trading at Rs 184.45/50 to the US dollar in Waitrose & Partners, will important in ensuring our and T Bonds. respectively. two-way quotes in the foreign exchange (FX) continue to source Yellowfin oceans are not overfished market at 4pm on Friday (6), with demand Tuna from fisheries in the and communities reliant on virtually killed by import controls to conserve Maldives and Sri Lanka, but these fisheries are the country’s flagging foreign reserves, hit, due is calling on the Indian safeguarded,” Waitrose said. to continued uncertainty, market sources told Ocean Tuna Commission “We congratulate the Fighting COVID-19 CT. In the calendar year to 4pm on Friday, the (IOTC) to adopt a rebuilding Maldives on their ‘spot’ has depreciated by between Rs 3.15-Rs plan of the stock. commitment to launching a Ceylon Tea promoted as an 3.10 (1.74-1.71per cent) in two-way quotes. A number of retailers and fisheries improvement In other developments, due to a lack of food companies have project (FIP) by December revenue, Government of Sri Lanka’s ( GoSL’s) announced in recent weeks this year and would be immune booster in Australia non-demand pull inflationary face value money that they would be reducing happy to lend our support Ceylon Tea Global Promotional Campaign to be held in 2021 printing (FVMP) debt increased by Rs 3,389 the amount of Yellowfin to this work. Additionally, million, thereby on the whole increasing its Tuna that they are sourcing we have supported the Sri Ceylon Tea was recently promoted Victorian Chamber of Commerce FVMP debt by 0.66 per cent to Rs 517,156.87 from the Indian Ocean amid Lankan FIP since its in Australia as an effective immunity and Industry, Sri Lanka - Australia million on Friday. This was also the fourth concerns about overfishing. inception and congratulate booster to fight COVID-19 during a Chamber of Commerce, Aus-Lanka consecutive market day that GoSL’s FVMP debt According to a statement them on the important ‘Virtual Ceylon Tea Evening’ Business Council, Australia Sri was over the Rs half-a-trillion mark due to a issued by Waitrose, it would scope and progress of their organised by the Consulate General Lanka Council Inc, Consular Corps sustained lack of revenue, in its second instead be working work to date.” of Sri Lanka in Melbourne in of Victoria and Hoteliers in dispensation, after only a day’s ‘respite’ on collaboratively with fishers, Waitrose states that association with the Sri Lanka Tea Melbourne. Dilmah Ceylon Tea CEO Monday (2), when it went below the Rs half-a- suppliers, governments, achieving a “truly Board. Dilhan Fernando also held a tea trillion mark as well. NGOs and other sustainable fishery” This ‘Virtual Ceylon Tea Evening’ tasting session at the event. Adding to market woes, liquidity decreased by stakeholders to demand requires cohesive shared was a novel approach promoting The Sri Lanka Tea Board Rs 7,179 million and therewith the country’s that improvements are management that puts long- Ceylon Tea across the world, to Chairman Jayantha Molligoda foreign reserves bled by US$ 38.93 million due made to the fishery’s term sustainability at its highlight Ceylon Tea is a premium joining the event from Colombo to the settlement/s of GoSL’s foreign debt management. heart. For this reason, it is product which has nutrients to appreciated the demand for Ceylon servicing commitments and/ or due to Central “It is easy to walk away urging the IOTC to adopt an boost the human immune system. Tea in Australia and said ‘Ceylon Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) returning maturing from a fishery when faced effective rebuilding plan for The importance of consuming tea Tea Global Promotional Campaign’ swapped dollars to the market on Friday. with issues such as the Yellowfin Tuna, including a had been introduced even during will be commencing in 2021 covering Conversions are based on the middle rate of the perceived failure of tuna catch reduction of 25 per the early stages of COVID-19 as an the Australian market. ‘spot’ as at 4pm on Wednesday which was management at an cent relative to the catch in essential immunity booster to fight Australia is an important market Rs184.425 to the dollar. international level, but we the year 2017, which would against the virus. Ceylon Tea’s for Ceylon Tea. Sri Lanka was the Complementing these negative developments, believe that is not always in turn facilitate the ability in boosting the immune second largest tea exporter to GoSL’s MP borrowing costs (BCs) decreased by the best way to protect fish recovery of the stock in two system with antioxidant in it and its Australia in 2018 with 2391 metric 0.31 per cent (Rs 49.46 million) to Rs 15,665.45 populations or the generations. ability to reduce the stress hormone tons of tea; it is 12 per cent of Sri million on Friday, led by domestic investor communities that depend “We can only make cortisol in the body were highlighted Lanka’s exports to Australia, in that interest in risk free, but ‘low returns’ Treasury on them,” it said. sourcing decisions based on by the panelists during the session. year. In 2019 Sri Lanka exported tea (T) Bills and T-Bonds in secondary market Waitrose also welcomed science and so we also call Australian Tea Masters Founder worth over US $ 25 million to trading, rather than investing in the ‘high the “proactive statement” on the IOTC to ensure the and CEO Sharyn Johnston, Ceylon Australia. The rising interest in returns’ private sector. issued by the Government of new Yellowfin Tuna stock Tea lover Manuela Erb and health and wellness away from Meanwhile, an increase in FVMP debt is a the Maldives ahead of this assessment is conducted as Foodbank Victoria-Food COVID is an added advantage for case for MPBCs also to increase and not month’s IOTC meeting, soon as possible,” the Procurement Manager Sunil the Ceylon Tea market in Australia. decrease under normal circumstances. which advocated for the company said. Lakshmanasinghe were among the Earlier this year, the Foodbank Subsequently, the market’s net excess rebuilding of the Yellowfin The retailer sells fresh panelists from Australia. Victoria distributed the gifted Ceylon liquidity decreased by 2.97per cent (Rs 3,790 stock and for more robust Yellowfin Tuna sourced from More than 40 participants took Tea consignment, from the President million) to Rs 123,799 million on Friday. shared management. the Maldivian and Sri part in the event including members of Sri Lanka to the victims of the “We firmly believe that Lankan fisheries. of the Australian Federal Parliament, recent Australian bushfires. positive actions such as (SeafoodSource) Parliament of the State of Victoria, (AC) B12 Ceylon FT monday 9 november 2020 news Fitch Wins Rating Agency of the Year Award for Asia-Pacific Insurance Fitch Ratings has been insurers and reinsurers in (APAC) insurance sector. It is participants. In response to markets across APAC, of insurance groups in APAC, named "Rating Agency of the Asia. Winners of the a confirmation of Fitch's the coronavirus pandemic, including China, Hong Kong, Europe, Middle East and Year" by Insurance Asia News, Insurance Asia News Awards analytical expertise, robust the agency promptly Japan, Korea, Australia, Africa. The proprietary tool a leading regional trade of Excellence 2020 were methodology and in-depth completed a review of its Indonesia, Singapore, enables Fitch to bring publication for Asia's selected by a panel of industry research for the Asian entire portfolio of APAC Thailand, Malaysia and Sri insurers with different insurance market. experts. insurance market. insurers and took rating Lanka. accounting standards into a The judging criteria The award represents Fitch is at the forefront in actions as appropriate. The Prism Factor-Based single framework and to included timely assessment, market recognition of Fitch's providing timely insurance- The agency publishes Model is Fitch's enhanced develop a comparable score market intelligence and leadership position and strong related commentary to insightful and forward-looking risk-based capital model used for the rating process. cutting-edge reports for credentials in the Asia-Pacific investors and other market research on insurance to assess the capital strength (IG)

Health Ministry and Dialog Singer Finance leads Tier Two Rankings In the latest national reliability and returns on The sample for the survey rankings of ‘Listed Finance investment. This is a vote of consisted of randomly chosen Axiata enable Hi-Speed Companies of Sri Lanka’ confidence from the industry licensed finance companies Report by K Seed to us and we are delighted by listed in the Exchange. The Investments, Singer Finance this accolade.” companies were evaluated (Lanka) has become the best “The result of the report based on the latest quarterly Robotic PCR Testing at BIA performing Finance Company depicts the commitment of financial statements among Tier 2 finance Singer Finance to achieve the published. The finance The Ministry of Health in companies. highest standards to meet the companies were categorised partnership with Dialog Axiata The accolade to Singer future expectations of the into four categories based on PLC (Dialog), has enabled high- Finance is considering their listed finance company the size of the asset base. The speed PCR testing at the excellent performance in the sector” Perera adds. Categories 1, 2, 3 and 4 Bandaranaike International fourth quarter of 2019/’20 (1 ‘Ranking of Listed Finance denoted the companies Airport (BIA). Dialog’s January to 31 March). Companies of Sri Lanka’ having an asset base larger contribution of 4000 Robotic Singer Finance (Lanka) report ranks the Finance than Rs 100 billion, asset Arm compatible test kits forms a Chairman Aravinda Perera Companies according to their base between 20-100 billion, part of the company’s ongoing commented: “This top ranking performance results stated in asset base of Rs 10-20 billion commitment to empower the is a clear indication of growing their Colombo Stock and asset base lesser than national healthcare efforts acceptance of Singer Finance’ Exchange interim reports. Rs 10 billion respectively. during the COVID-19 pandemic. In April 2020, Dialog pledged a sum of Rs. 200 Million towards the upliftment of Critical Health Infrastructure associated with COVID-19 Resilience the COVID-19 pandemic. The hallmark pledge by Sri Lanka’s premier connectivity provider Litro Gas wins Argus/WLPGA Award enabled the commissioning of a In recognition of its Innovation Award, The needed due to the lockdown 10-Bed ICU at the Negombo outstanding commitment National Association Award and curfews but the Litro Hospital a few weeks later and during COVID-19 period, and The COVID-19 Gas team was able to rise to further ICU expansions will be Litro Gas Lanka has been Resilience Award. the occasion, coming commissioned soon. awarded the LPG industry Litro Gas has been together with the support of The Robotic Arm PCR Testing awards, the Argus / WLPGA recognised globally for our channel partners to facility will drastically reduce the Award for COVID-19 COVID-19 resilience meet the consumer demand time taken to conduct PCR Resilience. measures the Company has for LPG.” testing and reporting from eight The Argus LPG Awards initiated. “We were able to initiate hours to approximately 2.5 have partnered this year Chairman/ CEO of Litro fast turnaround times, hours. with the World LPG Gas Lanka Ltd and Litro Gas assuring an island-wide Group Chief Executive of Association (WLPGA) and Terminal Lanka (Pvt) Ltd during lockdown.” Dialog Axiata PLC, Supun From Left: Director General of Health Services, Dr. Asela Gunawardena, was staged during the eLPG Anil Koswatte said, “We are “The COVID-19 Resilience Weerasinghe said, “The CE and Minister of Health, Pavithra Wanniarachchi and Group Chief Executive, Week (2-6 November) which thankful to Argus Media for Award we received at Argus European IVD certified world- Dialog Axiata PLC, Supun Weerasinghe was held online due to the acknowledging our LPG Awards for Excellence class robotic solutions, Covid-19 pandemic. contribution towards 2020 will continue to processing 32 samples in which will ensure the safety of COVID-19 in Sri Lanka. This Among the categories mitigating a global motivate our team to parallel, enable significantly passengers as well as our latest contribution by Dialog awarded were the Trader of pandemic. It was not an easy promote Litro Gas as an safer and faster testing and nation, with expedited testing follows the Rs 200 Million the Year Award, Tech task to muster the resources exceptional fuel,” he said. reporting regime in a mere 2.5 and reporting through these pledge to the Ministry of Health hours. This mechanism will robotic solutions.” to develop the country's critical better aid and equip the Minister of Health Pavithra health infrastructure and many healthcare sector and Wanniarachchi stated, "The other commendable initiatives. government health authorities facilitation of hi-speed robotic We extend our sincere thanks by meaningfully reducing man- PCR testing at BIA is yet and appreciation to the DFCC pushes towards cashless hours per week. We are grateful another great initiative by continued efforts of Dialog to the Ministry of Health for Dialog as they continue to Axiata and their dedicated providing us an opportunity to support the Ministry of Health service towards this national future with LANKAQR participate in this initiative in our efforts of combating effort." Following the launch of the national LANKA QR initiative, ‘Rata Puraama LANKAQR’ on 5O ctober 2020 by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL), DFCC Bank was among the Samsung SL introduces first financial institutions to gain LANKAQR certification. This partnership with CBSL to mobilise the ‘Rata Puraama ‘Nattal Wasi Malla’ LANKAQR’ project which will support ease of transactions Samsung is ushering in the for people of all walks of life, joyous spirit of Christmas is well in line with the with a seasonal promotion - corporate strategy of 'Nattal Wasi Malla' with becoming the most customer- attractive discounts on their centric and digitally enabled Samsung smartphones, free bank. data bundles and free DFCC Bank launched its Deshamanya Prof. W.D. Lakshman, Governor, CBSL (third from left) Samsung battery packs. QR based DFCC Pay App in presented a plaque to Denver Lewis Vice President/Head of Card During the ‘Nattal Wasi January 2019 and was one of Centre, DFCC Bank (second from left). Also in the picture (left to Malla’ promotion, customers the first banks to be certified right) Dharmasri Kumaratunge, Director Payments and Settlements, can select from an array of for LANKAQR standard which CBSL. Chrishan Jayamanne, Manager Merchant Acquiring DFCC Samsung smartphones. is now accepted as the Bank and R.A.A. Jayalath, Assistant Governor, CBSL. As an extended value national common QR, used addition, customers can enjoy to process smart mobile consider the benefits that this app which allows for these the upgraded memory variant device based local currency initiative will provide for the transactions to take place is of 8GB for A51 and A71 at the payments. people of Sri Lanka, it is clear also a clear indication that introductory price of 6GB. The Speaking on the inclusion that LANKAQR will result in our efforts have paid off. I am discounts are also extended to of DFCC Bank as a LANKAQR more financial inclusion,” confident that this is only the Galaxy A11, A21s, M21, M11, and M01 Core. out at authorised partners - certified institution, CEO - He further said, “As a beginning of digital payments A01 and J2 Core This offer can be availed at Softlogic Retail, Singer, DFCC, Lakshman Silva stated Bank, we too have a in Sri Lanka and as a smartphones. Samsung Sri islandwide authorised dealers Singhagiri and Damro, and “DFCC gaining LANKAQR responsibility to ensure that benchmark Bank in the Lanka further strengthens the of John Keells Office Network Partner Dialog and certification resonates well our citizens embrace new country, DFCC will be ever- promotion offering a free Automation and Softlogic through the online portals; with our objective of being a technologies as we bridge the ready to embrace unlimited data bundle for Mobile Distribution. The Samsung E-Store, Daraz.lk true Bank for everyone. When gap toward a cashless future. technologies such as these as Galaxy M31, M21, M11, M01 promotion will also be carried and MySoftlogic.lk. we as a financial institution The success of our DFCC Pay they roll out,

People’s Bank deploys Lanka QR payment solution at Lanka Sathosa

People’s Bank recently joined hands Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) to revolutionise with Lanka Sathosa to deploy People’s the payments landscape in Sri Lanka by Bank LANKAQR Payment acceptance enabling fast, secure and low cost digital solution at islandwide Lanka Sathosa payments to a large number of merchants. outlets. The agreement to offer this service People's Bank CEO/GM Ranjith was exchanged between, Chairman of Kodituwakku, Senior Deputy General People’s Bank Sujeewa Rajapakse and, Manager - Retail Banking,. K.B. Chairman of Lanka Sathosa Dr. Nushad Rajapakse and Deputy General Manager- Perera at the CWE Head Office on 6 Finance, Lanka Sathosa Susiri Perera Lanka Sathosa Actng Senior Accountant Aisha Nawfel, Deputy General Manager-Finance, Lanka Sathosa Susiri Perera, Chairman - Lanka Sathosa, Dr. Nushad Perera, Chairman-Peoples Bank,. Sujeewa Rajapakse, People's Bank CEO/GM Ranjith November 2020. also were present at the signing of Kodituwakku, People’s Bank, Senior Deputy General Manager - Retail Banking K.B. Rajapakse Lanka QR is a initiative of the Central agreements. focus monday 9 november 2020 Ceylon ft b13 Addressing High Dropout Rates in F&B & E&E Subsectors

By Paneetha Ameresekere stakeholders need to promote digital instructors/lecturers attached to At present, course evaluations are (iv) manufacture of soft drinks, and skilling programmes and strengthen training institutes in consultation examination oriented and conducted production of mineral water and The dropout rates (i.e., the core competencies of workers with the industry; provide industry by training institutes. Periodic tracer other bottled waters. percentage of students who do not particularly for low-skilled experience and exposure to trainees, studies of graduates in the F&B and The estimated number of industrial complete the course out of the total occupations,” the ADB further particularly young women, who follow E&E subsectors must be embedded in establishments in the F&B subsector number enrolled) are 51% (in the recommended. Technological training courses offered by the course evaluation mechanisms, the is around 5,073. Its export intensity Food & Beverage (F&B) subsector and developments are likely to influence training institutes. ADB report said. (the ratio of aggregated export sales to in the technical and vocational the task of different occupations and Develop occupation-specific short “Address the issue of long delays in total firm sales-(Aggregated export education and training (TVET) sector training providers need to make and medium scale OJT courses and issuing NVQ certificates; encourage sales are defined as revenue and 61% (in the electrical equipment necessary adjustments in providing facilities in consultation with the greater employer participation in generated by the export of (E&E) (Energy Environment) occupation-specific technical skills, it industry. Developing the courses in training provision”, it added. For domestically produced goods and/or subsector respectively, as against the said. However, digitisation and modular formats and providing example, the Employment-Linked services provided by domestic offices)) TVET sector average of 31%, the Asian automation may affect the appropriate certificates recognising Training Purchasing model per employee is US$1.40 as against Development Bank (ADB) in a report employment and job-specific tasks of the skills gained will open up implemented by the Skills Sector US$22.10 per employee in the E&E released in February of this year, said. the workforce in the two subsectors. pathways to acquire higher levels of Development Programme is a possible subsector. However, this study discounts the “Nonetheless, due to the influence of skills; revise course evaluation mechanism through which both the The E&E subsector is relatively new impact of the COVID-19 pandemic scale economies, the effect of methodologies of E&E and F&B F&B and E&E subsectors can in manufacturing. It began as a which has been gripping the island technology and digitization would be related courses in consultation with introduce some new course service-oriented sector and gradually since March. mainly in the large-scale segment of the industry. programmes jointly with the transformed into a manufacturing “While successive policy regimes both subsectors which accounts for industry”, the ADB report said. industry. “This transformation is have recognised the need to reduce about only 30% of total employment”, Skills Councils directly linked with global value skills gaps in construction, tourism, the ADB report said. chains to which Sri Lanka is relatively light engineering and information and “But in the first place, the general Establishment of separate skills a new entrant. However, its communications technology, skills education standards in core subjects councils for the E&E and F&B competitiveness in the global market gaps in other sectors with the taught in the school system need subsectors will help promote public– would depend, among other factors, potential for export growth and urgent improvement, particularly in private consultation and cooperation on availability of labour with promising rates of labour absorption mathematics, science and English in skills development of the two necessary skills”, the ADB report said. such as the F&B and E&E subsectors Language”, the report said. This needs subsectors. This could be initiated by “There are an estimated 264 have received less attention,” the ADB to be addressed at the national level the Sri Lanka Electronics industrial establishments in the E&E further said. as the TVET sector cannot act as a Manufacturers and Exporters subsector involved primarily in the Therefore, the ADB recommended substitute for school education, the The ADB Association and the Sri Lanka Food manufacture of (i) electronic the authorities to conduct yearly ADB added. recommended the Processors Association. There is a components and boards; (ii) electric campaigns in schools to trigger Schools need to ensure adequate motors, generators, transformers, and interest in the E&E and F&B authorities to representation of women in these electricity distribution and control subsectors on employment potential “There is also a need to conduct conduct yearly councils. apparatus; (iii) communication and career development prospects. yearly campaigns in the Media and in Digitisation products; (iv) optical instruments and “Introduction of an industry– schools to create awareness among campaigns in photographic equipment;(v) other educational/training institution youth and young women on the Given that digitisation and electronic and electric wire and coordination exchange mechanism by potential of the E&E subsector and to schools to trigger automation will affect job-specific cables; (vi) wiring devices; (vii) organising short-term contracts for encourage them to study subjects interest in the tasks and employment, provide for batteries and accumulators;(viii) lecturers/instructors to serve as related to the subsector, it added. For digital skilling programmes and electric lighting equipment; and (ix) consultants or gain some knowledge young women, in particular, the E&E E&E and F&B embedding information and other electrical equipment”, the study on technological applications in the subsector provides good opportunities Information Communications said. E&E and F&B subsectors,” also a for decent work”, the ADB said. subsectors on Technology (ICT) as teaching and According to data from the Labour need, the ADB report said. “Also, there is a need to conduct employment learning tools within TVET courses in Force Survey 2016, the F&B The report further suggested the yearly campaigns in the Media and in the two subsectors, the ADB subsector employed 276,707 workers development of short- and medium- schools to generate interest, potential and recommended. in 2016. The E&E subsector, in term courses and on-the-job training particularly among girls, in the F&B For example, creating a mobile contrast, was much smaller, facilities through training providers, subsector on employment potential career platform to offer at least the theory employing 12,708 workers. The F&B focusing on skills identified as lacking and career development of the development part of E&E and F&B study subsector is at least 16 times as large through a skills gap assessment. processed F&B Subsector,” the report programmes online would be a useful as the E&E subsector in terms of total Among some of the other said. prospects. mechanism that can achieve several employment. recommendations made, included, The ADB further advised the need to training objectives. However, the E&E subsector “Revise course curricula of E&E and introduce an industry–educational/ “Introduction of This could be initiated by the employs a far larger share of workers F&B course programmes offered by training institution coordination an industry– Technical and Vocational Educational in the higher-level occupations of training providers in consultation exchange mechanism by organising Commission (TVEC), the report said. managers, professionals, and with the industry; conduct training- short-term contracts for lecturers/ educational/ technicians (36%) than the F&B of-trainers programme for E&E and instructors to serve as consultants or Long Identified subsector (11%). The shares of craft F&B subsector instructors jointly by gain some knowledge on technological training workers and elementary workers in the industry and the universities; applications in the E&E subsector institution The ADB further said that both the the FB subsector are also much provide industry experience and and for experienced managers to serve E&E and F&B subsectors have long higher, whereas in the E&E exposure to training instructors/ as short-term, visiting lecturers to coordination been identified as potential subsector, machine operators and lecturers attached to training share knowledge and practical exchange subsectors for growth and export technicians dominate. institutes in consultation with the experience. promotion in Sri Lanka. “The F&B Women account for nearly half of industry; provide industry experience Some of their other mechanism by subsector is an important subsector employment in the F&B subsector and exposure to trainees who follow recommendations were to develop in manufacturing which has benefited and only a little more than a third in training courses offered by training short- and medium-term courses and organising short- from both open and close economy the E&E subsector. And, in both institutes; provide occupation-specific On the Job Training (OJT) facilities term contracts policy regimes since the early 1970s”, subsectors, women have higher on-the-job training facilities to through training providers, focusing it said. employment shares in the lower- trainees enrolled in E&E and F&B on skills identified as lacking within for lecturers/ However, as a resource-based skilled occupations, whereas men’s related courses in consultation with the skills gap assessment; revise industry, the F&B subsector is less employment shares are much higher the industry; revise course evaluation course curriculum of the electronic instructors to oriented toward research and in the higher-skilled occupations. methodologies of E&E and F&B course programmes offered by serve as development-based, new product Meanwhile, workers in the F&B related courses in consultation with training providers in consultation development and exports, the report subsector tend to be older, with those the industry; establish separate skills with the industry; revise course consultants or said. Within the F&B subsector, key between 30 and 60 years of age councils for the E&E and F&B curriculum of F&B course gain some production activities include (i) accounting for a little more than two- subsectors; create a mobile platform programmes offered by training processing and preserving meat, fish, thirds of the workforce, while those to offer some course modules of E&E providers in consultation with the knowledge on crustaceans and mollusks, fruits, between the ages of 20 and 24 and F&B study programmes. industry. and vegetables; (ii) Growing vegetable account for only 7%. Diversify the programme mix of the Conduct Training-of-Trainers (ToT) technological and production of animal oils and In contrast, nearly 30% of workers F&B and E&E subsectors through the programme for E&E and F&B applications in fats, dairy products, grain mill in the E&E subsector are between 20 Employment-Linked Training subsectors instructors jointly by the products, starches and starch and 24 years of age, signalling that Purchasing model implemented by the industry and the universities. The the E&E and F&B products, bakery products, sugar, the subsector itself developed Skills Sector Development State run University of Vocational subsectors,” also cocoa, chocolate and sugar relatively recently and that young Programme; address the issue of long Technology is expected to carry this confectionery, macaroni, noodles, people may find this subsector delays in issuing National Vocational out in addition to its study a need couscous and similar farinaceous relatively attractive, the ADB said. Qualification (NVQ) certificates.” programmes; provide industry products; (iii) manufacture of (93% of Managers in F&B Lack “The Government and other experience and exposure to training prepared animal feeds; and Decision Making Skills-ADB) B14 Ceylon FT monday 9 november 2020 insight Tobacco Economics How Reduced Consumption Benefits

By Priyanka Jayawardena lWith the application of World Bank developed economics of On average, a tobacco-user tobacco methodology, the IPS household spends nearly Rs 2000 per study reveals a 20% reduction in month on tobacco, constituting 4% of tobacco expenditure will lead to the household budget. 30% net benefit to the economy Spending on tobacco can drive out through increased consumption of other critical expenditures, including non-tobacco goods and services. basic needs. This crowd-out effect The study assumed that the would be greatest for poor families, money released from tobacco affecting not only the smoker but the purchases is spent on non- rest of the family as well. Smoking, tobacco goods and services in therefore, is not only unhealthy but proportion to consumption costly. patterns of the survey. Thus, the “We feel guilty when our family IPS study offers compelling members complain about not having evidence that reduced tobacco sufficient money to buy food consumption will yield net provisions. If I had not wasted money positive gains for the Sri Lankan on cigarettes, we could have used economy, as evidenced in other that money for other needs.” – Male countries like Vietnam. driver at an IPS Focus Group Discussion in Colombo (November Way forward 2019). lThe findings of the IPS study Although Sri Lanka has made good IPS’ ongoing study on the ‘Impact household budget allocation is designed to reduce consumer highlight the importance of progress over the years, in reducing of Tobacco Control on National negatively affected by tobacco demand for tobacco products. tobacco control policies in Sri the prevalence of tobacco use to Income’, reveals that reduction of expenditures. This shift in demand can lead to Lanka. Implementing tobacco 28.4% of males above 15 years, tobacco products will have a positive Poor families in particular spend a reduced spending on tobacco control policies to reduce smoking further action is needed to target the rather than negative impact on larger proportion of their income on products and increased spending prevalence will enhance the ‘Last Mile’ of tobacco users. These national income. tobacco. Among the poor, tobacco-using on other goods and services. Thus, economic well-being of people, remaining smokers are concentrated Following the Economics of households allocate a significantly lower income loss in the industry related particularly the poor, as it would among over 40s, low income males. Tobacco Toolkit developed by World budget share to all commodity groups to tobacco can be countered with free up more resources for basic Targetted policies to reduce tobacco Bank, IPS research examined the (except for other expenses) than non- income gain in other industries, needs such as food and education, consumption among these groups impact of tobacco consumption tobacco user households. based on consumer non-tobacco thereby resulting in a positive gain would enhance the economic well- reduction on the national economy lTobacco user households spend an spending, due to money saved for the whole economy. This is very being of these tobacco-users and using national input-output tables even greater share of their budget from reduced tobacco expenditure. important information for policy- their families, who are more likely to developed by the Department of allocation for tobacco (4.0%) than lDespite the obvious threat of makers who are hesitant to be poor, as it would free up money for Census and Statistics (DCS). education (3.2%) and health (2.7%) tobacco to human health, many attempt to control the tobacco basic needs. The analysis involves following spending. governments have still not taken industry. In addition, tobacco users are at a three main steps: lAmong the bottom 20%, tobacco user significant action to control lFor a developing country like Sri much higher risk of falling sick and lEstimate the reduction in outputs households spend less on food, tobacco, partly due to concerns Lanka, it is essential to integrate dying prematurely due to tobacco- resulting from the fall in demand education, health and housing than about the undesirable tobacco control measures into related diseases such as cancer, for tobacco products. the same economic group – non- consequences on the national poverty alleviation policies and heart attacks, and respiratory lEstimate the increase in output tobacco using households. income. The fear of the possible programmes to benefit the diseases. Tobacco-related illness can from the increases in demand for lThis suggests that if tobacco users negative impact on national individual, the household and the cause severe financial strains – non-tobacco goods and services. were to stop smoking, they would income by reduced tobacco national economy. pushing families into poverty, by lCalculate the net change on output spend more money on their own and production is due to a lack of Priyanka Jayawardena is a depriving them of much-needed due to the change in final demand their family’s food, health and information. Research Economist at the income and imposing additional as the difference of the two. education. lThe IPS study reveals the net effect Labour, Employment and Human costs for healthcare in the long-run. of tobacco control policies on Resource Development research Beyond the household level, Impact of tobacco How might reduced national income is positive, as a unit at IPS. She holds a BSc (Hon) switching consumer spending from spending on the tobacco consumption result of consumers switching in Statistics and an MA in tobacco products to other goods and their spending from tobacco Economics from the University of services positively impacts the household budget affect national income? products to other goods and Colombo, Sri Lanka. national economy as well. The IPS study reveals intra- lTobacco control measures are services. (Talking Economics by IPS) sports monday 9 november 2020 A15 Chamari’s gutsy half century takes Supernovas into finals Chamari Athapaththu celebrates her half century

Chamari Athapaththu smashed a to 146 for 6.Supernovas scored 50/0 100 was reached in the 15th over. seventh after Shakera Selman struck to bring down the target to 24 runs quick-fire half-century as Supernovas in the powerplay. Chamari then took on Khatun in the twice. First, the right-arm pacer got from the last 12 balls. In the reached their third successive final The left-hander creamed two fours 16th, creaming a six and a four. Dottin out LBW and then bowled penultimate over, Deepti hit two fours with a narrow two-run win over off in the second over Trailblazers though managed to Richa Ghosh. and Trailblazers scored 14 runs. Trailblazers in a last-ball thriller of and followed it up with a six and a strike twice in the next two overs as Mandhana and Deepti Sharma With nine runs to defend, the Women's T20 Challenge on four in the off-spinner’s next over.The Supernovas lost Chamari (67) and added 35 runs,but Supernovas kept Harmanpreet handed the ball to Saturday. fifth over was bowled by Jhulan . things tight and the approach helped . The spinner conceded 6 After the final league game all three Goswami and 16 runs came off it, Harmanpreet went after Harleen to pick two quick . runs off the first four balls and then teams ended with two points each, with Athapaththu adding one more Deol in the penultimate over, hitting a got Mandhana and Radha Yadav had ended Harleen Deol’s 27-run blitz in but Supernovas (-0.054) and four and a six. four and a six as Supernovas moved Dayalan Hemalatha on the final ball the fifth. 4 runs were needed off the Trailblazers (+2.109) qualified due to Puniaand Athapaththu took the past 140. Trailblazers bowled a three- of the 15th over. final ball,but Radha kept her calm their superior net-rate than Velocity score to 80/0 after 10 overs before final over to limit the score to Trailblazers needed 56 runs from and gave away just a run. (-1.869) and will meet in Monday's Trailblazers got the breakthrough in 146/6. the last five when Deepti Sharma and Brief Scores: final. the 12th, as Deepti Sharma took a Trailblazers made a solid start in Harleen Deol joined hands. The two Supernovas: 146/6 (Athapaththu Athapaththu laid the foundation stunning catch off Salma Khatun to the chase as and took the score past hundred in the 67, Harmanpreet 31; Jhulan with an aggressive 47-ball 67 (5x4, dismiss Punia for 30. took their team to 16th over. Goswami 1/17) 4x6).Harmanpreet then played some In the next over, Athapaththu 43/0 after 6 overs. Nine came off the 17th over before Trailblazers: 144/5 (Sharma 43*, big shots (31 off 29) to take the team brought up a fine half-century and The partnership was broken in the Harleen hit two fours in the 18th over Mandhana 33; Radha Yadav 2/30)

Kavinda propels Chigumbura to retire from international cricket after Pakistan series Profile Siri PiyarathanaPlayer : KavindaIshwara to QF One of Zimbabwe cricket’s most further boosted his credentials - School : Siri Piyarathana MMV Padukka storied careers will draw to a close he had played a starring role with Born on : 2001.10.08Profile at the end of the current tour of the ball in an Under-19 World Pakistan, with Elton Chigumbura Cup win against them a few Player : KavindaIshwara announcing his retirement months earlier - and a couple of : Siri Piyarathana MMV Padukka SchoolBowling Style : RAOS following the T20I series, which decent innings in the Champions BornMatches on : 2001.10.08: 11 started today. The former Trophy in England cemented his BowlingInnings : 21 Zimbabwe captain, now 34, place in the team. BowlingRuns Style : RAOS: 830 played 213 ODIs for Zimbabwe, Zimbabwe, and Chigumbura, : 11 more than anyone apart from the may look back wistfully at a MatchesWickets : 76 Innings : 21 Flower brothers Andy and Grant, career where his never Ave : 10.92 Runs : 830 and scored 4289 runs. In quite moved up to the level his BBM : 7/56 against RevathaBalapitiya Wickets : 76 addition, he has played 54 T20Is talent may have warranted, but BBM : 11/69 against RevathaBalapitiya (before the series against he was always capable of big- Ave : 10.92 5w’s : Pakistan), scoring 852 runs at a hitting, which made him BBM : 7/56 against 7 (7/56 RevathaBalapitiya Vs RevathaBalapitiya, 7/98 Vs Lyceum Wattala, 5/42 Vs Royal Panadura, 5/37 Vs Tholangamuwa strike rate of 142.71. in 2004 after the exodus of an dangerous lower down the order. BBM : 11/69 against RevathaBalapitiya Once a medium-pace-bowling upheaval in Zimbabwe cricket, at He also played his part in some of Kavinda Ishwara Central, 6/45 Vs Christ King Ja Ela, 5/21 & 5/39 Vs St. 5w’s : 7 (7/56Mary’s Vs RevathaBalapitiya, Kegalle, 5/40 Vs Bandaranayake7/98 Vs Lyceum Gampaha)Wattala, allrounder who became a frontline the end of which a number of Zimbabwe’s most famous Kavinda Ishwara, right 5/42 Vs Royal Panadura, 5/37 Vs Tholangamuwa batsman in the latter stages of his rebels left the cricket set-up, and moments. An unbeaten 52 in a hand middle order 10w’s Central,: 3 (11/69 6/45 Vs Vs Christ RevathaBalapitiya, King Ja Ela, 5/21 10/117 & 5/39 Vs Vs Lyceum St. career, Chigumbura will be quickly established for himself a win over Australia was a batsman and right arm off Mary’sWattala, Kegalle, 10/69 5/40 Vs BandaranayakeSt. Mary’s Kegalle Gampaha)) remembered as Zimbabwe’s best permanent place in the middle highlight, as were back-to-back Batting spin bowler of Siri 10w’s : 3 (11/69 Vs RevathaBalapitiya, 10/117 Vs Lyceum power-hitter of his time. He made order. A 90-ball 77 against hundreds against Pakistan and Piyarathana MMV Batting Wattala, 10/69 Vs St. Mary’s Kegalle) his debut in international cricket Australia in just his sixth ODI India in 2015. Padukka, excelled for his Batting Style Batting: RHB school with his all-round BattingMatches : 11 performance in the ‘Singer BattingInnings Style : RHB: 18 Trophy’ Under-19 Division Two inter Schools Cricket MatchesNot Outs : 11 : 00 Wallabies edge All Blacks in thriller (Two day) tournament InningsRuns : 18 : 303 2019/20 season Not OutsAve : 00 : 16.83 Australia rebounded from conducted by Sri Lanka RunsHighest Score: 303: 35 against P. De S. KularathneAmbalangoda humiliation in Sydney to edge a Schools Cricket 24-22 thriller over New Zealand Ave Best All-round: 16.83 Performance : Vs St. Mary’s Kegalle 15 & 24, 5/21 & 5/39 Association. Highest Score : 35 against P. De S. KularathneAmbalangoda in Brisbane on Saturday, The skipper and fifth Best All-round Performance : Vs St. Mary’s Kegalle 15 & 24, 5/21 & 5/39 holding firm in a bruising Tri- year coloursman claimed Nations clash featuring a red 76 wickets with three10- card for both sides. wicket hauls and eight Having suffered a record 43-5 5-wicket hauls and scored Fared this Season thrashing to surrender the Batting Bowling over 300 runs. His best Fared this Season Bledisloe Cup to the All Blacks bowling performance in an a week ago, the Wallabies lifted Vs RevathaBalapitiya Batting14 Bowlin4/13g & 7/56 inning and best Vs Sri Sumangala Panadura 00 & 24 2/80 & 0/3 their work-rate at Lang Park to performance in a match Vs RevathaBalapitiya 14 4/13 & 7/56 salvage pride in the finale of the Vs Lyceum Wattala 00 & 27 3/19 & 7/98 was against Revatha Vs Sri Sumangala Panadura 00 & 24 2/80 & 0/3 teams' four-test series. College Balapitiya (7/49 Vs LyceumVs Royal Wattala Panadura 00 & 2711 & 153/19 &5/4 7/982 High tackles put both sides a and 11/69). Vs RoyalVs Tholangamuwa Panadura Central 11 & 1510 & 275/4 2 3/17 & 5/37 man down before the break, and Kavinda commenced his Vs TholangamuwaVs Sri Jayawardhanapura Central MV Kotte10 & 2734 & 003/17 &4/40 5/37 & 1/41 the All Blacks were reduced to career at under-13 level Vs Christ King Ja Ela 09 3/45 & 6/45 13 when lock Scott Barrett was Vs Sri Jayawardhanapura MV Kotte 34 & 00 4/40 & 1/41 Australia players celebrate after Taniela Tupou scored a try under coach Harischandra Vs ChristVs St. King Mary’s Ja Ela Kegalle 09 15 & 243/45 &5/21 6/45 & 5/39 handed a yellow card late in the Athukorala. He Vs St.Vs Mary’s Bandaranayake Kegalle Gampaha 15 & 2430 5/21 &3/42 5/39 & 5/40 second half. nine-point lead. All Blacks lock But Wallabies winger Marika represented the school The Wallabies' punished Tupou Vaa'i, a late replacement Koroibete laid two brilliant Vs BandaranayakeVs P. De S. KularathneAmbalangoda Gampaha 30 35 & 223/42 &4/35 5/40 & 1/47 under-13 team for three Barrett's transgression with on the bench after Patrick tackles in the dying seconds to Vs P. De S. KularathneAmbalangoda 35 & 22 4/35 & 1/47 seasons (2012/13/14). He Vs Piliyandala Central 06 3/67 prop Taniela Tupou diving over Tuipulotu was withdrawn, put turn the ball over and secure an had one 5-wicket in 2014 Vs Piliyandala Central 06 3/67 for a try five minutes from the his side within reach of a last- epic victory for prop James when he was the skipper. played in three big under-23 tournament in siren, and Hodge's conversion gasp victory when he crossed in Slipper's 100th test. He represented the matches against their arch 2020. gave the home side a precious the 79th minute. (Reuters) school under-15 team rival Royal College Horana. Siri Piyarathana MMV under coach Hiran He scored more than 800 Padukka advanced to the Gunawardhane in 2015 runs with seven fifties and quarter-final of the and 2016. He represented claimed 76 wickets with Division Two 2-day the Colombo District team four 5-wicket hauls and tournament and Limited Bimal Perera elected Messi at the double in the Prima Champions one 10-wicket haul in the Overs tournament, which Trophy Inter district 2018/2019 under-19 were postponed by SLSCA President NWPCA tournament and Western season. His best batting due to COVID-19 health Bimal Perera of Wennappuwa SC was against Betis Province Central team in performance was 84 runs concerns until further elected President of the North Western the Prima Champions against Royal College notice. Province Cricket Association (NWPCA) at Lionel Messi came off the lead the standings with 17. Trophy Inter province Panadura. His best He thanks Principal of their AGM held at the Ruvisha Beach Hotel in bench to score twice and lead Barca's captain was tournament conducted by bowling performance in the school, Nihal Kochchikade recently. Tyron Wijewardhane, Barcelona to a 5-2 home surprisingly left out of the in 2015 an inning was 8 for 113 Pathmasiri, master-in- Manager Umpires of Sri Lanka Cricket, victory over Real Betis on starting lineup by coach and 2016. runs against St. John’s charge, Sham Thushara, participated as an observer. Saturday, snapping a four- Ronald Koeman, who later He represented the College Jaffna, and best his first coach President: Bimal Perera (Wennappuwa game winless streak in La explained that Messi was school under-17 team in bowling performance in a Harischandra Athukorala, SC) Liga for the Catalans. feeling a little discomfort after 2017 and 2018. The match 10 for 64 runs Hiran Gunawardhane Secretary: Krishantha Kapuwatta Antoine Griezmann, Pedri the 2-1 win over Dynamo school was runner-up of against Dudley (under-15 to under-19) (Kurunegala SC) and Ousmane Dembele also Kyiv in mid-week and had Division Two in 2017 Senanayake Central and current coach Treasurer: Lakmal Rathnayake scored for Barca, while agreed to start on the bench. under his captaincy. He College Padukka. Shammi Hettiarachchi, (Kurunegala SC) Antonio Sanabria and Loren Koeman's side played well scored 620 runs with He represented OBA, academic and non- Vice Presidents: Godeffry Dabarera Moron replied for Betis, who in the first half without seven fifties and claimed Hettipola SC, who were academic staff members, (Chilaw Marians CC), Mohammed Siddiq had Aissa Mandi sent off on Messi, but missed a slew of 24 wickets during this the runners-up in the district coaches, (Kurunegala DCA) the hour-mark. clear opportunities and found season. Division Two inter club Jeewantha Kulatunge, Asst. Secretary: Sunil Karunajeewa Barca's first league victory themselves drawing 1-1 when He represented the tournament conducted by Shammi Gunasekara, (Kurunegala DCA) since beating Celta Vigo on 1 Sanabria cancelled out school 1st XI team as a Sri Lanka Cricket in 2017. students, his team-mates, Asst Treasurer: Mohan Wickramasinghe Oct. took them into eighth in Dembele's superb opening fresher during the He represented Nugegoda their parents and his (Chilaw Marians CC) (IR) the table with 11 points from strike on the stroke of 2015/2016 season. He S & WC in the SLC Major family members. (IR) seven games. Real Sociedad halftime. (Reuters) A16 Monday 9 November 2020 Sports -fine SL player to invest in T20 Cricket – Russel Arnold

By Mustaq Sydeen

Former Sri Lanka all-rounder and commentator Russel Arnold believes that Sri Lanka’s opening batsman Avishka Fernando is worth investing in, to be extraordinary in T20 cricket.He revealed this during a live Youtube session with India’s Ravichandran Mahmudullah tests Ashwin. Replying to a query about lack of Sri Lanka player representation in the IPL and who could be a value positive for COVID-19 buy for IPL 2021 he said: “I think Sri Lanka’s opening young batsman Avishka Fernando is worth investing Will miss PSL in,to be extraordinary in T20 Cricket. For now, I’m seeing signs; he plays with flare and confidence.” Mahmudullah has become family’s well-being. Avishka Fernando’s scintillating counter attacking the latest Bangladesh It is disappointing to miss knocks in his debut World Cup (2019) outing proved cricketer to test positive for the chance to play in the PSL. his capabilities and showed that Sri Lanka can still do Covid-19, which rules him It is a competitive wonders at any moment. out of the PSL playoffs tournament. It was a good After a successful debut World Cup campaign, starting 14 November. The opportunity to play a couple Avishka was a regular member of the national Multan Sultans had roped in of matches. I am now looking team,and once again proved his capabilities with some Mahmudullah in place of forward to getting well soon classy knocks against many leading teams. Moeen Ali, and he was and try to participate in our Earlier, Sri Lankan great Mahela Jayawardena also supposed to leave Dhaka on 9 Bangabandhu T20 Cup. said Avishka Fernando can be the ‘spark’ to reignite November. Mahmudullah has been in Sri Lanka, after the youngster notched up his maiden Mahmudullah, all of BCB›s camps since one-day international ton against the West Bangladesh’s T20I captain, September and has also been Indies during the World Cup. said that he got tested twice training individually. His Avishka will be back in action in competitive to be sure, but after two team won the BCB cricket after a long layoff due to COVID-19, positive results, he has President›s Cup last month. when he takes the field for in isolated himself in a separate Yesterday, he was named in the upcoming . room in his house. Grade ‘A’ of the players’ Avishka will be playing alongside Pakistan’s “I was surprised with a draft for this month’s , Usman Shinwari and many positive result from my Bangabandhu T20 Cup” more top players. COVID test on 6 November,» tournament. Previously, Abu Meanwhile, Russel Arnold also commented on Mahmudullah told Jayed, Saif Hassan and Royal Challengers Bangalore’s Isuru Udana, the ESPNcricinfo. I didn›t have Mashrafe Mortaza had tested only Sri Lanka to be part of this year’s IPL, who fever or any other symptoms positive and recovered. A few ended the campaign with eight wickets in 10 other than a bit of cold. cricketers and coaching staff matches. “I think he (IsuruUdana) performed Nothing more than that. I got from the Under-19 camp had well.In tough conditions and situations, he tested for a second time also tested positive last responded well to RCB’s requirement. Isuru yesterday, and that also came month. Udana is an experienced player. From 2009 out as positive. I am now According to the official T20 World Cup he has been in and out of taking rest in a separate figures, there have been the team. Last 2-3 years he has shown a lot of maturity. room. I am a little worried 418,764 Covid-19 cases in He has variety unlike other bowlers; no extra pace, but about my wife and kids. I am Bangladesh, with over 6000 he is clever and useful.” seeking everyones prayers for deaths. Avishka Fernando quick recovery and for my (ESPNcricinfo)

Mir cruises to European GP victory Suzuki’s Joan Mir edged out team mate Alex Rins to claim his maiden MotoGP victory at the European Grand Prix in Valencia on Sunday, extending his lead at the top of the world championship standings. Starting fifth on the grid, Mir moved up to second inside the opening three laps before overhauling Rins with 11 laps remaining at Ricardo Tormo Circuit. Mir absorbed the pressure from Rins to become the ninth different winner of the Anjelo Mathews Kusal Perera 2020 premier class season, while pole-sitter Pol Espargaro took the final podium spot on his KTM. SLC releases After getting on the podium in five of the previous six races, Mir’s victory has made him a heavy favourite to become world champion and end Marc Marquez’s four-year re-scheduled LPL fixtures reign. “I feel super happy. This is what I was The new schedule for the Lanka Premier League The Health Ministry finally gave its approval missing and it comes at the perfect moment,” (LPL) 2020 was announced on Sunday, with only on 5 November following multiple meetings Mir, 23, said. “The team did an unbelievable Colombo and Kandy meeting in the opener. All with relevant officials. The LPL will be held under job this weekend and I felt really good with Joan Mir celebrates with the trophy matches will take place at the Mahinda Rajapaksa strict health guidelines and under a bio-secure the bike.” on the podium International Cricket Stadium in Hambantota bubble. Petronas Yamaha’s Fabio Quartararo from 26 November. The semi-finals will be on 13 The South Africa tour would be the first started 14 points behind Mir in the title race, mechanical failure in his factory Yamaha and 14 December, with the final taking place on international trip for Sri Lanka after a months- but the Frenchman went down on the bike. the 16th. long lockdown halted professional sports opening lap along with Aprillia’s Aleix His team mate Maverick Vinales, forced to The competition had already been delayed three worldwide. Espargaro. start from the pitlane after Yamaha exceeded times and the number of venues cut from three to The first Test against the Proteas, part of the Quartararo, the only rider to win three his engine allocation, finished a one because of the coronavirus pandemic. It will ICC World Test Championship series, starts on 26 races this season, was able to remount and disappointing 13th to drop down to fourth in conclude on 16 December, two days before the December. The second Test will be held from 3 finish 14th, but his title hopes are all but the title standings. national squad flies to South Africa for two Tests. January. over, with the gap to Mir now 37 points. The championship continues in Valencia Italian great Valentino Rossi, who missed next weekend and another podium finish for DATE 3.30 P.M. 7.30 P.M. VEBUE the last two rounds due to a positive COVID- Mir would see him crowned world champion. th 19 test, pulled out on lap five due to a (Reuters) 26 November 2020 Opening Ceremony Colombo Kandy MRICS Hambantota 27th November 2020 Jaffna Galle MRICS Hambantota 28th November 2020 Kandy Dambulla Galle Colombo MRICS Hambantota 29th November 2020 Rest & Practice MRICS Hambantota 30th November 2020 Dambulla Jaffna Kandy Galle MRICS Hambantota Pakistan bag series 1st December 2020 Colombo Dambulla Jaffna Kandy MRICS Hambantota nd Zimbabwe lost the second T20I by eight score past 130. 2 December 2020 Rest & Practice MRICS Hambantota wickets and handed Pakistan the three- could have taken his time 3rd December 2020 Galle Jaffna Dambulla Kandy MRICS Hambantota match series 2-0. and Usman to settle in but perished in the third over th Qadir bagged three wickets each to keep after a series of dot balls. He gave Blessing 4 December 2020 Colombo Jaffna MRICS Hambantota Zimbabwe to 135. Muzarabani his first wicket.Muzarabani was 5th December 2020 Dambulla Galle Kandy Colombo MRICS Hambantota Rauf dismissed Brendan Taylor in the easily dispatched for a six by Ali two balls th second over and then Chamu Chibhabha in later. None of the Zimbabwe bowlers had any 6 December 2020 Rest & Practice MRICS Hambantota the fourth over. In between the two wickets, answers as Ali and Babar scored 100 to shut 7th December 2020 Colombo Galle Jaffna Dambulla MRICS Hambantota Zimbabwe had struck five boundaries to the door on the visitors. th make good progress. Faheem Ashraf Babar struck four fours in his first ten 8 December 2020 Rest & Practice MRICS Hambantota dismissed Sean Williams in the fifth over as deliveries to get a brisk start and never really 9th December 2020 Kandy Jaffna Galle Dambulla MRICS Hambantota the visitors ended the powerplay with 45 on looked back. Ali brought up his half-century th the board. first - with a six against Raza - while Babar 10 December 2020 Jaffna Colombo Galle Kandy MRICS Hambantota Qadir was introduced into the attack in the got to the landmark with a boundary. 11th December 2020 Dambulla Colombo MRICS Hambantota eighth over and was hit for a six on the first Muzarabani did manage to make another th ball and five dots after that to settle in. In his breakthrough as he dismissed Babar for 51 12 December 2020 Rest & Practice MRICS Hambantota second over, Qadir dismissed Sikandar Raza off 28, but Pakistan needed just 25 by then. 13th December 2020 Semi-Final 1 MRICS Hambantota and two balls later Madhevere. In three balls, Brief scores: th the legspinner landed the knockout punch as Zimbabwe: 134/7 (20) (Qadir 3-23, Rauf 14 December 2020 Semi-Final 2 MRICS Hambantota Zimbabwe could never really recover from the 3-31) 15th December 2020 Rest & Practice MRICS Hambantota two blows. Ryan Burl (32), Elton Chigumbura Pakistan: 137/2 (15.1) (Haider Ali 66*, th (18) and Donald Tiripano (15) pushed the Babar Azam 51; Muzarabani 2-33) 16 December 2020 Final MRICS Hambantota

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