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Arjuna Ranawana CAREER HISTORY Ceylon Newspapers Pvt, Ltd 2016 Current Director Editorial Supervising Editors of CeylonToday Daily and Sunday Newspapers Canadian Broadcasting Corporation 2015 - 2016 Producer Province of Alberta Supervise and assign staff producing content for Web, Social Media, Radio and TV Rogers Broadcasting Ltd 2008 - 2015 News Manager Omni Television Toronto, Ontario 2013 - 2015 Edmonton, Alberta 2008 - 2013 Sri Lanka College of Journalism – Colombo Sri Lanka 2007 - 2008 Director Maharaja Broadcasting Ltd – Colombo Sri Lanka 2006 Director News Rogers Broadcasting Ltd – Toronto ON, Canada 2003 - 2006 Anchor/Coordinator, Omni News South Asian Edition Toronto Star Newspaper – Toronto ON 2003 Copy Editor Copy-edited news stories on the Universal Desk Ceylon Daily News – Colombo Sri Lanka 2002 - 2003 Editor in Chief Asiaweek Magazine, a Time-Warner Company 1989 - 2001 Staff Correspondent
English
Sinhala
Portfolio
Bangladesh a surprising economic success
Bangladesh has experienced the fastest and most stable GDP growth among developing countries over the last three decades, transitioning from a low-income nation to one of the top 40 global economies. With a per capita income now over USD 2000 and a significant reduction in poverty rates, Bangladesh is predicted to graduate from Least Developed Country status by 2026. The country's economic success was attributed to government facilitation, garment exports, remittances, and significant economic liberalization. The webinar organized by the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom South Asia highlighted the need for further liberalization and diversification of income sources. Non-Governmental Organizations have also played a crucial role in societal improvements, including education and health. The country faces future challenges as it may lose special tariff rates with increased national income and needs to compete in global markets. The webinar also addressed the need for more women-friendly infrastructure to increase female workforce participation.
Sri Lanka stocks close up, turnover tops 1bn
The Colombo Stock Exchange saw an increase with the All Share Index closing up 0.06 percent. High turnover was driven by trades in John Keells Holdings and Expolanka Holdings. The tourism industry faces criticism over a controversial minimum room rate scheme, which travel agents argue is anti-competitive and could be illegal in other markets. The scheme is said to benefit a cartel of run-down hotels at the expense of newer, more competitive properties. The Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority has been criticized for not lifting the price control as promised. Additionally, the State Minister of Indigenous Medicine, Sisira Jayakody, has announced plans to integrate Ayurvedic medicine into the tourism industry with the establishment of 'Body Mantra' massage centres.
Sri Lanka navy holds blazing supertanker off east coast
Sri Lanka's navy is managing an abandoned supertanker, New Diamond, off its east coast after a fire broke out in the engine room and spread to the bridge. The vessel, carrying about 2 million barrels of oil, is being held 40 km from the shore to prevent potential oil spill damage. The fire, now under control, was contained with the help of the Indian and Russian navies. The ship, chartered by Indian Oil Corp, was en route from Kuwait to India's Paradip port.
Sri Lanka says has 'better control' over new fire in oil tanker
Sri Lanka has gained better control over a new fire on the oil tanker New Diamond, which had previously caught fire last Thursday. The tanker, chartered by Indian Oil Corp, was carrying 2 million barrels of oil from Kuwait. The fire reignited on Monday but is now being managed more effectively. Sri Lanka's Marine Environment Protection Authority is assessing potential environmental damage, with teams examining both the ocean and coastal areas for signs of pollution.
Sri Lanka service sector sees out migration
Sri Lanka is experiencing a decline in service sector employment due to increased migration, economic downturn, and demand contraction following a severe currency crisis. The Purchasing Manager’s Index for November indicates a continued fall in employment, driven by resignations, migrations, and retirements. Despite a slight improvement due to a rise in tourism, business activities in wholesale and retail trade have declined. Migration is attributed to low economic and political stability, low salaries, and high inflation. The construction sector is particularly affected, with younger professionals leaving the country. Businesses are struggling to retain talent as real wages collapse. The central bank has repaid significant debt to the Reserve Bank of India, but economic challenges persist.
Sri Lanka’s privatized cattle farm an example to follow: President
Sri Lanka's Ambewela farms have shown significant progress since privatization, with President Ranil Wickremesinghe praising its achievements and suggesting the allocation of 30 acres of unused land for fodder cultivation. The farm, part of Lanka Milk Foods, has advanced technologically and increased milk production substantially. The President also recommended opening the farm for university research activities. The farm now houses 4,500 cows and produces 40,000 liters of milk daily, a significant increase from its state-owned days. The farm's success is attributed to scientific advancements and better cattle breeds.
Wickremesinghe is protecting the Rajapaksa clan in Sri Lanka
Wickremesinghe, the current head of state in Sri Lanka, is accused of protecting the Rajapaksa family, who are blamed for the country's economic crisis. Despite protests forcing Gotabaya Rajapaksa to resign, Wickremesinghe has facilitated his return and provided him with a luxurious lifestyle. The new president is also accused of shielding the Rajapaksas from legal prosecution and preventing new elections to maintain the parliamentary majority of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP).
Sri Lanka’s reform agenda is intimidating
Sri Lanka's debt crisis, exacerbated by poor governance and economic decisions, has led to severe shortages and increased poverty. Despite some improvements since Gotabaya Rajapaksa's ousting, challenges persist, with high military spending and loss-making state enterprises. The IMF's conditional aid and the need for debt restructuring signal a tough road ahead for reforms. The Centre for Policy Alternatives and Advocata highlight the need for a governance paradigm shift and express concerns over the slow progress in implementing necessary reforms.
Sri Lanka’s new president is well known, but not popular
Sri Lanka is facing a severe economic crisis, with widespread mismanagement leading to a default on international debt and rising prices. The Rajapaksa family, long dominant in Sri Lankan politics, has lost its grip on power amid mass protests. Gotabaya Rajapaksa fled and resigned, while his brother Mahinda also stepped down. Ranil Wickremesinghe, seen as an ally of the Rajapaksas, has become president but lacks popular support. The country is grappling with the aftermath of costly vanity projects and poor governance, with opposition parties and civil society demanding significant political reforms.
Anti-Covid potion draws tens of thousands in Kegalle as danger looms
Tens of thousands gathered at a temple in Kegalle, Sri Lanka, to receive a potion claimed to provide lifetime immunity from COVID-19, promoted by Shaman Dhammika Bandara. Despite endorsements from several ministers, the potion's efficacy remains unproven and poses a societal risk as people may neglect safety measures. The World Health Organisation and local health experts stress the need for rigorous clinical trials. The Ministry of Health has appointed an expert panel to investigate the potion's claims.
Backlog of PCR test results hampering the fight against Covid – officials
Sri Lanka is facing a significant backlog in PCR testing, causing extended stays in quarantine centers and hindering officials' ability to make informed decisions on lockdowns and curfews. The National Operations Centre for Prevention of COVID-19 Outbreak (NOCPCO) is in discussions with the Health Department to address the lack of data on patient numbers and disease spread. Ravi Kumudesh of the Sri Lanka Association of Government Medical Laboratory Technologists criticized the Health Ministry for not planning for a second wave. A state-of-the-art laboratory in Mulleriyawa is malfunctioning, further reducing testing capacity. Returnees from the UK, including Dr Tush Wickremanayake, are facing delays in their quarantine release due to pending PCR test results.
Sri Lankan Navy Tows Stricken Tanker Away From Coast, Indian Plane Sprays Trailing Slick
The Sri Lankan navy towed the Greek-owned New Diamond tanker, which suffered a fire in its engine room, away from Sri Lanka's east coast to prevent an environmental disaster. An Indian Coast Guard plane sprayed chemical dispersants on the oil slick trailing from the tanker. The tanker, carrying 2 million barrels of crude oil, is owned by Porto Emporios Shipping Inc. and managed by New Shipping Ltd. Sri Lanka's MEPA is considering legal action against the owner for marine ecosystem damage and is monitoring the impact on marine life, including turtles.
Fresh fire hits stricken oil supertanker off Sri Lanka
Firefighters are battling renewed flames aboard the MT New Diamond Supertanker off Sri Lanka, with the fire now in the funnel section but not reaching the 2 million barrel oil cargo. The fire, which started in the engine room and spread to the bridge, was initially doused on Sunday. High winds reignited the flames, and tugboats are keeping the vessel cool and in position about 58 km east of Sangaman point. The Sri Lanka Navy is involved, and salvage operations are expected to begin soon, with the ship only allowed to move out of Sri Lankan waters with permission.
Fresh fire hits stricken oil supertanker off Sri Lanka
Firefighters are battling renewed flames aboard the MT New Diamond Supertanker off Sri Lanka, with the fire now in the funnel section but not reaching the oil cargo. The fire, which started in the engine room and spread to the bridge, was initially doused on Sunday. High winds reignited the flames, and tugboats are keeping the vessel cool and in position about 58 km east of Sangaman point. Salvage operations are expected to begin soon, with the ship only allowed to move out of Sri Lankan waters with permission.
Fire Breaks Out Again on Stricken Supertanker Offshore Sri Lanka
A fire has reignited on the MT New Diamond Supertanker off the coast of Sri Lanka, with firefighters using foam to contain the blaze in the funnel section. The fire, which initially started last Thursday in the engine room and spread to the bridge, had been previously extinguished on Sunday. The supertanker, carrying around 2 million barrels of oil, is being kept cool by water sprayed from tugboats, as it remains adrift 30 nautical miles east of Sangaman point. The Sri Lanka Navy is involved in the firefighting efforts, and salvage operations are expected to begin soon, with the ship only allowed to move out of Sri Lankan waters with permission.
Fresh fire hits stricken New Diamond Supertanker off Sri Lanka
Firefighters are battling renewed flames on the New Diamond Supertanker off Sri Lanka, four days after the initial fire was extinguished. The fire, which has not reached the oil cargo, reignited due to high winds. The Sri Lankan Navy, using foam and water, is working to contain the blaze. The supertanker, chartered by Indian Oil Corp, remains adrift and is being held in position by tugboats. Salvage operations are set to begin, with the ship's movement subject to Sri Lankan permission.
Sri Lanka navy holds blazing supertanker off east coast
An abandoned supertanker, the New Diamond, is being held off Sri Lanka's east coast by the navy as efforts continue to extinguish a fire that started in the engine room and spread to the bridge. The vessel, carrying approximately 2 million barrels of oil, was chartered by Indian Oil Corp and was en route from Kuwait to India. The fire, which involved the Indian and Russian navies in the rescue and salvage operation, was brought under control before reaching the cargo area. The navy is keeping the ship at a distance from the shore to prevent potential oil spill damage to the coastline.
Sri Lanka navy holds blazing supertanker off east coast
An abandoned supertanker, the New Diamond, is being held off Sri Lanka's east coast by the navy as efforts continue to extinguish a fire that started in the engine room and spread to the bridge. The vessel, carrying approximately 2 million barrels of oil, was prevented from experiencing a cargo area fire due to a joint rescue and salvage operation involving the Indian and Russian navies. The ship, chartered by Indian Oil Corp and loaded with Kuwait Export Crude, was en route to Paradip, India. The navy has mitigated the risk of an oil spill and is maintaining a safe distance from the shore.
No real risk of spill in Indian Ocean from New Diamond supertanker that caught fire, Sri Lankan navy says
A fire on the New Diamond supertanker off Sri Lanka's east coast has been contained, with no immediate risk of an oil spill, according to the Sri Lankan navy. The vessel, carrying about 2 million barrels of oil, caught fire in its engine room, but the flames have been controlled. The ship is being towed away from the coast with assistance from the Sri Lankan, Russian, and Indian navies. One crew member is presumed dead, and the rest have been rescued. Authorities have modeled the impact of a potential spill, which would be catastrophic for marine life, though the current situation poses no immediate threat.
Sri Lanka navy says no real risk of spill on stricken supertanker
A fully loaded supertanker, New Diamond, caught fire off the east coast of Sri Lanka, but the Sri Lankan navy has stated there is no real risk of an oil spill as the fire has been contained. The vessel, carrying about 2 million barrels of oil, is being towed away from the coast with assistance from the Russian and Indian navies. One crew member is presumed dead, and the rest have been rescued. The Marine Environment Protection Authority warns of a potential environmental disaster if a spill occurs.
Sri Lanka navy says no real risk of spill on stricken supertanker
A fire on the New Diamond supertanker off Sri Lanka's east coast has been contained, with no immediate risk of an oil spill, according to the Sri Lankan navy. The vessel, carrying about 2 million barrels of oil, caught fire in the engine room, but the flames have been controlled. The Sri Lankan navy, along with Russian and Indian naval assistance, is towing the ship away from the coast. One crew member is presumed dead, and the rest have been rescued. Environmental authorities warn of a potential disaster if a spill occurs.
Sri Lanka Oil Tanker Fire breaks out again ship abandoned Indian and Russian ships join rescue
A fire aboard the crude oil carrier MT New Diamond, located 38 kilometers off Sri Lanka's eastern coast, has reignited, reaching the ship's bridge. The Sri Lanka Navy, along with Russian and Indian naval forces, is engaged in rescue operations. The ship has been abandoned, with most crew members rescued, though one remains missing. Concerns are mounting over a potential oil spill, which could have catastrophic environmental consequences. The Marine Environmental Protection Authority (MEPA) is coordinating with regional and international bodies to prepare for a possible leakage of the ship's 2.7 million tons of crude oil.
Blaze breaks out again on oil tanker off Sri Lanka, cargo area intact
A new fire erupted on the supertanker New Diamond, carrying about 2 million barrels of oil, off the east coast of Sri Lanka. The fire spread to the bridge but did not damage the cargo area. One crew member is missing, and another is injured. The Sri Lankan Navy, along with Russian and Indian ships, is working to control the blaze and prevent an oil spill. The tanker, chartered by Indian Oil Corp, was en route from Kuwait to India. The incident follows a recent environmental emergency in Mauritius due to an oil spill from a Japanese vessel.
Blaze breaks out again on oil tanker off Sri Lanka, cargo area intact
A new fire erupted on the supertanker New Diamond, carrying about 2 million barrels of oil, off the east coast of Sri Lanka. The fire spread to the bridge but did not damage the cargo area. One crew member is missing, and another is injured. The Sri Lankan Navy, along with Russian and Indian ships, is involved in firefighting and rescue operations. The tanker, chartered by Indian Oil Corp, was en route from Kuwait to India. Authorities are working to prevent an oil spill, which could lead to an environmental disaster. The incident follows a recent oil spill in Mauritius, raising concerns about maritime safety and environmental protection.
Sri Lanka’s famous Parliamentary pugilists are returned by the voters
Sri Lanka's parliamentary elections saw the return of several MPs known for their involvement in brawls, despite public disapproval of their previous conduct. Notable figures such as Prasanna Ranaweera and Johnston Fernando, who were involved in violent incidents in the parliament, were re-elected. The elections also marked the first time a death row inmate, Premalal Jayasekara, and a former militant leader, Sivanesathurai Chandrakanthan, known as 'Pillayan', were elected as MPs. The government secured a two-thirds majority, and the results reflect a continued presence of criminal elements in politics, despite a desire for clean governance expressed in the 2015 elections.
Sri Lanka president, brother tighten grip with big election win
Sri Lanka's parliamentary elections granted President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and his brother Mahinda Rajapaksa a significant majority, enabling them to enact constitutional changes that could centralize executive power. The ruling party secured 150 seats in the 225-member parliament, allowing Mahinda Rajapaksa to become prime minister. The Rajapaksa brothers' popularity has surged among the Sinhalese majority following the 2019 Easter Sunday attacks and their role in ending the Tamil insurgency. Analysts warn that the concentration of power may lead to authoritarianism, while the country faces economic challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Relations with India and China are also highlighted, with potential geopolitical implications.
Sri Lanka president, brother tighten grip with big election win
Sri Lanka's parliamentary elections have given President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and his brother Mahinda Rajapaksa an overwhelming majority, enabling them to enact significant constitutional changes. The ruling party secured 150 seats, allowing for the restoration of full executive powers to the presidency. This move has raised concerns about potential authoritarianism. The Rajapaksa brothers' popularity has surged among the Sinhalese majority, partly due to their role in ending the Tamil separatist conflict. The country's economy, already weakened by last year's Easter Sunday attacks, faces further challenges due to COVID-19. Relations with India and China are also highlighted, with India keen to counter Chinese influence in the region.
Sri Lankan president's party ahead in election vote count
Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa's ruling party, the Sri Lanka Podujana Party (SLPP), took an early lead in the parliamentary election vote count, aiming to secure a two-thirds majority to restore full executive powers to the presidency. The SLPP led in nine out of 13 electoral districts, with the final tally expected by midnight. The Rajapaksa brothers, known for their role in ending the Tamil Tiger rebellion, are poised to strengthen their political influence, with Gotabaya seeking to appoint his brother Mahinda as the next prime minister. The election saw a high voter turnout despite COVID-19 concerns, reflecting the public's engagement in shaping the nation's political future.
Sri Lankans shrug off coronavirus concerns to vote in parliamentary election
Sri Lankans voted in a parliamentary election amid coronavirus concerns, with President Gotabaya Rajapaksa seeking a two-thirds majority to enhance presidential powers for his economic and national security agenda. The election saw high voter turnout with safety measures in place. The Rajapaksa brothers, known for their nationalist stance and ending the Tamil separatist insurgency, aim to consolidate power, while the opposition warns of potential autocracy.
Sri Lankans vote for new parliament, shrugging off coronavirus fear
Sri Lankans voted in parliamentary elections amid the COVID-19 pandemic, with President Gotabaya Rajapaksa seeking a two-thirds majority to enhance presidential powers for his economic and national security agenda. The election saw high voter turnout with safety measures in place. The Rajapaksa brothers, known for their nationalist stance and ending the civil war, aim to consolidate power, while the opposition warns of potential autocracy. Results are expected soon.
Sri Lanka goes to the polls as coronavirus risk recedes
Sri Lankans are set to elect a new parliament with President Gotabaya Rajapaksa's party expected to win. The election aims for a two-thirds majority to amend the constitution and increase presidential powers. Strict safety measures are in place for voting amid the pandemic. The opposition warns against expanding presidential powers. Results are expected after votes are counted on Thursday.
Sri Lankans vote for new parliament, shrugging off coronavirus fear
Sri Lankans voted in a new parliament amidst the coronavirus pandemic, with President Gotabaya Rajapaksa seeking a two-thirds majority to pass constitutional reforms to strengthen the presidency. The election saw a high turnout with safety measures in place. Rajapaksa aims to implement his economic and national security agenda and hopes to appoint his brother, Mahinda Rajapaksa, as prime minister. The opposition warns against the risk of autocracy with increased presidential powers.
Opinion: Sri Lanka ruling party is ahead with 12 days to go for Parliamentary polls
Sri Lanka's ruling party, Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), is leading the race as the Parliamentary General Election campaign nears its end. Despite challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and economic issues, the SLPP is expected to secure a stable majority. The main opposition parties, Samagi Jana Balavegaya (SJB) and United National Party (UNP), are trailing behind. The SLPP's campaign has faced criticism over its handling of the pandemic and other controversies, but it remains well-organized and supported. The final election results are anticipated to reflect a significant lead for the SLPP.
Residents complain SLPP activists accompanied by police collecting personal data?
Questions are raised over a door-to-door survey conducted by police in Colombo and its suburbs, where personal data is being collected by officers accompanied by unidentified civilians. Deputy Inspector General of Police Deshabandu Tennakoon claims the survey aims to identify temporary residents for national security purposes. However, residents, including Padmasena Dissanayake, report that known activists of the ruling Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna are involved in data collection, raising concerns about political misuse. Complaints have been made to the National Police Commission to stop political activists from gathering confidential information.
Petitions challenge President’s refusal to reconvene Parliament and new elections date
A five-judge bench of the Supreme Court of Sri Lanka will examine several Fundamental Rights petitions challenging the Parliamentary General Elections date set for June 20 and the President's refusal to reconvene the recently dissolved Parliament. The petitions seek to address a potential Constitutional Crisis and question the validity of the election date. Chief Justice Jayantha Jayasuriya appointed Justices Buwaneka Aluwihare, Sisira de Abrew, Priyantha Jayawardena, and Vijith K Malalgoda to the bench. Petitioners include Attorney Charitha Guneratne, journalist Victor Ivan, and representatives from the Centre for Policy Alternatives, Samagi Jana Balavegaya, and the Sri Lanka Muslim Congress. The petitions argue that the election date violates the Constitution, as the new Parliament should have been reconvened by June 2, and raise concerns about conducting free and fair elections during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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