Sri Lanka Original Narrative Summary: 27/02

  1. A hotline (1908) and digital application form (www.tinyurl.com/urumaya) have been launched under the “Urumaya” program for individuals to secure freehold land rights: The initiative, part of the 2024 budget, aims to grant unconditional ownership to farmers and low-income earners, promoting fair land ownership and economic empowerment.
  2. The Samagi Jana Balawegaya initiated a vote of no confidence against Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena: The motion accuses the Speaker of various charges, including mishandling the Online Safety Bill amendments from the Supreme Court and violating parliamentary procedures: Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa and other prominent figures have signed the motion on behalf of the party.
  3. NPP Executive member, former MP Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa says although the demands made by the health sector trade unions regarding a pay rise are fair, his party does not approve of long-term strike actions at this moment: stresses such strike actions affect the public: adds there is a reasonable doubt whether a political motive to clash trade unions against one another is in the works.
  4. President Ranil Wickremesinghe orders an investigation into a circular asking overstaying Russian and Ukrainian tourists to leave within 14 days: The Russian Embassy in Colombo awaits the probe’s results, stating it’s an internal matter: Earlier, the circular permitted extended stays due to flight disruptions from Russia-Ukraine conflict.
  5. Deshabandu Tennakoon appointed as the 36th Inspector General of Sri Lanka Police (IGP): The appointment has been made by President Ranil Wickremesinghe in accordance with the provisions stipulated in the Constitution, according to PMD.
  6. Cabinet suspends ‘Parate executions’ until December 15, 2024, following requests from the Ministers of Justice and Industrie: President, acting as Finance Minister, submits a memorandum, subsequently approved by the Cabinet. Relevant amendments to be presented to Parliament: Decision comes amid considerations to suspend Parate execution laws against micro, small, and …read more

    Source:: LNW English