Ranil's New Proposels to Strengthen the Parliament

It is necessary to strengthen Parliament's powers of supervision and control over the executive.' Leader of the Opposition Mr. Ranil Wickramasinghe said speaking at a function in Wattala.

Mr. Wickramasinghe said his proposals were open for discussion. His discussion paper on new constitutional provisions follows.

According to our Constitution,

i. the President is responsible to Parliament for the due exercise, performance and discharge of his powers, duties and functions under the Constitution and any written law. (Article 42).

ii. The Cabinet of Ministers are collectively responsible and answerable to Parliament. (Article 43)

iii. Parliament has full control over public finance (Article 148).

iv. Parliament has to ratify any proclamation under the Public Securities Ordinance (Article 155) and

v. Parliament determines the manner in which the Ombudsman functions (Article 156).

Our Constitution unlike the French Constitution does not contain specific provisions to implement the above mentioned principles. Neither have we passed laws to give effect to these principles. When the Constitution was enacted in 1978 it was hoped that these principles could be established by Convention. This did not take place. The UNP Government of 2001 - 2004 proposed certain measures to strengthen the powers of Parliament, these included:

a. the Fiscal Management Responsibility Act No. 3 of 2003;
b. the Freedom of Information Bill which was approved by Cabinet
c. the proposal to establish oversight committees of Parliament and
d. becoming a party to the UN Convention Against Corruption which required the government to pass the relevant laws.

Many of these proposals could not be implemented since Parliament was dissolved in 2004.

After 2005, laws and Parliamentary conventions already in existence have been ignored. There is open disregard of the Constitution by the President and the Government. The Parliament has been by-passed. As a result there is no Parliamentary control over the executive.

Therefore, it is necessary to strengthen Parliament's powers of supervision and control over the executive. Once Parliament starts exercising oversight powers the Parliament is also involved in the administration. This in turn will lead to consultation between the Cabinet and Parliament in regard to policy matters. The end result will be a stronger Parliament. The Parliament must enact the following new Constitutional provisions and laws for this purpose.

1. A provision to specify the objectives of the Constitution. In some countries like South Africa, these are referred to as 'values'. The following are the proposed objectives;

i Safeguarding territorial integrity and national unity
ii Upholding the sovereignty of the people
iii Non discrimination
iv Respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, rule of law and human rights.

2. A Comprehensive Bill of Rights. The State and its organs will be required to respect, promote and fulfil the Bill of Rights. The Constitution as the supreme law of the land will take priority over other laws. Any law inconsistent with the Constitution will be invalid.

3. Recognition of Sri Lanka as a representative democracy and a participatory democracy and providing the mechanisms for consultation with civil society on issues of economic or social nature. Parliament will pass laws to enable the citizens and representative associations to make known their views on national issues. Institutions of Government will be required to maintain open and transparent procedures.

4. Whenever the Prime Minister is a member of a Political Party other than the Political Party which the President belongs, the President shall appoint the Ministers on the advice of the Prime Minister.

5. The President will not hold any Ministries. The Constitution and written law will specify the President's powers including the power to issue directives.

6. The Constitution shall specify the number of Ministers and Deputy Ministers. The Parliament shall by written law determine the Ministries and the objectives, and assign such subjects, functions and institutions necessary to attain the objectives.

7. Unless specifically exempted by the Constitution or written law, the President shall make all decisions after consulting the Cabinet of Ministers. All official acts and decisions of the President shall be in writing and shall be counter-signed by the Prime Minister or the responsible Minister. The Prime Minister or the Minister counter-signing shall be responsible to Parliament. If a Minister finds that a Presidential act or decision is contrary to the law he shall notify the Cabinet of Ministers and shall refuse to counter-sign such act or decision.

8. The Prime Minister shall coordinate the affairs of the Government. The Prime Minister will hold only the Ministry necessary to give effect to his function. The Cabinet shall be responsible for the control of the Government, implementing legislations and upholding the objectives of the Constitution.

9. The Parliament to be given the power to determine by written law the Presidential staff and their duties and functions. The Presidential staff will be answerable to Parliament. The Parliament shall also by law specify the staff and other facilities for Ministers and Deputy Ministers.

10. The Parliament shall where necessary by law:

a. ensure that all executive organs are accountable to it and
b. maintain oversight of the exercise of executive authority including the implementation of legislation.

The Parliament shall appoint 24 Oversight Committees including High Posts, Petitions, Public Accounts, Public Enterprises, Monetary affairs and the national debt, Budget and Revenue to exercise oversight authority over the executive. Ministers will be prohibited from serving on these committees. Backbench MPs will become Chairmen of the Committees.

11. The Parliament will enact the following legislations to strengthen the control of Public Finance.

i. A new Fiscal Management (Responsibility) Act which strengthens the Parliament's supervision powers in relation to fiscal matters.

ii. Public Finance Law based on Public Finance Act of New Zealand which will provide:

a. a framework for Parliamentary scrutiny of the Government's management of the State's assets and liabilities including expenditure proposals, and,
b. specify the minimum reporting obligations of the Government.

iii. Public Enterprise Law which will determine the management objectives of each category of Public Enterprises and provide for the manner of Parliament supervision;

iv. A Public Loans Law which will specify the limits of Governmental authority and provide for Parliamentary control for the

a. borrowing of monies
b. issuing of securities
c. giving of guarantees and
d. investing of monies

v. An Audit Law to strengthen the powers for Auditing Government and a new law providing for Parliamentary supervision of the EPF and the ETF.

12. Amend the 17th Amendment to the Constitution so that the nomination to the Constitutional Council and the independent commissions takes effect in 3 weeks if the President fails to make the appointment.

13. Uncoordinated action by 3 levels of administration, Central, Provincial and Local has resulted in duplication and waste. Therefore, provision has to be made in the Constitution for the establishment of district organisations consisting of MPP, MPCC and LA Chairmen to prepare a comprehensive master plan for each district and to coordinate its implementation.

14. The President's power to dissolve Parliament will be limited to the instances specified in the Constitution.

15. I have outlined earlier the measures taken to combat corruption. These are:

a. to pass new laws to give effect to the UN Convention and the Lima Declaration;
b. to introduce after consultation a transparent procurement system based on an existing country model, and
a. to introduce an enforceable code of ethics for MPs based on Nolan Committee Report. The UK Parliament has already implemented these proposals.

16. Another urgent requirement is a new system of election to the Parliament. The same system of election will also apply to provincial and local levels. This system should be based on mixed parallel system with components of constituency and PR system without preferential votes. The ratio of constituency members to the PR members will be based on the outcome of the agreement between the large and small parties in Parliament.

Death threats to opposition ministers...

President's Counseler Mr. Desmond Fernando writes today to the secretary general of International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) in Geneva about Death Threats to Opposition Parliamentarians in Sri Lanka. The full statement is follows:

I write to bring to your attention the very serious situation in Sri Lanka. Death Threats have been received by Opposition Parliamentarians, particularly by Parliamentarians of the minority Tamil ethnic group.

The Committee of the Human Rights of Parliamentarians of the Inter-Parliamentary Union at its 116th session of January 2007 decided to make this case public and consequently submitted a draft resolution for adoption to the Governing Council of the Inter-Parliamentary Union.

Since independence from 1948, this country has been a vibrant democracy and it is our misfortune that in the last two years there has been a near total collapse of this democracy.

I enclose a copy of the resolution of the Human Rights Committee of the Inter-Parliamentary Union which specifically refers to the death threats to Dr. Jayalath Jayawardena, Mr. G. Ponnambalam, Mr. S. Kajendren, Mr. S. Jayanandamoorthy, Mr. S. Kisshor, Mr. T. Kanagasabai, Mr. K. Pathmanathan, Mr. T. Kathiraman, Mr. P. Ariyanethran and Mr. C. Chandranehru.

It is significant that Dr. Jayawardena's security has been withdrawn, in spite of the fact that official intelligence reports indicated that his life is in danger. Dr. Jayawardena is a Member of the majority Sinhala community who is doing his best to solve the serious ethnic problem in this country. During the Premiership of Mr. Ranil Wickremesinghe who commenced the Peace Process and stopped discrimination against Tamil areas in Sri Lanka, Dr. Jayawardena held the office of Minister of Rehabilitation, Resettlement & Refugees and is highly regarded by the Tamil community. Racist groups who dominate the present government are preventing the government from doing its duty to protect all citizens, particularly Members of Parliament, regardless of race and ethnicity.

I also have credible information that the Government of Sri Lanka in violation of basic democratic norms and humane conduct used para-military groups with whom the government is in close contact to kidnap the son-in-law of Mr. T. Kanagasabai, MP (a Tamil MP), to prevent Mr. Kanagasabai from voting in Parliament against the second reading of the Budget on 19th November, 2007.

Although I am a Sinhalese myself, I am deeply concerned about the manner in which the government is harassing the duly elected representatives of the Tamil people of this country. The working of parliamentary democracy in this country is in serious jeopardy by the use of violence.

With kind regards,
Yours sincerely,

Desmond Fernando
Past Vice President - International Commission of Jurists

TRO banned by government...

The Sri Lanka government has decided to ban the Tamil Rehabilitation Organization (TRO), a front for the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), Minister Nimal Siripala de Siva revealed in parliament today.

The cabinet last night decided to ban the TRO with immediate effect.

The proposal to ban the organization which is under investigation in many parts of the world for its links with LTTE came from Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama.

The Sri Lankan government would urge the international community and international non-governmental organizations to sever links with the TRO.

The government froze all local assets of the TRO last year and the United States early this month followed suit in freezing TRO assets as part of its campaign of "financially isolating terrorist groups and their support networks.

The LTTE proscription which was imposed in 1998 came to be lifted in 2002 following the Norwegian backed process of direct negotiations.

"No one can attack on the Leader Publications press without the knowledge of the Defence Ministry." -Opposition Leader

Opposition Leader Ranil Wickremesinghe yesterday charged that the attack on the Leader Publications press was a blow to media freedom and democracy in the country.

In a statement, the Opposition Leader said: "The junta ruling the country today has delivered another deadly blow to democracy. Early this morning an armed group stormed the Sunday Leader and Irudina Newspaper press, setting one building on fire and severely damaging a number of printing machines."

"This press is located in a High Security Zone. The Ratmalana Airport, the Air Force base, the Kotelawala Defence Academy and an Army camp are also located in this area."

"There are road blocks at every entry point to this zone. Nobody can gain easy access to this zone. It would be extremely difficult to enter this area at night."

"A number of aircraft belonging to the Air Force are hangared at the Ratmalana airbase and tight security measures have been put in place to ensure their safety. So it is surprising that an armed group could gain entry to such a heavily fortified area."

"If any group is to enter this area, they can only do so with the knowledge the Defence Ministry. No one can enter this area without the knowledge of the Ministry."

"Security arrangements in this area are being implemented thoroughly. Hence the armed group had been dispatched there with the knowledge of the Government and the Defence Ministry to destroy the press."

"That is why I brand this regime as a junta. The Cabinet is not aware of these things. This junta has control over the economy, business activities and defence. They have unleashed corruption and terror on the country."

"The Sunday Leader and the Irudina spoke out against these activities. We see this as an attempt to close down these newspapers as they pose a threat to the junta. On previous occasions, too, these newspapers have come under threat."

"Today the media is being suppressed by the banning of newspapers and electronic media and by setting fire to printing presses. Media men too have been intimidated and have to work in a climate of fear."

"The most number of journalists killed have been from Sri Lanka. Many international media organizations have protested against this dangerous trend in Sri Lanka."

"The United National Party vehemently condemns threats against media freedom. We will commit ourselves to upholding media freedom."

Anura Bandaranaike short of one body gurad...

A body of a Police Sergeant attached to the Ministerial Security Division of National Heritage Minister Anura Bandaranaike was found dumped in the Beira Lake last morning.

The body of the 40-year-old man, identified as Wasantha, a father of two, had been noticed by a resident of the area who had informed the Slave Island police. They are conducting investigations into whether the death is a murder, accident or suicide.

The corpse was found trapped under a bridge on Nawam Mawatha. The victim's face had been attacked by fish but no other injuries were apparent. The body was later identified by the wife.

Police spokesman Senior DIG Jayantha Seneviratne told that the victim, who had reported for duty on Monday night,had gone missing afterwards.

The victim, a resident of Hemmathagama in Mawanella, had served in Mr. Bandaranaike's personal security detail for many years.

May be this is a result of Anura's statement in the parliament, explaining why he's voting in favor of the budget...

Security forces accused of complicity in arson attack on Leader Publications -RWB

Reporters Without Borders which is a International Media Orgnization condemns an arson attack early today on the printing press of the Sunday Leader media group, which is located in a high security area outside Colombo. About 15 gunmen that staged the attack must have had support within the security forces, the press freedom organisation said.

"Armed men have once again attacked a independent news media in a high security area of the capital," Reporters Without Borders said. "It unfortunately shows that the press freedom enemies have accomplices within the security forces. By attacking the Leader Publications group, this gang wanted to silence one of the main sources of incisive criticism of the current government. We urge foreign diplomats to publicly express their solidarity with the group."

Leader Publications owns two English-language newspapers, The Sunday Leader and Morning Leader, and the Sinhalese-language weekly Irudina. Its printing press is located Ratmalana, a high-security zone adjoining a military airport outside the capital.

A gang consisting of both Sinhalese and Tamils stormed the premises early this morning, rounded up all of the 25 employees and, at gunpoint, forced them hand over their mobile phones. Then they doused the presses with petrol and set them on fire. They also set fire to the thousands of copies of today's issue of the Morning Leader, which was about to be distributed. Firemen took an hour to put out the blaze.

A Sunday Leader journalist told Reporters Without Borders that the presses would be out of commission for several months. The group would have to use the services of a commercial printer in order to continue publishing, he said. The damage will also affect the Tamil daily Sudar Oli, which was printed on Leader Publications' presses.

Sunday Leader editor Lasantha Wickramatunga described the attacked as a commando operation carried out on the government's orders. Known for his investigations and critical editorials, Wickramatunga has been accused by ruling party parliamentarians of supporting the Tamil Tiger rebels. The government had planned to arrest him in late 2006 for revealing the construction of a luxurious presidential bunker in Colombo, but backed down for fear of triggering strong international criticism.

An armed group already set fire to newspapers at the Leader Publications printing press in October 2005, but employees put the fire out before the presses were damaged.

Destruction of Leader Publications shows the jungle law in country. Says Mano Ganeshan

Coward destruction of Leader Publications printing house is nothing but the reflection of prevalent jungle law in the country says WPF leader and CMC Convener Mano Ganesan MP in a statement issued by Civil Monitoring Commission. The statement further states.

'It is no secret that all Leader publications were critical of the government. It naturally published the other side of the story produced and published by the state media. This country needs counter print and electronic media. This way it is a necessary integral part of performing free media in Sri Lanka. The government of the day on one hand is responsible for the law and order. The state law enforcement agencies have miserably failed to provide protection to this institution which had come
under attack on earlier occasions too. On the other hand government politicians cannot play innocent away from the natural accusation in this dastardly act. CMC considers this as the latest challenge to our civilization'

Sunday Leader' printing house set on fire...

Unidentified gang set fire to one of the major newspaper printing houses early this morning (21st Nov 2007). Printing press of the Leader Publications, which publish weekly The Sunday Leader, mid weekly Morning Leader and Sinhala Weekly Irudina was completely destroyed by the fire.

The printing house was situated at 24, Katukurunduwatta Road, Rathmalana. The damage estimated at millions of rupees.

Today issue of Morning Leader print run was on, when the gang of 15 forced themselves into the printing house. The gang first forced management and workers to hand over their mobile phones and to kneel down before setting fire to the machines, according to journalists who visited the scene.

Recently the Morning Leader editor has been very critical of Asia Tribune website, which according to the editor working in hand in hand with the break away LTTE militant group now headed by Pilleyan. She filed a civil defamation case against the web site weeks ago and in retaliation website unleashed a series of articles attacking the editor.

The Sunday leader printing press was set on fire earlier occasion on 17th October 2005 in the run up to presidential election. The newspaper and its editor Mr. Lasantha Wikramatunga as well as Morning Leader Editor Sonali Samarasinghe have been harassed and threatened continuously during the last two years. All Leader publications are very critical towards the government and exponents of opposition political views.

Terror leader Thamilchelvan killed in SLAF air raid

Wanni LTTE reports confirm that the LTTE's Political leader, Thamilchelvan was killed following a successful air raid launched by the SLAF jets today (02) morning at an identified high profile LTTE gathering in Kilinochchi.

More information will follow.

Related News: Air Force bombs LTTE leaders' gathering place and Black tiger base - Kilinochchi

S.P. Thamilchelvan, Liberation Tigers Political Head was killed in Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) aerial bombardment Friday morning in Ki'linochchi. The Head Quarters of the Liberation Tigers of Tamileelam (LTTE) in a press communique said it was conveying the loss of Brigadier Thamilchelvan with profound sadness to the people of Tamil Eelam, the Tamil diaspora and the Global Community. The Sri Lanka Air Force attack has targeted the residence of the members of the Political Division.

The Secretary General at the Head Quarters of the LTTE, S. Cheeran said the LTTE Political Head was killed in the SLAF bombardment that took place at 6:00 a.m. Friday along with Lt. Col. Anpumani (Alex), Major Mikuthan, Captain Neathaji, Lt. Aadchiveal and Lt. Vaakaikkumaran.

The LTTE has conferred its highest military rank, Brigadier, to Mr. Thamilchelvan.

Silent guns fire against Rajapaksha...

Katunayaka Airport sources said that several baggage belonged to the elites of President's returning entourage from US came with new political message to the rulers.

Several stickers containing the slogans such as, 'devastating the country' and �touring the world at public expenses� were stuck on baggage including a traveling bag belonged to the President, Airport sources said.

The stickers were seen at the Katunayaka Airport Reportedly CID has commenced a special investigation to trace where it happened. The CID will pay special attention to verify whether the incident took place at the Katunaya airport or in an airport of another country.

Meanwhile, Basil Rajapakse had informed to all the Ministers to be present at the Airport today to welcome the President who arrived in the country today.

President Mahinda Rajapakse is not among the distinguished invitees for the ceremony held on Sunday (30) at Mount Lavonia Hotel to celebrate the wedding of Former President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumarathunga's daughter Yasodhara with British national Roger Walker.

Prime Minister Rathnasiri Wickramanayaka, senior SLFP Ministers, Opposition Leader Ranil Wickramasinghe, Rukman Senanayaka, Malik Samarawickrama and political party leaders were among the invited guests. Several close neighbors of Aththanagalla area and the former President's staff are also invited to the function.

British, India and European Union ambassadors and friends have also been invited.

The not-invited President Mahinda Rajapakse is the leader of the SLFP, in which the former President Chandrika is the chief adviser.

Wheat price goes up... Bread price reaches 10 x Rs. 3.50

Prima Company has decided to increase the price of wheat flour by Rs. 13 with immediate effect.

Accordingly, the current price of a kilo of wheat flour has gone up to Rs. 66 from Rs. 53.

The Director (Pricing) of the Consumer Affairs Authority said to 'Lanka-e-News' that the company had not informed the Authority about such price hike. Prior permission of the Consumer Affairs Authority is compulsory to raise the price of wheat flour and neither the company asked for the permission nor the Authority consented for a price hike, said the Director.

When enquired about the action the Consumer Affairs Authority would take against the company, the Director said that the government would sue the Prima. She further said that four court cases are being heard in the courts against Prima on previous non-authorized price hikes.

The price of all bakery products will go up with the flour price and the Bakery Owners' Association said that a loaf of bread could be priced Rs. 50 matching to the price of a kilo of rice.

When 'Lanka-e-News' attempted to connect Trade, Marketing Development, Corporative and Consumer Services Minister Bandula Gunawardhana, a Ministry official said that he had gone abroad.

Wheat flour producing countries and exporters recently anticipated a shortage of wheat flour in international markets since a decline of harvests.

Why did Gotabhaya prevents K. P. being questioned???

United National Party (UNP) accuses that Defense Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapakse needed to avoid questioning Kumaran Pathmanadan alias KP who was arrested by the Thailand police.

UNP Media Unit Chief Lakshman Kiriella said at a press conference held in Colombo today (26) that Sri Lanka police lost a chance to reveal those who gave arms and ammunition to the LTTE and those who gave money to procure arms, due to the actions of the Defense Secretary.

Thai police following a clue given by Sri Lanka took KP, the main procurement agent of the LTTE for almost 15 years into custody. The Defense Ministry website revealed the news of the apprehension to the world against a Thai government's plea to keep the matter top secret, said Kiriella.

The news of such arrest is usually revealed after questioning the person and the Defense Ministry's haughty disclosure annoyed the Thai government, said the UNP MP.

MP Kiriella said that Gotabhaya Rajapakse's action blocked a chance to reveal the facts on those who funded LTTE and those who assisted arms procurements etc. and enquired the motives behind the Defense Secretary's disclosure. He also asked from the Defense Secretary to make a public statement in this regard.

We will not change our descision...

United National Party (UNP) General Secretary Thissa Aththanayaka says that UNP is committed to resolve the ethnic problem through a political solution amicable to all Sinhala, Tamil and Muslim communities and that safeguards the territorial integrity and the sovereignty of the country.

Aththanayaka said that UNP leader Ranil Wickramasinghe stated at the Jayawardhana Centre that ethnic problem could be solved through
rationalizing the Indo-Lanka accord and that meant the meaningful power devolution. He said that the government's panic depicts its displeasure for the removal of adverse tags on UNP.

MP Aththanayaka said that the UNP's stance is devolving power without dividing the country and asked from the panicked if it was wrong.

He further said that UNP will study the world's examples of power devolution and will find a political solution to the problem of North and East that could be agreed to all communities.

Mervin's end is closing...

Chief Opposition Whip Joseph Michael Perera submitted to the Parliamentary Secretary a proposal that denies the stupid and nasty acts of Minister of Labor Dr. Mervin Silva.

The Chief Opposition Whip requested in writing from the Parliamentary Secretary to add his proposal to the parliament Order Book as a complete proposal under standing order number 78.

The proposal is as follows:

'The supreme house of parliament proposes that it denies the unintelligent and disagreeable acts of Hon. MP Mervin Silva since his behavior is not appropriate for a MP and harms the esteem of the parliament, since he has made an open statement to media that he can do anything he likes from his licensed revolver and since he has intruded the Canadian High Commission and threatened to the officials asking for a visa to his son.

Basil starts his 2nd innings...

Basil Rajapakse took oaths as a MP before the Speaker W.J.M. Lokubandara amidst protests and chaos of the opposition MPs. It was the first time in the history that a MP assumed duty in such context.

The tradition of the parliament is to stay calm until the new MP takes oath and to welcome him with applause. Instead, the UNP MPs today displayed placards mentioned '10%' in protest of the appointment of Basil Rajapakse as a MP.

The chaos due to the display of such placards in front of the Speaker's chair led to the adjournment of the meeting for ten minutes.

Chief Government Whip Jeyaraj Fernandopulle abused the opposition saying 'the big pansy and his pansy disciples,' and the opposition MPs continued objections.

Fernandopulle was heard saying that the Speaker�s non-denial of the incident led him to deny and the Chair should have known how to handle such situation.

The Speaker in response asked which tradition challenged what the Chair told and said to the government MPs that he knew the gossip on him and urged to state them directly. He said that the party leaders and the Ministers should know how to safeguard the respect of the House. The Speaker asked if he is expected to tolerate further the incidents like grabbing the agenda that was on his table, which he bore patiently.

Chief Opposition Whip Joseph Michael Perera enquired from the Speaker, after the meeting recommenced after ten minutes, if the jeering hoot heard from the gallery when Basil Rajapakse was taking oaths was leveled at the Speaker or Basil. The Speaker did not respond.

While Rajapakse was taking oath, Ministers Jeyaraj Fernandopulle, Mervin Silva and Mahindananda Aluthgamage sprang at the opposition MPs to tear the '10%' placards while the majority of the government MPs either silently or smilingly observed the melodrama.

Mervin's henchmen threats the judiciary...

The Judiciary Services Union expresses indignation over the incident of an unidentified group of persons intruding the house of Mount Lavinia Magistrate Darshika Wimalasiri's mother located in Peliyagoda and uttering in threatening tone, "The Minister said to tell Ms. Magistrate to grant bail to his son." The Magistrate is examining a complaint against Minister of Labor Dr. Mervin Silva's son Malaka Silva for assaulting and causing head injuries to an accountant.

The Judiciary Services Union Secretary Kandy District Judge Nissanka Bandula Karunarathna issuing a statement says that the unidentified group that came to the residence of the Magistrate's mother around 9.45 PM, compelled her to open the door and made the said threat.

The gang came to the house the following day and asked if the message was delivered to the daughter. When the mother said that she could not do so, the group left. A complaint has been lodged in the police in this regard, said the Secretary.

The Judiciary Services Union condemning the incident says that certain individuals have attempted to intervene a judiciary proceeding in a way the independence of the judiciary is damaged and emphasized the need of bringing them to books.

The association of the judges emphasizes that they will not permit to fulfill the objectives of the minority who have needed to overpower judiciary in a time the public are in dire need of protection of law. They vow not to tolerate any lawbreaker who challenges independence of the judiciary and the judges.

The union expressed hopes that Peliyagoda police station that has already commenced an investigation pertaining to the incident would continue it until the culprits will be brought to courts.

Rajapaksha & Brother's Company completed...

The Secretary of the ruling United People's Freedom Freedom Alliance (UPFA) Susil Prema Jayantha today informed the Elections Commissioner and the Parliamentary Secretary in writing that the President Mahinda Rajapakse's brother Basil Rajapakse was appointed as a MP of the national list.

Basil was to participate in the meeting of the government parliamentary group this evening as a MP.

He fills the vacancy of late Minister of Irrigation Anver Ismail who belonged to the Athavulla Faction of the Muslim Congress. The UPFA Secretary has powers to appoint anyone to fill a vacancy of a MP since Athavulla Faction contested the 2004 election as a party of the UPFA.

Reports further said that the SLFP Secretary Maithripala Sirisena opposed the appointment since it would prove the allegations over a rule off a Rajapakse Brothers Company.

UNP & JVP alliance ???

Reliable sources speculate that a new opposition alliance is in the formation now. A statement made by the leader of the JVP Somawansa Amarasinghe yesterday (16) discloses preparations for an alliance between the major opposition UNP and the JVP to oppose the anti people actions of the government and to topple it.

Amarasinghe has said that there is a possibility of working together since both parties aim to end the term of the current government. JVP was not totally against the government and could not see any hindrance for working together, said the JVP leader adding that they need not to defend the government whose anti people rule is vehemently denied by the JVP. However, there are problems related to the UNP's stand on ethnic problem and economic policies.

The JVP leader says that the two parties can work together for a common goal if the UNP come to an agreement with the JVP.

Commenting on the issue, UNP MP Lakshman Kiriella said that the two parties cordially work together at rural levels and in the parliament, the two parties joined to defeat the unfair tax bills. He said that the parties could work together for a common goal while maintaining the individual policies.

The JVP MP Lal Kantha recently said that despite whatever the allegations, the Opposition Leader could not be accused of corruption or misappropriation of public property.

In the current context, the JVP had decided to vote against the budget proposals, sources said.

Meanwhile, the President Mahinda Rajapakse addressing a SLFP rally at Kegalle yesterday challenged the opposition to defeat the budget proposals if possible. In an aggressive tone, the President said that his Ministers and MPs could not be bought and the budget would be victorious.

Defeat the Medamulana Chinthanaya

The Leader of Opposition and the leader of the UNP Ranil Wickramasinghe urges to defeat the herd of Medamulana demons to earn an election to make the people victorious defending their sovereignty.

The Opposition Leader made this statement addressing a ceremony held in the UNP head quarters, Sirikotha today to mark the 101 birthday of former President J.R. Jayawardhana. The Jathika Sevaka Sangamaya organized the commemoration.

Recalling the way Mr. Jayawardhana obtained five sixth majority in the parliament through non violent sit up campaigns, he said that the UNP Gatambe Convention commenced mobilizing masses to topple the government through a people's struggle in the same way the former leader Jayawardhana did.

Pointing out that the Ministers have confined to safeguard the portfolios for the sake of privileges, Mr. Wickramasinghe said that the government has commenced over-rewarding the MPs since it lacks support.

He further stated that the Rajapakse Brothers Company has taken over all the executive powers and 75% of the state budget. They have abolished the independent commissions and the democratic rule has become nominal, said Mr. Wickramasinghe. The rulers do not listen to the people and the government is abducting and killing civilians in the guise of waging war, he said.

Economic sanctions if Human Rights report passed in European parliament

UNP Media Unit Chief MP Lakshman Kiriella warns that Sri Lanka can be imposed economic sanctions if the debate in the European parliament on the125 page 'Human Rights' magazine report on human rights violations, disappearances, abductions, ransom taking and killing of civilians will lead to pass a proposal against the country.

He said that based on the reports of the Human Rights Watch, a proposal had been put forward to the European parliament to send a UN delegation and to set up a permanent office in Sri Lanka. The UNP MP further said in addition to the delegation, sanctions might also be imposed if the proposal is passed in the parliament.

MP Kiriella expressed these views at a press conference held in the official residence of the Opposition Leader. He said that Sri Lanka has trade relations mostly with US and EU and no trade is with certain countries although they are friendly. He said that the country could be happy if the massive amounts of money spent for the colossal government delegations in abroad tours are productive. However, the result of these tours is many countries being enemies and the UN has also included facts against Sri Lanka in the agenda of the UN general assembly, MP Kiriella says.

Mr. Kiriella said that the government had to correct the previous statement that was issued after the recent tour of President's special delegation to India. He said that the pilgrims sent to foreign tours did not include wise and educated individuals that can render a service to the country.

Judiciary on the right track...

Mount Lavinia Magistrate Court today (13) rejected granting bail to Malaka Silva, son of Minister of Labor Dr. Mervin Silva who was accused of assaulting an accountant at a nightclub in Colombo.

The suspect was produced before Additional Magistrate of Mount Lavinia Ms. Darshika Wimalasiri today. Considering the motion for bail by the counsels appearing for the suspect, the Magistrate said that the court had no powers to grant him bail in accordance with the preliminary B-report submitted by Police.

The Magistrate ordered the suspect to be remanded till September 19.

The suspect Malaka Silva arrived in the courts in an ambulance yesterday (12). The counsels informed the courts that the suspect was severely ill and could not walk in to the courts. The Magistrate inspected the suspect while he was in the ambulance.

Considering the bail application again Magistrate Ms. Darshika Wimalasiri said that the court had no power to grant bail and asked the application to be forwarded to a higher court. She also ordered the prison officials to provide the suspect Malaka Silva necessary medical facilities.

Dr. Bahu speaks...

The speech given by Dr Vickramabahu Karunarathne at the commemoration of Rev. Nandarathana, held at the Public library hall Colombo. Other speakers were Dr Sunil Wijesiriwardhana, Prof Carlo. Meeting was chaired by Rev Iddamalgoda & Weligama ammiswara. Elder brother of Rev Nandarathana described the incident and the background .Date 4th Sep 2007

"Rev priests. Comrades and friends,"

"We are going through a very sad period. Even priests are killed. Carlo mentioned that sadu was killed by evil men because the sadu was doing good things that will naturally expose their evil conduct. What are the good things sadu was doing, what are the evil things he inevitably exposed? Rev Nandarathana was living under very difficult conditions but accepting only what he really needed for his sparse priestly existence. He was devoted to communal harmony at that impoverished remote village in the war zone. He treated all in equality and became an example for others. Those who wanted division and hatred, to expel others in order to grab the resources, could not tolerate such a life style. He was not a pompous campaigner for equality but an ordinary village priest who conducted his life according to religious principles. Irrespective of the axioms of the religion all religions preach equality of humans. Whether in the name of the god or several gods or with disbelief in god, priest will spread the message of equality of humans. It is the unity of mankind that is most common for all religions. Genetic scientists say that variation among humans is unbelievably small for such a widespread species; as if we are the children of one woman lived at least 150, 000 years ago, born to a Homo erectus family. Of course there are different cultures, languages and traditions and we defend the right of self determination, never the less unity and equality of human kind has to be defended and it is the foremost duty of a priest. Human existence is a social existence. There is no human life without a human community. All ethical principles arise out of communal existence. One can have good behavior only within a social existence. When Devadatta wanted Buddha to make solitude forest life compulsory for monks, he was strongly rejected. Also Buddha emphasized the equality of humans irrespective of caste, creed or colour. That was 2550 years ago. Rev Nandarathana was doing the simplest duty of a priest when he preached equality and basic ethics for social existence. That means Kindness, tolerance etc."

"Of course there are priests who make use of robe for spreading the war. There were always misuses of religion. All religions were used onetime or the other for generating hatred. They were used as opium for misdirecting people. Then, so was the communist ideology. Stalinists used Marxism to propagate a monstrous unitary bureaucratic state. Even today in this country, JVP misuses Marxism to spread the evils of chauvinism. But Re Nandarathana, in this remote village with in poverty and suffering, was doing the simple duty of a priest in teaching the unity of humans. He was killed for that. If priests are killed in this manner, then we have come to the edge of social existence. Very society is under threat."

"We can understand killing for political reason. We call it a threat to democracy and civil life. But politics take the form of war and our situation politician is compelled to face violence. I faced violence continuously, and I could be killed. That is a political problem. But this is entirely different. A humble village priest living in poverty and serving the community on basic priestly functions is killed. State is silent though the Sinhala chauvinist terrorists are identified by the villagers. Have we have come to the end of social or community existence?"

"Sinhala chauvinism functioned as the ideology of class repression even in the time of colonial rule. Against catholic workers, Malayalam workers and Tamil estate workers Sinhala Buddhist chauvinism was used by the comprador ruling classes. Against Gunasinghe, or even before, against pioneer trade unionist and later against Sama Samajists, chauvinism was amply used. Bandaranayke used Sinhala only slogan with Buddhist revivalism to come to power. But having come to power he became liberal enough to sign Banda Chelva pact of language use and limited autonomy. Though there were extreme racist such as Rajarathne in his camp, they were not given the centre stage."

"In the entire modern history no ruler took Sinhala chauvinists in to the centre stage. But today it has happened. This the most tragic character in the present polity. It is more tragic, as the ruler is none other than a man who campaigned together with us, against disappearances and political murders. He shed tears for 60000 Sinhala youth disappeared but today the same is responsible 6ooo disappearances, mostly Tamil youth. Is it Gajaba
style revenge! He has created an environment for barbaric killings. We are told facetiously that war leads to some disappearances. Furthermore he has created a war which make in addition to the normal horrors of war thousands of refugees lingering in make shift camps in abject poverty. Their land, shore and other resources are plundered. Land and coast are to be given to MNCs for development. From ancient times war has been associated with plunder of land and wealth. This truth has been made naked more than ever."

"Can this violence frighten the LTTE into submission? It is national repression that created this instrument of vengeance and hate. More likely, it will become more ruthless and await grudgingly for the final blood bath in Mulative and Kilinochchi. Has the Sinhalese benefited by the war? Workers in Sinhala areas suffering under double digit inflation. Draconian emergency legislation is brought to suppress the fighting workers, students, peasantry and others. Education, health, traveling all is in disarray. In fact those who gave Dane at home with grace and respect, now take parcels to the temple. Is this the dharma rajya?"

"What are we to do? We have to do what we are doing now. We must keep on talking. We have differences and we believe in different ideologies. But we want to come out of this misery and war. We want to out wit hegemony and terror. For that we must speak out fearlessly. We must sacrifice and be humble to speak to small crowds at homes, streets, or any gathering. Of course we must prepare for strikes and mass actions. But we must, be open and freely discuss."

"This is what Buddha, Jesus, Mohamed or Gandhi did. Our understanding of the evil may be different. But we are against repression, plunder and war. Rev Nandarathana did the same in a poor marginal village in the war zone. That must be our example. All religions made mistakes when the free speech was abandoned. So did Marxism. Bolsheviks made a mistake when they abandoned debate and group right; and that made easy for Stalinism to rise. On this stage we said things from different angles but we are united against the evil of chauvinism and war. Let us take this platform through out the country."

Time up for government....

A group of JVP MPs said to a team of UNP parliamentarians at the house that government should be defeated now despite the number of seats the JVP could win in a future election would be less than current number.

The JVP expressed these ideas when several UNP MPs talked about the current political situation and the government agenda with JVP MPs individually.

The JVP MPs said that the cadres were reprimanding the leadership at the countrywide meetings, for defending the government. They further said that the cadres urged the JVP to withdraw the support given to the government and although the number of seats the JVP could win in a future election would be less, the JVP could go to villages and work again if so.

UNP MP Lakshman Kiriella said at a press briefing today (05) that UNP MPs had individual talks with JVP MPs this morning in the parliament.

The JVP and the UNP were to defeat the government of the Central Provincial Council yesterday at the voting on the proposal to protest the government for the escalation of cost of living. Eventually, the government MPs also voted for the proposal and passed it unanimously.

Explosives found from Dehiwala & Wellawatta coastal railways

Dehiwala Police today recovered four craters containing seven kilos of C-4 explosives from a place in Fraser Avenue close to the railway line.

A vigilant civilian has seen these boxes and informed the Police. When the Police called the Bomb Squad and searched, 12 boxes that contained 500 grams each of C-4 explosives and 2 more boxes of the kind were recovered, said the Media Center for national Security.

Lee Kwan Yew speaks after a long time...

The mistakes of Sri Lanka and other newly independent 'failed states' made Singapore go in a different direction, its founding prime minister told the International Herald Tribune (IHT) in an interview.

Lee Kwan Yew, now minister mentor, said when Singapore broke off from the Malayan Federation it had a hostile neighbour and population made of Chinese, Malays and immigrants from the Indian subcontinent."The basis of a nation just was not there.

But the advantage we had was that we became independent late," Lee recalled in a wide ranging interview with the IHT published last week." In 1965, we had 20 years of examples of failed states. So, we knew what to avoid - racial conflict, linguistic strife, religious conflict. We saw Ceylon."

"Thereafter, we knew that if we embarked on any of these romantic ideas, to revive a mythical past of greatness and culture, we'd be damned."

Lee was prime minister from 1959 to 1990 when he stepped down.

Sri Lanka gained independence from Britain in 1948.Lee said the team that ran Singapore made a deliberate decision to use English as a working language and not focus on Chinese. At the time Singapore had Chinese, Malay and India schools in separate language mediums.

The British has also set up English schools to produce clerks, storekeepers and teachers. "Had we chosen Chinese, which was our majority language, we would have perished, economically and politically," Lee told the IHT.

"Riots - we've seen Sri Lanka, when they switched from English to Sinhalese and disenfranchised the Tamils and so strife ever after.

"We chose - we didn't say it was our national language - we said it was our working language, that everybody learns English whatever language medium school you go to. Which means nobody needs interpretation to read English."

The country's foreign and defence policy was shaped on the realization that it could perhaps only hold out for two weeks against a foreign invasion.

While Sri Lanka is still grappling with issues such as exchange rates, inflation and fuel subsidies, and political ideology Singapore is thinking far ahead, even to issues such as the effect of global warning on a low elevation island nation.

Earlier this month a retired Thai diplomat, Sompong Sucharitkul, said Singapore opposed the entry of Sri Lanka to Asean when it was founded in 1967 because the country was viewed as unstable. In 1967 Sri Lanka was ruled by Prime Minister Dudley Senanayake in a shaky coalition with the Federal Party. His attempts to solve the ethnic question failed when proposals to devolve power was withdrawn amidst opposition.

Sompong said a discussion was held on August 06 and two ministers from Sri Lanka (then Ceylon) were in an adjacent room.

"I remember one was an economics minister. He waited there anxiously for a signal to join the discussion; but it never came," Sompong told Thailand's The Nation newspaper

(From Daily Mirror)

Aston Martin DB9. So far, We have only seen in in Need for Speed Computer game . Here's a lifetime opportunity

The talk of the town in the political circles now is the purchase of a Rs. 42 million 'Aston Martin DB9' car by the son of a government bigwig.

UNP parliamentarian Lakshman Kiriella said at a press briefing that the tax-free value of this brand is Rs. 21 million. The high-speed car cannot be driven on Sri Lankan roads and it is reportedly driven on Galle Face Drive with back up vehicles around 2 AM.

Mr. Kiriella urged the investigative media to reveal who the owner of this car.

James Bond used an 'Aston Martin DB9' in Casino Royal movie. The super son of the bigwig also drives a car of that brand now in late nights. The Sri Lanka agent of the vehicle is Auto Lanka.

This car has been imported to Sri Lanka under the name of Dilshan Fernando, the son of the owner of Christy Lanka Garments.

The photo depicts the Rs. 42 million Aston Martin DB9 parked in the Colombo harbor.

The Presiden'ts Political Clown speaks once more...

Chief Government Whip Jeyaraj Fernandopulle who's also named a "Political Clown"by president Mahinda Rajapaksha, says that the former President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kukmarathunga's discussions with Opposition Leader Ranil Wickramasinghe while bearing the office of party adviser is a problem to the party and cannot agree to it.

The Chief Government Whip addressing the press briefing held in the Information Department today to clarify the current political situation, enquired why no one else were participated in these talks and why the details of the dialogue were not divulged to media.

Mr. Fernandopulle revealed that the Opposition Leader took a friend�s mobile phone instead of his own phone when he went for the discussions and burnt the SIM card of the phone immediately after the talks.

He said that all media personnel were removed from the venue before the discussions between the former President and the Opposition Leader commenced. Mr. Fernandopulle further said that Ranil Wickramasinghe who did not allow Chandrika's son to be admitted to Royal College and talked in the parliament to abolish the civic rights of Sirima Bandaranaike had no right to meet the former President.

Dilan's service no more needed to President...

President Mahinda Rajapakse has told Minister of Justice Dilan Perera that he would not object if he needed to leave the government.

The President made this statement at the government parliamentary group meeting in response to a declaration made by Minister Dilan that he would appear for the findings of the parliamentary Committee on Public Enterprises (COPE) and for the Chairman of the COPE.

Minister Rajitha Senarathna criticized the two COPE reports and the Chairman Wijedasa Rajapakse at the parliamentary group meeting and said that the Chairman is working according to another one's agenda. He brought the statements given by the COPE Chairman to parliamentary group's attention.

Minister Mano Wijerathna also supported Minister Senarathna�s argument.

In response to a question posed by 'LeN', Minister Dilan Perera said that he appeared for the reports and for the Chairman of the COPE since he is a member of the COPE. He denied commenting further stating that he was not a reporter of the parliamentary group.

The Government Chief Whip Jeyaraj Fernandopulle said to 'LeN' that Minister Dilan defended the COPE report and its Chairman. However, as a person who was next to the president at the meeting he said that the President did not tell him to go if necessary.

It is reported that a number of Ministers and MPs of the government congratulated Minister Dilan after the parliamentary group meeting for having courage to make such statement in presence of the President.

The President has told the parliamentary group that the matters pertaining to COPE reports could be discussed when COPE Chairman Wijedasa Rajapakse was present. He was absent on that day.

Minister Dilan Perera was a close associate of the former President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumarathunga and he is famous as the only person in the government that criticizes JVP's activities.

We will vote against the bills that put burden on people, says JVP Anura Kumara

People's Liberation Front (JVP) stated they would vote against the four bills that would be tabled in the parliament on Thursday pertaining to impose new taxes on vehicles, mobile phones and few other commodities.

The JVP MP Anura Kumara Dissanayaka made this announcement addressing a press conference held in the parliamentary complex today.

The JVP said that it would oppose these four bills since the colossal cabinet and their families are also run on the tax money levied from the public.

The MP urged the government not to put more burdens on public prior to the budget and said that the JVP would work to defeat them if moved. The JVP politburo is to discuss the matter further this evening.

MP Anura Kumara pointed out that this decision would not have connection to the pattern of voting in the budget and it would be decided according to then context.

Chandrika speaks against the way Mahinda became the chairman of SLFP...

The 56th anniversary conference of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) held at the BMICH today was an open depiction of party splits since the reproachful speeches delivered by the speakers.

A former General Secretary of SLFP J.R.P. Suriyapperuma who had earned the wrath of Bandaranaikes, delivered the keynote address.

Without mentioning the name of late Premier S.W.R.D. Bandaranaike, he said that the leader who took the plough to hand after D.S. Senanayaka is current President Mahinda Rajapakse. Although the General Secretary Maithripala Sirisena mentioned the name of S.W.R.D. Bandaranaike, he attached his name to Ranil Wickramasinghe and said that the Opposition Leader had happened to talk under Mr. Bandaranaikes portrait.

President Mahinda Rajapakse said that the SLFP was a party that identified the pulse of the people and no one could go against it. Stating that SLFP is a party that is not belonged to a handful, he said that anybody could go up in the party but in the right path. Alluding to the SLFP-People's Wing, the President stated that nobody broke away from the SLFP were successful.

Former President Chandrika Bandaranaike was invited to the conference but did not take part in it. Minister Anura Bandaranaike was also absent. Commenting to a private TV channel on her absence Mrs. Bandaranaike said that she was always a member of the SLFP and she did not take legal action against robbing her post of chairperson of the party since she loved the party. She said that she dropped the idea to attend the conference when she saw the name of the lone key orator.

Commenting on main speaker of the conference J.R.P. Suriyapperuma, she said that he was a person who earlier suggested to demolish the Bandaranaike memorial and to grow manioc there. She said he was a person sacked from the SLFP for insulting the former Prime Minister Sirima Bandaranaike and for betraying the party. The former President said that she could not attend a meeting addressed by a person like him who goes against the party policies due to his anti Tamil and anti Muslim extremism.

Challenging the conference held under the patronage of the President Mahinda Rajapakse, the former President said that the SLFP was on an anti-popular extremist path that is against the 55-year history of the party and she would attempt to correct it while being a member of the party.

A photo exhibition was held parallel to the conference and the official web site of the SLFP was also launched.

Gotabhays says something else... Rohitha says another thing...???

Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama says that the government has no plan to commence a siege in the Northern Province.

The Minister expressed these views to Reuter whilst a tour in Malaysia.

The Foreign Minister said that the rumors on a planned operation to free the Northern Province were incorrect and the aim of the government was to attract the LTTE to the negotiation table to find a solution to the ethnic problem.

In contrast to Foreign Minister's statement, the Secretary of the Ministry of Defense Gotabhaya Rajapakse has told that the government will fulfill the responsibility of freeing Vanni area from the LTTE's hold and establish peace as it did in the Eastern Province. Mr. Rajapakse expressed these views presiding the passing out ceremony of a batch of civil defense personnel at Galkiriyagama Advanced Training Institute.
The latest tradition of the cabinet of Ministers of the Rajapakse government is one denying the other?s statement.

Similarly, while the Prime Minister Rathnasiri Wickramanayaka officially pleaded apology for the evacuation of ethnic Tamils from Colombo lodges, the chief government whip Jeyaraj Fernandopulle contrasting to the Premier's statement said that such apologizing was not necessary. Meanwhile, the cabinet spokesperson Anura Priyadarshana Yapa said that Fernandopulle's stance was not government position.

Again, Fernandopulle labeled the UN diplomat John Holmes a terrorist, while Foreign Minister Bogollagama stated that it was not government stance.

Now the Foreign Minister has denied the Defense Secretary's statement in diplomatic language.

Basil and Gotabhaya in India amidst Nedumaran's threats

A high level delegation of the government led by Defense Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapakse and the Presidential Adviser Basil Rajapakse left for India India for an urgent tour. Presidential Secretary Lalith Weerathunga is also in the team.

Government sources said that the chief Indian Ministers and state officials would be clarified the security situation of the country.

Meanwhile, Tamilnadu politician Nedumaran has announced that he will arrive in Jaffna peninsula in boats on September 17 since the Indian government is doing nothing for the situation in the Northern Province of Sri Lanka. Political analysts predicted bad effects on the diplomatic ties between the two countries if this happened. Sources said that Nedumaran's scheduled journey had caused the urgent tour de India by the Rajapakse Brothers.

Ranil says, Ukraine Ambassador Udaya Weerathunga, a relative of Gotabhaya, involved in Mig deal...

Resembling to the time of King Vijayabahu in which King?s brothers extorted luxuries from public money, the Rajapakse Company led by President Percy Mahinda Rajapakse extort public money, one brother from land and sea, another from the treasury and the other from everything, says United National Party (UNP) and National Congress leader Ranil Wickramasinghe.

Addressing the Janarala rally in Rathnapura yesterday, Mr. Wickramasinghe said that Secretary of Defense Gotabhaya Rajapakse is answerable for the Mig-27 deal according to the tender procedure of the country. He further said that Gotabhaya and his close relative Udaya Weerathunga conducted the deal.

Commenting on the Jathika Hela Urumaya (JHU), the Opposition Leader said that the Buddhism should be saved from this Devadaththa Sabha. He said that the JHU is currently acting the role of Sanman Salambaya, who worked to destroy Buddhism in King Vijayanahu's time. Instead of building the Dharma Rajya they pledged to formulate, the JHU is selling vehicle, radio and TV station incenses and trying to stop Pirith chanting.

In response to a statement made by JVP's Vimal Weerawansa that SLFP (M) is the 'Magngnan' (lunatic) faction, Sri Lanka Freedom Party - People's Wing Convener and National Congress Vice Chairman Mangala Samaraweera said that the lunatics are the ones who were jacking up the collapsing corrupt regime.

He thanked the government for cleaning up the UNP by taking in likes of G.L. Pieris who betrayed the country, most corrupted Milinda Moragoda and Hemakumara Nanayakkara who said in each stage that Mahinda Rajapakse stole tsunami funds.

Stating that the JVP has no right to defend this government, Mr. Samaraweera said that the government could be sent home within 24 hours if the JVP supports it.

UNP General Secretary Thissa Aththanayaka, Rathnapura district MPs Mahinda Rathnathilaka and Thalatha Athukorala also addressed the rally.

Tens of thousands of people participated in the rally that was held after a three-hour long demonstration that paraded the roads amidst heavy rains.

Wimal Weerawansa's flaps cut down by the JVP

JVP sources say that Vimal Weerawansa has been stripped off all his responsibilities as the party Propaganda Secretary sparing only the outfit of the post.

Now defunct 'Lanka' newspaper which was under Vimal Weerawansa's responsibilities will be re commenced under Anura Kumara Disanayaka and Weerawansa confidents, Editior-in-Chief Thissa Nihal Wickramasinghe and News Editor Dharma Sri Kariyawasam have been removed from the posts.

Amidst the power struggle between the pro-government group of the JVP led by Somawansa Amarasinghe and Vimal Weerawansa and the hardliner's group led by Tilvin Silva, Anura Kumara Disanayaka and underground leader Kumar Mahaththaya, the hardliners have established power in the party, sources said. According to the sources, Somawansa and Weerawansa are stripped off all the responsibilities.

However, both groups are in same stand of military solution to the ethnic problem.
Meanwhile, Anura Kumara Disanayaka recently met the UNP leader Ranil Wickramasinghe at the parliamentary complex and held talks for around half an hour.

We're really sorry that Mr. Weerawansha was such close to remove the plug from the world bank, when he was being dismissed by his authorities...

SLFP should be strengthened to stop corruption, suppression and anti people activities, says Chandrika

Former President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumarathunga says that the SLFP needs honest and intelligent leaders to guide it in the right path alienating it from the current wrong doings.

She made this observation at a discussion with the SLFP - People's Wing representatives led by Mangala Samaraweera and Sripathi Suriyaarachchi. The dialogue was held at the former President's official residence this morning (31).

SLFP internal democracy, popular economic policies of the party and the people's freedom were among the themes of the talks, said a communiqu頩ssued by the former President?s office.

It further says that the discussions were aimed at the demolition of many SLFP fundamentals including good governance, alleviating corruption, foreign policy and the solutions proposed for the ethnic problem in 1958 and after 1993.

The SLFP-PW representatives acknowledged the former President that the present government had not set forth any alternative proposal to solve the ethnic problem.

Former president Kumarathunga recalled that the SLFP still is a prominent political institute that acted mostly to protect the democracy and human rights in the past.

Mrs. Kumarathunga emphasized in the discussion that the corruption, suppression and anti people policies should be avoided after regrouping and strengthening the party membership.

The communiqu頦urther stated that the former President pointed out the need of joining hands with the other democratic political parties while reconvening and strengthening all the groups that broke away from the SLFP since 1993.

CJ shoots politicians again...

Chief Justice Sarath N. Silva said in the Supreme Court today that intelligence is crucial for education although the politicians could say they need no brain to go to parliament.

The Chief Justice made these observations when the Supreme Court considered a petition pertaining to Grade 1 admission of the government schools. Petitioner Jayasiri Iththapana, Co-Secretary of the Past Pupils' Association of the Ananda College, cited that the Ministry of Education circular disregarded certain guidelines made by the Supreme Court on July 31.

The three-member Supreme Court bench summoned the Secretary of Ministry of Education, Ariyarathna Hewage, today and ordered to issue new circular including guidelines of the Supreme Court. A draft of the circular should be produced to the Supreme Court on August 27.

The Chief Justice reprimanded the Secretary of the Ministry of Education for not submitting the Supreme Court guidelines to the cabinet for consideration in compiling the new circular. The Chief Justice said that pupils' pre education should be considered when admitting to schools.

He said that the intelligence might not be needed to enter into the parliament but it is essential for the education.

The bench chaired by the Chief Justice comprised judges Raja Fernando and and Jagath Balapatabendi.

Maduluwawe Sobhitha, Daranagama Kusaladhamma and Muruththettuwe Ananda Theroes were also present in the courts when the case was summoned.

Real Hela Urumaya against Jathika Hela Urumaya

A new organization named as Saba (real) Hela Urumaya is now in the formation against the Jathika Hela Urumaya (JHU).

National Sangha Conference former Secretary Galagodaaththe Gnanasara and Vitharandeniye Medhananda Theroes are the pioneers of this organization.

JHU did not fulfill any expectation of the people who hoped that it would end the corrupt politics of the country, says Rev. Vitharandeniye Madhananda Thero. He says the path of the JHU has now changed into a personal track.

The Thero says that the future of the JHU is vague due to the work of the lay leaders who think that the Sinhala Buddhist movement is in their hands. He further said that the JHU's march towards a virtuous society should not limit to a portfolio and a chairmanship.

Rev. Galagodaaththe Gnanasara Thero said that several rounds of discussions were held to form the new party. He said that the JHU had good objectives but they have now been overshadowed by personal gains.

Hemakumara Nanayakkara was Wasu's brother... but not anymore...

Agricultural and Agricultural Development Minister Hemakumara Nanayakkara says that several MPs of the 17 member United National Party - Democratic Group could be killed spending a less amount than US $ one million pledged by Charles Gnanakoon to buy one MP.

The Minister said that the President and the Defense Secretary should pay attention to this matter since the position vacated by the slain MP would be filled by a UNPer.

Minister Nanayakkara addressing a press briefing held at the Seth Sevana party headquarters today (23) accused that the Opposition Leader Ranil Wickramasinghe is utilizing Buddhism giving misinterpretations to its core issues to supply political jokes.

He urged the reverend monks not to participate these persons for religious activities such as offering 'Mal Watti' and placing 'Koth Kerali' of pagodas.

A plot to spread AIDS among Buddhist monks

The fundamentalists are engaged in a conspiracy to spread HIV among the Buddhist monks, says the leader of the Jathika Hela Urumaya, Rev. Ellawala Medhananda Thero. He said that he made aware the Chief Incumbents of Malwaththa and Asgiriya Chapters on this plot, when he met them last week.

Medhananda Thero said that he came to known about a plot hatched at a discussion held in Kurunegala by a group of fundamentalists. However, he did not reveal who these fundamentalist were.

The Thero further said that these fundamentalists have also distributed a blue film in which a layperson acts the role of a monk.

Meanwhile. The Prime Minister Rathnasiri Wickramanayaka said today that he was glad that Sri Lanka is the country with the least spread of HIV in Asia. He was addressing an international conference on AIDS, held in Colombo today with the participation of around 1500 delegates from 44 countries.

UNP withdraws from All Party Representative Committee (APRC) until the Govt reaches a consensus

United National Party (UNP) Executive Committee yesterday (21) decided to withdraw from the APRC.
UNP media spokesperson Gayantha Karunathilaka said to Lanka-e-News that his party was away from the deliberations of the APRC even before the Executive Committee decision. He said that the UNP stance on the ethnic problem had not changed.

UNP media spokesman further said that the government was still incapable to reach a consensus among the government alliance and the government Ministers have begun to criticize the Chairman of the APRC who is also a member of the cabinet. He said that UNP would decide the future action after the government alliance would reach a consensus and set forth a proposal.

Mawbima in the arena again...

The Leader and Mawbima newspaper institutes are preparing to join to publish two dailies and two weekend newspapers in Sinhala and English languages.

A discussion was held in this regard on August 16th at 'Habarana Lodge' with the participation of Tiran Alles, the owner of the Standard Newspaper Publishers, Sunday Leader editor Lasantha Wickramathunga on behalf of Leader Publications, Opposition Leader Ranil Wickramasinghe and SLFP - People's Wing Convener Mangala Samaraweera.

The joint company discussed to publish 'Mawbima' Sinahala daily, Morning Leader English daily, 'Irudina' Sinhala weekend newspaper and Sunday Leader English newspaper.

The Standard Newspaper Publishers will suspend publishing The Standard and the editorial will be attached to Morning Leader daily. Discussions went on to utilize the Leader office in Rathmalana as the editorial office of all the newspapers. Lankadeepa 'Guruda Wigrahaya' writer Upul Joseph Fernando's name was discussed as the news director and the political columnist of the Sinhala newspaper.

A decisive meeting pertaining to the entrance to the media world as a new institute was held in Colombo yesterday (19) and Tiran Alles, Ranil Wickramasinghe, Rakhitha Jayawardhana and Lasantha Wickramathunga participated in it. Tiran Alles is to act as the Chairman of the joint company while Lal Wickramathunga will hold the post of Managing Director.

Reportedly, the Sinhala and English dailies are to be published by the next month.

Sripathi released again...

The magistrate of Kaduwela, Lakmal Wickramasuriya yesterday (21) acquitted Sri Lanka Freedom Party - People's Wing Co-Convener and Gampaha district MP Sripathi Suriyaarachchi from the charges of misuse of a vehicle belonged to the Department of Posts and Telecommunication.

The magistrate considering the case said that the CID could not prove the charges leveled against the accused. The courts ordered Suriyaarachchi to reappear before the courts if summoned again under instructions of the Attorney General.

Former Minister Suriyaarachchi was taken into custody for misappropriation of a jeep numbered G-3040 belonged to the Department of Posts and Telecommunication. The Avissawella High Court bailed him out after keeping 48 days in remand custody.

President's Counsel Thilak Marapona and lawyer Nalin Ladduwahetti appeared for Suriyaarachchi.
The charge was framed against Suriyaarachchi after he was sacked from the portfolio he held.

The arrest was made several days after he complained to the Bribery or Corruption Commission that a massive fraud had occurred in the deal for purchasing four Mig-27 fighter aircrafts. He was arrested as he went to make a statement to the CID regarding the investigation.

JHU & Champika Ranawaka...

In view of the statements made by two members of the JHU, Environment Minister, Champika Ranawaka and the JHU representative at the APRC, Mr. Udaya Gammanpila, I wish to put the record straight so that there can be no misconceptions. As one who is influenced by the Buddhas' message of compassion, I shall not waste words on replying to the personal abuse and wild charges directed at me. But I would like to emphasize that the best way to defeat the LTTE is to isolate them by winning the Tamil people to the side of the Government through the APRC proposals.


The APRC has met on 40 occasions and the ultimate objective is to come up with a set of proposals that would be the basis for settling the national question and also be a basis for a future constitution. When the representatives of the 14 political parties first met I was asked by common consent to function as its Chairman. In this capacity I have endeavoured to ensure that the APRC meets regularly and to direct the discussions so as to produce the desired set of proposals. It is on record that when I prepared and presented a set of proposals reflecting the previous discussions, and some of the ideas from the group of experts, there was agreement in the APRC that this would be the basis for our continued discussions.

After the various political parties submitted their proposals and amendments to this document the core issues that needed to be discussed and agreed upon were identified. These core issues were the basis for the second round of discussions. After extensive discussions a common position was reached on a number of these core issues. There were three core issues that could not be resolved and I wrote to the Secretaries of the SLFP, JHU and MEP, suggesting compromise solutions and requesting that I be given an opportunity to discuss these with them.

It is unfortunate that the Secretary of the JHU did not respond to my letter. In addition I must mention that the JHU representative Mr. Gammanpila kept away from the six meetings of the APRC before the last one.

The SLFP and MEP responded to my letter and the President summoned a meeting of the Peoples' Alliance leaders, which included the MEP leader Mr. Dinesh Gunawardena, together with the leaders of the SLFP to discuss the matter. Following this meeting he summoned a meeting of the leaders of the Government where a clear decision was taken to retain the "Province" as the unit of devolution, while strengthening the district as an administrative unit within it. Views were exchanged on various core issues and there was also agreement on the return to the Westminister model of executive Parliamentary Government. This was made known to the public, as well as the members of the subsequent APRC meeting who accepted these decisions. It is unfortunate that no one from the JHU was present at these meetings.

As the President was keen that we conclude our discussions early, during the following week if possible, I produced an amended version of the document, containing all the subject areas that were agreed on, and separately highlighting all those areas that required to be discussed further. This was submitted for discussion at the APRC meeting held on Monday the 13th of August, at which Mr. Gammanpila made are appearance (after not attending the previous six meetings.) He stated the JHU stand once again on various issues which we had discussed and disposed of earlier. Rather than reopening those subjects that had been discussed at length, it was agreed that where one or a few parties deferred from the position accepted by the majority, this could be indicated in the consensus document. Mr. Gammanpila appeared to be satisfied by this arrangement.

Core issues like the retaining of the word "Unitary" in defining the nature of the state are still subjects for further discussion and will be taken up at the next meeting of the APRC. On this question the views expressed by the SLFP will no doubt influence the final decision to be arrived at by the APRC.

It is unfortunate that Mr. Gammanpila, in association with Minister Champika Ranawaka, have taken the modified discussion document of proposals submitted by me as being the final APRC position and made it the subject of public criticism by them. It will be clear to everybody that the matters are still under discussion and it is only when adequate consensus has been reached on all issues that it would become the final APRC document.

I would appeal to Mr. Gammanpila to participate at the future meetings of the APRC, where he is free to express his opinions and have them recorded, without disrupting the process of maximum consensus formation.

Prof. Tissa Vitarana
Chairman of the APRC

Final solution within the framework of unitary country despite whatever APRC says -Jeyaraj

Sri Lanka government Chief Whip Jeyaraj Fernandopulle said in the parliament yesterday (21) that the government has decided to devolve power within the framework of unitary state.

The Minister expressed these observations in response to criticism raised by People's Liberation Front (JVP) Propaganda Secretary Vimal Weerawansa on the work of the All Party Representative Committee (APRC). Minister Fernanopulle reiterated that the final solution to the north east problem would be within the frame of the unitary state despite the deliberations of the APRC.

The MPs of the United National Party (UNP) and Tamil National Alliance (TNA) protested the Minister�s statement.

Although the news has been published by the Chief Government whip, we must be aware of the fact that Mr. Fernandopulle has been named a "Political Clown" by the president himself. So, what he says may not correctly represent the decision of the government. Its up to you to decide...

A secret message to LTTE from the President Mahinda Rajapaksha

I was learnt that the Chairman of the Sri Lanka Red Cross Society Jagath Abesinghe left for the Tamil Tiger territory today (20) with a special message from the President Mahinda Rajapakse.

When enquired about the Red Cross Chairman's tour from the Executive Director of the Red Cross Mahesh Jayasinghe, he said that Mr.Abesinghe went today to the Anuradhapura branch office of the society and said he was unaware if the Chairman went beyond Vavuniya.

The way the JHU sold the TV license

Information is flowing in to Lanka-e-News on how the Jathika Hela Urumaya (JHU) sold, at Rs. 100 million, the TV and radio licenses granted to them in return of supporting the government.

A company named 'Peoples' Media Network (Pvt.) Ltd.' belonged to two supporters of the JHU have obtained this license. The two businesspersons are Subaweerage Jayadeva Ranjith Dias of 128, Divulapitiya, Boralesgamuwa and Jayampathi Clary Perera alias Sidney Jayasinghe of 18, Austin Place, Colombo 08.

The said company purchased the licenses stating that they would be utilized to set up channels to promote Buddhism, within a month of the inception of companies in April 2006.

Later, 60% of the shares of 'People's Media Network (Pvt.) Ltd' were sold with the TV and radio licenses, to 'Wijesuriya Hodings (Pvt.) Ltd.' Located at 594/1, Galle Road, Colombo 03, at Rs. 100 million. The owner of the company Nahil wijesuriya is now planning to sell the license for Rs. 250 million.

The members of the JHU are now querying from the leaders of the party how the selling of the licenses granted to promote Buddhism was in accordance with the virtuous society that JHU has vowed to set up.

The other political party that obtained a similar TV and radio license is the JVP that has not yet sold them.

Mahendra Rajapakse equals to King Choranaga, says Ranil

Opposition Leader Ranil Wickramasinghe addressing the third 'Jana Rala' rally held in Anuradhapura yesterday said that Percy Mahinda Rajapakse, like the ancient King Choranaga who robbed 11 temples to utilize wealth for his comfort, is currently engaged in robbing Central Bank of Sri Lanka and other state banks for the comfort of the Rajapakse Brothers Company.

Addressing the over 30,000 participants of the rally, Mr. Wickramasinghe accused that President Rajapakse robbed Central Bank first and then the People�s Bank, Bank of Ceylon and the State Mortgage Bank to extort money to nourish the Brothers Company.

Further, the Mig 27 deal reveals that the President has commenced to extort money from the defense budget as well, said the Opposition Leader.

Mr. Wickramasinghe said that a similar time was in the history in King Choranaga's time. In that period the King enjoyed luxurious life while the subjects starved as same as the Rajapakse Brothers Company does today.

Police to arrest the current owner of the luxury Benz of JHU monk MP

Police Criminal Investigation Department (CID) is to arrest Hemantha Nishantha, who became famous as the current owner of the luxury Benz imported under the duty free license of Jathika Hela Urumaya leader and MP Rev. Ellawala Medhananda Thero. CID alleges that Hemantha Nishantha is connected into a murder.

A CID spokesperson said to 'LeN' that few suspects arrested for the killing of Hemantha Nishantha's wife have confessed that Nishantha is also connected to the murder.

He further said that the corpse of the wife of Hemantha Nishantha would be exhumed soon for further investigation.

SL Government hasn't filed any complain against Sir John Holmes

Mendaka Abeysekera from New York-) Sri Lankan government hasn't filed any formally complain against United Nations Emergency Relief Coordinator and Under Secretary General of Humanitarian Affairs Sir John Holmes.

Mich�le Montas, Spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General disclosed this at a daily press conference yesterday.

During this daily press conference in New York, one journalist raised the comment by Minister and the Chief Whip of the Sri Lankan government Jeyaraj Fernandopulle accusing, Sir John Holmes who visited Sri Lanka recently, as a terrorist.

But, Mich�le Montas declined to comment on that."we do not comment on this type of statement" he stated.

Rs. 110 million bag of money to MPs crossover to opposition

Minister Rajitha Senarathna says that a conspiracy is underway to topple the government by giving money to the MPs. He says that a businessperson connected to the LTTE has pledged to offer Rs. 110 million per MP to join a future government set up by Ranil - Mangala alliance.

The Minister revealed this at a press briefing held in the Information Department at Narahenpita this morning.

Mr. Senarathna said that the UNP Democratic Group leader Karu Jayasuriya made a special statement in this regard in the parliament yesterday. Gnanakoon said to the two MPs that Ranil - Mangala alliance would topple the government soon and former President Chandrika would join them later, the Minister said. Gnanakoon had told that twenty MPs are needed to topple the government.

Gnanakoon has promised to grant Rs. 110 million each to the two MPs for expenses in a future election.

Mr. Senarathna said that Gnanakoon had talked over the phone from a foreign country to two MPs of UNP Democratic Group. He said that he was unaware of other government MP he had talked.

Gnanakoon's brother who is linked to the LTTE owns a shipping business in Los Angeles, US, and Prabakaran's brother also works in this company, says Minister Rajitha Senarathna.

Mr. Senarathna said that Gnanakoon assured former Foreign Minister Lakshman Kadirgamar that he would not be targeted by the LTTE and finally he became victim of a sniper of the Tigers, as he did not care his security. He also reminded that Sripathi Suriyaarachchi accused in a press conference in 2005 that Mr. Ranil Wickramasinghe met Gnanakoon in Singapore few days prior to 1999 Presidential. Several days later LTTE exploded a bomb targeting Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumarathunga.

Before 1994 Presidential Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumarathunga met Charles Gnanakoon and leading LTTEer Lawrance in Singapore and later UNP Presidential candidate Gamini Disanayaka was killed by the LTTE few days prior to the Presidential.

Mr. Rajitha Senarathna says that Charles Gnanakoon is attempting to topple the government that has liberated the Eastern Province from the LTTE hold and he needs to bring a pro LTTE government into power. Mr. Senarathna enquired what the reason behind the fit of fury of the UNP MPs who disturbed Minister Karu Jayasuriya who was making a special statement in this regard in the parliament.

An elected government can be defeated in the parliament in a democratic way but conspiracies to form governments according to the needs of the LTTE cannot be allowed says the Minister.

Mr. Senarathna said that all evidence would be revealed pertaining to the attempts to buy the MPs soon, said Minister Rajitha Senarathna

President's China tour costs Rs. 56 million

The cost for the President's tour in China is Rs. 56 million. 192 indivisuals were accompanied to China with the President in this tour from February 27 to March 4. The crew that raised the eyebrows of even the Chinese government was the biggest batch accompanied by a state head who toured China in the history, media reported.

The Government Chief Whip Jayaraj Fernandopulle revealed these data at the parliament in a time the cost of living and the fuel prices were skyrocketing and the economy was deteriorating as a result of turning the war into a massive business.

Minister Fernandopulle had to reveal the data as he answered a question posed by the Colombo district UNP parliamentarian Ravi Karunanayaka. According to the Minister, the total cost for the tour of the President and the team was Rs.56,016,298.20.

The President, the first lady, 16 Ministers, 60 security, media and other officials, 16 members of the Navy cultural troupe, 20 members of the Sri Lanka Transport Board dancing group with three officials, Six chefs, three officials of the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, 12 Buddhist representatives and 54 business representatives were included in the touring group.

The President's budget spent Rs. 27,501,425.40, Export Development Board spent Rs. 1,005,736.93, Sri Lanka Transport Board spent Rs. 867,587.65 and Board of Investment spent Rs. 2,535,545.65 for the tour. The flight ticket costs of the team were Rs. 24,106,007.63.

UNP, JVP and MC join hands to defeat the govt. at WP Council

A proposal to express displeasure to the government over its measures such as maintaining a big cabinet and increasing the cost of living to an unbearable level was passed in the Western Provincial Council with a majority today.

Opposition Chief Whip UNP councilor Lakshman Abegunawardhana set forth the proposal. JVP and Sri Lanka Muslim Congress MPs joined with the UNP to vote for the proposal while the SLFP voted against it. As a result, the proposal was passed with a majority of 24 votes. 52 councilors voted in support of the proposal while 28 voted against it.

Thanking the JVP and the SLMC, UNP councilor Lakshman Abegunawardhana introduced this move as a slap on the face of the anti people program of the government from one of the major people's institute.

'Pirate King' & Almsgiving for dogs and crows

Jathika Hela Urumaya (JHU) says it will offer alms to dogs and crows to eliminate the evils of the horoscope of Mr. Ranil Wickramasinghe who is carrying out an anti Buddhist campaign insulting the sacred monks.

Revealing the news of the almsgiving at a press conference held in Nugegoda, JHU media spokesman Nishantha Warnasinghe said that the said almsgiving would be organized in main towns soon.

JHU expects the assistance of the Buddhist organizations and the public for this.

Further, the JHU said it would publish a book named 'Pirate King,' one similar to 'Pirate Queen' published by the editor of Ravaya newspaper, Victor divan.

He said the book would be based on the life of Ranil Wickramasinghe.

CWC decides to support government as backbenchers

The five MPs of the Ceylon Workers' Congress led by Mr. Arumugam Thondaman have decided to sit in the government side of the parliament and to support the government as backbenchers. The CWC resigned from the portfolios in protest of reproach by the Presidential Senior Adviser Basil Rajapakse to Mutthu Sivalingam.

Mutthu Sivalingam who was the target of the severe reproach of Basil Rajapakse announced the decision at a press conference held in Colombo today.

He said that CWC did not want to topple the governments and the party they would support would be decided at an election.

Vice Chairman of the CWC R. Yogarajan also participated in the discussion.

Gotabhaya imported flying coffins at the cost of one billion rupees, says UNP

United National Party (UNP) questions why the Auditor General is not granting permission to audit the accounts of the Sri Lanka Logistics Company in which Gotabhaya Rajapakse holds a director post. The company handled the controversial purchasing of the outdated Mig-27 assault aircrafts that came to public as a massive misappropriation of billions of rupees.

Sri Lanka Logistics Company was set up by the current government to handle the purchasing of logistics to the security forces and police. The Directors of the company are Defense Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapakse, Finance Secretary P.B. Jayasundara and lawyer Mohan Peiris.

Addressing a press conference held in the official residence of the Opposition Leader, the head of the UNP media unit Lakshman Kiriella said that the deal violated all the financial regulations and tender procedures of the country. He said that Sri Lanka lost 10.7 million US dollars through this corrupt deal and the purchased four aircrafts were 25-year-old outdated planes that were parked in hangers since 1991 without flying.

Mr. Kiriella pointed out that in 2000, a technical group from Sri Lanka rejected to purchase these aircrafts for Rs. 160 million each and the same aircrafts were bought in 2006 for Rs. 240 million paying Rs. 80 million more.

He further said that the UNP investigation unit had conducted a scientific study on the issue with the help of several former security forces official and the report was submitted to the parliament. The MP said that the statements issued by the Defense Ministry and posted in the web site of the Ministry after the revelations of the former ministers Mangala Samaraweera and Sripathi Suriyaarachchi were misleading.

The UNP report points out that the Ambassador of Ukraine Udaya Weerathunga is a close relative of the Rajapakse Company. He was appointed to the post under political influence despite his questionable business deals.

Although the Defense Ministry stated that the deal was between governments, the money paid by Sri Lanka government had first gone to the Belimissa Holdings Company of UK. The Company is not registered in UK and the shareholders, investment and accounts are secrets, said the UNP report.

Mr. Kiriella said that the reasons for the rise of cost of living and the people's suffering was such corruption of the government and urged the government to answer these questions instead of covering to war.

UNP MP Sagala Rathnayaka addressing the press briefing said that Sri Lanka has made history through being the only country that purchased Mig-27 aircrafts in 21st century. He said that flying outdated aircrafts is dangerous and against the international conventions. He named these aircrafts as flying coffins.

HRW Report - Tendentious; based on unconfirmed, unsubstantiated and outdated information

Statement by the Presidential Secretariat on the report by Human Rights Watch on Sri Lanka, issued 06th of August 2007

The report of the Human Rights Watch entitled "Return to War - Human Rights under Siege" is largely tendentious, and is replete with generalizations. It refers to issues that have been largely resolved. These largely unconfirmed and unsubstantiated allegations and outdated information do not justify the demand for a special UN Observer Mission on Human Rights in Sri Lanka.

Among the unsubstantiated information are the numbers of persons who have allegedly disappeared and the number of IDPs. The work of government agencies to establish the whereabouts of these persons has been ignored. The Report also ignores the fact that the numbers of alleged disappearances and abductions have sharply declined in recent months due to the firm action taken by the Government and the arrest of two criminal gangs against whom legal action is being pursued. A Special Commission appointed by the President is at present investigating specified instances of unlawful killings and disappearances, and the work of this Commission is being observed by an International Group of Eminent Persons.

It is regretted that insufficient attention has been paid by Human Rights Watch to the fact that these allegations are made against the background of a campaign against a brutal terrorist group, the LTTE, which has been banned as an international terrorist organization by many countries; and which has for many years been engaged in gross violations of Human Rights, particularly the recruitment and use of children for armed conflict. The LTTE also exploits the freedoms of democracies, particularly in the West, to obtain funding from abroad to purchase more weapons to use against the democratically elected Government of Sri Lanka, and to oppress the people under its jackboot.

It is also regretted that Human Rights Watch has thought it fit to issue such a largely one-sided report, weighed so heavily against the legitimate government of Sri Lanka, that is maintaining and protecting democracy, and seeks to take it to sections of the population that have been deprived of democratic rights by the LTTE for nearly two decades; and, remains committed to a peaceful and negotiated settlement of the prevailing crisis in the country, caused essentially by separatist terrorism.