<ul><li>Four given suspended sentences&nbsp;</li><li>23 acquitted in lynch mob-style murders&nbsp;</li></ul> &nbsp;The Gampaha High Court Trial-at-Bar yesterday (11) sentenced 12 defendants to death after they were found guilty of the charges filed by the Attorney General regarding the murder of former Member of Parliament, Amarakeerthi Athukorala, and his security officer, Sergeant Jayantha Gunawardena in Nittambuwa town.The defendants sentenced to death are: Dushantha Lakshmantha, Mohamed Dilshan, Sagar Fernando, Supun Tharindu Sunilratne, Indika Kumara Wijesinghe, Ramiah Sathya Kumar, Charaka Deshan, Sanath Weeraprasanna, Yohani Madubhashitha Jayaweera, Rangana Ruwan Nandasena, Diluka Prabath Jayathilaka and Irosh Agasthi Pieris (who remains in hiding and has evaded court).The verdict was delivered at 11:20 a.m. yesterday by the three-member bench comprising High Court Judges Sahan Mapa Bandara (president), Rashmi Singappuli, and Rasantha Godawela, following a continuous trial lasting over two and a half years since 2023.In open court, Judge Sahan Mapa Bandara emphasised this was not a unanimous verdict. He announced his judgment first, stating that as the prosecution had failed to prove the case beyond reasonable doubt against the 41 defendants indicted on 14 charges, he decided to acquit and release all defendants from all charges. He further noted that the other judges would announce their judgments subsequently.Accordingly, High Court Judges Rashmi Singappuli and Rasantha Godawela delivered their judgment. They announced that 23 out of the 41 defendants were being acquitted of all charges, while 16 defendants were found guilty and sentenced.Of those found guilty, the two judges imposed suspended prison sentences on four individuals and sentenced the remaining 12 defendants, who faced murder charges, to death.The judges also ordered the four defendants receiving suspended sentences to pay compensation of Rs 50,000 each to the wives of the deceased, Malani Athukorala and Anusha Indika. Consequently, these four defendants were ordered to pay a total compensation of Rs 400,000 to the two widows.Judge Rasantha Godawela noted that this trial was significant as the prosecution led evidence using visual facial recognition technology for the first time in Sri Lanka, in the absence of any eye-witnesses.Prior to the delivery of the sentence, Deputy Solicitor General Janaka Bandara requested the court to impose a sentence on the defendants that would serve as a deterrent, stating: "We saw in this case a group of people who appear innocent in court, taking the law into their hands on the streets. Society must be shaped to ensure such crimes do not happen again. I request the court to impose a sentence that forces those who act like 'roadside judges' to face the law".On 9 May 2022, Polonnaruwa District SLPP MP Amarakeerthi Athukorala and his security officer, Police Sergeant Jayantha Gunawardena, were brutally assaulted with poles and clubs and killed by a mob in the centre of Nittambuwa town while they were returning to Polonnaruwa after attending a meeting at Temple Trees.Following the preliminary inquiry at the Attanagalla Magistrate's Court regarding this double murder, the Chief Justice appointed a High Court Trial-at-Bar upon the request of the Attorney General. PHOTO Venura Chandramalitha

9 May 2022 violence: Death for 12 in Athukorala killing  

<ul><li>Questions ability of Dr. Wickramaratne to function independently&nbsp;</li><li>Files CIABOC complaint against Speaker’s Private Secretary&nbsp;</li></ul> The main Parliamentary Opposition, the SJB stated that although there is no specific timeline, the Party expects to bring a no-confidence motion (NCM) against the Speaker of the Parliament Dr. Jagath Wickramaratne, claiming they have lost confidence in the latter's ability to function independently. Speaking to The Daily Morning yesterday (11), the SJB General Secretary and Parliamentarian Ranjith Madduma Bandara said that Dr. Wickramaratne is no longer seen as impartial. “He is not acting as an independent Speaker. He is clearly partial. We have already lost confidence in him, so we will move an NCM&nbsp;against him. There is no fixed timeframe, we will do it."Meanwhile, SJB MP Harshana Rajakaruna filed a complaint with the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) against Dr. Wickramaratne, alleging interference in the complaint lodged against him by the suspended Deputy Secretary General and Chief of Staff of the Parliament, attorney Chaminda Kularatne. Rajakaruna claimed that Dr. Wickramaratne had attempted to influence the CIABOC and said that he was hopeful that the Commission would address the matter independently.&nbsp;A group of SJB MPs lodged a complaint with the CIABOC yesterday (11), alleging that the Private Secretary of Dr. Wickramaratne is acting in a manner that interferes with investigations into a complaint previously filed against Dr. Wickramaratne. SJB MPs pointed out that the said Private Secretary had informed the Secretary-General of the Parliament to submit a report to Dr. Wickramaratne regarding matters mentioned in the earlier complaint by Kularatne. On 2 February of this year (2026), Kularatne filed a complaint with the CIABOC, leveling corruption allegations against Dr. Wickramaratne. Kularatne accused Dr. Wickramaratne of several violations, including using official vehicles beyond his entitled limit, unlawfully obtaining two fuel allowances, and using two official residences. On 5 February, Rajakaruna revealed in the Parliament that the said Private Secretary had sent a letter to the Secretary-General of Parliament requesting information related to the complaint. Accordingly, a group of SJB MPs led by Rajakaruna visited the CIABOC yesterday to file a complaint regarding the letter sent by the said Private Secretary. The comments by Madduma Bandara come amid Opposition criticism over Dr. Wickramaratne remaining in office following the launch of a CIABOC inquiry against him. On an earlier occasion, Madduma Bandara said that it is not appropriate for Dr. Wickramaratne to remain in the position when there is a corruption-related investigation against him, adding that the Opposition is observing how the situation develops. The CIABOC has decided to proceed with an investigation into a complaint filed by Kularatne against Dr. Wickramaratne. The complaint, lodged on 2 February, alleges corrupt activities by Dr. Wickramaratne. After an initial review, the CIABOC has determined that a formal investigation will begin in the coming days.

SJB to bring anti-Speaker NCM

Rejecting allegations&nbsp; the Chairpersons of Praja Shakthi Committees have been given the authority to spend State funds, the&nbsp;Rural Development, Social Security, and Community Empowerment Ministry stated that the relevant funds would be managed by and disbursed solely to the appropriate Government institutions and officials.Speaking to The Daily Morning, the Deputy subject Minister, Wasantha Piyatissa said&nbsp; the Committees have no role in allocating or controlling public finances and that all financial decisions follow established Government-approved procedures."These allegations are completely false. What these Committees do is submit proposals for village-level development projects. Once a proposal is approved, the necessary funds are released through the relevant Government agencies and implemented by the authorised Government officials. No funds are channelled through Committee Chairpersons or political representatives," he said. He further said the role of Committee Chairpersons includes preparing project proposals, assisting in planning development activities, and coordinating local initiatives, and added that they also act as a representative of the Regional Development Committee Chairpersons.Earlier, Opposition Parliamentarian and Committee on Public Finance member, Dr. Harsha de Silva questioned whether it is lawful to delegate powers to spend State funds to political candidates or their representatives by appointing them as Praja Shakthi Committee Chairpersons. Taking to the social media platform X, he said: "These Committees now decide on Samurdhi, roads, and local projects, shifting control from neutral public servants to politically aligned figures. This raises serious questions on impartiality, accountability, and the potential misuse of public resources. Does this comply with constitutional principles on the delegation of powers and public finance?"&nbsp;

Praja Shakthi Committees: Government denies authority over State funds

The Central Environmental Authority (CEA) is moving to address longstanding gaps in wetland conservation by planning to manage ecologically sensitive areas currently excluded from legal protection.&nbsp;At present, wetlands are primarily safeguarded under the National Environmental Act, No. 47 of 1980, which allows for the designation of environmentally sensitive areas. Further regulatory support comes from the Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance, which lists many wetlands as sanctuaries or national parks. However, numerous wetlands on private lands and under the Land Reform Commission (LRC) remain absent from the official directory.Speaking to The Daily Morning yesterday (11), the CEA Director General Kapila Mahesh Rajapaksha stated the Authority will soon be empowered to manage all wetlands, including those on private and LRC lands not currently protected under the existing laws.“The definition we use to identify a wetland is the Ramsar Convention’s definition,” he said. Article 1 of the said Convention, which defines wetlands as “areas of marsh, fen, peatland or water, whether natural or artificial, permanent or temporary, with water that is static or flowing, fresh, brackish or salt, including areas of marine water the depth of which at low tide does not exceed six metres”. He noted that even an abandoned paddy field can evolve into a wetland over time."Even though there is a wetland directory, we don’t have a full-scale census of all the wetlands in the country," Rajapaksha acknowledged.He explained that the lack of formal recognition for these sites has meant an absence of management plans or procedures. “In the recent future, the responsibility of the wetlands would be coming under the CEA. We will not have the right to the property, yet, if it is a wetland, and if anyone is engaged in land filling or engaging in any other activities, we have the power and provisions to stop them,” he asserted.Highlighting the critical environmental functions of wetlands, such as cooling cities, absorbing stormwater, and improving air and water quality, Rajapaksha noted that these initiatives would support sustainable development. “Development is needed. We don’t think that it should be stopped. But, in the process, these ecosystems should not be harmed,” he added.

CEA to be empowered to protect all wetlands 

With the threat of a strike by engineers of the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) looming, signifying possible blackouts on the horizon, informed sources of the Energy Ministry vouched the country will not be faced with such a situation.&nbsp;Speaking to The Daily Morning yesterday (11), informed Ministry sources waived off possibilities of any strikes within the CEB, noting there was a backlash of some employees against the trade union (TU) leaders. “Over 2,000 people have been given the option to retire and this kind of TU action would only delay their situation”. He noted those who had opted to retire had applied for higher studies and other job options.&nbsp;Sources said there would be six new subsidiaries paving the way for plenty of opportunities in the future, and that a greater section of CEB employees are aware of that and are waiting for those openings.&nbsp;So, if these TUs go for a strike, they will realise what support they have, sources said, noting the Ministry has held several meetings with the CEB engineers and employees and addressed all their issues. “We have spoken to all the stakeholders,” they said. “There were negative views from those supporters of the previous Government regarding the issue of privatisation. This is the only way forward. The Government is also ready to address all the issues of these employees of the CEB as there have been certain clarifications with regard to the setting up of the six subsidiary companies. We have given them whatever was possible from our side,” they pointed out. Sources noted that a meeting had been scheduled for 11 February of this year (2026) with a Ministerial committee and the CEB TUs. “The Government is open to dialogue but it will not be cowed down by the threats of TUs”.&nbsp;Sections of CEB TUs have warned they would resort to TU action if the gazette setting up six new subsidiary companies is issued prior to resolving their issues.&nbsp;

CEB TUs threaten to strike: Energy Ministry rules out blackout 

The construction of the Kasikote elephant tunnel, previously halted due to design flaws and poor planning, has recommenced with modified plans, according to the Environment Ministry.&nbsp;The project, critically aimed at reducing fatal vehicle collisions with elephants, was paused after public outcry over the tunnel’s insufficient size for the herd’s largest elephants.Speaking to The Daily Morning, the Deputy Environment Minister Anton Jayakody said that work is now underway. He stated that accompanying measures, such as the removal of an electric fence in the area, would not compromise public safety, as necessary precautions are being implemented simultaneously. Reported modifications include maintaining a slope between the railway and the road to prevent elephants from accessing the roadway directly, and installing an internal drainage system to avoid water accumulation inside the tunnel. Additionally, drivers will be educated on navigating the new structure, and 147 road signs will be erected to warn the public of elephant crossings. When questioned about the technological feasibility of building a tunnel alongside an active railway line, he asserted that the required expertise and resources are available.The decision to revise the project follows a field visit by the authorities on 18 May 2025, which identified key issues. A committee was subsequently appointed on the initiative of Transport Minister Bimal Rathnayake, the Environment Minister Dhammika Patabendi, and Jayakody, to oversee corrections.The urgency of the project is underscored by a rising number of incidents on the Kasikote stretch. Just yesterday (11), a baby elephant was struck by a vehicle, prompting villagers to summon Wildlife Conservation officials for emergency treatment. The tunnel initiative now emerges as a vital intervention to protect both the endangered elephant population and the safety of the travelling public.

HEC mitigation: Kasikote tunnel construction recommences 

Teaching activities at the Ramakrishna Mission school in Batticaloa resumed on Tuesday (10), following the handover of the grounds back for educational purposes.&nbsp;The premises was taken over in 1990 for use as a military camp. This school, originally established as a Ramakrishna Mission School, was converted into a Government school by Gazette Notification dated 23 July 1962. Following severe damage caused by the cyclone in 1978, the school was relocated to its present site, and teaching and learning activities recommenced in 1979.&nbsp;In 1990, the school premises were taken over for use as a military camp. At that time, approximately 800 students were enrolled, and classes were conducted from Grades 1 to 11. During the period of military occupation, the school functioned temporarily at the Vandarumoolai Madhya Maha Vidyalaya, the Devapuram Gajamugan Vidyalaya, and on several private lands. Subsequently, the school was permanently re-established on approximately one acre of land near the reservoir on the Murakkottansenai Main Road. The school is severely affected by flooding and overcrowding, which significantly disrupt teaching and learning activities.The school premises, which were occupied by the military, were officially released on 30 September 2025 for educational purposes. The total extent of the land is two acres. Accordingly, 196 students — comprising 112 boys and 84 girls in the primary section — together with their teachers, were scheduled to be transferred to this school on Tuesday. The released premises consist of two buildings measuring 100 by 20 feet, one building measuring 110 x 20 feet, and one building measuring 40 x 20 feet. Under the 2025 maintenance programme, a sum of Rs. two million was allocated for the provision of toilet and drinking water facilities. Seven classrooms have been repainted. In addition, a 140-metre boundary fence has been constructed on one side of the school with community assistance.&nbsp;

Post-military handover: Batti Ramakrishna Mission school re-opens 

Despite nearly three months having passed since the deaths of two patients after they were administered ondansetron, a drug commonly used to treat nausea and vomiting, the Government has still failed to publicise the relevant reports, claimed the Medical and Civil Rights Professional Association of Doctors President, Dr. Chamal Sanjeewa.Speaking to the media yesterday (11), he said the lack of clarity surrounding the quality and regulatory approval of the relevant drug raises doubts about the safety of medicines being used in State hospitals. He also said the authorities have yet to provide a clear explanation on whether the relevant requirements in India, where the drug was sourced, had been properly verified before procurement and use."It is particularly concerning that the issue remains unresolved months after the incident. Two patients lost their lives. The failure to ensure accountability in such cases erodes public confidence in the health system."He said the regulation and distribution of medicines are currently facing serious challenges due to weaknesses within the relevant institutions. He said these shortcomings have made it difficult to guarantee the quality, safety and proper oversight of pharmaceuticals entering the country. Dr. Sanjeewa further pointed out that although the Government has announced reductions in the prices of medicines, the State Pharmaceuticals Corporation has failed to procure these medicines at the reduced rates through Government procurement processes. This, he said, has undermined the intended benefits of the price reductions.He also criticised the Government’s approach to the health sector, noting that despite official claims the country is no longer facing an economic crisis, there has been little attention paid to improving the salaries of middle-class professionals, including doctors. He said this neglect has contributed to dissatisfaction within the medical community.Deputy Health Minister, Dr. Hansaka Wijemuni was not available for comment.&nbsp;

Docs group claims: No Government reports on ondansetron deaths

<ul><li>Magistrate postpones case to 17 June</li></ul>Trincomalee High Court Judge N.M.M. Abdullah yesterday (11) ordered the release of 10 individuals, including four Buddhist monks currently held in remand custody over an unauthorised construction within a coastal zone, on a cash bail of Rs 10,000 each and two personal bails of Rs 1,000,000 each per person.The High Court Judge, who stipulated the sureties signing the bail must be individuals who satisfy the Magistrate, strictly warned the defendants not to interfere with witnesses or investigations. Additionally, the High Court Judge cautioned that they must appear in court on the dates specified by the Magistrate and refrain from obstructing public and religious activities, stating that bail conditions would be cancelled if one or more of these conditions were breached.The monks granted bail are: Balangoda Kassapa Thera, President of the Eastern Bhikkhu Front; Trincomalee Kalyanavansatissa Thera, Chief Incumbent of the Trincomalee Sambuddha Jayanthi Vihara; Trincomalee Sukitha Sukithawansatissa Thera, Registrar of the Trincomalee Town and Gravets Sasana Rakshaka Balamandala and Incumbent of the Boralukanda Rajamaha Vihara; Trincomalee Nanda Thera, resident of the Trincomalee Anandarama Vihara.Attorneys-at-law Nuwan Indunil Bellanthudawa, Mahesh Kotuwella, Sanjeewa Weerawickrama, Madhumali de Alwis, Manoj Aravinda Sebastian, and Mahendra Dias, appearing for the defendants to secure bail, argued extensively that this was an exceptional case. Representing the Attorney General, State Counsel Kalana Kothalawala stated the facts submitted were not exceptional and that this was not an exceptional case.Following the bail order from the High Court, the case was recalled before Trincomalee Magistrate M.S.M. Samsudeen. After announcing the relevant bail orders and conditions for the defendants individually with translations, the Magistrate postponed the case until 17 June. The Harbour Police informed the court that five more suspects are to be arrested in connection with this case, and the Magistrate issued summons for them.&nbsp;Expressing views at the end of the proceedings, Attorney-at-law Sanjeewa Weerawickrama stated that he sincerely appreciates the support provided by the Trincomalee High Court Judge, the Trincomalee Magistrate, and the court staff regarding this case. A delegation from the All Ceylon Buddhist Congress, including its President Nimal Chandra Wakista, attended the proceedings. The group granted bail departed for the Sambuddha Jayanthi Vihara in a bus belonging to the All Ceylon Buddhist Congress.

9 May 2022 violence: Death for 12 in Athukorala killing

SJB to bring anti-Speaker NCM

SJB to bring anti-Speaker NCM

Praja Shakthi Committees: Government denies authority over State funds

Praja Shakthi Committees: Gove ...

CEA to be empowered to protect all wetlands

CEA to be empowered to protect ...

CEB TUs threaten to strike: Energy Ministry rules out blackout

CEB TUs threaten to strike: En ...

HEC mitigation: Kasikote tunnel construction recommences

HEC mitigation: Kasikote tunne ...

Post-military handover: Batti Ramakrishna Mission school re-opens

Post-military handover: Batti ...

Docs group claims: No Government reports on ondansetron deaths

Docs group claims: No Governme ...

Illegal coastal construction: Trinco High Court grants bail to monks

Illegal coastal construction: ...

SJB to bring anti-Speaker NCM

SJB to bring anti-Speaker NCM

Praja Shakthi Committees: Government denies authority over State funds

Praja Shakthi Committees: Gove ...

CEA to be empowered to protect all wetlands

CEA to be empowered to protect ...

CEB TUs threaten to strike: Energy Ministry rules out blackout

CEB TUs threaten to strike: En ...

HEC mitigation: Kasikote tunnel construction recommences

HEC mitigation: Kasikote tunne ...

Post-military handover: Batti Ramakrishna Mission school re-opens

Post-military handover: Batti ...

Docs group claims: No Government reports on ondansetron deaths

Docs group claims: No Governme ...

Illegal coastal construction: Trinco High Court grants bail to monks

Illegal coastal construction: ...

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