Today’s News Digest: Your go-to summary of the key events and headlines that shaped the day. From major developments to breaking news, we bring you everything that happened today, all in one quick and easy read.
Sri Lanka Electricity Amendment Bill passed in Parliament
Parliament passed the Sri Lanka Electricity (Amendment) Bill today with a 96-vote majority. The Bill, which revises 2024 electricity sector reforms, received 121 votes in favor and 25 against during the second reading. It includes amendments aimed at balancing privatization with public ownership, and improving transparency and efficiency in the sector.
President approves letter removing Deshabandu Tennakoon from IGP post
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has approved the removal of Deshabandu Tennakoon as Inspector General of Police, following a Parliamentary resolution passed with 177 votes in favor. The decision comes after a committee found Tennakoon guilty of abuse of power and misconduct. A new IGP will be appointed with Constitutional Council approval.
Corruption : Shasheendra Rajapaksa remanded
Former State Minister Shasheendra Rajapaksa has been remanded until August 19 after being arrested by the Bribery Commission over corruption allegations. He is accused of illegally constructing a farm building on state land near the Kiriibbanwewa reservoir and misusing his authority to gain approval for its reconstruction. Charges include corruption, conspiracy, and illegal occupation of state property.
Cardinal to send letter of demand to Wimal
The Asian Football Confederation has fined Sri Lankan footballer Mohamed Thilham USD 2,000 for displaying a pro-Palestine message during a post-match celebration in Colombo on June 10. The incident occurred after Sri Lanka’s 3–1 win over Chinese Taipei in the AFC Asian Cup qualifiers. Thilham, an unused substitute, revealed a shirt reading “PRAY FOR FREE PALESTINE.” The AFC deemed the act a breach of regulations but reduced the penalty after considering mitigating factors, according to Sri Lanka Football President Jaswar Umar. Thilham has one month to pay the fine.
“Chichi’s rocket” : PM presents BOI data
Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya presented BOI data in Parliament on the Supreme SAT project, stating it began operations in 2015 and has generated significant revenue since. The statement was made in response to questions raised by MP D. V. Chanaka who said that allegations had been made on the project, dubbed “Chichi’s rocket,” claiming that the venture had disappeared.
