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.
Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe granted bail
Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe, who was in remand custody over allegations of misusing state funds, was granted bail by the Colombo Fort Magistrate’s Court. He was released on three sureties of Rs. 5 million each and appeared via Zoom from the Colombo National Hospital due to health concerns. The case is fixed for hearing on October 29, 2025. Wickremesinghe, the first former head of state to be remanded in Sri Lanka, is accused of misusing Rs. 16.9 million in government funds during a 2023 overseas visit.
Sri Lanka records its highest-ever monthly export earnings in July
Sri Lanka recorded its highest-ever monthly export earnings in July, reaching USD 1.64 billion, according to the Export Development Board (EDB). Chairman Mangala Wijesinghe said goods exports rose 15.37% to USD 1.3 billion, while services earned USD 337 million, with strong growth in apparel, tea, coconut products, and transport. From January to July, export earnings neared USD 10 billion, marking a 7.79% increase from last year.
Probe into treasure hunting case where woman may have been sacrificed – President
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake said a senior army officer is under investigation over a suspected treasure hunting case where a woman may have been sacrificed. He noted that both police and military officers were allegedly involved. Earlier, police in Beliatta arrested five suspects, including a retired Major General, after villagers tipped off authorities about treasure hunting on a 12-acre plot of land. Investigations are ongoing.
Govt plans online system for driver’s licence medical certificates
Deputy Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation Janitha Ruwan Kodithuwakku said steps are being taken to introduce an online system for issuing medical certificates required for driver’s licences, following reports of irregularities at the Transport Medical Institute in Nugegoda. He added that plans are also underway to allow licence renewals without visiting Werahera, except for fingerprint collection, to reduce inconvenience.
PM Harini challenges news channel to prove she visited Ranil in hospital
Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya rejected claims by Hiru News that she secretly visited former President Ranil Wickremesinghe in hospital, challenging the network to provide evidence. She said such reports must be based on facts, noting that as Prime Minister she cannot move about in secrecy. Despite her office issuing a denial, the original story remains published on the channel’s website.
Trending Video of the day
Supporters of former President Ranil Wickremesinghe celebrate outside court after his bail was announced. pic.twitter.com/3RXx2Iwjzm
— NewsWire 🇱🇰 (@NewsWireLK) August 26, 2025
