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.
Tense situation in Parliament over no-confidence motion against Speaker
A tense situation arose in Parliament today (03) after the Opposition objected to Deputy Speaker Rizvie Salih’s refusal to immediately allow several privilege issues to be raised, including the no-confidence motion submitted against Speaker Jagath Wickramaratne. Responding to the Opposition’s request, Deputy Speaker Salih said he had received copies of privilege issues submitted by several MPs after 9.00 a.m. today. He explained that he was unable to permit the matters to be raised immediately, as he had not yet examined the submissions. Meanwhile, Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa raised concerns over the refusal to take up the no-confidence motion against the Speaker, claiming that the decision violated parliamentary privileges and democratic principles.
Namal Rajapaksa granted bail in Krrish case, but to remain in remand custody
The Colombo Magistrate’s Court today (03) ordered the release on bail of Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) Parliamentarian Namal Rajapaksa, who had been remanded in connection with the controversial Krrish transaction. The court also imposed an overseas travel ban on the MP. However, Rajapaksa will remain in remand custody as he has not secured bail in separate legal proceedings filed against him. Rajapaksa had been remanded in connection with the ongoing legal proceedings relating to the Krrish transaction, with the court scheduled to deliver its decision on his bail application today.
Daisy Forrest released from money laundering case involving Yoshitha Rajapaksa
The Colombo High Court has ordered the release of Daisy Forrest, the grand aunt of Yoshitha Rajapaksa, from the money laundering case filed against them under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act.The court issued the order today (03) after considering submissions indicating that Forrest was not in a suitable mental condition to face trial. Meanwhile, Yoshitha Rajapaksa pleaded not guilty to the charges filed against him under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act when they were read out in open court today.
20 petitions filed in Supreme Court against Prevention of Organized Crimes Bill
A total of 20 petitions have been filed before the Supreme Court challenging the Prevention of Organized Crimes Bill. Deputy Speaker Rizvie Salih informed Parliament today (03) that the Speaker had received copies of the 20 petitions filed in terms of Article 121(1) of the Constitution. The petitions have been filed in respect of the bill titled “Prevention of Organized Crimes,” seeking a determination from the Supreme Court on its constitutionality.
Over 14 kg of heroin and ICE seized in Pooneryn
Police have recovered over 14 kilograms of heroin and ICE narcotics abandoned by suspects who fled a police roadblock in Pooneryn, Kilinochchi. According to the Police Media Division, the drugs were recovered during a roadblock operation conducted near Pooneryn School on the Jaffna–Mannar Road on Monday night (02).