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.
PM’s Office denies news report on PM Harini visiting Ranil
The Prime Minister’s Office denied a Hiru News report claiming Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya visited former President Ranil Wickremesinghe at the hospital with former First Lady Maithri Wickremesinghe. Officials said the report was inaccurate, expressed regret over its publication, and urged the outlet to issue a correction.
Opposition parties plan joint strategy after Ranil Wickremesinghe’s arrest
Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa said the arrest of former President Ranil Wickremesinghe is a serious challenge to democracy, urging opposition unity to confront it. At a meeting with party leaders, he announced short- and long-term strategies and appointed a committee to coordinate actions. Former President Maithripala Sirisena emphasized prioritizing Wickremesinghe’s release and protecting democracy. The parties agreed to meet again on Aug. 27
Govt to launch large-scale development drive starting from Jaffna
Minister Bimal Rathnayake said that large-scale development projects will begin in September, with the first phase in Jaffna led by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. Plans include launching an international sports complex in Mandaitivu, creating a new “Coconut Triangle” in Mullaitivu, and introducing an online system to resolve passport issuance delays in Jaffna. He said the initiatives mark the start of a national-level development drive.
Health Ministry sells 60 decommissioned vehicles for Rs 120.8 Million
The Health and Mass Media ministries have deposited Rs. 120.8 million to government revenue from the auction of 60 decommissioned vehicles. The sale included 53 vehicles for general use and seven for scrap, all deregistered beforehand. The fleet comprised cars, three-wheelers, and motorcycles. The ministries plan to auction 18 more high-capacity vehicles pending Finance Ministry approval.
Colombo DIG arrested over treasure hunting allegations
Colombo DIG Uditha Liyanage has been arrested by the CID over allegations that his wife was involved in treasure hunting. He is to be presented before the Anuradhapura Magistrate’s Court. His wife and seven others were earlier arrested on Aug. 15 at a temple in Shravasthipura, Anuradhapura, and remain remanded until Aug. 26.
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