The trial against former State Minister Diana Gamage, filed by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), began today (30) before the Colombo Magistrate’s Court.

She is accused of submitting false information to the Controller of Immigration and Emigration to obtain a passport and of residing in Sri Lanka without a valid visa.

The case was heard before Colombo Chief Magistrate Asanka S. Bodaragama.

During the proceedings, the charges were read out to former minister Gamage, where she declared herself not guilty.

Under the direction of State Counsel Akila Dharmadath, testimony was recorded from Hansika Kumarasiri, a former officer of the Department of Immigration and Emigration.

The court then postponed further examination of the evidence to December 15.

The CID filed this case against Diana Gamage based on the Attorney General’s advice, under seven charges.

These include residing in Sri Lanka without a valid visa between July 14, 2016, and November 1, 2020, and providing false information to the Controller of Immigration and Emigration to obtain a passport, acts considered offences under the Immigration and Emigration Act. (Newswire)

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Former State Minister Diana Gamage, against whom an arrest warrant was issued recently, appeared in court today and was released on bail.

The Colombo Magistrate’s Court released Diana Gamage on a surety of Rs. 10 million after she appeared in court via her legal counsel. 

Last week (21), Colombo Chief Magistrate Thanuja Lakmali Jayathunga issued a warrant for the arrest of Diana Gamage due to her failure to appear for a court hearing.

Diana Gamage, who is currently out on bail in connection with an alleged offence under the Immigration and Emigration Act, had failed to appear before the court for a hearing on the case. (Newswire)

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The Colombo Magistrate’s Court today issued a warrant for the arrest of former State Minister Diana Gamage, due to her failure to appear for a court hearing.

Diana Gamage is currently out on bail in connection with an alleged offence under the Immigration and Emigration Act.

The case was called today before Colombo Chief Magistrate Thanuja Lakmali Jayathunga.

The warrant was issued as she had failed to appear before the court on this occasion.

An order was also issued for notices to be served on Diana Gamage’s bail guarantors. (Newswire)

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Former State Minister Diana Gamage has praised the Anura Kumara Dissanayake-led government for allowing cannabis cultivation in its export zones under strict regulations only for export purposes.

Addressing the media, Diana Gamage said she was pleased that the incumbent government had taken steps to implement proposals she had made on cannabis during her tenure in the former government. 

“I did not ask for people to consume cannabis while on the road. I did not propose that it be used as a drug. I only proposed that it be treated as an industry to earn dollars for Sri Lanka,” she said. 

Diana Gamage further said that members of her own government at the time rose against her for these proposals, alleging that even then-President Ranil Wickremesinghe did not allow her to carry out her duties. 

She said, however, she was pleased that the current government has understood the need behind the proposals and has taken steps to approve them, providing licences to seven international companies for this purpose.

“I respect President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, as a head of state, announcing to the entire country the transactions with investors, the need for legalising the cannabis industry, and the dollars to be earned through it. I respect him for this,” Diana Gamage added.

Her comments come after the Cabinet approved for Sri Lanka to allow cannabis cultivation in its export zones under strict regulations, only for export purposes.

Cabinet Spokesman Minister Nalinda Jayatissa said the government had been continuing a process started in 2004, after all the necessary approvals and that an institution has been established to start the expansion of cannabis cultivation under the Board of Investment (BOI).

The cultivation will be under the strict regulations of BOI and the Department of Ayurveda, and they will be allowed only to export. (Newswire)

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The Colombo Magistrate’s Court has recalled an arrest warrant for former state minister Diana Gamage over her failure to appear in court for proceedings related to immigration law violations.

Colombo Chief Magistrate issued the warrant earlier today after Gamage failed to appear for the hearing. However, she later appeared in court after submitting a motion, leading to the recall of the arrest warrant.

The CID has filed seven charge sheets against her, including allegations of staying in Sri Lanka without a valid visa and providing false statements to immigration authorities.

The former state minister was arrested and released on bail last year for allegedly obtaining a passport using false information. (Newswire)

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Former Minister Diana Gamage says she was offered a Landcruiser V8 vehicle during her tenure as the State Minister of Tourism, to carry out her official duties.

Speaking to the media, Gamage said that she had been provided several unmaintained vehicles from the Tourism Ministry during her tenure.

She said, however, that she was forced to approach the Presidential Secretariat to obtain a vehicle in good condition to carry out her responsibilities, which were mostly onfield. 

“Every vehicle I was given by the Tourism Ministry was of low maintenance. I nearly met with an accident while using one such unmaintained vehicle. Eventually, I had no choice but to reach out to the President’s Office, after which I received a proper vehicle,” she said.

Having used the vehicle during her tenure, Diana Gamage said that once leaving her position she returned the vehicle to the Presidential Secretariat.

The former minister also accused Tourism Ministry officials of profiting by keeping such unmaintained vehicles, adding that she has evidence to prove her allegations. 

Diana Gamage is the latest former state official to comment on the lack of maintenance of state vehicles. 

The comment comes after former Presidential Advisor Rosy Senanayake revealed that the Porsche Cayenne vehicle she was given during her tenure was also unmaintained, with doors not opening and the sunroof leaking water. (Newswire)

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Former State Minister Diana Gamage has been granted bail after appearing before the Colombo Magistrate’s Court for allegedly obtaining a passport using false information.

Earlier today, she appeared before court, following a search by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) to apprehend the former minister.

The CID had presented a report to the Colombo Chief Magistrate’s Court, identifying Diana Gamage as a suspect in the case involving the fraudulent acquisition of a diplomatic passport.

Accordingly, Colombo Chief Magistrate Thilina Gamage instructed the CID to take appropriate action and report back to the court. (Newswire)

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Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) member Rehan Jayawickreme has filed a contempt of court case against former State Minister Diana Gamage, who was recently disqualified from holding a seat in the Parliament of Sri Lanka.

Jayawickreme filed a case at the Supreme Court of Sri Lanka today against Gamage for criticizing the Court’s decision related to her disqualification. 

The petition was submitted through attorney-at-law Tharmaja Tharmaraja, while Rehan Jayawickreme would be represented in court by attorney-at-law Hejaaz Hizbullah.

Meanwhile, the Colombo Chief Magistrate also ordered to name former State Minister Diana Gamage as a suspect, in the case filed with regard to her passport.

Gamage has been named a suspect in the case filed over the incident where a passport was obtained by producing false information to the Controller General of Immigration and Emigration.

The court issued the order after the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) had submitted a report to the court naming Diana Gamage as a suspect in the case. 

Earlier in May, Diana Gamage was disqualified from Parliament after the Supreme Court ruled that she was not eligible to hold a seat in the Parliament of Sri Lanka. 

The ruling was issued after taking up for consideration the petition that was filed challenging Gamage’s citizenship and right to hold a Parliamentary seat due to her British citizenship. (Newswire)

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The Supreme Court has moved to hear a petition filed by former State Minister Diana Gamage, disputing the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB)’s decision to revoke her party membership.

The case was reviewed today (10) by a three-member Supreme Court bench composed of Justices Gamini Amarasekara, Kumuduni Wickremesinghe, and Mahinda Samayawardhena.

During the proceedings, President’s Counsel Faiszer Musthapha, representing Diana Gamage, requested a date to communicate future actions concerning this petition.

Consequently, the bench decided to convene again on May 28 to determine the state of the petition.

The Leader of the Opposition Sajith Premadasa and General Secretary of the SJB Ranjith Madduma Bandara, among others, have been named respondents. 

The SJB had expelled Gamage after she voted in favour of the 20th Amendment to the Constitution in 2020, contrary to the party’s unanimous decision to oppose it. (Newswire)

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Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) member Mujibur Rahman took oaths as a member of Parliament today.

Rahman was sworn in before the Speaker to fill the Parliamentary seat vacated by the disqualification of former State Minister of Tourism Diana Gamage.

Diana Gamage was disqualified from Parliament after the Supreme Court ruled this week that she was not eligible to hold a seat in the Parliament of Sri Lanka. 

The ruling was issued after taking up for consideration the petition that was filed challenging Gamage’s citizenship and right to hold a Parliamentary seat due to her British citizenship.

Following Gamage’s disqualification, the SJB proposed to nominate Mujibur Rahman via the party’s National List to fill the Parliamentary vacancy. 

The SJB is entitled to nominate a candidate to fill the vacancy in Parliament as Diana Gamage had entered the Parliament via the SJB’s National List. (Newswire) 

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An overseas travel ban was imposed on former State Minister of Tourism Diana Gamage by the Colombo Chief Magistrate’s Court today. 

Colombo Chief Magistrate Thilina Gamage issued the order after considering a request made by the lawyers of the aggrieved party.

The move comes after the Supreme Court of Sri Lanka yesterday announced that State Minister and SJB member Diana Gamage was not eligible to hold a seat in the Parliament of Sri Lanka.

The Supreme Court three-judge bench delivered the verdict after taking up for consideration the writ petition that had challenged Diana Gamage’s citizenship and right to hold a Parliamentary seat.

The writ petition was filed by civil activist Oshala Herath, who sought a ruling that Diana Gamage was unqualified to serve as a Member of the Sri Lankan Parliament due to her British citizenship.

Following the Supreme Court’s decision, the Opposition Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) announced that former MP Mujibur Rahman’s name will be nominated from the party’s National List to replace Gamage in Parliament.

The SJB is entitled to nominate a candidate to fill the vacancy in Parliament as Diana Gamage had entered the Parliament via the SJB’s National List. 

Meanwhile, the Secretary General of Parliament today informed the chairman of the National Election Commission that a Parliamentary seat has become vacant as of May 08 due to the cancellation of the Parliamentary seat of Diana Gamage. (Newswire)

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Former MP Mujibur Rahman’s name will be nominated from the Samagi Jana Balawegaya’s (SJB) National List following the disqualification of State Minister Diana Gamage, the SJB announced today.

Opposition Leader MP Sajith Premadasa said Mujibur Rahman’s name will be nominated to fill the Parliamentary seat of Diana Gamage. 

MP Premadasa further said that the SJB’s nomination will be sent to the National Election Commission.

The SJB is entitled to nominate a candidate to fill the vacancy in Parliament as Diana Gamage had entered the Parliament via the SJB’s National List. 

State Minister of Tourism and SJB member Diana Gamage lost her Parliamentary seat after the Supreme Court today ruled that she was not eligible to hold a seat in the Parliament of Sri Lanka.

The Supreme Court three-judge bench delivered the verdict after taking up for consideration the writ petition that had challenged Diana Gamage’s citizenship and right to hold a Parliamentary seat.

The writ petition was filed by civil activist Oshala Herath, who sought a ruling that Diana Gamage was unqualified to serve as a Member of the Sri Lankan Parliament due to her British citizenship. (Newswire)

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The Supreme Court of Sri Lanka has determined that State Minister of Tourism Diana Gamage is not eligible to hold a seat in the Parliament of Sri Lanka. 

The verdict was issued by the three-judge bench comprised of Justices Gamini Amarasekara, Kumuduni Wickremasinghe and Janak de Silva when the petition filed against State Minister Gamage was taken up for consideration today.

Delivering their verdict, the justices held that Diana Gamage was not eligible to hold an MP post. 

Diana Gamage’s citizenship and right to hold a Parliamentary seat were challenged by a writ petition filed by civil activist Oshala Herath.

In his writ petition, the civil activist sought a ruling that Diana Gamage was unqualified to serve as a Member of the Sri Lankan Parliament due to her British citizenship.

Counsel Hafeel Farisz with Nishika Fonseka and Shannon Thilekaratne appeared for Petitioner Oshala Herath, while Farman Cassim PC appeared for the Samagi Jana Balawegaya. (Newswire)

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Plans are underway to designate 49 additional tourist destinations as official tourist zones, State Minister of Tourism Diana Gamage announced.

According to the State Minister, these locations will be published in a gazette within a month as part of the ongoing efforts to boost tourism.

“We have identified 49 additional tourist destinations for the advancement of our tourism industry. These sites will be designated as tourism zones and will be officially published in the gazette within a month. Through this initiative, we aim to bolster tourist arrival into our country and promote its diverse attractions,” she said.

She made the remarks at a press conference held at the Presidential Media Centre on Monday (Apr 29), during which she outlined the various measures being taken to boost the tourism industry. 

State Minister Gamage announced plans to establish a dedicated committee tasked with preventing and monitoring fraud and corruption within the tourism sector.

“We have received numerous complaints regarding tourist harassment in our country. I’ve spoken out about this issue before. Complaints range from overcharging for food to inflated prices for train tickets to tourist spots, and even instances of sexual harassment against a tourist promoting Sri Lanka. We are implementing measures to combat these activities. We cannot afford to let the reputation of our country suffer due to the actions of a few individuals who make mistakes.

“It is worth noting that the higher prices of railway tickets are often facilitated by corrupt officials. To address this, we are streamlining the process of purchasing tickets online and taking further steps to enhance this system. Such measures can help in controlling corruption and fraud,” she said.

State Minister Diana Gamage also pointed out that similarly, due to the illegal sale of alcohol, Sri Lanka was losing large sums in tax revenue. 

“As a Buddhist country, it is essential to close liquor shops on Poya Days as a mark of respect for Buddhism. However, even on such sacred days, alcohol continues to be sold illegally within our borders. Some officials tasked with preventing such activities have succumbed to bribery. These corrupt actions by a minority hinder the enforcement of law and order in our nation. That is why I have proposed the establishment of a dedicated committee to combat and monitor such fraudulent and corrupt practices,” she said.

The State Minister further revealed that in the past, there have been numerous criticisms regarding the operation of SPAs in Sri Lanka and that steps were being taken to establish robust monitoring mechanisms.

“While these establishments function as wellness centres in other countries, ensuring the health and safety of our citizens is paramount. Currently, we are engaging in discussions with the Ministry of Health to streamline SPA operations and establish robust monitoring mechanisms,” she added. (Newswire)

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State Minister of Tourism Diana Gamage, and opposition MPs Sujith Sanjaya Perera and Rohana Bandara have been suspended from Parliament for a period of one month over a recent brawl in Parliament.

The decision has been taken based on the recommendations of the Parliamentary Committee on Privileges.

MP Chamal Rajapaksa submitted the investigation report on the brawl to Parliament today on behalf of the Parliamentary Committee on Privileges, with the report recommending to temporarily suspend the three MPs from Parliament.

Meanwhile, the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) accused the Speaker of the Parliament of failing to implement the recommendations of the committee that was appointed to investigate the brawl.

The SJB revealed that the report by the Parliamentary Committee had recommended a 03-month suspension for State Minister Diana Gamage and only one month for the two SJB MPs.

The SJB added that, however, the decision pertaining to State Minister Diana Gamage has been reduced to one month after the report had been submitted to the Parliamentary Committee on Privileges.

The suspension comes in connection to a brawl that broke out within the Parliament premises between State Minister Diana Gamage and Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) MPs Rohana Bandara and Sujith Perera in October.

Following the incident, State Minister Diana Gamage lodged a complaint with the Welikada Police against SJB MP Sujith Perera accusing him of having allegedly assaulted her outside the Parliament Chamber. (NewsWire)

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A petition filed against Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) Leader MP Sajith Premadasa and SJB General Secretary MP Ranjith Madduma Bandara, challenging their posts in the party, has been rejected. 

The petition, which was filed by State Minister of Tourism Diana Gamage, was rejected by the Colombo District Court today (Nov 24).

State Minister Gamage had filed the petition seeking an interim injunction order preventing Sajith Premadasa from functioning as the leader and Ranjith Madduma Bandara as the General Secretary of the SJB. (NewsWire)

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The committee appointed to investigate the brawl between State Minister of Tourism Diana Gamage and Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) MPs Rohana Bandara and Sujith Perera has handed over its report to the Speaker.

Deputy Speaker Ajith Rajapakshe said the committee had convened for the last time today after which the report consisting of its recommendations had been handed over to Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena.

A brawl had broken out within the Parliament premises between State Minister of Tourism Diana Gamage and Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) MPs Rohana Bandara and Sujith Perera on October 20, 2023.

Following the incident, State Minister Diana Gamage lodged a complaint with the Welikada Police against SJB MP Sujith Perera accusing him of having allegedly assaulted her outside the Parliament Chamber. (NewsWire)

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The Court of Appeal today dismissed a writ petition filed challenging the Parliamentary seat of State Minister of Tourism Diana Gamage. 

The writ petition had been filed seeking an order declaring State Minister Diana Gamage was not qualified to be a Member of Parliament.

Taking up for hearing the petition today, the Court of Appeal dismissed it based on a majority decision of the three-judge bench.

The writ petition challenging State Minister of Tourism Diana Gamage’s citizenship and right to hold a Parliamentary seat was filed by civil activist Oshala Herath.

The petition seeks a ruling that Diana Gamage was unqualified to serve as a Member of the Sri Lankan Parliament due to her British citizenship. (NewsWire)

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Sri Lanka welcomed a significant influx of 763,000 tourists, contributing to a significant income of approximately US $800 million during the first seven months of 2023, State Minister of Tourism Diana Gamage stated.

Emphasizing the success of President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s program aimed at strengthening the national economy through the growth of the tourism industry, she stated that this accomplishment has played a crucial role in bolstering Sri Lanka’s foreign reserves.

State Minister Diana Gamage stressed the importance of introducing new approaches and adopting innovative strategies to enhance the tourism industry, pointing out the necessity of developing vibrant and active cities to attract tourists, stating that visitors do not seek out lifeless destinations or dead cities.

She expressed her views during a Press Briefing at the Presidential Media Centre (PMC) recently (July 30) under the theme ‘Collective Path to a Stable Country.’

The State Minister of Tourism said; “Last year, the tourism business had fallen into a very sad situation. Tourists did not make Sri Lanka a tourist destination due to the economic crisis and struggle in the country. Various countries had banned Sri Lanka from visiting. But with the arrival of President Ranil Wickremesinghe, the era of queuing in the country ended. The economy is slowly building up. At the same time, a favourable situation was created for the tourism industry. In the first seven months of this year, Sri Lanka witnessed a significant increase in tourist arrivals, with 763,000 tourists visiting the country. This surge has contributed to earning over US$ 800 million, representing a remarkable growth rate of 205% compared to the previous year. The resurgence of the tourism sector has played a vital role in strengthening Sri Lanka’s economy and increasing its foreign reserves.

As the State Ministry of Tourism, Sri Lanka is undertaking a new program to boost tourism, and one significant step in this regard was hosting the final round of the Miss World pageant recently. This prestigious event saw contestants from 30 countries visiting Sri Lanka, contributing to the promotion of the country’s tourism industry.

In line with its efforts to boost tourism, the State Ministry of Tourism in Sri Lanka has undertaken a new program to promote the country as an attractive tourist destination. Recently, Sri Lanka hosted the final round of the Miss Tourism World pageant, with contestants from 30 countries visiting and exploring the beauty of the island. This event has significantly contributed to promoting Sri Lanka’s tourism industry.”

State Minister Gamage said, “Furthermore, a significant milestone is set to take place at the end of this year, as Sri Lanka plans to host the final competition of the World Travel Awards (WTA) in December. This prestigious event is expected to see the participation of 117 countries, further elevating Sri Lanka’s status as a global tourism destination. The President has been apprised of these developments, reflecting the government’s commitment to showcasing Sri Lanka’s potential to the world.

Additionally, historical data shows that a considerable number of tourists have previously arrived in Sri Lanka from countries such as England, Russia, Germany, and France. These key markets continue to show interest in visiting Sri Lanka, further strengthening the country’s tourism industry.”

Stating that while the State Ministry of Tourism plays a crucial role in promoting and facilitating tourism, she said the majority of the tourism industry’s success relies on private institutions and individuals. 

“The actions of even a single person can have a significant impact on the reputation of Sri Lanka as a tourist destination. Hence, there is a vital need for regulations to ensure a smooth and positive experience for tourists. Regulation of the tourism business is crucial to maintain standards and ensure a positive experience for tourists. A single negative incident or inconvenience to a tourist can have far-reaching consequences on the entire industry. Therefore, a robust regulatory framework is necessary to safeguard the interests of both tourists and the tourism sector.

In this regard, the government has taken steps to implement a system that evaluates the quality of accommodations, such as Air B&B, Homestays, provided to tourists. By maintaining high-quality facilities and services, Sri Lanka can attract more tourists and enhance the overall tourism experience,” she said.

The State Minister revealed that setting ambitious targets, such as achieving tourism revenue levels similar to that of 2018 by the end of this year, shows the government’s commitment to rejuvenating the tourism industry. It highlights the determination to restore Sri Lanka’s appeal as a thriving and welcoming tourist destination in the global market.

“It is essential to clarify that when discussing the cultivation of hemp (Cannabis), the focus is not on its use as an intoxicant. Cannabis, indeed, is classified as a drug, but it also has significant potential for medical and industrial purposes. In fact, there are 22 varieties of cannabis in Sri Lanka and numerous numbers of medicinal products that can be derived from hemp, presenting a significant opportunity for Sri Lanka to capitalize on its cultivation and exports. Hemp cultivation is gaining prominence globally, and Sri Lanka has the potential to become a leader in this industry. There are lucrative investment prospects in producing medicines from hemp, which can yield substantial economic benefits for the country. A ten-acre hemp plantation alone has the potential to generate around US$ 200 million.

However, it is essential to address the misconceptions and misunderstandings surrounding hemp farming in Sri Lanka. Some negative perceptions arise from the misuse of social media and the conflation of hemp with illicit drugs. It is crucial to educate the public about the legitimate and profitable aspects of hemp cultivation, emphasizing its vast economic potential in various industries.

By promoting responsible and informed discussions about cannabis, focusing on its various uses beyond intoxication, and implementing appropriate regulations, Sri Lanka can tap into the enormous economic opportunities offered by this multi-billion-dollar industry.”

State Minister Diana Gamage stated that to boost the tourism industry, implementing a night economy system is vital, adding, “Tourists seek destinations that provide them with the freedom to enjoy life to the fullest. Closing tourist destinations early, such as at 10 pm, would discourage tourists from visiting. To attract tourists, it is essential to create vibrant and lively environments, not “dead cities” (areas with limited nightlife). In order to attract more tourists, it is crucial to extend the operating hours of tourist destinations, allowing visitors to have a more enjoyable experience. This may involve keeping certain places open later into the night, providing various entertainment options, and facilitating activities that appeal to tourists.

Furthermore, establishing direct flight services with international airlines, such as Chinese and Italian airlines, will enhance accessibility and convenience for tourists. These partnerships can help bring in more visitors and contribute to the growth of Sri Lanka’s tourism sector.

By implementing these promotional programs and initiatives, the State Ministry aims to strengthen Sri Lanka’s economy through a thriving and vibrant tourism industry. Emphasizing a night economy, extending beach stays, and improving transportation connections will undoubtedly make Sri Lanka a more attractive and appealing destination for tourists from around the world. A thriving tourism sector can bring in substantial revenue, create job opportunities, and contribute significantly to the nation’s economic growth,” she added. (NewsWire)

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The Court of Appeal has decided to hear the writ petition filed over Diana Gamage’s citizenship issue before a fresh bench.

The writ petition filed requesting to issue an order to abolish the Parliamentary seat of the State Minister is to be heard on September 14.

The petition will be heard before a Court of Appeal 3-judge-bench after the court today delivered a split verdict regarding the petition.

The writ petition challenging State Minister of Tourism Diana Gamage’s citizenship and right to hold a Parliamentary seat was filed by civil activist Oshala Herath.

The petition seeks a ruling that Diana Gamage was unqualified to serve as a Member of the Sri Lankan Parliament due to her British citizenship. (NewsWire)

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