Namal Rajapaksa – Newswire https://www.newswire.lk Sri Lanka's largest News aggregator Fri, 04 Sep 2026 12:52:02 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.8 https://www.newswire.lk/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/favicon.png Namal Rajapaksa – Newswire https://www.newswire.lk 32 32 Namal Rajapaksa remanded until September 18 https://www.newswire.lk/2026/09/04/namal-rajapaksa-remanded-until-september-18/ Fri, 04 Sep 2026 12:24:58 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=253445

Colombo Chief Magistrate Asanga S. Bodaragama today (04) ordered that Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) MP Namal Rajapaksa, who wasContinue Reading

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Colombo Chief Magistrate Asanga S. Bodaragama today (04) ordered that Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) MP Namal Rajapaksa, who was taken into custody by the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption, be remanded until September 18.

The order was issued after considering submissions made by Deputy Solicitor General Janaka Bandara, representing the Bribery Commission, and arguments presented by the suspect’s legal team.

Rajapaksa was produced before court on suspicion of accepting a bribe of USD 8 million during the controversial Airbus aircraft purchase deal linked to SriLankan Airlines. The transaction has long been at the center of public debate and scrutiny.

Earlier in the day, the MP appeared before the Bribery Commission to provide a statement regarding the ongoing investigation into the questionable aircraft procurement. 

After nearly five hours of testimony, officials placed him under arrest and subsequently presented him before the Magistrate’s Court. (Newswire)

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Rs. 100 million bribe : Why was Namal Rajapaksa arrested ? https://www.newswire.lk/2026/09/04/rs-100-million-bribe-why-namal-rajapaksa-arrested/ Fri, 04 Sep 2026 11:25:17 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=253434

Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) National Organiser and Parliamentarian Namal Rajapaksa has been arrested by the Commission to Investigate AllegationsContinue Reading

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Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) National Organiser and Parliamentarian Namal Rajapaksa has been arrested by the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) over allegations that he accepted Rs. 100 million in bribes linked to an aircraft procurement deal involving SriLankan Airlines.

CIABOC said Rajapaksa was arrested by its investigating officers at around 2:09 p.m. on Friday (4).

According to the commission, the investigation relates to funds allegedly paid as bribes in connection with the purchase of aircraft for SriLankan Airlines.

CIABOC alleges that €1,454,651.24 had been received as a bribe into an account maintained at Standard Chartered Bank in Singapore under the name BIZ Solutions INC.

Of that amount, US$800,000 was allegedly transferred to an OCBC Bank account in Singapore held under Sabre Vision Holdings LTD, a company owned by a Sri Lankan businessman.

The commission alleges that, corresponding to those funds, Rajapaksa received a total of Rs. 100 million from a Sri Lankan businessman on several occasions during 2014 and 2015.

CIABOC said the arrest followed an investigation based on a statement from the Sri Lankan businessman, statements provided to the commission by officials of France-based Airbus, as well as documents and other information gathered during the probe.

Rajapaksa is due to be produced before the Colombo Chief Magistrate’s Court. (Newswire)

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Namal Rajapaksa brought to Court after Bribery Commission arrest https://www.newswire.lk/2026/09/04/namal-rajapaksa-brought-to-court-after-bribery-commission-arrest/ Fri, 04 Sep 2026 10:50:40 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=253423

Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) MP Namal Rajapaksa, who was arrested by the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery orContinue Reading

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Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) MP Namal Rajapaksa, who was arrested by the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption this morning, was brought before the Colombo Chief Magistrate’s Court. 

Rajapaksa had been summoned to the Commission to provide a statement in connection with an ongoing investigation into an alleged bribery incident involving the acquisition of wide-body aircraft for SriLankan Airlines 

He was arrested after recording the statement and later produced before the court. (Newswire)

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Namal Rajapaksa appears before bribery commission https://www.newswire.lk/2026/09/04/namal-rajapaksa-appears-before-bribery-commission/ Fri, 04 Sep 2026 04:28:31 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=253309

Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) MP Namal Rajapaksa arrived at the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption thisContinue Reading

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Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) MP Namal Rajapaksa arrived at the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption this morning following a formal summons.

It is reported that Rajapaksa had been notified in writing to present himself before the Bribery Commission at 09.00 am today. 

The official reason for calling him before the Commission has not yet been disclosed, while reports suggest it may be linked to the SriLankan Airlines Airbus deal. (Newswire)

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Minister Nalinda responds to Namal’s arrest remarks https://www.newswire.lk/2026/09/03/minister-nalinda-responds-to-namals-arrest-remarks/ Thu, 03 Sep 2026 04:55:31 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=253147

Minister Nalinda Jayatissa has dismissed claims by MP Namal Rajapaksa that attempts are being made to arrest him out ofContinue Reading

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Minister Nalinda Jayatissa has dismissed claims by MP Namal Rajapaksa that attempts are being made to arrest him out of fear of a rally organized in Anuradhapura.

Speaking to reporters on the matter, Jayatissa said measures taken against Rajapaksa are based on court proceedings, adding that the MP is well aware of his own actions. 

He noted that agencies such as the CID, FCID and the Bribery Commission have yet to fully uncover the extent of Rajapaksa’s conduct.

Jayatissa stressed that investigations are aimed at proving wrongdoing through evidence, and that it is natural for someone guilty of misconduct to feel apprehensive. 

He further remarked that if Rajapaksa believed he was facing arrest, he should have held his rally earlier.

The Minister added that anyone found guilty of wrongdoing will be dealt with according to the law, urging Rajapaksa to face legal proceedings without evasion. (Newswire)

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Namal warns on 22nd Amendment, calls for judicial independence https://www.newswire.lk/2026/08/24/namal-warns-on-22nd-amendment-calls-for-judicial-independence/ Mon, 24 Aug 2026 11:14:58 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=251603

Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) MP Namal Rajapaksa today raised concerns over the proposed 22nd Amendment to the Constitution, cautioningContinue Reading

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Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) MP Namal Rajapaksa today raised concerns over the proposed 22nd Amendment to the Constitution, cautioning that public statements by government representatives on matters that could come before the judiciary risk undermining confidence in judicial independence.

Speaking at the SLPP headquarters on Nelum Mawatha, Rajapaksa said that comments appearing to anticipate court decisions could raise doubts about the impartiality of the judiciary. He stressed that recent discussions on judicial independence had underscored the importance of allowing courts to carry out their duties free from political influence.

Turning to recent controversies, Rajapaksa questioned whether some investigations may have focused on selected individuals, calling for a comprehensive review of findings. He said the SLPP was continuing to study the reports and insisted that proper assessment and fair investigations were necessary before drawing conclusions.

On the political front, Rajapaksa said the SLPP would strengthen its grassroots engagement ahead of future elections by visiting communities across the country. He noted that the party had helped bring the President closer to the people and would continue to focus on direct community interaction.

“We have to go from village to village for the presidency today. We have been able to take the President from the AC room in Colombo 7 to the main road and bring him closer to the people,” he said.

Rajapaksa also urged the Government to prioritize issues directly affecting the public, including the timely provision of fertiliser, the purchase of paddy, fuel concessions for fishermen, support for graduates, and assistance to industries facing difficulties. He emphasized that constitutional changes should be considered carefully and must not undermine public confidence in democratic institutions or the rule of law.

Meanwhile, commenting on the potential impact of El Niño conditions, Rajapaksa said successive governments had previously prepared contingency plans based on forecasts of adverse weather and urged timely preventive measures to ensure institutions were adequately prepared. (Newswire)

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Namal Rajapaksa appears before FCID https://www.newswire.lk/2026/08/21/namal-rajapaksa-appears-before-fcid/ Fri, 21 Aug 2026 04:52:50 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=251200

Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) MP Namal Rajapaksa arrived at the Police Financial Crimes Investigation Division (FCID) today (21). ItContinue Reading

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Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) MP Namal Rajapaksa arrived at the Police Financial Crimes Investigation Division (FCID) today (21).

It is reported that he had reported to the FCID in response to a summons issued in connection with an ongoing investigation. (Newswire)

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Namal says ballot box is the real test of government support https://www.newswire.lk/2026/07/30/namal-says-ballot-box-is-the-real-test-of-government-support/ Thu, 30 Jul 2026 05:03:47 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=247590

Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) National Organiser Namal Rajapaksa has urged the government to hold Provincial Council elections, insisting thatContinue Reading

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Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) National Organiser Namal Rajapaksa has urged the government to hold Provincial Council elections, insisting that only the ballot box, not commissioned surveys, can reveal true public opinion. 

Speaking to reporters at the SLPP headquarters on Nelum Mawatha, Rajapaksa said elections were the most reliable test of voter confidence in the President and the government, and questioned whether the administration was prepared to face the electorate. 

Rajapaksa emphasized that an election was the only reliable way to test how much support the President and the government genuinely commanded among voters.

He said the surest method of establishing the true level of public approval enjoyed by the government was through the ballot box, whose findings, he claimed, the government itself was reluctant to act upon.

Rajapaksa accused the government of reneging on the promises it had made on assuming office, pointing out that even its own survey data showed that more than half the population was under severe strain from the rising cost of living and food shortages.

He further warned that any attempt to push through constitutional amendments unilaterally, in defiance of the Bar Association of Sri Lanka, the Commonwealth Lawyers’ Association, the Asian Lawyers’ Association, members of the judiciary in the lower courts, and the public, was destined to fail.

Rajapaksa urged the current leadership to heed the fate of past governments that had disregarded public sentiment in similar fashion.

With regard to national security, he referred to previous bomb attacks on the Kataragama Perahera and the Sri Dalada Maligawa, noting that governments of the time had nonetheless ensured the safety of those events through direct intervention and allowed the festivities to proceed.

He said that if organised criminal elements were allowed to dictate whether religious and cultural processions could continue, it would call into question the very legitimacy of a government, adding that the state bore full responsibility for protecting kavadi and dance performers, elephants, temple officials and devotees alike.

Rajapaksa said his party held no discussions in secret and would engage openly and transparently with any party, including the opposition.

He added that the SLPP remained open to forming alliances with groups that shared its ideology and were guided by national interest rather than personal gain, and that his central task going forward was to rebuild a strong political force by drawing back those who had drifted away from the party. (Newswire)

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Namal questions President’s reported popularity amid hunger claims https://www.newswire.lk/2026/07/21/namal-questions-presidents-reported-popularity-amid-hunger-claims/ Tue, 21 Jul 2026 07:11:14 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=246199

Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) MP Namal Rajapaksa has cast doubt on survey findings that claim 75% of citizens supportContinue Reading

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Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) MP Namal Rajapaksa has cast doubt on survey findings that claim 75% of citizens support the President, pointing out that such figures contradict reports stating that half the country is starving.

“Now there is a report saying half the country is starving. But 75% support the President. Which is true? Either the starvation report is false, because a starving person cannot say he supports Anura Kumara if he has no way to eat three meals. Otherwise, the person who made that report must be lying,” he said, speaking at a meeting in the Puttalam electorate on July 19.

Rajapaksa went on to criticize the government, accusing it of misleading the public with false promises and failing to address economic hardships. 

He argued that the current administration had abandoned cultural and religious values, burdened citizens with excessive taxes, and neglected pressing issues such as the shortage of medicines and rising dengue cases in the Western Province.

He contrasted this with the SLPP’s record, claiming that under Mahinda Rajapaksa’s leadership, taxes were reduced, jobs were protected even during COVID, and infrastructure projects such as Port City, Nelum Kuluna, and highways were delivered.

Rajapaksa further alleged that the government is suppressing dissent by targeting state workers, entrepreneurs, religious leaders, and citizens, while protecting allies. 

“If they think they can rule for 20 years by intimidation, they are wrong. We ruled for 10 years by working. To rule for 20 years, you must work for 100. We must build a country suitable for future generations. We believe we can create a nation that respects culture, humanity, and the environment, and build a modern political force,” Rajapaksa said. 

He urged supporters to unite politically at grassroots level to build a force against what he described as a corrupt and repressive administration. (Newswire)

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Namal calls for “Indian Ocean Century” at GEC East Summit https://www.newswire.lk/2026/07/16/namal-calls-for-indian-ocean-century-at-gec-east-summit/ Thu, 16 Jul 2026 07:00:04 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=245503

Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) MP Namal Rajapaksa has urged regional leaders to embrace the “Indian Ocean Century,” positioning SriContinue Reading

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Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) MP Namal Rajapaksa has urged regional leaders to embrace the “Indian Ocean Century,” positioning Sri Lanka as a trusted bridge linking Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.

Speaking at the Global Economic Cooperation (GEC) East Summit in Singapore, Rajapaksa joined a panel alongside Curtis S. Chin, Chair of Senior Fellows at the Milken Institute and former U.S. Ambassador to the Asian Development Bank. 

The session was convened under the Future Economic Cooperation Council (FECC) Satellite Convening.

Rajapaksa emphasized that the Indian Ocean’s role in connecting civilizations for centuries must now evolve to connect the future.

“We are not entering the decade of the Indian Ocean. We are entering the century of the Indian Ocean,” he declared, underscoring Sri Lanka’s strategic location and its potential to serve as a hub for global cooperation.

Highlighting the importance of preparing youth for tomorrow’s jobs, Rajapaksa called for empowering the next generation through innovation, collaboration, and initiative. 

He stressed that Sri Lanka’s future lies in equipping young people with skills for emerging industries rather than traditional roles.

The GEC East Summit brought together policymakers, economists, and thought leaders to explore pathways for global economic cooperation. (Newswire)

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“If the system had changed, the Minister would have stepped down” – Namal https://www.newswire.lk/2026/07/08/if-the-system-had-changed-the-minister-would-have-stepped-down-namal/ Wed, 08 Jul 2026 06:28:52 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=244285

Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) MP Namal Rajapaksa says the government’s response to the Negombo prison tragedy demonstrates that theContinue Reading

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Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) MP Namal Rajapaksa says the government’s response to the Negombo prison tragedy demonstrates that the promised “system change” has failed, arguing that true accountability would have required the subject minister to resign.

“If the system had changed, the minister would have stepped down. This is not the system change the people voted for,” Rajapaksa said, addressing the Parliament onTuesday (07). 

He maintained that the subject minister must accept responsibility for the incident, which claimed the lives of 27 people, including seven prison officers, while around 150 others were hospitalized.

“The minister cannot simply say, ‘I take responsibility and will look into it later,’ and walk away. Responsibility demands action,” Rajapaksa said.

He also criticized the government for failing to make a formal statement in Parliament accepting responsibility for the tragedy.

“Twenty-seven people have died and around 150 are in hospital. Yet, to date, no responsible statement has been made to this House. The government owes Parliament and the country an explanation,” he said.

Rajapaksa argued that the prison unrest was the result of long-standing structural failures that the current administration had failed to address despite being in office for nearly two years. 

He said recommendations made after the 2020 prison incident, including expanding prison capacity, recruiting additional prison officers, rehabilitating minor drug offenders, and constructing a new prison, had been ignored.

He went on to note that while Sri Lanka’s prison system was designed to accommodate around 10,000 to 12,000 inmates, it is currently holding nearly 40,000 to 45,000 detainees, creating severe overcrowding and increasing the risk of violence.

Rajapaksa further questioned what concrete measures the government had taken to speed up forensic reports, reduce the number of remand prisoners, appoint a permanent Commissioner General of Prisons, and strengthen prison administration.

“The people voted for a system change built on responsibility and accountability. What they are witnessing today is not a new system, but a continuation of the old one. The minister must accept responsibility, make a full statement to Parliament, and be held accountable for this tragedy,” he said.

Beyond the prison crisis, he accused the government of failing to respond effectively to a series of national challenges, including the aftermath of Cyclone Ditva, the worsening dengue outbreak, shortages of essential medicines in hospitals, and delays in supplying fertilizer to farmers.

He claimed that more than 50 people had died from dengue this year while hospitals remained overcrowded with patients, adding that preventive action was being delayed until outbreaks reached critical levels.

Turning to agriculture, Rajapaksa said farmers continued to struggle with fertilizer shortages despite repeated government assurances, forcing many to buy fertilizer from the private sector at significantly higher prices. 

He also criticized the government’s rice import policy, saying it undermined local farmers while imported rice was being distributed to public servants on an installment basis.

Concluding his speech, Rajapaksa urged the government to abandon political rhetoric and demonstrate genuine accountability. (Newswire)

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Namal writes to Sajith seeking united opposition on Judges’ Retirement Age Bill https://www.newswire.lk/2026/07/07/namal-writes-to-sajith-seeking-united-opposition-on-judges-retirement-age-bill/ Tue, 07 Jul 2026 07:37:58 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=244090

SLPP MP Namal Rajapaksa has written to Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa urging him to convene a meeting of all politicalContinue Reading

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SLPP MP Namal Rajapaksa has written to Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa urging him to convene a meeting of all political parties that value democracy to discuss the Government’s proposed move to extend the retirement age of Supreme Court judges.

In his letter dated July 7, Rajapaksa claimed the Government is attempting to extend the tenure of superior court judges without any acceptable or justifiable reason, warning that such a move could undermine the rule of law and negatively impact Sri Lanka’s democratic process.

He noted that the proposal has already drawn criticism and opposition from the Bar Association of Sri Lanka, the Commonwealth Lawyers Association and LAWASIA.

Rajapaksa said that, given the concerns raised by these legal bodies, all political parties committed to upholding democracy and the rule of law should unite in opposing the proposal.

He requested Premadasa, in his capacity as Opposition Leader, to convene a discussion involving all democratic political parties on the issue.

Rajapaksa also suggested inviting leaders of all political parties that have been represented in Parliament, as well as other political leaders considered appropriate, to participate in the proposed meeting. (Newswire)

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Govt that promised Rs. 1.2 mn Vitz now offers rice on instalments – Namal https://www.newswire.lk/2026/07/01/govt-that-promised-rs-1-2-mn-vitz-now-offers-rice-on-instalments-namal/ Wed, 01 Jul 2026 05:55:54 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=243084

Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) MP Namal Rajapaksa has criticised the government over its economic policies, claiming it had failedContinue Reading

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Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) MP Namal Rajapaksa has criticised the government over its economic policies, claiming it had failed to deliver on promises made to the public and had instead reduced people to purchasing rice on installments.

Addressing a meeting of SLPP constituency organisers at the party headquarters on Nelum Mawatha, Rajapaksa said the government, which had earlier promised that a Toyota Vitz car could be purchased for Rs. 1.2 million and pledged to introduce schemes for young people to buy Japanese motorcycles, had now reached the stage of offering 20 kilograms of rice through a payment scheme.

“Is this the change the people expected?” he questioned.

Rajapaksa said Sri Lanka had once been self-sufficient in rice production and recalled that there had been a surplus of paddy during the administration of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa. He also claimed that fertiliser had been available at Rs. 350 during that period, whereas farmers today were facing shortages of fertiliser and low prices for their harvests.

He accused the government of further undermining local farmers by importing vegetables and fruits during domestic harvesting seasons.

Rajapaksa urged party organisers to stand with rural communities, alleging that the current administration viewed political opponents as enemies. He further alleged that farmers demanding better paddy prices and fertiliser, trade unions campaigning for their rights, and professionals such as doctors and lawyers protesting over their concerns were being branded as criminals.

Rajapaksa said the opposition had a responsibility to speak on behalf of farmers, fishermen, entrepreneurs, professionals and youth facing economic hardships.

He also expressed concern over the fishing industry, claiming that fishermen could no longer sustain their livelihoods due to high fuel costs and inadequate government support. He further criticised the government for importing salt, saying the country had been reduced to relying on imports for products that were once produced locally.

Referring to a recent incident in the Kegalle District, Rajapaksa questioned police action against a group of youths allegedly linked to a drug investigation. He claimed that innocent youths had been arrested while those responsible for bringing in drugs had escaped action, alleging that the law was being selectively enforced to serve political objectives.

Rajapaksa called on SLPP organisers to strengthen the party and continue engaging with the public despite political challenges, saying the party was rebuilding itself as a strong political force. (Newswire)

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Court orders summons to Indian witnesses in Krrish case against Namal https://www.newswire.lk/2026/06/25/court-orders-summons-to-indian-witnesses-in-krrish-case-against-namal/ Thu, 25 Jun 2026 08:05:29 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=242277

The Colombo High Court today directed that summons be issued to two Indian witnesses in the Krrish transaction case filedContinue Reading

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The Colombo High Court today directed that summons be issued to two Indian witnesses in the Krrish transaction case filed against MP Namal Rajapaksa.

The order was made by High Court Judge Nadee Aparna Suwandurugoda, who instructed that the summons be sent under the procedure outlined by the Judicial Service Commission for foreign witnesses.

The ruling followed a notification from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) that the two witnesses could not be contacted.

The case stems from charges filed by the Attorney General alleging that Namal Rajapaksa committed criminal breach of trust by obtaining Rs. 70 million from the Indian Krrish company, purportedly for the promotion of rugby in Sri Lanka. (Newswire) 

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Kilinochchi artist arrest: Namal criticises selective use of PTA https://www.newswire.lk/2026/06/04/kilinochchi-artist-arrest-namal-criticises-selective-use-of-pta/ Thu, 04 Jun 2026 10:15:30 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=239074

Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) MP Namal Rajapaksa has accused the government of double standards in applying the Prevention ofContinue Reading

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Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) MP Namal Rajapaksa has accused the government of double standards in applying the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA), following the arrest of a young artist from Kilinochchi over alleged LTTE‑related content in a rap song.

Rajapaksa said the move raises “serious concerns about double standards under the current government,” noting that similar LTTE‑themed songs were used by National People’s Power (NPP) politicians during the recent local government election campaign without consequence.

“A Jaffna District NPP MP reportedly shared such songs openly on social media for political benefit. Where were the Police then? Where was the PTA then?” he asked.

While stressing that the LTTE remains a banned terrorist organization and that he does not support anyone glorifying it, Rajapaksa argued that accountability must apply equally.

“One rule for politicians and another for ordinary youth is unacceptable in a democratic society,” he said in a post on X.

He warned that if the government believes such actions are unlawful, enforcement must be consistent; otherwise, the arrest will be seen as a selective abuse of power. (Newswire)

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Namal’s Krrish case fixed for trial on July 7 https://www.newswire.lk/2026/05/29/namals-krrish-case-fixed-for-trial-on-july-7/ Fri, 29 May 2026 09:56:34 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=238238

The Colombo High Court today scheduled the case filed against Parliamentarian Namal Rajapaksa over the controversial Krrish transaction to beContinue Reading

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The Colombo High Court today scheduled the case filed against Parliamentarian Namal Rajapaksa over the controversial Krrish transaction to be taken up for trial on July 7, 2026.

The case, filed by the Attorney General, was mentioned before the court this morning, where the pre‑trial conference was concluded. 

Following this, High Court judges ordered that the matter be listed for trial in July.

The Attorney General has filed charges alleging that Namal Rajapaksa committed criminal breach of trust by obtaining Rs. 70 million from the Indian Krrish company, purportedly for the promotion of rugby in Sri Lanka. (Newswire)

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Namal calls for value-based modernization at Asian Cultural Forum https://www.newswire.lk/2026/05/16/namal-calls-for-value-based-modernization-at-asian-cultural-forum/ Sat, 16 May 2026 07:29:36 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=236482

Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) MP Namal Rajapaksa addressed the 2026 Asian Cultural Public Welfare Forum in Hong Kong onContinue Reading

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Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) MP Namal Rajapaksa addressed the 2026 Asian Cultural Public Welfare Forum in Hong Kong on Friday (15), urging Asian nations to pursue modernization without losing cultural identity.

Rajapaksa highlighted Asia’s growing role in the global economy, projected to contribute 60% of global GDP growth by 2030, and posed critical questions about whether modernization would erode values, weaken identity, or harm nature.

Drawing on Sri Lanka’s civilizational heritage, he emphasized the ancient model of sustainability rooted in the “Tank, Stupa, Village, and Temple” system, and praised his father, former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, for translating that balance into modern policy.

“Mindful action is the way to endure. Carelessness is the road to failure,” he quoted from the Dhammapada, stressing that leaders must protect irreplaceable traditions and ecosystems while embracing innovation.

Rajapaksa underscored the importance of “Public Welfare Innovation” through technology such as AI, telemedicine, and renewable energy, but warned that technology without morality risks inequality and division. 

He called for Asia to lead not only economically but also morally and culturally, noting that the strength of a civilization is measured by the dignity afforded to its people and the legacy left for future generations.

Full statement by SLPP MP Namal Rajapaksa;

It is a privilege to join you today at the 2026 Asian Cultural Public Welfare Forum. I thank the organizers for bringing us together in Hong Kong not just to discuss growth or technology, but to ask how civilizations can work together to create societies that are guided by values. Today, Asia stands at a defining moment. The global balance is shifting eastward.

By 2030, our continent is projected to be the single most influential driver of the global economy contributing approximately 60% of all global GDP growth. But as we rise, a simple question remains: What kind of civilization will we become? Will modernization weaken our identity? Will technology serve humanity or replace it? Will economic ambition protect nature or destroy it? They are civilizational questions.

I come from Sri Lanka. A nation known as the Pearl of the Indian Ocean. Not only for our beauty or our location, but because we stand as an ancient civilizational heart with twenty-five centuries of recorded history. Our greatest achievements came when development worked in harmony with civilization.

Two thousand years ago, our kings built massive irrigation systems and reservoirs. They were not built for prestige. They were built for Public Welfare. To ensure water security. Food security. Stability. Our ancestors understood a truth that the modern world sometimes forgets: Sustainability is our civilizational inheritance.

In Sri Lanka, we call this the four-fold wisdom: “වැවයි, දාගැබයි, ගමයි, පන්සලයි” The Tank. The Stupa. The Village. The Temple. The Tank represented shared resources. The Village represented shared lives. The Stupa represented shared values. And the Temple represented shared knowledge. They were not separate institutions. They were one system. Infrastructure created belonging. Belonging created resilience. This remains our North Star.

Leaders, such as my father, Mahinda Rajapaksa translated this ancient balance into modern policy He was a visionary leader who understood that a nation must look to the future without forgetting its past. He is the leader who transformed the Sri Lankan skyline building the ports, the highways, and the modern cities that connected us to the global economy. But even as he built the skyline, he never lost sight of the ground. He championed a model where village empowerment and social welfare are a single, unified mission for the nation. He proved that modernization does not have to come at the cost of identity.

Today, Asia faces a different world. Climate change. Digital inequality. Millions of young people demand opportunity. We cannot reject modernization. But we must pursue development with balance. In the Dhammapada, it is said, අප්පමාදෝ අමතපදං, පමාදෝ මච්චුනෝ පදං In its simplest sense, this means Mindful action is the way to endure. Carelessness is the road to failure In leadership, this means we must act with total awareness We must have the courage to protect what is irreplaceable.

In Sri Lanka, Sri Pada—Adam’s Peak—is one such place. For centuries,  Buddhists, Hindus, Christians, and Muslims have climbed the mountain as an act of faith. It is a sacred site and a fragile ecosystem. As leaders, we must ask: How do we grow without losing our soul? Not every forest should become infrastructure. Not every sacred site should be transformed for convenience. 

We must embrace change But only when that change aligns with our values and our traditions. This is why Public Welfare Innovation is vital. Technology is now a strategic domain. AI. Telemedicine. Renewable energy. When a child in a rural village accesses education online, that is technology for good. When digital healthcare reaches remote communities, that is welfare innovation. But technology without morality creates inequality and division. 

This is where Asian civilizations must contribute to the modern world. We teach balance. Between ambition and responsibility. Between innovation and humanity. One of the greatest risks today is that societies become materially advanced but emotionally disconnected. Connected digitally, but isolated socially. Culture is the cure. Culture preserves values. It gives our youth identity in a rapidly changing world. My generation will inherit enormous pressure. We must manage AI, climate change, and geopolitics.

Therefore, young leadership in Asia must think not only about elections, but about generations. We have an opportunity to create an Asian development model where modernization does not destroy heritage, where growth includes public welfare, and where civilizations connect through cooperation. For centuries, trade routes and spiritual traditions connected India, Sri Lanka, China, and the Middle East. Today, that spirit must return.

The challenges we face climate change, economic instability do not stop at borders. Asia must cooperate civilizationally. This will determine whether Asia merely grows or truly leads. Ultimately, the strength of a civilization is not measured by military power. It is measured by the quality of life of its people. By the dignity we afford the vulnerable. And by the world we leave for our children. That is the responsibility before us. Asia is capable of more than economic leadership. We are ready for moral, cultural, and civilizational leadership in the century ahead. (Newswire)

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Namal demands equal accountability in $2.5M Treasury Diversion scandal https://www.newswire.lk/2026/05/14/namal-demands-equal-accountability-in-2-5m-treasury-diversion-scandal/ Thu, 14 May 2026 06:49:06 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=236078

Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) MP Namal Rajapaksa has insisted that the $2.5 million Treasury debt diversion scandal cannot beContinue Reading

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Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) MP Namal Rajapaksa has insisted that the $2.5 million Treasury debt diversion scandal cannot be dismissed as a “technical error,” stressing that it raises serious questions of public finance accountability under the Public Finance Management Act No. 44 of 2024.

In a post on X, Rajapaksa pointed out that under Sections 4 and 28 of the Act, the Minister of Finance is responsible for fiscal oversight and authorising expenditure warrants, while under Sections 5, 29 and 36, the Secretary to the Treasury is tasked with operational control and safeguarding computerized public financial systems.

He argued that if warnings were raised and an unsecured system was still used to handle public funds, accountability cannot be separated between policy approval and administrative execution, and both levels must be examined.

“This is now a test of consistency and transparency in governance: will the same standards of accountability that are publicly stated be applied equally when a complaint is formally made, and names arise in an investigation?” Rajapaksa wrote.

He further recalled President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s statement on May 12 that if a person’s name arises in an investigation, a statement must be recorded “even from the President himself,” adding that no one is above the law.

“That principle must now be applied uniformly, without exception or delay,” Rajapaksa said. (Newswire)

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Govt ‘asleep’ over Rs. 800 million loss – Namal https://www.newswire.lk/2026/05/07/govt-asleep-over-rs-800-million-loss-namal/ Thu, 07 May 2026 12:19:56 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=235063

Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) MP Namal Rajapaksa has alleged that more than Rs. 800 million has been lost dueContinue Reading

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Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) MP Namal Rajapaksa has alleged that more than Rs. 800 million has been lost due to financial irregularities, claiming that the President, Finance Ministry officials, and the Central Bank have failed to act.

Speaking to journalists in Horana, Rajapaksa said the amount involved “could increase further if converted at current exchange rates,” while questioning why no corrective action had been taken despite prior warnings reportedly given to the President by the Finance Minister in January.

“More than eighty crores have been stolen, but the President, the Finance Secretary, the Finance Ministry and the Central Bank are still sleeping,” he said, adding that the government had failed in its oversight responsibilities.

He also criticised what he described as a lack of accountability within state institutions, alleging that public confidence was weakening amid repeated incidents of financial misconduct across sectors.

Rajapaksa further accused the government of attempting to suppress political criticism, claiming that opposition voices were being compelled to answer allegations instead of those in power providing clear explanations.

Commenting on broader governance issues, he said the administration had failed to deliver on economic and infrastructure promises, including railway modernisation, while instead focusing on political rhetoric.

Rajaoaksa also referred to ongoing political debates on national security and sovereignty issues, insisting that separatism had no space in the country.

The MP made the remarks amid growing political exchanges between the government and opposition over economic management and institutional accountability. (Newswire)

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Namal congratulates Vijay on Tamil Nadu Election win https://www.newswire.lk/2026/05/05/namal-congratulates-vijay-on-tamil-nadu-election-win/ Tue, 05 May 2026 05:11:50 +0000 https://www.newswire.lk/?p=234615

Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) MP Namal Rajapaksa extended congratulations to Indian actor‑turned‑politician C. Joseph Vijay, calling his victory inContinue Reading

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Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) MP Namal Rajapaksa extended congratulations to Indian actor‑turned‑politician C. Joseph Vijay, calling his victory in the Tamil Nadu Assembly Election 2026 a “resounding” one.

In a post on ‘X’, Namal wished Vijay and his team the strength to overcome challenges and deliver tangible benefits to the people.

He also expressed hope for a stronger and more positive relationship between Sri Lanka and India, particularly on issues affecting citizens of both nations.

“My very best wishes to you and your team,” Namal added, tagging Vijay’s official account.

The congratulatory message follows Vijay’s electoral success, with his Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) emerging as the largest party in the Tamil Nadu Assembly Election 2026. (Newswire)

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