Finance and Media Minister Mangala Samaraweera called on International Monetary Fund chief Christine Lagarde and held talks. Minister Harsha de Silva and Central Bank Governor Indrajit Coomarasamy were also present during the discussions.

Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) Chairman Prof. G.L Peiris has stated that the Steering Committee report presented to the Constitutional Assembly (CA) will be defeated with the support of lawmakers loyal to Opposition Leader Mahinda Rajapaksa.

A massive protest was hed agitation to demand the abolition of the executive presidency was held opposite the Fort Railway Station on Monday, January 14 th, seeking abolition of Executive Presidency.

Opposition Leader Mahinda Rajapaksa has observed in his Thai Pongal message that it is his hope that the people could agree on a political solution that can permit all people to live a united, peaceful life in the country.

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe has observed that the Thai Pongal festival reflects the deepening relationship between humans and the environment and delivers the value of gratitude to the world.

Former Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapakse has stated that he advocates ‘Jathikathwaya’ over ‘Jathiwadaya’. The former is defined as inclusive and egalitarian nationalism while the latter is divisive nationalism. Sri Lankans need to embrace ‘Jathikathwaya’ to develop the country. This message needs to be delivered to the masses ahead of a likely Presidential election later this year.