Former MP and Ilankai Tamil Arasu Katchi (ITAK) spokesperson, M.A. Sumanthiran, last evening called on the government to immediately disclose the names of former parliamentarians and politicians who were involved in securing and distributing liquor licenses during the previous administration.

Speaking at a press conference held yesterday in Colombo, Sumanthiran stressed the need for transparency, especially in light of the ongoing controversy surrounding the proliferation of liquor stores across the country.

He urged the government to release the list of individuals responsible for recommending the opening of these establishments.

"There is a widespread issue with liquor stores throughout the country, and the public deserves to know which parliamentarians or politicians recommended the approval of these licenses. This should be made public before the upcoming elections so that those involved can be excluded from future office," Sumanthiran stated.

Sumanthiran emphasized that the increase in liquor outlets is a significant social issue, with adverse effects on the younger generation. He noted that politicians and individuals who secretly facilitated the expansion of liquor stores must be brought into the public

He claimed that there is information suggesting that some individuals profited by selling liquor permits for financial gain.

"The names of these individuals must be made public. Additionally, we are hearing reports that they have sold permits to profit from them."

Sumanthiran also pointed out that there have been excessive perks given to parliamentarians, which are unnecessary, especially during the current economic crisis.

"Our full support will be behind reducing these excessive benefits. In a time of economic hardship, it is inappropriate for members of parliament to enjoy such privileges," he added.

The former MP concluded by reiterating his party's support for reducing perks, stating that it is crucial to reduce unnecessary benefits and promote transparency in governance.

Among other issues he touched on were the nominations of his party for the upcoming general elections. He said they expect to introduce new young faces and particularly they want to encourage women candidates.

For the first time in Sri Lanka, the government is to establish a mechanism to supervise and advice ministries in the implementation of policies, a source said.

A tense situation was reported at the UNP party headquarters in Sirikotha when a group of UNP supporters arrived to hand over a document on reviving the party.

Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) MP Harsha de Silva said today that an NPP MP has told him that the Parliament canteen will not be closed but the government will see that no one will abuse the facility.

Two fishermen were seriously injured and hospitalised after a parcel floating on the sea exploded while they were checking it off the coast of Mannar.

The Disaster Management Centre (DMC) and the Examinations Department have initiated a joint programme to mitigate potential disasters during the 2024 Advanced Level examinations.

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake addressed the inaugural session of the 10th Parliament of Sri Lanka today. Following are 11 key points from the President’s Government Policy Statement;

Speaker Dr. Ashoka Sapumal Ranwala informed Parliament that nomination of Sajith Premadasa, leader of the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), has been accepted as the Opposition Leader of the 10th Parliament of Sri Lanka.

Jaffna District Independent MP Archuuna Ramanathan refused to move away after he sat on the Opposition Leader's seat inside the chambers despite requests by Parliament staff to move.

National People's Power (NPP) Gampaha MP Dr. Ashoka Sapumal Ranwala was elected as the Speaker of the 10th Parliament of Sri Lanka a short while ago. Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya proposed his name, and the nomination was confirmed by Vijitha Herath.

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake adjourned the Sri Lankan Parliament until 9:30 a.m. on December 3. The adjournment followed the President’s delivery of the government’s policy statement during the inaugural session of the 10th Parliament earlier today.