The office of the Foreign Minister has issued a statement on delays in appointing High Commissioners and Ambassadors to overseas missions, citing procedural and diplomatic requirements.

The explanation comes after envoys from 15 countries were recalled following the formation of the new administration in November, leaving key diplomatic positions vacant.

According to the, these vacancies require a systematic appointment process that includes obtaining agreement from the host countries, which can vary significantly in duration.

While some nations respond within weeks, others take several months due to internal procedures, Media Secretary to the Foreign Minister said. The statement also noted that the President appoints envoys under certain Constitutional provisions, with approvals needed from the Parliamentary High Posts Committee after public notice and a two-week objection period.

Once these steps are completed, newly appointed envoys undergo orientation programs before assuming their roles abroad. The Minister’s office assured that the process, though time-intensive, ensures adherence to proper protocols and transparency.

Investigations into any allegations or concerns regarding the appointments are also handled in line with diplomatic norms, the statement said.

Exams Chief Amith Jayasundara yesterday said the 2024 Grade 5 Scholarship Examination paper marking meeting had been scheduled for tomorrow. The marking process is expected to conclude within 40 days, with the aim of completing it by the first week of February.

The Constitutional Council (CC) has approved the appointments of High Court Judges K.M. Sarath Dissanayake and Pradeep Hettiarachchi to the Court of Appeal. The nominations were submitted by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake for the CC's approval. Judges Dissanayake and Hettiarachchi, the two most senior serving High Court judges, are set to take their oaths as Court of Appeal Judges next week.

Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) MP Mujeebur Rahuman has appealed to President Anura Dissanayake to reconsider the government’s decision to deport 103 Rohingya refugees, including over 40 children, who were rescued off the Mullaitivu coast on December 19.

Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) MP Harsha de Silva has criticized the government for its contradictory stance on withholding tax (WHT) policies. In a tweet, de Silva questioned why the National People’s Power (NPP) policy document, endorsed by President Anura Dissanayake, did not mention plans to increase WHT on interest.

It is a known secret in the state bureaucracy circles that the transfer process of government employees is highly politicised. It is said that those who encounter problems in receiving transfer postings near their hometowns or resist transfers outside the home turf or their preferred locations often use political influences ‘at whatever cost.’

In the wake of reports on a virus spreading in China, the Ministry of Health has announced that it is closely monitoring the situation.

The Colombo High Court today further extended its order to freeze for three months 16 fixed deposit accounts and three insurance policies belonging to the family members of former Health Minister Keheliya Rambukwella.

Former Minister Wimal Weerawansa arrived at the Financial Crimes Investigation Division (FCID) this morning to provide a statement regarding remarks he had made during a television programme on March 3, 2022.

Former President and UNP leader Ranil Wickremeisinghe has appointed Thalatha Athukorala as the new party General Secretary, party sources said. An official announcement is expected to be made shortly.

Yoshitha Rajapaksa, the second son of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, arrived at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) this morning to record a statement.