Politics

Government Pushes Forward With Economic Reforms

Asian TribuneApril 3, 2026

The Sri Lankan government has intensified efforts to implement reforms under its agreement with the International Monetary Fund. Authorities are focusing on strengthening revenue collection, restructuring state-owned enterprises, and improving fiscal discipline. Officials emphasize that these reforms are essential to stabilizing the economy after the crisis experienced in recent years. However, the impact on the...

Fuel Price Pressure and Inflation Concerns

Asian TribuneApril 3, 2026

Sri Lanka is likely to face another fuel price revision in response to global oil market fluctuations. The Ceylon Petroleum Corporation has indicated that pricing adjustments will depend on international crude oil prices and exchange rate movements. Transport operators have warned that any increase in fuel prices could lead to higher bus fares and logistics...

Strait of Hormuz Crisis Threatens Global Economy

Asian TribuneApril 3, 2026

The Strait of Hormuz—a narrow but vital maritime corridor—has once again become the focal point of global economic anxiety. Nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply passes through this chokepoint, making it one of the most strategically important shipping routes on the planet. Recent military tensions in the surrounding region have led to a sharp...

Political Tensions Rise Ahead of Key Parliamentary Decisions

Asian TribuneMarch 30, 2026

Sri Lanka’s political climate is becoming increasingly tense as lawmakers prepare for crucial parliamentary debates on economic and constitutional reforms. The ruling coalition is under pressure from opposition parties demanding greater transparency and accountability. Opposition leaders argue that key decisions are being rushed without sufficient public consultation. In contrast, government representatives insist that urgent reforms...

US–Iran Talks End With Claims of Progress, But Major Gaps Remain

Asian TribuneFebruary 28, 2026

Tehran/Geneva – A fresh round of indirect negotiations between the United States and Iran concluded in Geneva with both sides describing the discussions as “serious” and “constructive.” However, few concrete details were released, and significant differences remain unresolved, raising continued concerns over potential military escalation in the region. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that...

New Anti-Terrorism Bill (PSTA) Violates International Standards: Strong Warning to Government from UN Special Rapporteurs

Asian TribuneFebruary 26, 2026

A group of Special Rapporteurs from the United Nations has issued a strong warning to the Government of Sri Lanka regarding the proposed Protection of the State from Terrorism Bill (PSTA). In a letter dated February 9, 2026, the experts acknowledged the government’s initiative to review the existing Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA). However, they...

Guardians of the Law or Political Instruments?

Asian TribuneFebruary 26, 2026

A Comprehensive Investigative Report on the Arrest of Natasha Edirisuriya The arrest and remand imprisonment of Sri Lankan comedian Natasha Edirisuriya triggered a profound national debate on freedom of expression, rule of law, and the scope of police power in Sri Lanka. Although the controversy appeared to reach a legal turning point on February 19,...

Jaffna Wetland Under Threat: Controversial Cricket Stadium Project Raises Legal and Environmental Concerns

Asian TribuneFebruary 26, 2026

The proposed construction of an international cricket stadium and sports city in Mandaitivu Island, Jaffna, has triggered serious environmental, legal, and social concerns, as large-scale land filling operations have reportedly begun without mandatory environmental approvals. The project, for which the foundation stone was laid on September 1, 2025, by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, upon the...

Ownership Options Remain Open as Mattala Airport Awaits Revival

Asian TribuneFebruary 22, 2026

Sri Lanka’s Government says all ownership and management options remain open for the underutilized Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (MRIA) as efforts continue to revive operations at the country’s second international airport. Deputy Minister of Transport Ruwan Ranasinghe stated that the immediate priority is to make the airport fully operational before deciding on a long-term ownership...

No National Gas Shortage, Government and Supplier Say; Distribution Issues Identified

Asian TribuneFebruary 21, 2026

Amid growing public concern over empty gas cylinders and long queues at retail outlets, the Sri Lankan government and state‑owned supplier Litro Gas Lanka Ltd. have disputed claims of a nationwide gas shortage, saying that current challenges are due to temporary supply and distribution issues rather than an actual shortfall. Government Statement: ‘No National Gas...