Politics

European nations say Alexei Navalny was poisoned with rare toxin, blame Russia

Asian TribuneFebruary 16, 2026

Five European countries have jointly accused the Russian state of poisoning Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny with a rare toxin derived from South American poison dart frogs, after new forensic analyses linked the substance to his death in 2024. A statement by the governments of the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Sweden and the Netherlands said laboratory...

Govt remains silent on proposal to import 1,775 double cabs for state use

Asian TribuneFebruary 15, 2026

Colombo, February 15, 2026 – The Sri Lankan Government has yet to publicly clarify its position on a controversial proposal to import 1,775 double cab utility vehicles — a plan that has drawn criticism from Opposition politicians and civil society alike. The proposal, floated as part of the 2026 Budget and state procurement plans, would...

Sri Lanka Faces Renewed Political Debate Over Electoral Reform

Asian TribuneFebruary 1, 2026

Sri Lanka’s political discourse has once again turned to electoral reform, as parties debate changes aimed at improving representation and stability.Sri Lanka Parliament chamber wide shot Sri Lanka’s political landscape has entered a renewed phase of debate following fresh discussions on electoral reform, an issue that has remained unresolved for decades. Lawmakers from across the...

Power Devolution Returns to Centre of Sri Lanka’s Political Discourse

Asian TribuneFebruary 1, 2026

Long-standing debates over power devolution have resurfaced, reflecting unresolved tensions between central authority and regional governance. Debates over power devolution have re-emerged in Sri Lanka, highlighting enduring questions about governance, regional autonomy, and national unity. Political leaders have revisited proposals linked to provincial councils, arguing that effective devolution could improve service delivery and address regional...

Youth Political Engagement Gains Attention Ahead of Future Elections

Asian TribuneFebruary 1, 2026

Sri Lankan political parties are increasingly focusing on youth engagement amid concerns over voter apathy. Youth political engagement has become a growing topic of discussion in Sri Lanka, as parties seek to mobilise younger voters ahead of future elections. With a significant proportion of the electorate under the age of 35, political strategists view youth...

Parliamentary Committees Seek Stronger Oversight Role

Asian TribuneFebruary 1, 2026

alls have intensified for parliamentary committees to play a more active role in governance and accountability. Sri Lanka’s parliamentary committees have come under renewed scrutiny, with lawmakers and analysts calling for stronger oversight mechanisms to enhance accountability. Committees are seen as vital tools for examining legislation, monitoring public expenditure, and holding institutions to account. Proponents...

Independent Commissions and the Question of Autonomy

Asian TribuneFebruary 1, 2026

The role and independence of constitutional commissions are again under political discussion. Independent commissions in Sri Lanka have returned to the political spotlight amid debates over institutional autonomy. Established to safeguard democratic processes and public administration, these bodies are intended to function free from political influence. Supporters emphasise that strong, independent commissions are essential for...

GMOA Launches Continuous Trade Union Action, Doctors Limit Services Across State Hospitals

Asian TribuneJanuary 26, 2026

Colombo, January 26, 2026 – The Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA) has announced the start of a continuous trade union action from 8.00 a.m. today, amid ongoing disputes with the Ministry of Health over unresolved demands related to the public health system. The action comes following weeks of tension and follows the conclusion of a...

Union Says Probe Launched Against NUTU Kandy Vice President After Criticism of Education Reforms

Asian TribuneJanuary 26, 2026

Kandy, Sri Lanka — January 26, 2026 – The National United Teachers’ Union (NUTU) yesterday confirmed that a disciplinary investigation has been launched against its Vice President in Kandy after he publicly criticised the implementation of the government’s ongoing education reforms. The move has drawn strong objections from union leaders, who view it as a...

Deputy Minister Says NPP Government Did Not Begin Writing Education Reform Modules

Asian TribuneJanuary 26, 2026

Colombo, January 25, 2026 – Sri Lanka’s Deputy Minister of Labour, Mahinda Jayasinghe, has clarified that the controversial education reform modules recently publicised were not originally created by the National People’s Power (NPP) government, but were adapted to reflect its policy direction. The remarks were made at a seminar hosted by the National Movement for...