Sri Lanka

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...

Solar Companies Accused of Bribery and Destroying Elephant Habitats in Hambantota

Asian TribuneFebruary 26, 2026

An Investigative Report Serious allegations have emerged that several solar power companies have resumed previously suspended projects in the Hambantota District by offering indirect bribes, resulting in large-scale destruction of elephant habitats bordering the Hambantota Wild Elephant Management Reserve. National People’s Power (NPP) Member of Parliament Nihal Galappaththi stated at the Hambantota District Development Committee...

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...

Sri Lanka Parliament Reveals Irregularities in Coal Tendering Process

Asian TribuneFebruary 21, 2026

Following the current government’s assumption of power, Parliament heard allegations of irregularities and non-compliance in coal procurement for the Norochcholai Lakvijaya Power Plant. Opposition MP S.M. Marikkar tabled a motion urging the government to take appropriate action against all responsible parties, highlighting that coal shipments did not meet required specifications and raised concerns of mismanagement....

Sri Lanka Plans House Arrest System to Ease Prison Overcrowding

Asian TribuneFebruary 21, 2026

The Sri Lankan government is preparing to introduce new legislation to allow suspects to be placed under house arrest instead of being remanded in prison, in a bid to address severe overcrowding in the country’s prison system. Minister of Justice Harshana Nanayakkara announced on February 19 that draft legislation is being formulated in consultation with...

Sri Lanka Court of Appeal Orders Compliance with Approved Plan in Trincomalee Temple Dispute

Asian TribuneFebruary 21, 2026

Sri Lanka’s Court of Appeal of Sri Lanka on February 20 ruled that the dispute surrounding alleged unauthorized construction at the Sri Sambuddha Jayanthi Bodhiraja Viharaya in Trincomalee should be resolved in accordance with the temple’s originally approved building plan. The ruling was delivered when a writ petition filed by the Chief Incumbent, Ven. Kalyana...

CID Officer Expresses Regret Over Arrest of Natasha Edirisuriya

Asian TribuneFebruary 20, 2026

Sri Lanka to introduce new guidelines under ICCPR Act A former officer of Sri Lanka’s Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has expressed regret before the Supreme Court over the arrest of comedian Natasha Edirisuriya. The apology was conveyed through a letter submitted by the State Counsel during court proceedings. ⚖️ Background Natasha Edirisuriya was arrested in...