News
Colombo Archbishop calls for unified religious front to combat corruption and injustice
By Norman Palihawadane
Colombo Archbishop Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith has issued a compelling call for the formation of a united front comprised of religious leaders to address the pervasive issue of corruption and moral decay within the country’s political and administrative spheres. Speaking at the golden jubilee celebration of St. Michael Church in Embilipitiya last week, Cardinal Ranjith emphasized the pressing need for religious leaders to join forces to salvage the nation.
“It is time for individuals donned in white cassocks, yellow robes, and the vestments of various faiths to come together and work collaboratively to rescue our beloved country,” declared Cardinal Ranjith, addressing the gathering.
The Cardinal lamented the erosion of fundamental values and principles of humanity and justice in Sri Lankan society. He expressed concern that corruption, terror, injustice, and fraud have overshadowed the foundations of the rule of law and order, leaving the nation in a precarious state.
“Our society has witnessed a decline in moral standards, with some individuals merely adhering to religious practices in name only. We have witnessed leaders who are willing to compromise their integrity for personal gain, often driven by the lure of financial rewards,” Cardinal Ranjith observed. He further emphasized that it is the religious leaders who possess the potential to guide the country back toward the path of a moral and just society.
The golden jubilee celebration was attended by esteemed religious figures, including Ja-Ela Parish Priest Rev Fr Ranjan Silva, Matththumagala Parish Priest Rev Fr Chaminda Roshan, Dean of Wattala Deanery Rev Fr Gregory Jayantha, Director of Seth Sarana Rev Fr Lawrence Ramanayake, and others.
Cardinal Ranjith’s impassioned call for unity among religious leaders underscores the growing concern over the state of ethics and governance in Sri Lanka. As faith leaders heed this rallying cry, they may play a pivotal role in reshaping the nation’s moral compass and fostering a just and equitable society.
News
Financial allocations for the development of infrastructure in provincial schools have been provided to all provinces – PM
Prime Minister Dr Harini Amarasuriya stated that the necessary financial allocations for the development of infrastructure in provincial schools have been provided to all provinces. She emphasized that these funds must be utilized effectively for school development and requested that relevant authorities submit proposals to address existing shortcomings in school infrastructure.
The Prime Minister made these remarks during a cordial meeting with Muslim women in the Wellawaya area on 1st of March.
Subsequently, the Prime Minister met with the Chief Sanghanayake of the Uva Wellassa region and the Chief Incumbent of Yudaganawa Rajamaha Viharaya, Venerable Rajakeeya Panditha Most Venerable Galtemwatte Nandarathana Nayaka Thero, and briefed him on the current progress of the new education reforms.
She further stated that, while ensuring due recognition for vocational education, steps are being taken to develop 50 vocational training centers equipped with modern courses, covering all 25 districts of the country. She also noted that new education reforms will be introduced for Grade 6 starting in 2027, and that the printing of new textbooks will be entrusted to the Educational Publications Department of the Ministry of Education.
The occasion was attended by Uva Province Governor Attorney-at-Law Kapila Jayasekara, Deputy Minister of Trade, Commerce and Food Security R.M. Jayawardhana, Member of Parliament Ruwan Wijewardene, local government representatives, the Buttala Divisional Secretary and the District Secretary.
[Prime Minister’s Media Division]
The Department of Immigration and Emmigration has decided effective from 28th February 2026, to grant a free fourteen (14) day visa extension to all tourists who are unable to leave Sri Lanka due to flight cancellations. 
The Maldives Coast Guard Ship Huravee arrived at the Port of Colombo for replenishment purposes on 02 Mar 26. The visiting ship was welcomed by the Sri Lanka Navy (SLN) in compliance with time-honoured naval traditions.
The ship is a 48.9m long Offshore Patrol Vessel which is commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Ahmed Nafiu Mohamed.
Meanwhile, the ship’s crew is scheduled to visit several tourist attractions in the city of Colombo, during their stay in the island.
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