The voter census activities for the year 2026 are scheduled to commence on 1st February 2026, the People’s Action for Free and Fair Elections (PAFFREL) announced.Issuing a statement, PAFFREL stated that, as in previous years, census officers will not visit every household. They will only visit households relevant to updating the “A” and “Aa” lists, which include newly added and removed names. Only households from which voter information is to be collected will be visited.

According to PAFFREL, political party representatives will have the opportunity to observe how the census is conducted, and after officers collect the information, they may also observe the officers’ recommendations on whether a person is suitable or not to be registered as a voter.

Noting that if irregularities are observed, PAFFREL said representatives may notify the census officer in writing, with a copy of such notification promptly forwarded to the relevant District Deputy or Assistant Commissioner.

The organization listed possible irregularities, including:

Names of citizens with ordinary residence not being added as voters.

Eligible persons not being added or not recommended as suitable.

Persons under 18 years of age already registered or recommended for 2026 (not applicable to supplementary lists).

Persons without ordinary residence applying under certain addresses and being recommended as suitable.

Individuals applying to be registered under more than one address.

False information being presented for voter registration or ineligible persons being put forward.

Highlighting its long-standing experience, PAFFREL said that while political parties are allowed to appoint representatives at Grama Niladhari division level to observe the census process, only a few parties actually do so, while the majority fail to appoint representatives.

“We emphasize that raising complaints close to an election about supporters’ names not being included in the voter list is of no use. If political party representatives actively engage in this process, it will ensure that all eligible persons are included in the voter register and that ineligible persons are excluded,” PAFFREL added.

The Sri Lankan Catholic and non-Catholic community in Belgium gathered for a Christmas Full Mass organised by the Embassy of Sri Lanka on 21 December 2025 at the Sri Lanka Residence in Brussels, in remembrance of the victims of Cyclone Ditwa. The service was attended by clergy and members of the Sri Lankan diaspora, combining the spirit of Christmas with solidarity and compassion.

As Sri Lanka continued to face the aftermath of the disaster, which caused loss of life, displacement of families, and damage to infrastructure, the Mass provided a space for collective mourning, reflection, and hope.

While welcoming the Sri Lankan community, the Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Belgium Chandana Weerasena stated that although Christmas is traditionally a celebration of joy, the Full Mass carried a deeper purpose of standing in solidarity with affected families and offering spiritual support for their healing and recovery. He also called upon the community to respond with compassion and action.

The Mass was presided over by Reverend Father Ranil Camilus and Reverend Father Anton Rohitha, who emphasised that the message of Christmas extended beyond celebration and symbolised love, generosity, and shared humanity. Prayers were offered for comfort, strength, and restoration for those affected.

The service included special prayers for the deceased, blessings for survivors, and for rescue workers and volunteers engaged in relief efforts. Candle lighting, a moment of silent reflection, floral tributes, and hymns reflecting peace and hope were also observed.The Mass concluded with refreshments served to the participants.

The Embassy of Nepal in Sri Lanka celebrated World Meditation Day with a special Swajagaran (Self-Awakening Meditation) Program themed “Awakening Inner Stillness” at the Colombo Municipal Council. The event brought together distinguished guests, including members of the Maha Sangha, ambassadors, diplomatic representatives, government officials, and members of the Nepali and Sri Lankan communities.

Dr. Puma Bahadur Nepali, Ambassador of Nepal to Sri Lanka, opened the program with remarks emphasizing the growing relevance of meditation in addressing contemporary challenges such as stress, anxiety, and emotional exhaustion. Drawing on the shared Buddhist heritage of the two nations, the Ambassador highlighted principles such as the Four Noble Truths, mindfulness, and compassion, underscoring the role of wellbeing diplomacy in strengthening Nepal-Sri Lanka relations.

Ven. Dr. Kirinde Assaji Thero, Chief Incumbent of Gangaramaya Temple, spoke on the spiritual and ethical significance of meditation in fostering inner peace and harmonious societies, reinforcing the event’s core message.

The main session featured the Swajagaran meditation practice, led by Jeevan Vigyan instructor Prateek Sharma. The guided session focused on self-awareness, energy meditation, and achieving inner balance, reflecting the trinity approach of Jeevan Vigyan, which integrates yogasana, pranayama, and meditation. Sharma also elaborated on the philosophy and global vision of Jeevan Vigyan and The Awakening Project, emphasizing Nepal’s Himalayan contributions to science-based spirituality, conscious leadership, and peacebuilding.

Dr. Gamage, Chief Ayurvedic Doctor of the Colombo Municipal Council, highlighted the physical, mental, and emotional health benefits of regular meditation, further enriching participants’ understanding of the practice.

The program concluded with a Vote of Thanks by Vijay Kumar Raut, Deputy Chief of Mission, who acknowledged the support of the Maha Sangha, ambassadors, Jeevan Vigyan, Colombo Municipal Council, volunteers, participants, and the Embassy team.

Attended by around 60 guests, the event left participants with a renewed sense of calm, mindfulness, and commitment to inner peace and global harmony.