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.
Voting commenced at 7.00am to elect members to 339 local councils in the island.
Voting is being held at 13,579 polling centers and will end at 4.00 p.m.
Vietnamese President Luong Cuong warmly welcomed President Anura Kumara Disanayake during an official ceremony held in Hanoi on Monday (05) morning
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake was accorded a ceremonial welcome with full military honours upon his arrival at the Presidential Palace of Vietnam. He also took part in the inspection of the Tri-Forces Guard of Honour and the playing of the national anthems of Vietnam and Sri Lanka. The two leaders then introduced members of their respective delegations before proceeding for bilateral discussions during which both nation assessed their progress, explored avenues for future collaboration and signed Memoranda of Understanding.
Vietnam and Sri Lanka have upheld robust and enduring ties since they established diplomatic relations in 1970. and this visit aims to strengthen political trust and foster effective collaboration across multiple sectors between the two nations.
Sri Lanka and Vietnam engage in annual bilateral trade, primarily in exports, totalling around US$200 million. Both nations aspire to elevate this trade to US$1 billion in the near future.
President Dissanayake’s visit highlights Sri Lanka’s deep commitment to its longstanding friendship with Vietnam and demonstrates a mutual resolve to enhance collaboration in traditional sectors while exploring new opportunities in digital transformation, the digital economy, energy transition, artificial intelligence and connectivity.
[PMD]
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Heat index is likely to increase up to ‘Caution level’ at some places in Eastern, Northern, North-western, and North-central provinces and Monaragala district
Warm Weather Advisory
Issued by the Natural Hazards Early Warning Centre of the Department of Meteorology At 3.30 p.m. 05 May 2025, valid for 06 May 2025
The public are warned that the Heat index, the temperature felt on human body is likely to increase up to ‘Caution level’ at some places in Eastern, Northern, North-western, and North-central provinces and Monaragala district
The Heat Index Forecast is calculated by using relative humidity and maximum temperature and this is the condition that is felt on your body. This is not the forecast of maximum temperature. It is generated by the Department of Meteorology for the next day period and prepared by using global numerical weather prediction model data.
Effect of the heat index on human body is mentioned in the above table and it is prepared on the advice of the Ministry of Health and Indigenous Medical Services.
ACTION REQUIRED
Job sites: Stay hydrated and takes breaks in the shade as often as possible.
Indoors: Check up on the elderly and the sick.
Vehicles: Never leave children unattended.
Outdoors: Limit strenuous outdoor activities, find shade and stay hydrated.
Dress: Wear lightweight and white or light-colored clothing.
Note:
In addition, please refer to advisories issued by the Disaster Preparedness & Response Division, Ministry of Health in this regard as well. For further clarifications please contact 011-7446491.
Voting commences to elect members for 339 local government authorities
President holds talks with Vietnamese President
Heat index is likely to increase up to ‘Caution level’ at some places in Eastern, Northern, North-western, and North-central provinces and Monaragala district
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