Secretary to the Treasury Mahinda Siriwardana stated that granting the salary increase demanded by striking public servants would necessitate raising the current VAT from 18% to between 20% and 21%.
The GMOA says it will not support the ongoing strike action in the state sector.
Commenting on the upcoming elections, President Ranil Wickremesinghe said that regardless of any court challenges, the presidential election will be held this year.
The fundamental rights (FR) petition filed by businessman C.D. Lenawa seeking an order preventing the calling of a Presidential Election until the Supreme Court delivers its interpretation on the date of the presidential poll, has been dismissed by a five-member Supreme Court judge bench headed by the Chief Justice.
The government has embarked on an educational reform initiative with the aim of introducing an advanced education system combined with modern technology to move the country forward with a new economy.
Surendra Wasantha Perera also known as “Club Wasantha” has been killed and several persons including singer K. Sujeewa have been hospitalised following a shooting at Oruwala in Athurugiriya.
Model Piumi Hansamali is accusing the Criminal Investogation Department (CID) of constantly harassing her, causing her to lose her mental freedom.
Salary issues of public sector workers can be addressed through the budget for next year, said finance state minister Ranjith Siyambalapitiya.
Incumbent Ranil Wickremesinghe is yet to give at least a hint to the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) that he is contesting for the presidency again, anidda.lk quoted the party’s general secretary Sagara Kariyawasam as saying.
Over 200 public sector trade unions, including Grama Niladhari officers and surveyors, will engage in a trade union action by taking ‘sick leave’ today (8) and tomorrow, according to the Trade Unions Collective.
