Daily NEWS Srilanka

Ministers of the United People’s Freedom Alliance have elaborated that the Government has received a clear victory at the Western and Southern Provincial polls. They totally rejected the analysis of Opposition parties.

The Ministers were addressing a media briefing of the United People’s Freedom Alliance held at the Sri Lanka Freedom Party Headquarters today.

Minister Maithripala Sirisena said that the Government is upbeat about the conduct of a peaceful and democratic poll for the two Provinces. They witnessed how the media as well as the Opposition made references to a decrease in the number of votes, the number of seats or a setback by the Government group since the announcement of the results. It should be clearly mentioned that the Government had secured a clear majority within the Western and Southern Provinces as in the previous polls. The Minister said that they totally reject the analysis made by the Opposition Parties, while the election results were being announced.

Minister Susil Premajayantha said that the 2009 Provincial Council polls were held on April 19th. The polls were held when the troops had reached the Nanthikadal Lagoon during the humanitarian operations. Polls for the Southern Province were held in June that is a month after liberating the country from terrorism. It was under these circumstances, that the Government was able to secure a two thirds majority in these polls. Five years had passed since then. In 2005 when the polls were held, the aspiration was how the war was to be ended. The war ended in 2010. Rather than political facts these had become history. It is under a totally different background that the 2009 and 2014 polls had to be compared. The Minister said it should be mentioned that in comparison to the general election, the Government has succeeded in maintaining higher vote percentage.

Minister Dulles Alahapperuma said that they vehemently reject that the Government had suffered a setback at the polls. Elections were held in 57 electorates and the Government secured wins in 51 of them. The number of votes secured in the Districts by parties other than the main opposition was one million. When taking into consideration the joint opposition, the Government has secured 525,000 votes in excess. Referring to the 2010 General Election, the Minister said that the Alliance polled 313,000 votes in the Kalutara District. But in this poll it polled 337,000 votes. This figure is more that the votes polled by the Freedom Alliance in the General Election. In Hambantota, the Alliance polled 174,000 votes during the General Election. These votes are maintained at this poll. The Alliance received 213 thousand votes in the General Election in the Matara District while at this poll it received 231,000 votes. The Minister emphasized that the Alliance had polled a high number of votes in the Districts, when compared to the votes received when President Rajapaksa was elected at the Presidential poll in 2005.

Analysts have underpinned that the Provincial Council poll has explicitly proven the people’s strength of the present Government which cannot be subjugated by any international force.

The Opposition launched a dire campaign that the people will deliver a massive verdict against the Western and Southern Provincial Council poll. However, analysts point out that the results of the elections had clearly indicated that popularity of the Government which is moving forward for nearly 10 years under the leadership of the President had not waned. The voter base of the United People’s Freedom Alliance has further strengthened in comparison with the United National Party, the main Opposition based on the overall result of the Western Provincial Council.

The Freedom Alliance polled a total of one million 363 thousand 675 votes from the Western Province. Even after securing win in five of the electorates from the Colombo District, the United National Party was able to receive only 679 thousand 682. The Analysts claim that the securing of 683 thousand 993 votes more than the United National Party by the Freedom Alliance is significant. It is a notable feature that the popularity of certain Governments wane after a long rule. But the analysts assert that the people rather than moving away have become much closer to the United People’s Freedom Alliance Government under the leadership of President Rajapaksa. Certain parties are attempting to compare this poll with that of 2009. But it should be considered how practical it is to compare the two polls. They emphasize that it is not practical to analyse this poll with the election held while the country was triumphing over terrorism.

At the last Northern Provincial Council poll the Tamil National Alliance polled 353 thousand 595 out of a total of 719 thousand 356 registered voters. It is the view of the analysts that the polling of a number more than that of the total of number of registered voters in the North is noteworthy. Accordingly the analysts underscores that the Freedom Alliance had succeeded in further strengthening its voter base at this Provincial poll.

The Preferential votes of all Districts in which the Provincial polls were held have been released.

Hirunika from Colombo, Prasanna from Gampaha, Senal from Kalutara, Shan from Galle, Pasanda from Matara and Upul from Hambantota are leading in the Preferential lists of the Alliance candidates.

Prasanna Ranatunge had secured the highest preferences of the Freedom Alliance from the Gampaha District. The total votes polled by the former Chief Minister is 249,678. Nimal Lansa is second with 106,661 while Sahan Pradeep with 57,892.

Harshana Rajakaruna has polled the highest preferential votes for the Gampaha District from the UNP. He had received a total of 51,018.

Hirunika Premachandra from the Colombo District is leading in the preferential votes with 139,034. Second is Udaya Gammanpila with 115,638 while Upali Kodikara has secured the third place with 47,822.

S.M. Marikkar who contested from the UNP in the Colombo District has obtained the highest preferences of 67,243.

UPFA candidate and former Chief Minister Shan Wijayalal de Silva is leading in the preferences votes in the Galle District. He had polled 95,860. Second is U.G.D. Ariyatilake with 48,282. Sampath Athukorale polled the third highest preferences of 42,531.

Bandulalal Bandarigoda who contested from the UNP in the Galle District received the highest preferences of 32,030.

In Kalutara, the Alliance candidate who polled the highest preferential votes was Senal Welgama. The total preferences was 115,385. Rohana Abeygunawardena is placed second with 51,339 while Yasapala Koralage polled the third highest preferences of 42,395. From among the UNP candidates, Jagath Vithana polled the highest preferences of 29,920 from the Kalutara District.

According to the preference results announced in the Matara District, Pasanda Yapa Abeywardena secured the highest votes from the Freedom Alliance. It was 76,870. Next was Chandima Rasaputhra with 70,509 while placed third was Sarath Yapa Abeywardena with 47,090.

Chathura Galappatti who contested from the UNP for the Matara District polled the highest preferences. It was 27,930.

D.V. Upul who contest the Hambantota District from the Freedom Alliance received the highest preferences. It was 64,995. M.K.Kasun of the Alliance was placed second with 55,801. Ajith Rajapaksa secured the third highest preferences of 34,591.

From among the UNP candidates who contest the Hambantota District, Tennekone Gamage polled the highest preferences. It was 28,829.

The Elections Commissioner has said that the peaceful and fair poll conducted for the Western and Southern Provincial Council is a precursor for a pertinent political culture.

The Police have lauded the support given by the people to protect law and order during the post-election period.

Elections Chief Mahinda Deshapriya emphasized that the Western and Southern Provincial Council poll was free and fair and devoid of violence. He pointed out that this poll will go down in the country’s election history as one in which not considerable violence took place. The Elections Commissioner expressed the gratitude of the Elections Department to state officials, candidates and all voters who made a significant contribution for the conduct of a free and fair poll.

A new Air Service is being planned between the United Arab Emirates and Sri Lanka.

Minister Piyankara Jayaratne said that a new Air Service between the Al Bateen Airport in the United Arab Emirates and Sri Lanka is planned to be launched. Based on the discussions held with the Rotana Jet Airlines, the new Air Service is due to operate up to Katunayake International Airport from the 09th of next month and to the Mattala Rajapaksa Airport from the 10th of next month. The Civil Aviation Services Minister said that the new Air Service will further strengthen bilateral ties between the two countries.

The Australian Government provides a Coastguard trawler to the Sri Lanka Navy.

One of the two Bay Class type coastguard trawler was officially handed over yesterday at a function held in Keyanas Australia under the patronage of Navy Commander Vice Admiral Jayanath Colombage. The handing over of this trawler to the Sri Lanka Navy Chief took place in the presence of Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner to Australia Thisara Samarasinghe.

The Australian Government commending the initiatives taken by the Sri Lanka to prevent illegal migration to Australia, is providing them to Sri Lanka with the aim of further strengthening marine security initiatives.

No one can forget the massive devastation unleashed by the blood thirsty terrorists in the country.

The terrorists blatantly violated human rights throughout 30 years. This episode gives a clear description of the destruction inflicted by the terrorists within the country on 31st March throughout the fear psychosis period.

The innocent villagers of the Wevelketiya village in Medawachchiya commenced their day to day activities on 31st March 1988 with the intention of earning an income. But as a result of a massive attack unleashed by the blood thirsty tiger terrorists barging into the village killed seven innocent Tamil civilians and seven Muslim civilians.

These ruthless tiger terrorists thus embarked on their killing spree on 31st March throughout the dark era. Seven innocent Tamil civilians were killed in a bomb attack unleashed by the tiger terrorists on 31st March 1991 in the Irudayapuram area. Again on 31st March in the year 1998, two war heroes lost their lives following a terrorist attack launched in the Amman Kovil area. On the same day, the terrorists lurking in the Valalchchenai area unleashed a powerful attack targeting the war heroes. Two brave soldiers died in this attack.

In the year 2008 also on a day like today the tiger terrorists exploded a bomb in the Panikkara Puliyamkulam area, taking two valuable lives of valiant soldiers. Demented by the continuous defeats suffered, the blood thirsty terrorists unleashed a powerful attack in the Puthukudiyiruppu area on 31st March 2009. Three war heroes sacrificed their lives on behalf of the motherland in this assault. Iranamadu was the next target of the blood thirsty terrorists on the same day. They killed three gallant soldiers.

The number of lives taken away by the terrorists in the face of their thirst for blood, on 31st March within the fear psychosis period was 49. This included 24 innocent unarmed civilians. The other 25 were courageous soldiers. If not for the pulverization of tiger terrorism which was a scourge for the country on 18th May 2009 from the Nanthikadal Lagoon at Wellamulliwaikkal, the country would have transformed into a land of the dead. The members of the Security Forces who advanced in the humanitarian operations under the prudent leadership of President Rajapaksa, the Commander in Chief and the appropriate guidance of Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa succeeded in enthroning genuine peace in the country.

Aren’t they the real war heroes? What they did was to protect the nation and the motherland through supreme sacrifices. What is the moral right Britain and the United States which are flagrantly violating human rights to make allegations that such gallant soldiers had flouted fundamental rights? These courageous soldiers did not transgress human rights, but provided a fitting lesson to the world of safeguarding human rights. The heroism of the members of the Security Forces are recounted in this feature daily as they are eternal heroes.

Robert Downey Jr. turned inspirational speaker at the Kids’ Choice Awards, Pharrell set another fashion trend, David Blaine lost his head during a slime-induced illusion, One Direction and Jennifer Lawrence cleaned up, and the green goo bath finally caught up with Mark Wahlberg.

Along the way One Direction won two awards, producer Dan Schneider won the show’s first lifetime achievement award. More than a dozen former and current teen stars joined on stage to salute Schneider, the creator of several of the network’s most popular shows. One Direction won favorite music group and favorite song for “Story of My Life,” Selena Gomez was named favorite female singer, Adam Sandler was named favorite male actor at the fan-voted awards and Kevin Hart took favorite funny star.

Novak Djokovic tamed world number one Rafa Nadal 6-3 6-3 to claim his fourth Miami Open title, denying the Spaniard a maiden win on the Miami hardcourts.

It was the second straight Masters series title for the second ranked Serb, who defeated Roger Federer two weeks ago in Indian Wells. The Miami title continues to be one of the few to elude Nadal, who has now finished runnerup four times at Crandon Park, twice beaten in the final by Djokovic.

The outstanding victory of the Alliance at the Provincial Council Elections is a certificate given by the people for the Government’s people friendly programmes, says the President thanking the people. President Mahinda Rajapaksa issuing a special message says that the magnificent victory of the United Peoples Freedom Alliance at the Western and the Southern Provincial Council Elections will be a special message to the elements who are against the motherland. The victory has confirmed the trust of the people in the Government which has committed to protect the independence and territorial integrity of the country while developing and taking forward the nation. The results of the Provincial council Elections have once again shown that no force can defeat the aspirations of the nation, and the people will not allow international pressures. The President in his message has emphasized that the people’s consent is important more than anything else and has said that no force will be allowed to suppress the hopes of the nation. President Rajapaksa has commended everyone who dedicated themselves to peacefully conduct the elections and has expressed gratitude for the people who rallied around the nation.

The United Peoples Freedom Alliance has scored an outstanding victory in the Western and Southern Provinces. The Alliance has won both provincial councils with a clear majority. The united Peoples Freedom Alliance won the Western Provincial council by polling Thirteen hundred sixty three thousand six hundred and seventy five votes. It is a percentage of fifty nine point three five. The United Peoples Freedom Alliance has secured fifty six seats in the Western Provincial Council. The United National Party which polled six hundred and seventy nine thousand six hundred and eighty two votes has secured twenty eight seats with a percentage of twenty six point five nine. The Democratic Party has polled three hundred and three thousand seven hundred and sixty seven and secured nine seats with a percentage of seven point nine. The JVP has obtained one hundred fifty six thousand two hundred and six votes and secured six seats. The percentage of the JVP is six point one. The Democratic Peoples Front has secured two seats by polling fifty one thousand votes in the Western Province. Sri Lanka Muslim Congress has obtained forty nine thousand five hundred and fifteen votes and secured two seats. All Ceylon Makkal Congress has polled fifteen thousand four hundred and ninety one votes and secured one seat.

The United Freedom Peoples Alliance has won 33 seats out of 53 in the Southern Provincial Council. This outstanding victory was scored by polling six hundred and ninety nine thousand four hundred and eight votes. It is a percentage of fifty eight point zero six. The United National Party has polled three hundred and ten thousand four hundred and thirty one votes with a percentage of twenty five point seven seven. They have secured fourteen seats. The JVP which obtained one hundred and nine thousand thirty one votes has secured five seats. They have obtained a percentage of nine point zero five. The Democratic Party secured three seats by polling seventy five thousand five hundred thirty two votes with a percentage of six point two.

The United Peoples Freedom Alliance has obtained four hundred and forty three thousand eighty three votes in the Colombo District. As a percentage it is forty five point three and they have secured eighteen seats. The United National Party which obtained two hundred and eighty five thousand five hundred and thirty eight votes with a percentage of twenty nine point two, has secured twelve seats. The JVP has obtained seventy four thousand four hundred and thirty seven votes, with a percentage of seven point six two. They have secured three seats. The Democratic Party has been able to get three seats with the percentage of seven point two with seventy one thousand five hundred and twenty five votes. The Democratic Peoples Front has secured two seats in the Colombo District by polling forty four thousand one hundred and fifty six votes. The Sri Lanka Muslim Congress which has obtained twenty thousand one hundred and sixty three votes and All Ceylon Makkal Congress which has polled fifteen thousand four hundred and ninety one votes, have secured one seat each.

The United Peoples Freedom Alliance won the Kalutara District by getting thirteen seats. It has polled three hundred and thirty one thousand nine hundred and thirty four votes. The United National Party has secured six seats by obtaining one hundred and forty four thousand nine hundred and twenty four votes. The Democratic Party has polled forty three thousand six hundred and eighty five votes and secured two seats. The United Peoples Freedom Alliance scored an outstanding victory in the Gampaha District by polling five hundred and eighty two thousand six hundred and sixty eight votes. It has secured twenty three seats. The united National Party was able to poll only two hundred and forty nine thousand two hundred and twenty votes. It has secured ten seats. The Democratic Party has secured four seats by getting eighty eight thousand five hundred and fifty seven votes. The JVP has obtained fifty six thousand four hundred fifty votes from the Gampaha District and secured two seats and Sri Lanka Muslim Congress has secured one seat by getting seventeen thousand two hundred and ninety six votes. According to the overall results of the Matara District, United Peoples Freedom Alliance has polled two hundred and thirty one thousand one hundred and one votes. It has secured ten seats. The United National Party has obtained ninety six thousand two hundred and ninety seven votes and secured four seats. The JVP has secured two seats by polling thirty nine thousand one hundred and fifty votes. The Democratic Party polled twenty thousand five hundred and one votes and secured one seat. The United Peoples Freedom Alliance which won all four electoral divisions of the Hambantota District, won the district with a high percentage. According to the overall results of the Hambantota District, the United Peoples Freedom Alliance has polled one hundred and seventy four thousand six hundred and eighty seven. United National Party has received seventy nine thousand eight hundred twenty nine votes. The JVP has polled thirty nine thousand three hundred and forty five votes. Accordingly United Peoples Freedom Alliance has secured eight seats, UNP four seats and the JVP two seats from the Hambantota District. According to the overall results of the Galle District, United Peoples Freedom Alliance has polled two hundred and ninety two thousand and six hundred and nineteen votes. They have secured thirteen seats. The United National Party which polled one hundred and thirty four thousand three hundred and five votes and secured six seats. The Democratic Party has obtained forty five thousand four hundred and eighty four votes and secured two seats.

The public servants in the Western and Southern Provincial Councils are with the United Peoples Freedom Alliance. The Alliance has scored a magnificent victory in the postal voting. The UPFA has scored a magnificent victory in the Western and Southern Provincial Council elections, according to the results of the postal votes. The UPFA has obtained thirty five thousand two hundred and twenty votes according to the results of the postal votes in the Western Province. The United National Party has obtained only eight thousand seven hundred and one votes. Democratic Party obtained six thousand and nine hundred and fifty five and the JVP three thousand four hundred and eighty two. According to the results of the postal voting of the Southern Province the UPFA has scored a massive victory by obtaining thirty one thousand three hundred and seventy six. The UNP has obtained only seven thousand nine hundred and twenty nine votes. Democratic Party obtained five thousand eight hundred and seventy one and the JVP four thousand four hundred and eighty nine votes.

Matara

According to the results of the Matara District preferential votes, Pasanda Yapa Abeywardena who contested from the United Pepoples Freedom Alliance, has obtained the highest number of preferential votes. He has polled 76,870 preferential votes. United Peoples Freedom Alliance’s Chandima Rasaputhra has won the second place with 75,509 and Sarath Yapa Abeywardena is on the third place with 47,090. Chathura Galappathi of the United National Party has obtained the highest number of preferential votes by polling 27,930 votes, from the UNP candidates contested for the Matara District.

Hambantota

D.V. Upul has obtained the highest number of preferential votes from the Hambantota District from the United Peoples Freedom Alliance. He has polled 64,994 votes. M.K. Kasun of the UPDA is on the second place with 55,801preferential votes and Ajith Rajapaksa is on the third place with 34,591 preferential votes. Thennakoon Gamage Senarathna has polled the highest number of preferential votes from the UNP candidates who contested for the Hambantota District. He has obtained 28,829 preferential votes.

Executive Director of the Peoples Action For Free and Fair Election expressed his views. Mr. Rohana Hettiarachchi said that they monitored the election from the date of the nominations. He said that the violence was at a minimum level which was a good sign. He added that they did not get reports that could have an impact on the results, on the Election Day. He said that they expected a post peaceful election environment. He requested that victory be celebrated without inflicting physical or mental harm on the opponents.

The Government has thanked the people who voted for the victory of the Alliance with a significant majority and for the support given to conduct a peaceful election. The General Secretaries of the Alliance and the Sri Lanka Freedom Party say that the people have approved the Governments programme to take the country forward unwaveringly in the face of local and foreign conspiracies. Minister Susil Premajayanth said that if there was no political stability, peace could not be achieved in the country. If there was no peace, development work could not be carried out. He said that the country was attacked in Geneva due to various reasons. However the end aim is to destabilize the country. Minister Premajayanth said that the people have given the message that the majority of the people are with the Government and the President. He said that the Alliance would get more votes at the National or a Presidential election. Minister Maithripala Sirisena said that the people have approved the President’s programme again and given an outstanding victory. He said that all untruths spread by the opposition led by the UNP have been rejected by the people. He said that this was especially important since it came at a time where imperialists and LTTE elements had worked hard against the country. He further said that the result was important locally and internationally. He thanked the people for voting and for the outstanding victory.

The massive destruction caused by the LTTE terrorists will never be forgotten by the nation. The LTTE terrorists who violated human rights of Tamil civilians destroyed the lives of innocent people irrespective of any race differences. The dark memories has recorded such brutality of the terrorists. 28 heroic soldiers lost their lives due to LTTE terrorism on 30th March in Veepankulum. On the 30th March 1993 three soldiers sacrificed their lives to the territorial integrity of the country in an attack in Settikulum area. LTTE sea terrorists attacked a group of sailors who were patrolling the sea from Kankesanthurai to Trincomalee on the 30th March 1996. Twelve sailors lost their lives in the attack. On the 30th March 1997 LTTE terrorists exploded a claymore mine in Kokavil killing two soldiers. An Air Force plane took off from Pallali with civilians on board to fly to Anuradhapura on the 30th March 2000. A brutal attack by LTTE terrorists on it, took the lives of four Tamil civilians and 26 soldiers on a day like today. Two soldiers lost their lives when LTTE terrorists launched an attack in Kodikamam on the same day. Two civilians were killed in a shell attack launched by LTTE terrorists in Kalviankadu. On the 30th March 2007 six soldiers sacrificed their lives to the nation due to an attack in Periankulum. Ten heroic soldiers were killed in a barbaric LTTE attack on the 30th March 2009 in Pudukudirrippu. On the same day in another attack in Pudikudirrippu took the lives of five soldiers. LTTE terrorists launched a mortar attack on the 30th March 2009 and killed four soldiers. In another attack on the east of Pudikudirrippu took the lives of two soldiers. 117 people including 106 soldiers and seven civilians lost their lives on the 30th March due to the blood thirsty, brutality of the LTTE terrorists. If the massive destruction caused by inhuman LTTE terrorists was not stopped on the 18th May 2009, the country could have continued to experience blood baths. The heroic soldiers who marched forward on the brave leadership of President Mahinda Rajapaksa and the correct direction of Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa achieved peace over the country while teaching a lesson to the world. That lesson is how to eradicate terrorism while protecting human rights. The super powers, the US and UK are annoyed about it. What is more despicable than violating human rights by themselves and acting against the country like Sri Lanka which is protecting human rights. Should not the heroic soldiers be felicitated who risked their lives to protect the lives of others. Therefore we recall such soldiers on the pages of dark memories without allowing to fade their memories. However photographs of some of the heroic soldiers are not with us and we know that you have those with you. Please send such valuable photographs to us. We assure you that we would show the photographs of such heroic soldiers to the country and to the world and return it to you.

Real Madrid routed Rayo Vallecano 5-0 at home, breaking a rare two-game losing streak and keeping their team within three points of the pacesetters Atletico.

La Liga top scorer Cristiano Ronaldo netted his 28th goal of the campaign and Gareth Bale struck twice in a 5-0 stroll at home to city neighbours Rayo. The Welshman’s first was a simple tap-in following Angel Di Maria’s cross, but his second was one of real quality as he sprinted towards the Vallecano box from his own area and beat a defender before rifling home a low shot beyond Ruben. A fifth duly arrived when Morata found space on the edge of the area and curled a superb shot into the far corner.

Serena Williams won a record seventh Key Biscayne title when she overcame a slow start to beat Li Na 7-5, 6-1 at Miami.

The final game of the set went to deuce six times, but she finally won it with a booming backhand that Li couldn’t handle. She dominated from there, sweeping the final five games, and closed out the victory with a service winner. She made only 44 percent of her first serves and converted just five of 17 break-point chances. Williams lives 90 minutes from Key Biscayne and considers it her home event.

“Captain America: The Winter Soldier” is a 2014 American superhero film featuring the Marvel Comics character Captain America, produced by Marvel Studios and distributed by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures.The film was directed by Anthony and Joe Russo, with a screenplay by Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely, and stars Chris Evans, Scarlett Johansson, Sebastian Stan, Anthony Mackie, and Samuel L. Jackson. In Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Captain America and the Black Widow join forces to stop a covert enemy that is hiding in Washington, D.C. It is scheduled to be released in North America on the 4th of next month in 2D, 3D and IMAX 3D.

Voting in the Western and Southern Provincial Council polls ends on a peaceful note. The transport of ballot boxes to the counting centres is nearing completion. Voting in the Provincial polls came to a close at 4.00 pm today.

Five million 898 thousand 427 voters were eligible to cast their ballots to elect 155 members of the Western and Southern Provincial Councils. Voting commenced at 7 am at 4253 polling centres with a keen enthusiasm displayed by the people. Polling ended at 4 pm.

104 members will be elected for the Western Provincial Council. It also includes the two bonus seats. 40 members each will be elected from the Colombo and Gampaha Districts. The number of members that will be elected for the Province from the Kalutara District was 22. The total number of registered voters in the Colombo District was one million 552 thousand 733.

The number of registered voters in the Gampaha District is one million 90 thousand 076. The total number of registered voters in the Kalutara District is 891 thousand 814.

Returning Officers announced that overall voting in all these Districts was peaceful.

55 members will be newly elected to the Southern Provincial Council. The number of voters eligible to exercise their franchise from the Galle District was 809 thousand 882. 22 members will be elected from the Galle District.

17 members are to be elected from the Matara District for the Southern Provincial Council. The registered number of voters in this was 608 thousand 524.

The Hambantota District which has a total of 455 thousand 398 voters will elect 14 members for the Southern Provincial Council.

The Returning Officers within the Southern Province said that overall polling was peaceful within the Southern Province.

The President and First Lady Shiranthi Wickremasinghe Rajapaksa cast their ballots at the D.A. Rajapaksa Maha Vidyalaya in Medamulana this morning.

Expressing views to the media the President said the people of this country are explicitly aware of democracy. They are well educated and intelligent. As such they will never betray the motherland. He was optimistic of a resounding victory by the Freedom Alliance. The President emphasized that the people of the country will be giving their verdict and not that of Geneva.

Another new bridge will be built across the Kelani River. The Government of Japan under its Yen Loan scheme is providing financial assistance to Sri Lanka to build a second bridge over the Kelani River. Japan has granted the 44thYen Loan amounting to approximately 45 billion rupees to Sri Lanka towards the Second New Kelani Bridge Construction Project. Ambassador of Japan Nobuhito Hobo and Finance Secretary Dr. P.B. Jayasundera signed the Exchange of Notes for the Yen Loan at the Ministry.

JICA’s Chief representative Kiyoshi Aamada was present.

The validity period of railway season tickets issued for public employees has been extended.

Accordingly the validity period of the season tickets issued for public workers last month has been extended for four days from the month of April. Hitherto the season tickets issued were valid only for two days when is validity period ended. But the Department of Railways said that this period has now been extended for four days.

Accordingly, all public employees who possess season tickets now enjoy the privilege of travelling for four more days after its expiry.

The Department has taken this measure to avoid congestion at Railway Stations due to the demand to secure state sponsored season tickets and private season tickets at the same time.

Comprehensive investigations are in progress with respect to the seizure of a stock of dust tea from the Alawathugoda area in Kandy.

The stock had been concealed in a secret storage facility in between a timber mill and a cement block factory close to the Alawathugoda town.

The Alawathugoda Police said that the stock was seized when it was being loaded to a container in the wee hours to be transported to Mattakkuliya. Nine suspects involved in the ordeal have been apprehended. The Police revealed that there were plans to export this stock of dust tea.

No one can estimate the value of lives lost as a result of ruthless terrorism which grasped the country for three decades. Many made dedications even sacrificing their lives on behalf of the noble

This is another episode of the atrocities committed by the ferocious terrorists during the dark era.

The tiger terrorists who barged into the Dewalagodella village on 29th March 1988 ruthlessly started attacking the innocent villagers. The terrorists bumped off seven civilians in these attacks. It was again on 29th March in 1999 that the terrorists targeted a claymore attack at the war heroes in the Kotiyamale area. They killed seven gallant soldiers.

The terrorists unleashed a powerful attack in the Puthumathalan area on 29th March 2009 killing three more war heroes. On the same day the war heroes had to confront several terrorist attacks in the Iranamadu area from several directions. As a result 19 war heroes made supreme sacrifices on behalf of the motherland.

The brutal insurgency which was a scourge for the country was quelled on 18th May 2009. By then the barbaric terrorists had taken away a total of 53 lives on 29th March throughout the fear psychosis period. It included 13 innocent civilians. The other 40 were heroic soldiers.

Members of the Security Forces who advanced in the humanitarian operations succeeded in liberating the entire country from these brutal terrorists and enthroning permanent peace in the motherland. They did so under the vibrant and dynamic leadership of President Rajapaksa and the far-sighted guidance of Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa.

The patriotic citizens of the country will not at all hesitate in properly responding to the false and unfounded allegations made by certain local as well as extraneous forces that the President and the valiant soldiers, who gave new life to the innocent Tamil civilians who were suffering the tyranny of LTTE dominance by liberating them, had transgressed human rights. It is because that the patriotic fraternity is aware that they who have the correct response to this issue.

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma struck half-centuries to lead India into the semi-finals with an easy eight-wicket win over host Bangladesh.

Spinners Amit Mishra and Ravichandran Ashwin shared five wickets as India restricted Bangladesh to a modest total and set up their third win from three Group 2 games. Kohli made an unbeaten 57 and Sharma 56 as India strolled to 141-2 in 18.3 overs in reply to Bangladesh’s 138-7.

Island Of Lemurs: Madagascar is a documentary film directed by David Douglas and Academy Award winner Morgan Freeman narrates the movie.

Island of Lemurs: Madagascar takes audiences on a spectacular journey to the remote and wondrous world of Madagascar. Lemurs arrived in Madagascar as castaways millions of years ago and evolved into hundreds of diverse species but are now highly endangered.

President Rajapaksa has advised authorities to release all Indian fishermen in Sri Lankan custody.

The President issued instructions this morning to release all Indian fishermen and their trawlers in Sri Lankan custody.

Accordingly, the Sri Lankan Navy has extended all facilities for 98 Indian fishermen and 28 fishing trawlers to leave for India.

Also the Navy has taken appropriate measures to provide humanitarian assistance to Indian fishermen who had faced calamities and also the required facilities for Indian trawlers which are impacted with mechanical faults.

President Mahinda Rajapakse has rejected the UN Human Rights Council resolution ordering a war crimes probe.

The President told the French News Agency that he would instead press ahead with his own reconciliation plan. He said the resolution only hurts Sri Lanka’s reconciliation efforts and does not help it. In a phone call, the President told AFP that he is not discouraged but will continue with the reconciliation process that is ongoing.

The President mentioned that he had drawn comfort from India’s abstention in Geneva. He said he considered it is encouraging that India did not vote against Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka has received the highest public acclamation with 12 countries voting against the UN Human Rights Resolution on Sri Lanka and 12 more nations abstaining as against the 23 countries that voted in favour of the Resolution.

The Resolution of Navaneethen Pillay was submitted to the UN Human Rights Council session in Geneva yesterday and debated. Analysts emphasize that although the Resolution was adopted yesterday with a majority of votes, the Human Rights Council had earned ignominy through this vote. 23 countries voted in favour of the UN Resolution against Sri Lanka in Geneva. However, 12 countries had opposed the Resolution directly supporting Sri Lanka. Also 12 other countries abstained from casting the vote, rejecting the Resolution against Sri Lanka. Accordingly Sri Lanka received the support of 24 countries in this process.

A notable feature was also that some countries refraining from voting in favour of the Resolution without cowing down to dire pressure exerted by Western nations including the United States.

The total population of the countries which voted against Sri Lanka was in the region of 3944.8 billion.

Accordingly, the analysts elaborated that the majority of the total world population that supported Sri Lanka than the countries that went against the Resolution is 2818.5 billion.

These statistics explicitly display that Sri Lanka had received the consent of a majority of the population of member countries.

Massive development has taken place in every part of Sri Lanka last year. Development has even taken place in the Northern Province where the Tamil civilians live. Although India voted against Sri Lanka for two years, it will be abstaining from doing so this year.

Indian representative Dilip Singha made these references citing reasons as to why it will be refraining from voting for the UN Resolution against Sri Lanka.

The Indian representative during the debate on the Resolution against Sri Lanka at the UN Human Rights Council session in Geneva yesterday announced that India would be abstaining from voting. Giving reasons, Indian Envoy Dilip Sinha said that Sri Lanka had achieved successful growth in every sector. What the United Nations and the Human Rights Council should do at this juncture was not to obstruct this growth, but to encourage the island nation. Also as pledged to the international community, Sri Lanka has successfully conducted a free and fair poll for the Northern Provincial Council last year. It was a significant assurance given by Sri Lanka to the world.

The Sri Lankan Government’s dedication to implementing the recommendations of the Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission is clearly visible. The Trilingual Policy is also being adopted. The Government has also discharged an outstanding service to bring about religious harmony. The Sri Lankan Government had taken the initiative of reconstructing places of religious worship destroyed in the North and East as a result of the war.

The Government is dedicated to passing on the benefits of development to all citizens. Sri Lanka provided a fitting lesson by ending the war. It was a permanent political solution acceptable to all. India is confident that this would be fulfilled. Everyone should extend support to the Sri Lankan Government in this respect. Dilip Sinha emphasized that India will not support any process or proposal that would be deleterious to the sovereignty of any country.

Australia has strongly voiced opposition to an international investigation into alleged war crimes in Sri Lanka.

Australia’s Foreign Minister Julie Bishop said the proposed UN investigation of war crimes in Sri Lanka is not the best way forward. The Australian Government considered engagement with Sri Lanka to be the most effective way to encourage progress on human rights issues. She said genuine advances in accountability and reconciliation will only be possible with the co-operation of the Sri Lankan Government.

Julie Bishop expressed concern that the resolution had not adequately recognized the significant progress achieved by the Sri Lankan Government to promote economic growth and its investment in areas formerly dominated by the LTTE in the North and East. She pointed out that Australia would increase efforts to work constructively with the Sri Lankan Government, the Tamil National Alliance and other stakeholders to promote economic, social and cultural reconciliation.

All arrangements are in place for the conduct of polls for the Western and Southern Provincial Councils. Additional Elections Commissioner R.M.A.L. Ratnayake has called on all voters to visit the polling booths as early as possible and cast their ballots.

The total number of registered voters in the Western and Southern Provinces is five million 898 thousand 427. Polling will commence at 7.00 am tomorrow. Polling will be held for the election of 155 members for the two Provincial Councils at 4253 polling booths.

The number of candidates contesting from political parties and independent groups from the six Districts in the two Provinces is 3794. A group comprising 70 thousand officials are deployed for elections duties.

Elections Commissioner Mahinda Deshapriya said that the counting of votes will begin at 608 Centres after voting draws to an end at 4.00 pm tomorrow. There will be 420 counting centres for the Western Province while the number of such Centres for the Southern Province is 188.

40 members each will be elected from the Colombo and Gampaha Districts. 22 members are slated to be elected from the Kalutara District. The total number that will be elected for the Western Provincial Council along with the two bonus seats is 104. The Elections Secretariat announced that 55 members are scheduled to be elected for the Southern Provincial Council.

The number of registered voters for the Colombo District is one million 552 thousand 733. 40 members will be elected from the Colombo District. The number of registered voters in the Gampaha Disgtrict is one million 590 thousand 076. 40 members will be elected from this District. There are 881 thousand 814 registered voters who will go to the polls from the Kalutara District to elect 22 members.

809 thousand 880 voters will cast their ballots from the Galle District for the election of 22 members for the Southern Provincial Council. The number of registered voters in the Matara District is 608 thousand 524. 17 members will be elected from Matara.

The Hambantota District has a total of 455 thousand 398 registered voters. The number of members to be elected from this District is 14.

Additional Elections Commissioner R.M.A.L. Ratnayake has called on all voters to cast their ballots as early as possible tomorrow.

Mr. Ratnayake said that heads of polling booths were deployed to the centres by this afternoon. The deployment of these officers was completed sans any obstacles. It is reported that they had already reached their respective polling centres and are ready to engage in their duties tomorrow. He requested all voters to cast their ballots as early as possible and engage in their normal day to day activities without loitering near the polling centres.

In the meantime, the Elections Department announced the ballot boxes concerned have already been directed to all polling booths.

Action was initiated to direct the ballot boxes from this morning to the polling centres under special security. There are 2689 polling centres in the Western Province. 1062 centres are established in the Colombo District. The number of polling booths in the Gampaha District is 1014 while the polling centres in the Kalutara District is 613. The total number of polling centres set up in the Southern Province is 1546. 703 have been set up in the Galle District while there are 450 in the Matara District. The Hambantota District has 411 polling centres.

Nearly 25 thousand Police officers are deployed for the security of the Western and Southern Provincial Council elections. Police Media Spokesman SSP Ajith Rohana said that there will also be mobile foot patrol.

The Police Media Spokesman said that nearly 25 thousand Police Officers have been deployed to maintain law and order in view of the polls. A special security programme is in place at polling booths and in the environs. Two armed Police Officers have been deployed at every polling centre. In addition, Police mobile services will be constantly operative.

SSP Ajith Rohana said that a special security programme will also be operative at District Secretariats and at Counting Centres. Fifty special road blocks have been established within the two Provinces. Those who are appealing for votes, impress upon voters and transport voters will be apprehended. He said it is hoped to deploy Police Officers in civvies near polling booths. Constant mobile services will operate to identify perpetrators. Security will be stepped up during the evening at counting centres. The Police Media Spokesman said they solicit support from candidates, supporters and voters for the conduct of a free and fair poll.

Terrorism plagued the country for 30 years. It was during this period that massive destruction was unleashed to public property and human lives. This devastation would have been inestimable, if this dark era, which was gripped with fear and brutality and embroiled in brutal and inhuman terrorist activities, was not brought to end by the Commander in Chief in collaboration of the heroic soldiers.

The ruthless tiger terrorists exploding a landmine in the Kinniya area on 28th March 1986 killing five war heroes. They thus embarked on their murder spree on 28th March throughout the dark period. On 28th March 1992, five war heroes who were caught up in a terrorist attack in the Nagadeepa area sacrificed their lives on behalf of the country. Two brave soldiers were killed in another terrorist attack mooted on 28th March 1996 in the Chulipuram area. Two war heroes died in a brutal attack unleashed by the terrorists in the Kalmunai area on 28th March 1997.

The terrorists planted a powerful claymore mine along the A-9 Highway in the Mundimuruppu area in Vavuniya on 28th March 1999. The target was a military truck. As a result of this explosion the country was deprived of the valuable services of four war heroes.

In the year 2005 also on a day like today two war heroes sacrificed their lives in another terrorist attack on behalf of the country at Siththandi. Again on 28th March 2009, 17 war heroes made supreme sacrifices in several attacks mooted by the ruthless tiger terrorists in the Puthukudiyiruppu area.

Accordingly terrorism which blighted the country in this manner was brought to an end on 18th May 2009. By then the number of lives taken away by the tiger terrorists on 28th March throughout the fear psychosis period was 42. This figure included three innocent unarmed civilians. The other 29 were gallant soldiers.

President Rajapaksa as the Commander in Chief leaving aside all obstacles took several bold decisions to liberate the country from the clutches of the terrorists. Accordingly, the future activities were planned on behalf of obliterating the terrorists.

The members of the Security Forces succeeded in enthroning permanent peace in the motherland making supreme sacrifices by advancing in the humanitarian operation under the able guidance of Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa.

As a result all communities are living in unity and freedom in this peaceful country. But it is sad to note that certain local as well as external forces are determined to destroy this freedom and peace.

Forces against the country operating to meet the aspirations of Western countries including Britain and the United States are adopting various strategies to denigrate the country. But these forces cannot achieve their ends as the patriotic citizens are clearly aware as to how such deceitful strategies should be defeated.

The members of the Security Forces, who liberated more than 300 thousand innocent Tamil civilians who were languishing under the jackboot of the terrorists, have given a fitting lesson to the world due to the operations carried out in a humane manner. However, it is ludicrous to note that Western countries which grossly violate human rights are seeking human rights reports from Sri Lanka which had perfectly safeguard these fundamental rights. All communities in the country will not at all hesitate to give a proper lesson to local as well as foreign conspirators.

Alex Hales cracked a career-best 116 not out as England ran down Sri Lanka by six wickets with four balls to spare in another gripping World Twenty20 match at Chittagong. For Sri Lanka, Mahela Jayawardene hit 89 and Tillakaratne Dilshan hit 55 to help their side post a formidable total.

Hales 64-ball knock, earned England’s highest chase win in a T20 as they zoomed to 190-4 in response to Sri Lanka’s daunting 189-4. After Sri Lanka had England 0-2, Hales and Eoin Morgan combined for a record third-wicket stand of 152. Morgan made a rapid 57 off 38 balls.

Famous Russian fashion designer Slava Zaitsev participated in the opening of the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Russia. Zaitsev’s autumn/winter 2015 collection was full of bright colors and classic suits for men. Vyacheslav Zaitsev, a 76 year old designer, started his career in the 1960s and became one of the most respectable Russian fashion designers. He has sewed outfits for the wives of Vladimir Putin and Dmitry Medvedev. Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week will run until 1st of April.

A clear division was witnessed in the vote on the Geneva Resolution against Sri Lanka today. 12 countries supported Sri Lanka. 12 countries including India abstained from voting.

The debate on the Resolution submitted to the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva against Sri Lanka was held yesterday and today. The vote on the Resolution was taken up today. 12 countries emphasizing that serious injustice was being caused to Sri Lanka voted against the Resolution. 12 countries including India abstained from voting.

The resolution was adopted after a long debate prompted by the Pakistani delegation which demanded a motion to postpone the vote over a funding issue.

Earlier the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights said it will need over one million 460 thousand US Dollars to implement the activities mentioned in the resolution.

Pakistan then asked for the vote on the Sri Lanka resolution to be postponed until funding could be sorted to implement it. The proposal was backed by Russia, Cuba and China. Eventually the motion was defeated in a vote after the US objected to the postponement.

President Rajapaksa has emphasized that the country will regain its past glory as it is moving forward experiencing development.

The President laid this emphasis at a function organized to present the Act of Appointment of the Anunayake of the Amarapura Saddhamma Yukthika Matara Maha Nikaya to the Ven. Uyanwatte Saddharama Thera.

The ceremony was organized at the Nedigamwala Raja Maha Vihare in Hambantotta. The President on arrival at the Raja Maha Vihare first visited the Buddha Mandiraya and offered flowers. The President also declared open the Ven. Nalagama Narada Memorial Sanghawasa built at the Vihare. A large gathering of residents joined in this occasion. The President did not forget to exchange pleasantries with them. Thereafter the President joined in the presentation of the Act of Appointment.

The function for the presentation of the Act of appointment to the Ven. Uyanwatte Saddharama Thera was presided over by the Ven. Nakulugamuwe Prematilaka Thera, the Mahanayake of the Amarapura Siri Saddharmayukthika Matara Maha Nikaya. Presenting Pirikara to the Thera, the President wished him strength and courage. Minister Mahinda Amaraweera presented the Vijinipatha.

In his address, President Rajapaksa referred to the dedications made by the Government to mould a virtuous future generation along with the development of the country as well as social development.

The President said that they are aware of the historic value of Ruhuna. It should be mentioned that justice has so far not been meted out. He said that the lost history should be revived. The ancient glory is now being regained. Society should be developed while the country was being developed. He highly valued the services discharged by the members of the Maha Sangha including the Anunayake Thera.

The Ven. Uyanwatte Saddharama Thera who was honoured with the Act of appointment delivering a special anusasana said that they are now in a position to speak freely in this manner due to the President. Sri Lankans were considered abroad as citizens of a failed country. But the President discharged a valuable service to the country. The prelate called on the people not to forget these activities.

Members of the Maha Sangha and Deputy Minister Sanath Jayasuriya were also present on the occasion.

President Rajapaksa has declared open the new Birds Reproduction and Research Centre constructed in the Nagarawewa area in Hambantota.

The Centre which has been established for the reproduction of rare birds and those which are threatened with extinction spans 38 acres. The Centre has a collection of all varieties of worldwide birds.

The Centre is also equipped with all facilities necessary to undertake studies on special varieties of birds.

A group including Deputy Minister Sanath Jayasuriya and Parliamentarian Namal Rajapaksa joined in the occasion.

The President draws his attention to a request made by veteran artiste Bertie Gunatilake who enthralled the entire country through his comedian roles.

President Rajapaksa who came across a statement made by Bertie Gunatilake to the Sarasaviya newspaper instructed Parliamentarian Ranjith Soysa to make arrangements to immediately summon this artiste before him. Bertie Gunatilake who mesmerized the entire nation through the Vinoda Samaya comedy programmes received the opportunity of meeting the President today.

The meeting took place at the Carlton House in Tangalle. During the meeting, the President also presented him with a memento. Mr. Gunatilake said that he had to visit Colombo every fortnight to seek treatment and the lack of lodging he encountered during these visits was a serious issue.

Responding immediately to the request, the President instructed Ranjith Soysa to take action to provide a house to him after discussions with Minister Wimal Weerawansa. Bertie Gunatilake expressed his gratitude to the President to dedicating his valuable time on behalf of his request. His son and two daughters were present on the occasion.

PAFFREL – the People’s Action for Free and Fair Elections claims there is a conducive trend for elections due to the minimal violence experienced at the Provincial polls. The Election Watch thanked all those who supported for the prevalence of such a conducive situation.

PAFFREL’s Executive Director Rohana Hettiarachchi made these references at a media conference held in Colombo to brief journalists on the monitoring of the polls.

Mr. Hettiarachchi said that violence was minimum. There are 3798 candidates. But when considering violence those involved in it was less than 20. He thanked the Elections Chief as well as the Police for the support extended to create such a peaceful background.

Additional Elections Commissioner R.M.A.L. Ratnayake has declared that stern legal action will be initiated against those who engage in campaigning flouting election regulations. He said that special election officers in collaboration with the Police are monitoring such activities.

Mr. Ratnayake said that all election offices set up at the electoral level should be dismantled from midnight today. Only one office established at the District level can be maintained from tomorrow. Only one office at the District level can be operative for the candidates.

The residence of the candidate can also be maintained as an office. However, he said that no posters, banners or cutouts can be displayed at these offices. The name of the candidate, the political symbol and the preference number can be displayed at the office established at the District level. He added that officials of the Elections Department and the Police have been deployed to examine all locations.

The Muslim community has emphasized that international interferences in Sri Lanka which is highly adhering to peace and reconciliation after ending a 30-year war, are unnecessary. The Muslims claim that harmony prevails between all communities and religions.

The Sri Lankan Muslim community strongly rejected the Resolution tabled at the Geneva Human Rights session against Sri In his address, President Rajapaksa referred to the dedications made by the Government to mould a virtuous future generation along with the development of the country as well as social development.

Lanka, is calling on the international community not to extend any support to this Resolution. Demonstrations and dialogues to impel the international community were held throughout the country in the past few days. It is the Muslim community that was severely impacted as a result of LTTE terrorism. The Muslims cannot forget the hardships they experienced as a result. The Muslims are today leading peaceful lives due to the peace enthroned in the country by President Rajapaksa.

The Islamic clergy as well as the Muslim community emphasized that they reject accusations made by certain elements at this juncture that there are obstructions to religious harmony, as these allegations would be supporting the Resolution submitted to the Geneva Human Rights session against Sri Lanka.

The entire nation cannot forget the terrorist activities that plagued the country for 30 years.

It is with the enthronement of peace in the motherland by the heroic soldiers that a halt was made to the brutal incidents that horrified the country.

The tiger terrorists killing two war heroes in Kankesanthurai area on 27th March 1987, unveiled their killing spree on this day within the dark era. On 27th March 1993, three more war heroes lost their lives in another terrorist attack in the Monarawewa area in Welioya. Two other war heroes were killed in another terrorist attack in the Neerweli area on 27th March 1996.

Mannar was the next target of the terrorists on 27th March 1999. Lurking in this area the terrorists mooted an attack on a group of soldiers who were engaged in their duties, thus taking away the lives of four war heroes. On 27th March in the year 2000, the ruthless tiger terrorists mooted an attack on a group of innocent civilians who were engaged in farming in the Jaffna area. Two farmers were killed on their cultivation plots.

On the same day the terrorists mooted a powerful attack in the Jaffna Muhamalai, Kilaly and Eludumattuwal Forward Defence Line. 158 war heroes made supreme sacrifices on behalf of the unity of the motherland. In the year 2001, also on a day like today, the terrorists targeted an attack on a group of brave soldiers who were on foot patrol in the Chavakachcheri area in Jaffna. As a result two brave soldiers were killed.

On 27th March 2007, four civilians were abducted by the terrorists from the Chenkaladi area in Batticaloa and shot and killed, displaying the brutality to the entire world. On the same day in another terrorist attack on a group of war heroes in the Nagarkovil Forward Defence Line in Jaffna, the terrorists took away the lives of three gallant soldiers.

In the year 2009 also on 27th March, the terrorists unleashed several attacks on war heroes in the Puthukudiyiruppu area. As a result 27 war heroes made supreme sacrifices on behalf of the unity, territorial integrity and sovereignty of the country.

Terrorism which was bane for the country was uprooted on 18th May 2009. By then these cruel terrorists had taken away a total of 228 lives on 27th March throughout the fear psychosis period. This included nine civilians. The other 219 were valiant soldiers. President Rajapaksa as the Commander in Chief leaving aside all obstacles took several bold decisions to liberate the country from the clutches of the terrorists. Accordingly, the future activities were planned on behalf of obliterating the terrorists. The members of the Security Forces succeeded in enthroning permanent peace in the motherland making supreme sacrifices by advancing in the humanitarian operation under the able guidance of Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa. As a result all communities are living in unity and freedom in this peaceful country. But it is sad to note that certain local as well as extraneous forces are determined to destroy this freedom and peace.

Forces against the country operating to meet the aspirations of Western countries including Britain and the United States are adopting various strategies to denigrate the country. But these forces cannot achieve their ends as the patriotic citizens are clearly aware as to how such deceitful strategies should be defeated.

The members of the Security Forces, who liberated more than 300 thousand innocent Tamil civilians who were languishing under the jackboot of the terrorists, have given a fitting lesson to the world due to the operations carried out in a humane manner. However, it is ludicrous to note that Western countries which grossly violate human rights are seeking human rights reports from Sri Lanka which had perfectly safeguard these fundamental rights. All communities in the country will not at all hesitate to give a proper lesson to local as well as foreign conspirators.

President Rajapaksa has emphatically declared that the Government is not ready to curtail the rights endowed to the nation.

The President laid this emphasis addressing the final Galle District victorious rally at the Ambalangoda Urban Council Grounds. It was organized to consolidate the victory of United People’s Freedom Alliance candidates who are contesting the Provincial Council polls. The people approached the grounds in several processions to the acclamation of those present there.

Addressing the mammoth rally, President Rajapaksa underscored that the Government always appeared on behalf of the rights of the labour fraternity. As such it will not curtail these rights.

The President said that it was at this grounds that the successful final rally for the Presidential polls was held. There are many critics when some work is done. But when reaping its benefits they view it with jealousy. The Government will constantly work. The President pointed out that this is not a Government which is prepared to curtail the rights of the working class. This is the first time that a technology curriculum was introduced in the country for the benefit of the children, not to win the country but the world. The President said that they are developing the country. The country cannot be reversed. The country should be built for the posterity. At the same time, the President opined that a background was being created to build the morality of the children and also a better society.

Senior Minister Prof. Tissa Vitharana and Ministers Nimal Siripala De Silva and Rajitha Senaratne addressed the meeting. A large gathering including many Parliamentarians participated in this massive rally.

President Rajapaksa extends his blessing to take around the world the message of the World Youth Conference to be hosted in Sri Lanka.

The Sri Lanka Youth Conference is geared to officially take the message of the World Youth Conference which opens in Sri Lanka on the 06th of May to young men and women of 18 countries within 40 days. A delegation comprising five members including its General Secretary Saman Kumara Ranaweera is due to leave the island in this respect. President Rajapaksa’s blessings for this exercise was secured at the Carlton House in Tangalle this morning. The President handed over the national flag to the delegation to take Sri Lanka’s image to the world.

The World Youth Conference is scheduled to begin on the 06th of May in Colombo and will continue for five days. Its inauguration will take place in Hambantota.

Schools in polling Provinces closed on Friday

Curtain falls on election campaigning. All campaigns with respect to the Western and Southern Provincial Council polls draws to an end at midnight today. 26 thousand Police Officers will be deployed in these provinces from tomorrow to maintain law and order.

Schools within these two Provinces will be kept closed on day after tomorrow. The Elections Commissioner has requested private educational institutions too to grant an opportunity to the voters to cast their ballot.

Campaigning for the Provincial polls will come to a close at midnight today. All Election offices of candidates should be dismantled from midnight tomorrow.

Expressing views in this respect to ITN Additional Elections Commissioner R.M.A.L. Ratnayake said that all campaigning after midnight today is barred. Candidates should also remove cut outs, banners and decorations which were permitted to be displayed from midnight today. Offices set up at the electoral level can be maintained until midnight tomorrow but it is necessary to remove the cut outs, banners and posters at these offices from midnight today. Mr. Ratnayake said that the Elections Department along with the Police will launch a programme from tomorrow to undertaken inspections.

In the meantime, all schools in the Western and Southern Provinces will be kept closed on Friday in view of the polls to be held on Saturday the 29th. Royal, Isipathana and D.S. Senanayake Colleges which will be used as counting Centres in the Colombo District will be kept closed tomorrow and the day after. The Education Ministry has announced that the Siyane Education College which will also be utilized as a counting centre of the Gampaha District will be kept closed until the 02nd of April. The Suchi National School to be used as a counting Centre in the Hambantota District is closed from today until Friday the 28th. Also the Education Ministry said that the Hapitigama National Education College will be kept closed from tomorrow until Sunday the 30th.

Meanwhile it has been decided to shut down all liquor shops within the Western and Southern Provinces on Saturday due to the Provincial polls.

The National Complaints Monitoring Centre of the Elections Secretariat is on alert on behalf of a just and peaceful poll.

It will entertain complaints with respect to the Western and Southern Provincial Council polls from 6.30 am on polling day. The six Districts of the Western and Southern Provinces have been given telephone and fax numbers for this purpose. Complaints in the Colombo District can be made on contact number 0112 877 631 or fax number 0112 877 623. The contact number for the Gampaha District is 0112 877 632 while the fax number is 0112 877 624.

The contact number for the Kalutara District is 0112 877 633 while the fax number is 0112 877 625. The contact number for Galle is 0112 877 634 and the fax number is 0112 877 626. The Matara District number which will receive complaints is 0112 877 635 and the fax number is 0112 877 627.

Complaints with respect to the Hambantota District can be directed on contact number 0112 877 636. The fax number is 0112 877 628.

Military officials disillusioned with Sarath Fonseka’s politics have revealed that a person who lacks a sensitive heart and does not respect the views of others is neither suitable to take up the leadership of the country nor engage in politics.

They made this revelation at a media conference held in Rajagiriya to announce the resignation of 12 war heroes. They shouldered the task of building the Democratic Party with Sarath Fonseka.

Major Wimal Ratnayake said that when Sarath Fonseka launched his Party, he served as his Kurunegala District Coordinator. He also served as Deputy President of the Party, the Convener of the Ranaviru Organization of Kurunegala and also the Chief Organizer of the Yapahuwa electorate of the District. He adheres to hatred and dictatorial politics. He does not respects views of others. Of those who were with Fonseka when he contested the Presidential polls, there is only one individual who still remains with him. All others have resigned. 21 drivers too have given up. Major Ratnayake said that this clearly portrays his politics. They do not endorse his hatred politics. He said it is very clear that it was the President who ended a war which lasted 30 years and thereafter he has effected massive development in the country. He mentioned that all of them have decided to support the President’s development efforts.

Major Susantha de Silva said there are doubts whether they could look after another if the driver or the worker is not properly looked after and cared for. It is hard to think as to how a person who does not look after his driver or worker, would care for the nation in the future. He said that it is very difficult to move forward if Fonseka is unable to identify the pulse of the people.

Lt. Asela Dharmasiri mentioned that he served as Fonseka’s organizer of the Anuradhapura District. He is a person who was engaged in politics. But he finally found that it is unable to do politics with him. He said that it was they who did much work for the Party since it was launched. It was they who visited villages and collected votes. He assured that they would bring together the war heroes and the civilians and ensure they supported the President’s programme. It is particularly the Eastern polity who is satisfied with this victory over terrorism. It is the Defence Secretary who managed this war. It is fortunate that Gotabhaya Rajapaksa assumed the Deputy Defence Ministerial portfolio. If not the war would have still been dragging. If Geneva sanctions were imposed it will not only impact the President but the Sinhala, Tamil, Muslim and burgher communities. If so Lt. Asela Dharmasiri said he is appealing to the people of the Southern and the Western Province to vote for the Government on behalf of the President who liberated the country from the terrorists.

The United People’s Freedom Alliance will secure a resounding victory at the Provincial polls, polling 61 percent from the Western Province and 64 percent from the Southern Province. Minister Dulles Alahapperuma revealed that the Freedom Alliance will win 51 of the 57 electorates of the six Districts in the two Provinces. The Minister was addressing a news conference in Colombo today.

The Minister said that it was very clear by yesterday that the Alliance will no doubt secure victory in 51 of the 57 electorates within the six Districts of these two Provinces. There is a good battle for three more. They believe that they will not be able to win three electorates. Accordingly the Alliance will secure a resounding victory, 61 percent from the Western Province and 64 percent from the Southern Province. He called on Freedom Alliance supporters and activists to enjoy this victory peacefully on 30th of this month by respecting the losers.

Senior Minister DEW Gunasekara, Minister Susil Premajayantha and Deputy Minister M.L.A.M. Hisbullah were associated at this news briefing.

The world is developing with new technology. But it is not appropriate to use this technology to nurture terrorism or to protect anti socialists. What the Western countries are doing is engaging in such activities under the guise of human rights.

These references have been made by President of the Hindu Buddhist Association of Switzerland Dharmalingam Logeshwaran.

Delivering a special statement at a UN conference in Tamil Mr. Dharmalingam made a fervent appeal from all concerned elements to abstain from paralyzing the peaceful environment and religious harmony prevailing in Sri Lanka. Mr. Logeshwaran pointed out that during the conflict period, the brutal tiger terrorists held around 300 thousand innocent Tamil civilians as hostage and used them as human shields grossly flouting human rights. But it is deplorable to note that Human Rights Organizations which did not utter a word about these flagrant human rights violations are bringing forth various resolutions under the guise of human rights to hinder the real freedom which is now enjoyed by all communities in Sri Lanka.

The United States, Canada and European countries including Britain are nurturing terrorism under the cover of human rights. Mr. Logeshwaran emphasized that these countries are making a direct contribution to unleash a severe calamity to all communities in Sri Lanka without considering the desires of the Tamil Diaspora and the Tamil National Alliance. Further in his address he emphatically mentioned that no country should attempt to bring a Resolution against Sri Lanka at the Geneva sessions and that no country should support any such Resolution. What such countries should do is to support Sri Lanka which has achieved its development goals after ending terrorism.

It is reported that despite obstructions made by a tiger loyalist K. Kirubakaran during the speech, Logeshwaran addressed that gathering without a break.

The Police have recorded a statement from Dulanjali Jayakody, the sister of Parliamentarian Sajith Premadasa over the use of forged currency notes.

Police Media Spokesman SSP Ajith Rohana said that the suspect involved in this counterfeit note racket was produced in Courts today and remanded. He made these references at a news conference held at the Police Headquarters today.

According to the statement made by Dulanjali Premadasa she had invested some money in this particular company. The main suspect of this racket is the Managing Director of a Garment Factory. She has invested this money. Thereafter this particular person have given the profits to her. The two million rupees given to her is considered as profits. But the Police Spokesman said they are still continuing with the probe.

Canadian Sri Lankans in Toronto have staged a massive protest against the US Resolution on Sri Lanka.

Hundreds of expatriate Sri Lankans in Canada joined in the protest to show solidarity against the US-sponsored anti-Sri Lankan resolution at the UN Human Rights Council Session in Geneva. Canadian Sri Lankans in Toronto staged the “Hands Off Sri Lanka” protest rally opposite the U.S. Consulate. The rally was organized with the leadership of Sri Lanka United National Association of Canada.

The protesters carrying placards and shouting slogans, called on the United States and the co-sponsor United Kingdom to withdraw the country specific resolution against Sri Lanka, and to refrain from bringing similar unfair resolutions to harass Sri Lanka which is an independent sovereign member country of the United Nations.

Various Sri Lankan Canadian community organizations, 2014 Toronto Mayoral Candidate Dewitt Lee and Canadian Sri Lankans of all ethnic origins braved the cold temperature in unity to make a stand for Sri Lanka during the rush hour in Toronto. Separately, a petition was signed by a large number of Canadian Sri Lankans. It is due to be forwarded to the U.S. Consulate this week.

The dark memories during the terrorism psychosis cannot be erased from the hearts of the people. It is mainly due to the massive destruction imbibed with brutality and stained with blood being unleashed in the country.

This hemorrhage would have continued within the country if terrorism that was a mortal threat and which was fast spreading like pestilence, was not vanquished.

The terrorists mooted an attack in the Palaly area on 26th March 1987 killing two war heroes, thus beginning their activities of unleashing violence on 26th March during the dark era insulting humanity. On 26th March in 1991, two more war heroes who were caught up in a terrorist attack in the Muttur area sacrificed their lives on behalf of the country.

Their next target in the year 1993 on a day like today was Manipai. Lurking in this area, the terrorists attacked a group of war heroes killing three soldiers. In another terrorist attack at Etambagaskada in Vavuniya on 26th March 1994, the ruthless tiger terrorists mooted an attack killing two brave soldiers. Shocking the country in another gruesome attack, the terrorists opened fire at a group of farmers engaged in farming in the Vadamarachchi area on 26th March 2007, thus murdering three of them in the farmland itself.

Four war heroes died when the terrorists exploded a claymore mine in the Suleina Marandamadu area on 26th March 2008, while on the same day, the ruthless tigers mooted another attack in the Kiri-ibbanwewa area in Welioya bumping off two war heroes. Several attacks were unleashed by the merciless terrorists in Mullaitivu, Puthukudiyiruppu, Kilinochchi and Iranamadu area. As a result 17 brave soldiers made supreme sacrifices on behalf of the unity of the motherland.

Terrorism which plagued the country in this manner was eliminated root and branch at the Nanthikadal Lagoon on 18th May 2009. By then the total number of lives taken away by the terrorists on 26th March throughout the dark era was 46. They had killed six innocent civilians and 40 war heroes.

Members of the Security Forces succeeded in enthroning peace in the country making supreme sacrifices due to the bold and direct decisions taken by President Rajapaksa without yielding to certain local as well as extraneous forces and also due to the proper guidance of Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa. The freedom was gained through many dedications.

But certain local as well as foreign forces are determined to plunge the country into a chaotic situation destroying the peace that has been achieved. These groups are making false allegations that fundamental rights had been transgressed.

They are not talking even a word on the human rights protected by the gallant soldiers giving priority to humanity even in the battlefield. It is simply not because they are not clearly aware of it but mainly due to their deceitfulness. No one murmurs a word on the human rights blatantly flouted by powerful countries such as Britain and the United States. Their only effort is to impress upon a Government which injected life to the civilians, ensuring their right to live, ending terrorism.

Whatever the efforts and desires of these forces are, the patriotic fraternity of the country will not permit them to rise against the motherland. They had clearly displayed not only by words but also by deeds.

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