blog: eesrilanka.wordpress.com
‘Before you study the economics, study the economists!’
*
e-Con e-News 14-20 January 2023
*
‘We are coming, Colombo! Next month the iconic Greenpeace´s Ship:
The Rainbow Warrior will be in our country, SriLanka,
demanding Climate Justice!’
Demanding? From whom? Greenpeace – yet another Anglo-American Environmental NGO camouflage – is set to sail their much-hyped ship (bombed in a New Zealand port in 1985 by the French government, who saw it as an English spy ship) into Colombo harbor from 17-18 February. You’d think they would demand peace now, and sail to the Red Sea to stop the US & England from bombing Yemen & Palestine! Or sail to Fukushima!
But surprise, surprise! What on planet Earth does all this ‘green’ peace have to do with the plans to jail (if not assassinate) former President Gotabaya Rajapakse, & others, on criminal charges, using the so-called ‘Truth & Reconciliation Commission’, financed by the US Exxon Rockefellers, while allowing multinational corporations (MNCs) like Exxon & Anglo Unilever to override local courts.
And if justice is the prize, why then, e.g., were no Englishmen charged with criminality (isn’t colonialism a crime? – ask Palestine?) after 1948 independence? They were instead protected (by English military bases) and provided special seats in an ‘independent’ Parliament to continue this import-export colonial plantation fraud, & its ‘private practices’, that have brought us to this pass. (see ee Random Notes)
A Director of Greenpeace South Asia, Jehan CanagaRetna recently joined a USAID-funded relative of one of the main 1962 coup leaders, at the Supreme Court, in accusing Sri Lanka’s former President G Rajapakse & his economic advisors of solely causing the economy’s bankruptcy. Having failed to eliminate him in 2022, the plan now is to continue pitting communities against each other, charging Rajapakse as a ‘common criminal’ in court (Milosevic-style), by first threatening the key national, economic & security forces he was elected to represent, to accede to imperialism’s plans to reinstall Sri Lanka as a colonial base, to block links between East Asia, West Asia & Africa, continuing (yes, continuing!) their war against China (the white wars on Taiwan & Korea, by the way, are called ‘frozen conflicts’).
CanagaRetna is also the SL Representative for the Unilever-linked Rainforest Alliance, which aims to control access to white (we tire of using the geographic misnomer ‘Western’) markets. CanagaRetna is President of Wildlife & Nature Protection Society of SL – WNPS is promoting debt-for nature-swaps with MNCs, to grab Sinharaja rainforest, etc.
This week, WNPS’ PLANT (Preserving Land & Nature (Guarantee) Pvt Ltd) announced building an ‘ambitious’ 9km forest corridor with Hayleys’ Horana Plantations, along the banks of Maskeliya Oya, near the Samanalakanda –Sri Pada Sanctuary, out of which flow some of Sri Lanka’s major rivers, aiming to prevent our harnessing of local sources of energy.
ee has already reported on the sabotage of DJ ‘Laxapana‘ Wimalasurendra‘s vision for making us self-sufficient in energy – a crucial element in the last government’s mandate, undermined by strangling access to finance, fuel, fertilizer, food & pharma.
*
‘Sri Lanka is a nation blessed with indigenous energy sources.
If managed properly, the amount of energy available from these sources
is much more than the total requirement of the country.’
(see ee Focus, CPSL’s Way Forward program)
*
So says Sri Lanka’s Communist Party program on Power & Energy. It seems we need to make conventional hydropower (including wave-tidal power) more efficient, which would involve investment in research & development of energy machinery, and local innovation. Meanwhile, the Energy Minister says they can’t access fuel from Russia due to Singapore’s monopoly? (see ee Quotes)
So is Greenpeace coming as a spy ship? Yes, it is. And more. Greenpeace, unbeknownst to many, has also been providing green fog for the illegal English-US military occupation of Diego Garcia (in the Chagos Archipelago, from where the US launches bombers over East Africa & Asia). Meanwhile US & English banks like Standard Chartered & HSBC Holdings (with their origins in pushing opium from India on China, and funding apartheid in South Africa) are now pushing ‘a new $15billion program to ‘protect Indian Ocean habitats’. And yet there’s little kerfuffle from Greenpeace after Japan’s government’s recent dumping of nuclear radioactive waste water into our oceans… So much for ‘climate justice’! (see ee Random Notes)
*
• Welcome to the 301st weekly edition of ee. We enjoy most of the criticisms ee gets. Some think ee is obsessed. One frequent kvetch is that the weekly ee should be more focused and less prolix (see, we also like using unusual English words just to show we too can wield the kaduva, though against English colonialism, yankee-style). However, we see ee as more than a sound-bytten (past participle of sound byte?) news site, and more as an archive of the sheer criminality of the imperialist & colonized media, which accuses everyone but themselves of corruption.
*
Readers wish to know how Unilever controls the media. Funneled through PR & advertising agencies, many news stories are repeated word for word in all newspapers and should be classified as infomercials, and are obviously paid for, perhaps with a nod & a wink & under-the-table, even if the Inland Revenue Department may not tell us how MNCs fund this expensive ‘free media’.
As the USA & its English & EU pitbulls escalate the horror in West Asia & East Africa, to cut off energy to Asia, we also keep noting how our so-called national media depends on Washington’s (AP, Bloomberg, etc) and London’s (BBC, Reuter) hacks to tell us what’s going on in our own neighbourhood. ee found this hilarious disclaimer at the bottom of a news item in the George Steuart Group’s The Morning:
*
‘Source – BBC Disclaimer:
No part of this article was changed
except for the headline’
(see ee Industry, Microsoft)
*
Look at the bloated coverage of inbred Hanover Anne last week, compared to the just one or 2 mentions of the plans to allow MNCs to enforce laws without going through Sri Lankan courts! (also see ee 02 Dec 2023, ICSID) So who did the inbred English royals meet? – nestled within their itinerary are so-called social media with their anarchistic & nihilist ‘art’, now on display as the English & their white-Black Colombots + their white sponsors are invading Sinhala Ruhuna to fete fake art & literary extravaganzas (which stunt the real art & literature that could bolster a modern industrial renaissance).
*
‘Representatives from the Museum of Modern Art,
The National Trust Sri Lanka, Design Development Corporation,
Ceylon Theatres, Scope Cinemas, Agenda14 and The Gratiaen Trust
met English Vice Admiral Timothy Laurence & his wife Anne
at the British Council office’ (see ee Sovereignty)
*
The Admiral & mistress Anne avoided visiting England’s chemical-pushing ICI/CIC corporation who stage-managed the fertilizer hulabaloo, the shylock opium & apartheid bank Standard Chartered, or carcinogen-promoting Ceylon Tobacco Co (CTC). The SoE Restructuring Unit (SRU), selling off national assets, is headed by England’s CTC Suresh Shah. The SRU meanwhile announced there were only 3 responses to the Request for Qualification (RfQ) notice to divest the Government’s stake in Sri Lanka Telecom (SLT). The Telecommunication Engineers’ Union (TEU) wonders why? (see ee Focus)
*
• An absolutely perverse white media continues to blame Yemen for blocking Red Sea traffic, when there is no doubt it is the US & English & EU who have launched wars in both East Africa & West Asia to control access to energy for the rest of Asia’s industrialization (see ee Random Notes).
The IMF meanwhile keeps prescribing their tampered medicines, offering grim forecasts unless we accede to their dubious & often deadly panaceas. If the IMF’s masters in Washington are promoting wars in Asia & Africa, which would render moot all the IMF’s fixes, which are provoking chaos, why on earth are we acceding to their ‘bitter medicines’?
With the US/English/EU aka white wars in West Asia & East Africa surely causing further havoc, not just economically – while providing rosy predictions & prescribing even more ‘bitter medicines’ – why is the IMF being allowed to interfere with Sri Lanka’s internal affairs?? (see ee Economy, IMF meets Constitutional Council to interfere in Commissioner Selection Process)
Awaiting a more definite selloff of crucial sectors of the national economy (which could instead be sustaining a modern industrial renaissance), the opposition now claims they would ‘amend’ the USA’s IMF program. Meanwhile the IMF is cranking up ‘pressure on SL, by putting off the next tranche until April: so says US-funded Verite. The despotic Yankee-funded CBSL Governor says no future government can amend. Meanwhile, most of IMF-linked news is ‘bullish’, with the IMF claiming that their economic reform program is ‘yielding the first signs of recovery, and ‘starting to pay off’? Hmm, for whom exactly?? (see ee Economy)
‘The Truth, Unity & Reconciliation Commission can summon any individual
to testify or produce materials before it, and the failure of anyone to do so
will be considered as equivalent to the punishable offense of contempt
committed against the Court of Appeal.’
(see ee Random Notes).
It’s no coincidence that the plans to put on trial former Sinhala Presidents Gotabaya Rajapakse, Mahinda Rajapakse & Maitripala Sirisena proceed apace. This is evident in the hourly harangue about their ‘corruption’ (with or without which the colonial economy was set to crash anyway!). And then, while hyping of the so-called Constitutional Council, there are just one or 2 mentions of the plans to allow multinationals to enforce laws without going through local courts! (also see, ee 02 Dec 2023, ICSID) This MNC-privileging bill was sneakily passed just after spirited holidays (when all were looking for their next cheer!) under legislative cover of another bill about the National Unity & Reconciliation Commission (ONUR)! What does giving multinational corporations the right to impose their writ, impinging national sovereignty, have to do with ‘Reconciliation’…?
These Bills were passed by Parliament’s Sectoral Oversight Committee on Reconciliation & National Unity, with many bureaucrats & only 2 MPs present – both presumably ‘nationalist’, one Sinhala & other Eelamist. What exactly are we reconciling with? Capitalism! & herein lies the plot! It also explains the arrival of the Exxon-Rockefeller International agent (an off-white one!) who initially funded the ONUR to throw more dollars around, as a sop to extend multinational corporate dictat, while threatening nationalist forces.
*
Contents:
*
A1. Reader Comments –
• CPSL & English Sabotage • Informative ee • Unilever & Media Monopoly • Annie & her Horse • Galle’s Art Farce • USA fixes ICJ • Dump the Zionists in London
*
A2. Quotes of the Week –
• Singapore’s Monopoly over SL Fuel • The Speaker’s Holy Family • Colombo 7’s Independence • Lipton’s Saboteurs • Obama’s Mother & Genocide in Indonesia • World Bank’s Microfinance Fraud • England’s Murder Machine • Stalin on Machines, Marx & Lenin • Knowledge & Proletarian Reality
*
A3. Random Notes –
• Protecting English Criminals after Independence • Funding the Media • Red Sea Politics: Ethiopia, Somalia, & the US/EU/NATO • USAID & God’s Governance • Greenpeace & English Fraud • TUs Holding Health Hostage • Behind DS’s Acre & a Cow & De-proletarianization • Reconciliation & Protecting MNCs • Truth & Assassination
*
B. ee Focus –
• B1. Why Only 3 Bidders? Open Letter to President on Sri Lanka Telecom (SLT) Sale – Telecommunication Engineers’ Union (TEU)
• B2. Power & Energy, & the Way Forward: Alternative Program of the Communist Party (CPSL), Pt 15
*
C. Building Blocks –
• Guaranteed Rice Price for Industrialization • Creation of a Home Market for Industry • Japan’s Limits on Industrial Exports • Smallholding & Science • Extraordinary Culture of Machine Tools • Making Central Banks Independent of the People? • On State-owned Enterprises & Privatization
*
D. News Index
*
____________________
A1. Reader Comments
ee thanks Readers who send articles of interest. Please excerpt or summarize what is important about any news sent, or your comments, and place any e-link at the end. Email: econenews@gmail.com
*
• ‘Re: ee‘s report on CPSL’s The Way Forward, Railways and Public Transport, is like reading Lewis Carroll again! We would need 2-3 hours to dissect it thoroughly. Good comrades should explain to us why tram cars, trolleybuses, the KV line and Uda Pusselawa line were abandoned, and why the Englishers didn’t extend Matale line?’
*
• ‘Thank you for your weekly blog post. I find it to be extremely well written and informative in many respects.’
*
• ‘How does Unilever monopolize the media in Sri Lanka, as ee keeps saying?’
*
• ‘Why did ee say they thought England’s Princess Anne had married a horse?’
*
• ‘Re: Galle Concerto 2024. A visual arts academic is seen prostituting his art. He sculpted figures of Lankan kings for Premadasa’s Gam Udawa. Monument for 1988 victims commissioned by Mangala Samaraweera. Active supporter of Galle Face carnival. Now curator for Ranil at Matara. This man was highly praised by a female columnist domiciled in the Pacific with no roots to Mother Lanka. Why is this art cut off from the need for industrialization? All their tools and machines are imported. Why don’t they make them? Is it because they will lose funding? Cos that’s the real art!’
*
• ‘The US refuses to submit to the International Court of Justice and yet stacks the ICJ with 8 white judges (incl a US judge, & a few wannabe white-Blacks), so the suit against will not be against the US, England & EU without whom there is no Israel… 1) The US, England & EU controls the UN. 2) The US refuses to accept ICJ jurisdiction. 3) Check the list of judges. 4) Note Morocco’s inclusion. 5) Monarchy Morocco was just made head of the UN Human Rights Council (defeating South Africa).
*
• ‘I keep meaning to start a list of all the massacres Israel has carried out long long before 7 Oct, demolishing whole areas of Gaza… Of course there are, even in Israel, dissenting Jews, most fearing to express their opposition to what their govt is doing – e.g., the brave history teacher who was arrested, imprisoned, had his home ravaged etc. And all those wonderful people… who say, not in my name. But starting to think, maybe the “chosen people” in Israel should be lifted up and dumped somewhere like the East End of London or the back side of New York!’
*
_____________________
A2. Quotes of the Week_
*
• ‘Asked why Sri Lanka didn’t obtain fuel supplies from Russia but almost entirely depend on Singapore-based trading firms, Minister Wijesekera said there were about 10 suppliers and the CPC followed tender procedures.’ – see ee Industry, Kanchana admits consumers charged Rs50/litre of fuel to settle $700mn Indian loan
*
• ‘He read the names of some of them… on the Speaker’s staff – brother Wasantha Yapa Abeywardena is private secretary, another brother Sarath Yapa Abeywardena is Coordinating Secretary, brother-in-law Premananda Kumasaru is another coordinating secretary, another brother Indunil Yapa Abeywardena is Media Secretary, son Chameera C Yapa Abeywardena is Public Relations Officer… 33 other relatives of the Speaker have been appointed to various positions of parliament staff… The recent visit to the Indian parliament by a Lankan parliamentary delegation that included the Speaker’s wife Nelum Lalana Yapa Abeywardana and son Chameera Yapa Abeywardana. ‘The visit sponsored by the Indian Parliament means they spent Indian taxpayers’ money too’,’ – see ee Politics, Speaker’s family members in his own & parliamentary staff subject of lobby talk
*
• ‘The meetings of the Reform League was held either at Rippleworth, the residence of James Peiris, or Ponklaar, the residence of Arunachalam Ponnambalam… In 1919, members of the deputation which met Alfred Milner, then the Secretary of State for the Colonies, was led by advocate HJC Pereira, and included DB Jayatilaka, WA de Silva, Nicholas Perera, V Gabriel and DM de Z Wickremasinghe… The interview with Milner in October 1919 was a success… After WW1 there was an acute shortage of rice in the island and the Government decided to give large tracts of land for paddy cultivation to joint stock companies, syndicates and individual capitalists. Ceylon Mills Ltd took a lease of 5,000 acres of jungle land. European planting interests, forming themselves into a public company under the name of Minneriya Development Company, took a lease of 9,000 acres. The Low-country Products Association leased 2,600 acres under Kirindi Oya. All these projects folded up within a few years, defeated by malaria and lack of labour.’ – see ee Agriculture, The Other WA de Silva (1869-1942)
*
• ‘Printcare was, for many years, a supplier to Lipton. In fact, Lipton encouraged & assisted Printcare to diversify its product portfolio, fostering a mutually-beneficial business relationship which lasted for many years; that is, till the intervention of the Brussels-based Paul Eavers, Unilever Global Supply Manager, Packaging, In May 2000 he advised Printcare that Unilever was concerned about my relationship with Printcare and, therefore, it had been decided to terminate the business with a supplier with links to a competitor.
The numerous appeals and counter arguments to this decision offered by Printcare were of no avail. In the course of the next few months Lipton withdrew from all business dealings with Printcare, causing considerable loss to the latter as it had made substantial investments to cater to the Lipton business, which were, quite naturally, on the assumption of a long-term relationship…’ – Merrill J Fernando, see ee Agriculture, Setting up support services for the Dilmah brand
*
• ‘We do learn more about (Obama’s mother) Ann’s later career as Ford Foundation operative. Her specialty was the cynical financier racket known as microloans or microcredits – tiny sums of money lent at substantial interest rates to tiny third world entrepreneurs, with the classic case being the purchase of a cell phone to provide phone service to some rural village – all in lieu of real communications and transportation infrastructure which the finance oligarchs at the World Bank and the regional lending agencies had no intention of financing. Microloans represented the World Bank’s notion of small is beautiful ‘appropriate technology’ – meaning that if you are a backward country, then backward, third-rate technology is all you will get, so you had better take it with gratitude. Microloans also served to tether the third world masses to the mentality of finance capital, familiarizing them with notions of interest rates, deadlines for installment payments, and all the dreary apparatus of usury. This entire cynical enterprise reached a paroxysm a decade after Ann Dunham’s death, when Muhammad Yunus of the Bangladeshi Grameen Bank won the 1996 Nobel Peace Prize for his work in pioneering micro-credits. By this time, micro-credit was widespread, with a 2004 report showing that some 3,200 micro-credit institutions were reaching more than 92 million clients, mainly in the poorest countries of the underdeveloped world. It was an exercise in loan sharking & predatory lending to the most desperate people in the world, the most defenseless victims of economic globalization. When Yunus won his Nobel, he was widely praised: ‘Muhammad Yunus is a revolutionary in the best sense of the word,’ said Sam Daley-Harris, director of the Microcredit Summit Campaign in Washington, DC. He was in fact a counter-revolutionary in the service of rapacious finance capital, and this was a good description of the mature Stanley Ann Dunham, Obama’s mother. As for Ann, she no doubt kept telling herself that she was doing something very radical.’ – WG Tarpley, Barack H Obama, The Unauthorized Biography; also see, ee Sovereignty, A Company Family: The untold history of Obama & the CIA
*
• ‘Our world leading Armed Forces, cutting-edge industrial base and willingness to support our allies is the reason why England is the partner of choice for so many… Now we will become the largest provider of drones too… Firstly, we must make our industry more resilient to empower us to re-arm, re-supply & innovate far faster than our opponents… There’s a huge opportunity here for English industry… We gave the world radar, the jet-engine and the world wide web… We’ve not lost that spark of creativity. On the contrary, today the UK is one of only 3 $1trillion tech economies.’ – War Secretary Grant Shapps, ee Sovereignty, Defending England from a more dangerous world
*
• ‘Take Marx’s Capital. In Capital the manufacturing period of capitalism takes up 28 pages, but the machine period is given a large chapter of 110 pages. Plus, in other chapters Marx talks a lot about the machine period of capitalism. Such a Marxist as Lenin in his work on the Development of Capitalism in Russia gave central attention to the machine period. Without machines there is no capitalism. Machines are the foundation of the revolutionary power that transformed society. – Joseph Stalin [Stalin’s first major critique of Soviet economic textbooks is that they didn’t give enough attention to machines – ee]
*
• ‘While Marx’s exposition of social problems was primarily theoretical, he was opposed to a ‘mere a priori construction’ and the ‘self-sufficiency speculation’ of Hegel: e.g., his conclusions on the working conditions and living standards of the English proletariat were supported by a knowledge of the reality as given by factory inspectors, medical reporters, & governmental commissions into food & housing. Marx studied the detailed & firsthand reports of these officials for whom he had a good word. They were ‘competent men, free from partisanship and respect of persons’. He used England to illustrate his theoretical ideas not only because of the fuller development of capitalism in England at that time but also because of the richer & more reliable statistical material that was available, compared with the ‘wretchedly compiled’ social statistics of Germany & the rest of Continental Western Europe.
Likewise, in order to assess Russia’s economic development, he ‘learnt Russian and then for many years studied the official publications & others bearing on the subject’. In regard to the empirical component of Marx’s methodology, a contemporary reviewer of Capital stated that in a critical social inquiry ‘the confrontation & the comparison of a fact [is] not with ideas but with another fact’.’ – SBD de Silva, The Political Economy of Underdevelopment
*
_________________
A3. Random Notes (‘Seeing Number in Chaos’)_
*
• ‘Robert Singleton-Salmon was one of six white MPs appointed in 1947 by the colonial English Governor-General as a member of the Ceylon House of Representatives, “to represent important interests which were not represented or inadequately represented in the House” He – no ordinary imported salmon fish – was the president of the Ceylon Road Federation, a Life Member of the Ceylon Planters’ Association (‘preeminent body of the country’s tea industry’), the Patron of Planters’ Benevolent Fund; Chairman of British Ceylon Corporation and Great Western Tea Company of Ceylon, Chairman of Planters’ Association of Ceylon (1945-47), Chairman of Board of Tea Research Institute of Ceylon (1946), and Chairman of Ceylon Tea Propaganda Board (1950-51). He replaced tea and rubber planter Francis Huntly Griffith also a Justice of the Peace, who was vice-president of the Planters’ Association of Ceylon, and had been appointed by the English in 1936 as a nominated member of the State Council of Ceylon. Following Ceylon’s first parliamentary elections in 1947, the English appointed Griffith as a member of the Ceylon House of Representatives, as one of the six.
*
Anybody who analyses ee News Compendium can see for themselves who the main suppliers and sponsors of so-called English ‘news’ are. The white embassies (led by the US and England) and their corporations (led by Unilever and Exxon) run – not just MPs and media – but also the economy, dish out ‘talking points’ to their economists (last week, we showed how weekly columnists WA Wijewardena (Financial Times) and S. Abeyratne (Sunday Times) inserted rather mechanically a reference to the need for a ‘tea hub’ as demanded by Unilever. Then again, these are but a few gems garnered from mountains of toxic journalistic mud, which show the rule of the USA’s World Bank (which has captured the Ministry of Education, etc.) and IMF, and the increased concentration of news dispensation from the President’s Media Division, which has to speak not to the country but to his imperialist sponsors. The same goes for politicians and officials and academics who get repeated positive coverage like Harsha de Silva (CTC), Prof B Marambe (ICI/CIC), Justice Minister W. Rajapakse & Ranil Wickremesinghe (Exxon & Unilever?), etc.
*
• Red Sea Politics: Ethiopia, Somalia, & the US/EU/NATO – The world’s eyes are now on the geostrategic Red Sea waterways where Yemen’s Ansar Allah fighters have stopped Israeli and Israel-bound ships from passing. Other regional tensions have come into play since Ethiopia signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Somaliland, a US-backed secessionist state within Somalia that has claimed its independence since 1991. Given the geostrategic importance of the Red Sea, the US/EU/NATO are no doubt involved behind the scenes in dividing East Africa.
The term ‘Red Sea’ has become a form of shorthand for a region that actually includes the Gulf of Aden & even the Arabian Sea, because ships must pass through these waters to pass in and out of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait that leads to the Red Sea & the Suez Canal. One might call it ‘the Red Sea region’ or ‘Red Sea waterways,’ but in common parlance it’s all ‘the Red Sea.’
The MOU signed on Jan 1, 2024 between Ethiopia and the secessionist state of Somaliland, has stirred so much anger in Somalia? Somaliland is to lease more than 20km of its Red Sea coastline to Ethiopia around the port city of Lughaya for 50 years. In exchange, Ethiopia would recognize Somaliland as an independent state in the future. Ethiopia will get full port ownership as well as vast swaths of land in Awdal region leading to the coast.
Anne Garrison: What would be the consequence if Ethiopia were to recognize Somaliland as a state independent of Somalia? Abdiwahab Sheikh Abdisamad (ASA): That would undermine the security and stability of the entire region. In one scenario, Somalia, Djibouti & Eritrea would sign a mutual defense pact against Ethiopian aggression. In another, Turkey & Somalia would do the same. In a third scenario, Somalia would sign a mutual defense pact with Egypt and invite them to open a military base in Somalia. As you know, Egypt has a longstanding argument with Ethiopia over Nile River waters & the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam…
These are hugely geostrategic waterways, as is evidenced by all the foreign naval presence and the way that Yemen’s Ansar Allah movement has thrown a wrench in international trade to stop Israel’s genocide in Gaza. It is therefore impossible to imagine that the US/EU/NATO aren’t involved in the background. What role do you see the US/EU/NATO playing?
ASA: US & EU have claimed to support Somalia’s territorial integrity, but I believe their hands are in all of this. I think they are glad to see Ethiopia reigniting tension throughout the region… France has trained 30,000 sailors for Ethiopia even though it has no sea, so what was their motivation? They are supporting Ethiopia behind the scenes, although they claim not to.
In addition to this all, the collective West supports Israel in its brutal campaign of mass killing & destruction in Gaza to protect the interests of Israel with no regard to the 24,000+ Gazans killed. They are also longstanding supporters of the war on Yemen, which has also cost thousands of lives.
The Western navies off the coast of Yemen should all go home or Ansar Allah will consider them legitimate targets in their defense of the Palestinian people.
AG: The US exercises great influence in both Somalia & Somaliland. It has 900 troops and a drone bombing operation in Somalia to, we’re told, fight Al-Shabaab, and it has diplomatic and perhaps even military relations with Somaliland. Is it playing one off against the other?’
ASA: Yes, I think so. The US also has great influence in Ethiopia; its Special Envoy to the Horn of Africa, Mike Hammer, flies in and out of Addis Ababa frequently. It could easily have stopped Abiy from his reckless imperial move. (Abdiwahab Sheikh Abdisamad is a Somali Kenyan citizen, founder of Afro-Asia Institute for Strategic Studies; Ann Garrison is a Black Agenda Report Editor) – see see ee Sovereignty
*
• ‘In late 2016, during Karu Jayasuriya’s tenure as Speaker [who loved to sport his English woolen wig to assure those who he makes rulings for – ee], Sri Lanka entered into a high-profile agreement with the USAID in Nov 2016 to strengthen accountability & good governance. USAID-SL Parliament ‘operation‘ got underway over a year after the launch of the Open Government Project (OGP). The USAID had no qualms in announcing the Rs1.92billion ($13mn) project with a Parliament that blatantly protected Treasury bond thieves. The civil society, too, remained conveniently silent over the Treasury bond scams (do not forget SJP MPs, as then members of the UNP, shielded the Treasury bond thieves. They can never absolve themselves of their culpability in the bond scams. One of those MPs even had the audacity to write a book stating that there was no scam!).
Those who benefited from the USAID project, are on record as having said that the 3-year Strengthening Democratic Governance & Accountability Project was meant to improve ‘strategic planning and communication within the government & Parliament, enhance public outreach, develop more effective policy reform & implementation processes, and increase political participation of women & underrepresented groups in Parliament & at local levels.’
The Presidential Secretariat as the focal point for the OGP project should examine major efforts undertaken by previous administrations to address the issues the 3rd NAP intended to deal with. It can ask for a report from Parliament regarding the implementation of the $13mn project, just one of the many USAID projects.
In addition to the USAID projects, the European Union, too, implemented various projects but, unfortunately, regardless of such efforts to improve good governance & accountability, Sri Lanka is in chaos. Such efforts appeared to have had no impact on the executive & legislature at all. If they did, Ali Sabry Raheem, who had been a member of the House Privileges Committee at the time he was arrested & fined in March 2023 for smuggling of gold & smartphones worth nearly Rs80mn couldn’t have remained a lawmaker.’ – ee Sovereignty, Warning issued over proposed ‘Open Government Partnership’ action plan
*
• Greenpeace – who like Oxfam who pops up alongside the annual World Economic Forum – exists to throw softballs at multinational corporations (MNCs), who can hit them for sixes. How? They’re usually the first to criticize a World Bank report etc. They are then given great media publicity, happily ignoring the roots of colonial underdevelopment that prevents industrial production in our countries. They want us to use ‘green technology’ – all made & controlled in the US & Europe. They want to turn Sri Lanka into a human zoo…
There’s no Greenpeace or UNHRC discussion of England’s military invasion of the Chagos Archipelago, disappearing their people. Nor about the presence of numerous white war-making bases in the Indian Ocean, nor the plundering of the ocean’s immense resources:
‘The EU removed GSP+ from SL over the issue of SL vessels fishing in restricted waters (principally the traditional fishing grounds in the so-called British Indian Ocean Territory, including Chagos), which England unilaterally declared a ‘nature reserve’, with the concurrence of Greenpeace. SL then had to agree to tag all our vessels electronically, and got GSP+ back.’ (see ee 6 March 2021)
Also: ee recalls that a US Bloomberg report noted: banks such as Citigroup, Rothschild & Co, BNP Paribas SA, Standard Chartered, HSBC Holdings & Societe Generale SA are considering ‘a new $15billion program to protect Indian Ocean habitats’. They have ‘discussed funding possibilities in the form of bonds and so-called debt-for-nature swaps, according to Thomas Sberna, coastal & ocean resilience head for East & Southern Africa for the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), which is also backing the initiative. The private capital would feed into the UN & IUCN’s Great Blue Wall initiative. The project has already raised $100million. Sberna said a further $200mn will be announced soon in the form of a so-called project preparation facility.’ (see ee 30 Sept 2023, Sri Lanka’s Lost Middle Class: Debts in the Making)
Whereas co-ops, savings societies & worker’s organizations have been attacked & destroyed (leaders forced to resign, or assassinated), most Sri Lankan people cannot afford to support the multimillion$ budgets of NGOs. In the 1970-80s, voluntary organizations, promoted by the USA’s World Bank, expanded to include environmental organizations like Exxon’s IUCN, MNC-funded Greenpeace, Friends of the Earth, World Wildlife Fund, EDF, etc. (also see ee 16 July 2022, From Coup to Coup; 23 Dec 2023, Hybrid Warfare Rages in SL: Will Sun Tzu Help?)
*
• ‘A Health-sector trade union coalition consisting of 72 trade unions, on Monday (15), announced an indefinite strike unless the government gave in to their demand for a Rs35,000 allowance. However, Pivuthu Hela Urumaya (PHU) leader MP Udaya Gammanpila insists they shouldn’t be granted this under any circumstances. He warned of dire consequences if the increase in DAT allowance is granted to the entire health sector. PHU leader said that if the government succumbed to trade unionists, all sectors would demand the same and that could cause quite a crisis.
Trade unions should realize that their demand for Rs35,000 allowance because the Disturbance, Availability & Transport (DAT) allowance given to doctors had been increased by that amount, couldn’t be accepted. He expects political parties to take a right stand on this matter as they shouldn’t encourage those seeking to cause chaos. MP Gammanpila says, though his stand wouldn’t be appealing to many, this is the truth. Political parties shouldn’t seek political advantage but act collectively to address the issue at hand. Gammanpila and National Freedom Front (NFF) leader Wimal Weerawansa were sacked, in early 2022, by then President Gotabaya Rajapaksa over their opposition to the Yugadanavi agreement that was concluded in the dead of the night with the US-based energy company. England & their colonies like Canada are stealing healthcare workers, and the grievances of doctors should be addressed. Those bent on securing employment overseas wouldn’t stay back due to the increase in DAT allowance but the government effort to address their concerns should be appreciated. A new law should be enacted to compel doctors passing out from state universities to serve the public sector for 10 years. Claiming that the country spent as much as Rs5mn to produce a doctor, the MP said legal measures were required to obtain their services, as some sought overseas employment immediately after passing out of state medical faculties here. The exodus of doctors cannot be halted by increasing the DAT allowance. The country is in such a precarious situation it wouldn’t be fair by the people for political parties and trade unions to seek undue advantage over the DAT issue.’ – see ee Workers, Striking health workers shouldn’t be granted docs’ allowance under any circumstances – Udaya
*
• ‘An enduring myth in Sri Lanka is that the first Prime Minister DS Senanayake (ethnically Sinhalese) had thought up the State-assisted land colonisation schemes, implemented under his 1935 Land Development Ordinance (LDO).
On the floor of the State Council in the 1940s, the budding Sinhalese political class boomed the distribution of State land under the Ordinance as a great patriotic venture to reclaim the fabled Tank Irrigation Civilisation, allegedly vitiated by foreigners (take your pick – Cholas /Portuguese /Dutch /English / all together).
But the colonial administration’s Government Agent CV Brayne in fact had dreamed up the idea much earlier, in 1920. He envisaged a peasant proprietor system in which State land would be distributed to growing numbers of landless farmers under a form of inheritable but protected tenure, which disallowed subdivision as well as trading of alienated State land.
His twin aims were to arrest the process of proletarianisation that was a) throwing up an expanding and potentially subversive agrarian working class; and b) destabilising the economy by disrupting paddy cultivation.
The concept did not find many takers until DS Senanayake & his cohorts, steeped in feudalist values, laid their hands on it. They found Brayne’s idea fascinating for several reasons:
1) Universal franchise introduced under the 1931 Donoughmore Constitution, almost overnight, essentially transformed subjects into citizens/voters. Brayne’s peasant proprietorship system offered mouth-watering scope to create electoral vote banks by alienating State land at no cost to the politicians and with virtual certainty to buy them votes.
2) The economic crisis of the early 1930s (in wake of 1929 Depression) pushed up unemployment. Senanayake’s administration characterized it as ‘landlessness’, which term prompted and justified distribution of State land as a quick fix and also to pre-empt agitation by the unemployed.
3) State-subsidised land alienation could be manipulated to weaken the Left’s popular base by arresting the growth of landless rural workers. The proposed protected tenure would tie them down to land and restrict their out-migration that could swell the urban workforce, large sections of whom were seen to dangerously lean towards the Left – the LSSP.
A group of young Leftists had cut their teeth in the 1933 Suriya-Mal Movement, tinged with anti-colonialism, and the 1934-35 malaria epidemic relief campaigns. One prominent Leftist who carried dry rations including Dhal was fondly called ‘Parippu Mahattaya’. The Leftists consolidated the popularity harvested by their selfless work among the poorby forming the LSSP in 1935; 2 of them won seats in the 1936 State Council elections.
The rapid growth of the Left’s strength & influence rattled DS Senanayake, his cohorts & their colonial masters. The situation must have appeared doubly threatening after LSSP established fraternal ties with India’s Congress Socialist Party (CSP).
Hobbling the Left, therefore, became their predominant concern if not obsession, which deepened after the 1926 Jaffna Youth Congress, raising more strident anti-Imperialist cries, sought alliances with the southern Sinhalese Left in the mid-1930s.
The landowning upper classes represented in the State Council and led by their 1936 Pan-Sinhalese Board of Ministers plotted to cut the Left off at its knees, by vitiating its mass base. So they eschewed broad-based industrialization that would catalyze the growth of a radical working class; instead, they expanded peasant farming through LDO alienations under the pretext of relieving ‘land hunger’ but in fact to fortify the conservative & reactionary class of small peasant proprietors ideologically most resistant to the Left.
They achieved considerable success but, in the process, condemned domestic agriculture to decades of stagnation that formed the fertile ground in which the Sinhalese JVP was to set roots and flourished.
In this way the State-level landed classes dragged the country away from industrial development & technological advancement; and they directed national resources towards so-called ‘Rural Development’ to reinforce, and integrate with, the village-level landed notables, organized within RDSs (Rural Development Societies).
In other words, Sinhala politicians did not choose to be chauvinists. It was their compulsion to fashion agrarian policies within the debilitating confines of their feudalist class interests under conditions of the 1930s economic crisis that impelled them towards actions that acquired anti-Tamil dimensions.
There were of course a few sane voices. A 1937 report drew attention to environmental degradation in peasant proprietor schemes. Later, the leader of the Communist Party (ethnically Sinhalese) cautioned the newly independent government that tank-irrigated agriculture cannot be re-established in its ancient splendour since indispensable ecological preconditions have irretrievably been lost.
Another leading Leftist (ethnically Sinhalese) disparaged State-assisted land colonization as the ‘2 acres & a cow’ method of development that will not take the country far.
These concerns were brushed the aside since acceding to them impeded maneuvers to preserve the status quo. In contrast, Lee Kuan Yew rapidly transformed his country’s status quo through the state-of-the-art industrialization of Singapore. The difference could not be more stark! And so, Ceylon missed a Singapore Moment!
The shortsighted agricultural policies of Ceylon’s landed elites were in their view eminently logical to defend their excruciatingly narrow interests and preserve their archaic social class.
Admittedly land settlement & hydropower schemes benefited the first-generation colonists, initially boosted paddy cultivation and generated some needed electricity.
In the long run, however, they were to have a devastating impact on the country as a whole.
Today we are struggling to cope with their monumental costs, ranging from stunted industrialization, underdeveloped entrepreneurial class, debilitating ethnic conflicts, acute deforestation, to chronic kidney decease.’ – ee Economists, How We Came To This Pass – II: Sathananthan
*
• Parliament committee approves 3 Bills including Reconciliation Bill – The Sectoral Oversight Committee on Reconciliation & National Unity (SOCRNU) approved 3 Bills, namely; the Office for National Unity & Reconciliation Bill, the Mediation Board (Amendment) Bill, and the Recognition & Enforcement of International Settlement Agreements Arising resulting from Mediation Bill.
SOCRNU met in Parliament recently (02) under the Chairmanship of MP Dilan Perera. Government officials & representatives from the Ministry of Justice, Prison Affairs & Constitutional Reform, Attorney General’s Department, Legal Draftsman’s Department, the Office for National Unity & Reconciliation and the Conciliation Board Commission were present at the Committee meeting held.
The Committee deliberated at length on the work done by the Office for National Unity & Reconciliation and the appointment of its members. Accordingly, the Committee decided to inform the Minister of Justice, Prison Affairs & Constitutional Reforms of a recommendation of the Sectoral Oversight Committee regarding the appointment of members for this office.
The officials present also pointed out that attention has also been paid to the establishment of co-operative companies at the rural level. The officials further pointed out that, if there is a conflict at the rural level, this office aims to be aware of them at the earliest and prepare for their resolution.
Apart from the said, the Mediation Board (Amendment) Bill and the Bill on the Recognition & Enforcement of International Settlement Agreements Arising resulting from Mediation Bill were also approved post consideration by the Committee.
MPs GG Ponnambalam and Gevindu Cumaratunga were present at the Committee meeting held. – ee Sovereignty, Wide ranging powers for Truth, Unity & Reconciliation Commission
*
• Truth, Unity & Reconciliation Commission (TURC) in Sri Lanka Bill threatens the Rajapakses, by going after supporters especially those in the security forces – ‘As long as impunity prevails, SL will achieve neither genuine reconciliation nor sustainable peace’: UN Deputy High Commissioner of Human Rights.
The Government has published a Bill to establish TURC in Sri Lanka in the Gazette of 29 Dec 2023, issued on 1 Jan 2024… We had Presidential Commissions of Inquires such as, the Udalagama Commission in 2006 to investigate and inquire into alleged serious violations of human rights arising since 1 Aug 2005; the CR de Silva Commission in May 2010 on Lessons Learnt & Reconciliation (LLRC); and the Paranagama Commission in Aug 2013 to investigate Complaints of Abductions & Disappearances, in respect of the armed ethnic conflict that ended in 2009…
LLRC recommended conducting investigations and prosecuting offenders and justified it as follows: ‘It is also the obligation of the Government to clear the good name and protect the honour & professional reputation of soldiers who defended the territorial integrity of Sri Lanka and particularly the many thousands of soldiers who perished carrying out their combat duties cleanly and professionally against a widely condemned terrorist group that used most inhumane tactics in combat. Offences if any, of a few cannot be allowed to tarnish the honour of the many who upheld the finest traditions of service’…
The objective of the Sri Lankan Bill according to Section 12(1), is that the Commission shall investigate, inquire, and make recommendations in respect of complaints, or allegations, or reports relating to damage or harm caused to persons or property, loss of life or alleged violation of human rights anywhere in Sri Lanka, that were caused in the course of, or reasonably connected to, or consequent to the conflict that took place in the Northern & Eastern Provinces during the period 1983-2009, or its aftermath [yet what about 1948, 1971, 1983, 1987-1989, especially in the South? – ee].
In Section 12(2) …Sub section (h)(xii) is as follows: ‘Investigating…those who advised, planned, directed, commanded or ordered such atrocities.’
The Commission can refer matters to the relevant law enforcement or prosecuting authorities of Sri Lanka for further investigation and necessary action…under the Penal Code (Chapter 19) or any other law of Sri Lanka has been committed (Section 13 zd).
According to Section 16(2), it shall be lawful for the Attorney-General to institute criminal proceedings in a designated court of law in respect of any offence based on material collected in the course of an investigation or inquiry or both, as the case may be, by the Commission established under this Act. This content was also in Section 24 of the Commissions of Inquiry (Amendment) Act No 16 of 2008…
The Monitoring Committee shall consist of 5 ex-officio secretaries to specific ministries and 6 members recommended by the Constitutional Council and appointed by the President…
It seems the President & the Government are making reforms in a slow & steady manner not only in the economic front but also in the political front, although there are widespread concerns about some of the actions of the President. Once the President attempted to implement the 13 Amendment to the Constitution in full. There was criticism against him that attempting unpopular reforms on both fronts simultaneously would be detrimental in a future election. However, it appears this is not a concern for him.’ – ee Sovereignty, Commission for Truth, Unity, and Reconciliation in Sri Lanka – A Bill
*
_______________
B. Special Focus_
*
___________
B1. Why Only 3 Bidders? Open Letter to President on the Sri Lanka Telecom Sale – Telecommunication Engineers’ Union (TEU)
‘To facilitate the divestment of its shares in Sri Lanka Telecom (SLT) PLC, the Government of Sri Lanka (GoSL), under the purview of the Ministry of Finance, Economic Stabilisation & National Policies, initiated the process by issuing a Request for Qualification (RfQ) to potential investors on 10 Nov 2023.
This call for interest was disseminated through both local and international media channels. The stipulated deadline for proposal submissions was initially set to 18 Dec 2023, and subsequently extended to 12 Jan 2024.
In overseeing the divestiture, the [World Bank’s] International Finance Corporation (IFC) is doing the role of Transaction Advisor for the shares held by GoSL in SLT PLC. Remarkably, the RfQ garnered interests from only below 3 bidders, indicating a relatively limited response to the opportunity: 1) Jio Platforms Ltd, Gujrat, India; 2) Gortune International Investment Holding Ltd c/o Capital Alliance Ltd; 3) Pettigo Comercio International LDA c/o NDB Investment Bank Ltd.
The assessment of the Request for Qualifications will adhere to the special guidelines on divestiture of state-owned enterprises (SoEs), as officially sanctioned by the Cabinet of Ministers in July 2023.
It is imperative to ascertain the reasons behind the limited interest of only 3 bidders in Sri Lanka’s telecom sector. This situation sheds light on the challenges confronting the nation. Given its potential capacity, Sri Lanka Telecom should ideally have attracted more than 20 bids. However, this did not materialise, not due to concerns about the company itself but rather stemming from investor apprehensions regarding Sri Lanka’s economic climate. There is a pressing need to reconsider and reform the existing system, establishing a framework that enables individuals and businesses to thrive based on their requisite abilities, skills, expertise, and drive.
Furthermore, there is a need for thorough scrutiny of several aspects: The conscious effort to disseminate and advertise this RfQ must be questioned. It is essential to evaluate whether there has been a deliberate attempt to present the RfQ in a manner that is appealing to potential international strategic partners, fostering healthy competition at the international level. This includes consideration of major industry players such as NTT, Vodafone, SingTel, AT&T, Telenor, PCCW, Orange, Sprint, Rakuten, N2N, BT Group, TIM, Telefonica, Telstra, Spark, Verizon, Deutsche Telekom, Telus, Comcast, T-Mobile, Dish Network, Bell Canada, Rogers, Liberty Global, Swisscom, Telia, KT, SK Telecom, LG Uplus, HKT, NTT Docomo, SoftBank, and KDDI.
An examination is warranted to determine if embassies and diplomatic channels have been effectively utilised to reach potential investors in the international market.
The adequacy of addressing prospective investors’ experience in the telecommunications industry within the RfQ merits consideration.
The RfQ’s specified criteria need to be assessed to ensure they are conducive to attracting a potential strategic investor. This assessment should discern whether the RFQ is genuinely designed for broad appeal or if it is tailored to cater to a predetermined investor.
Evaluation is required to ascertain whether transparent and unambiguous clarifications have been consistently communicated to all stakeholders throughout the process.
The prevailing general perception among investors regarding regulators and licensing authorities in Sri Lanka, across industries, is not conducive to attracting investments. It is crucial to explore the initiatives undertaken or recommendations put forth by the State-owned Enterprises Reform Unit (SOERU) & the International Finance Corporation (IFC) aimed at establishing an unbiased regulatory framework to encourage potential investors.
Globally recognised is the pivotal role of technology as a catalyst for economic development within nations. The concepts of the digital economy, digital transformation, and the evolution of data-driven organisations stand out as central drivers in the ongoing transformative process. This digital metamorphosis has left an indelible impact on various industry verticals, spanning finance, healthcare, transportation, agriculture, tourism, manufacturing, & trade. Significantly, it is now reshaping and redefining the education sector.
To effectively propel widespread digital adoption among enterprises, governments, and individuals, it becomes imperative to implement a robust telecommunications policy framework and establish the necessary infrastructure. This strategic approach is essential to enhance and fortify the digital ecosystem within the country.
The digital economy instils a heightened sense of confidence, trust, and transparency among both investors and the public, thereby creating a multifaceted appeal for all stakeholders involved in driving economic growth. Laws pertaining to data, privacy & cyber security are of equal importance, playing a crucial role in enhancing the policy framework essential for accelerating digital transformations.
For sustained industry progression and envisioning technological upliftment, the tax & levy regime should align with the overarching goal of economic development in the country. Currently, the digital sector’s contribution to the GDP remains below 5%, indicating room for substantial growth. Policymakers need to lend their support by establishing robust frameworks capable of propelling significant expansion in the digital sector over the next 3-5 years.
In the given context, the sought-after characteristics of an ideal strategic partner are as follows: 1) Should have a good reputation globally, especially on technology strategy. 2) Should engage with the global network. 3) Should bring in new knowledge to the company for expansions. 4) Should have the ability to develop the company in competitive markets (domestic & global). 5) Should have a market presence and demonstrable experience and expertise in telco operation and digital transformation, especially in fixed network strategy. 6) Should have sound financial strength and willingness to invest in internal projects. 7) Should have a rich corporate management culture. 8) Should ensure national security & social responsibility. 9) Should agree to demonstrate ethical behaviours. 10) Should be a socially responsible corporate. 11) Should agree to create value systems and capabilities inside the company by people-centric management and develop competencies. 12) Should protect employee benefits and enhance employee welfare. 13) Should build local skills & competencies to bring the country forward. 14) Should have restrictions on foreign nationals’ employment. Hence, even in the event of delays, the utmost priority is to identify a reputable strategic investor. It is imperative not to rush the process and risk selecting an unsuitable investor.’ (see ee Workers, Telecom)
*
____________
B2. Power & Energy & the Way Forward: Alternative Program of the Communist Party (CPSL), Pt 15
Introduction – Policies in this sector should cover the overall demand for energy & the supply to meet it. The subsectors related to the demand side are: a) Household, b) Commerce, c) Industry, and d) Transport. Although this demand consists of several forms of produced energy, the supply for it can be obtained from various sources. The supply-side subsectors are: a) Petroleum & other direct fuels, and b) generated energy such as electricity.
Sri Lanka is a nation blessed with indigenous energy sources. If managed properly, the amount of energy available from these sources is much more than the total requirement of the country. Among them, hydroelectric power is currently the most exploited source, and if necessary, solar, wind, wave & natural gas can be used to add enormous amounts of energy to the stream. Sri Lanka is also said to have natural gas & thorium deposits that can be used for nuclear energy.
Electricity supply adequacy depends on 2 technical indicators: capacity & energy. At any given time, there has to be adequate generating capacity available & in operation, to exactly match the customer demand. For the generating capacity available & ready to operate, there must be adequate water, wind or solar resources available to operate renewable energy-based generators. For thermal generators (coal, oil or biomass), adequate fuel has to be available.
Electricity is the only commodity that must be produced exactly at the same time the customer demands the supply. There cannot be any time delay between the customer indicating his requirement (by switching-on an appliance) and the supply of electricity to the appliance. Electricity cannot be stored in the form of electricity, but it can be stored in its primary-source form, eg, water in reservoirs, oil or gas in tanks, biomass or coal in stockpiles, or as chemical energy in batteries.
The per-capita electricity consumption in Sri Lanka as of 2021 was 685 kWh per person for all social & economic activities, lower than India (972kWh/person, 2020), lower than Malaysia (5,100kWh/person, 2019), and significantly lower than North America or Europe. Owing to load shedding & the economic downturn, Sri Lanka’s electricity sales in 2022 are expected to decline, but in the longer term, the demand & sales for electricity is expected to rise at least at 1.2 times the economic growth rate.
Therefore, more generating capacity has to be added to serve customer demand reliably & efficiently. Although improving end-use efficiency can reduce consumption, Sri Lanka’s presently lower levels of electricity use would essentially require new generation to be added to match the growing demand for social & economic development. Increased power generation is indispensable for industrial development & increasing people’s quality of life.
The present reality is that we have almost saturated our [conventional? – ee] hydropower potential, and instead of tapping into the other indigenous sources of energy, we have built thermal plants which require imported fuel, adding significantly and ever increasingly to our import bill. Despite Sri Lanka discovering exploitable hydrocarbon systems offshore (predominantly natural gas), our thermal plants built to-date are designed to run on liquid fossil fuels or coal.
Very little investment is made for the development needs of Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) & Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC). By doing so, the existence, security and financial stability of those institutions have been challenged. The current situation of major petroleum pipelines is an example in this regard. Used for decades beyond their expected lifespan, they suffer from leaks. Also, they are not enough to supply oil to the supply tanks within a reasonable period of time. Therefore, unnecessary delays occur in many situations.
It has been 10 years, since the first natural gas discovery to establishment of the Petroleum Development Authority in 2021, to oversee Sri Lanka’s oil & gas exploration program, as an independent regulator comprising industry professionals. Despite the investment interest of reputed international energy companies, it will take more time to make this authority operational by providing relevant staff and other resources.
Sri Lanka’s current energy infrastructure is plagued by administrative inefficiencies, corruption underinvestment, & outdated technology. Hydropower is seasonal, and further expansion of large-scale hydropower projects come with their own set of environmental challenges. Existing SoEs such as the CPC & CEB have not been modernized or operated with the same level of planning & professionalism as energy-sector SoEs in other countries. The solution is not wholesale privatization, but reforms & modernization to develop capacity and transfer technology through Public-Private Partnerships (PPP).
The Covid-19 pandemic ushered in a major shift in global policy towards accelerating decarbonization of the energy industry. Sri Lanka has announced plans to have a 70% renewable energy target by 2030 with a net-zero target by 2050. These targets must be backed up with concrete actionable plans. Economic development & human wellbeing are strongly correlated with increasing energy consumption. At the same time, given current market trends, our exports will require affordable energy sources & ‘green’ certification to stay globally competitive.
Though it may not be apparent at present, Sri Lanka is perfectly poised to be a regional green energy hub. The country therefore requires strong & consistent policy, leadership & investment starting now, and maintained over the coming decades to develop our mix of energy sources to be a net exporter of energy.
Problems – 1) Inadequate power-generation capacity – Procurement of both conventional & renewable energy power plants have been plagued by manipulation of the bidding process, most of which finally cause delays or total cancellation of new power plant projects. As of 2022, Sri Lanka is short of about 500 MW of conventional generating capacity. Additionally, more renewable-energy based generating capacity would have displaced energy from expensive oil-fired generation.
2. Conflicts between Public Utilities Commission & Ceylon Electricity Board – CEB is mandated to prepare a 20-year generation expansion plan and update it once in 2 years, and submit for PUC approval. This approval process has been plagued with arguments & counterarguments, causing delays in the plan being approved & implemented. Given that major power plants require a total development period of 10 years (for feasibility study, design, clearances, financing, bidding & construction), all power plant projects are significantly delayed, causing expensive oil-burning power plants to be operated to avoid load shedding.
3. Poor Management of Public Utilities Commission & Ceylon Electricity Board – PUC does not have a single commissioner with experience in the electricity industry, in engineering, management or finances. Therefore, the commission is totally dependent on the secretariat, in which the key staff members have been static for over 12 years. At CEB, essentially there are no key performance indices established & monitored to examine their improvement: eg, CEB reports a total staff of about 16,000 in 2015, but in 2021 the staff is reported to be 21,000, whereas the network length or number of customers has not grown significantly over 2015-21.
4. Government Pressure to Avoid Price Changes – CEB’s submissions for electricity price increases have not been granted by PUC & the government since 2014. In 2016, PUC took over the responsibility to fix customer prices, where CEB was required to submit only the costs. As a result, while costs increased as a result of not building the correct types of power plants, over-staffing & inflation, electricity prices in Sri Lanka have remained static since September 2014 to date. As such CEB has been reporting losses. The price was about 70% of costs until 2021, and with the rapid increase of fuel prices & inflation, the present prices in 2022 are only about 35% of costs. Therefore, the price increases, which should have happened once in 6 months from 2015, required now in a single step to make prices cost reflective would be about 200%. It is noteworthy that almost all other services & utilities have received timely price increases over this period. Bridging finance has been through borrowings from state banks, thus causing pressure on such banks and adding excessive costs to CEB’s operations.
5. Slow Development of Renewable Energy – There are 3 types of such power generating facilities: i) power plants less than 10-megawatt (MW) in capacity, signed-up on the basis of standardized feed-in tariffs over 1996-2013; ii) power plants agreements that were procured on competitive basis since 2015; and iii) rooftop solar units. These facilities provided about 16% of Sri Lanka’s electricity produced in 2021. Along with CEB’s hydropower & wind power plants, renewable energy accounted for 52% of electricity produced in 2021. Nevertheless, there have been significant delays in the development of power plants; power plants that were to enter bidding stage have been delayed (Mannar, Pooneryn, Siyambalanduwa), power plants that were prepared for competitive bidding have not received Ministerial approval for months, to proceed with bidding, and the rooftop solar program is often limited by capacity of distribution lines. There has to be a specific effort to accelerate the pace of developing renewable energy generating facilities, making the required investments on the network and by cutting down procedural delays.
6. Lack of Competitive Bidding – Many recent disputes between the political authority/their officials & employees have been owing to the former bypassing the competitive process in procurement, especially power plants. Two recent examples: a) signing an agreement with a party to build the liquefied natural gas terminal, while an official competitive bidding process was active for the same project, and b) amending the Electricity Act to accommodate a proposal by an Indian company to build a wind power plant. After 20 years of offering feed-in-tariffs for renewable energy, competitive bidding established in 2016 caused the prices to be reduced by 50%. Bidding was followed until about 2019, and since then, bidding has been derailed, to be replaced by contracts given to selected parties on non-competitive basis. For the first time, as a result of such ad-hoc moves, Sri Lanka is most likely to purchase renewable energy-based electricity in foreign currency.
7. Inadequate Priority for Oil & Gas Generation – Maritime exploration of domestic energy sources has taken place over a long period of time. Since the identification of resources such as oil & gas in Sri Lankan waters, investments in extraction & production have yet to take place. This is largely attributed to the high cost of offshore oil & gas production, as well as our lack of access to advanced technology. Therefore, expertise & knowhow in this area will likely require support from outside the country.
The primary objectives of our power & energy policy are: • Increase power generation capacity and reduce costs for producers & consumers • Take necessary steps in priority order to explore petroleum & gas from identified locations, and further study for potential petroleum deposits • Develop sovereignty in energy generation & technology • Transition to forms of energy generation that are less harmful to human health & the natural environment • Prevent corruption & malfeasance and increase organizational efficiency • Regularize pricing & subsidies.
The Way Forward
1. National Decarbonization Policy – A holistic National Decarbonization Policy should be formulated with a realistic timeline for implementation. This should stop ad-hoc & inconsistent initiatives by SoEs, institutions & ministries. The action plan should be prepared by a team of professionals and incorporate policies for nuclear energy, natural gas, solar, wind, & hydroelectric power. The plan should take into consideration the needs for future industrial development, household consumption, and the possibility of generating surpluses for export.
2. Oil & Gas Production – At present, production & studying of oil & gas in explored & unexplored areas should be carried on a priority basis. For that, it is necessary to make agreements with the friendly countries in Asia where technology, knowledge & financial investments can be made, in such a way that the rights of those resources are preserved for Sri Lanka.
3. Public-Private Partnership (PPP) – A legal framework must be updated to outline a rational division of responsibilities between the public & private sector in the field of energy generation, supply, and distribution. This framework should be developed through careful study of how the energy sector operates in successful industrialized economies. This framework should also carefully outline the scope within which the foreign companies operate in Sri Lanka. Private & foreign players should be incentivized to transfer technology & knowhow to the country.
4. Nuclear Power – Explore the possibility of establishing nuclear power using Sri Lanka’s thorium resources with the collaboration of countries such as Russia or China which have the appropriate technology & knowhow, and are willing to work in partnership with Sri Lanka.
5. Renewable Energy – The government should establish a renewable energy program with a strategic plan to transfer technology from leading countries. Such a program should also consider integrating Sri Lanka into the global supply chain for the manufacture of renewable energy equipment such as solar panels. A special institution should be set up under the relevant Ministries to draft and oversee the renewable energy plans.
6. SoE Reform & Modernization – The incentive structure of SoEs should be changed in order to promote efficient management and minimize politicisation & corruption. Meanwhile SoEs should be staffed by suitably qualified individuals whose qualifications should be published via regulations. Higher Education & Vocational Training institutes should tailor their programs to match the skill set required for the new energy industry. A centre of energy excellence should be created to channel research, education & training opportunities in the energy industry, especially in renewable & developing technology.
7. Institutional Autonomy – Establish the autonomy of the PUC & CEB. These may include corporatization of the individual entities of CEB (generation, transmission & 4x distribution units) as state- owned companies. Independent professionals should be appointed to the PUC & CEB as commissioners & board members, respectively, with clear targets to be achieved on governance & efficiency of their institutions.
8. Pricing – The CEB & PUC should be empowered to determine electricity prices, with minimum hindrance by government, except in the case of a national emergency which should require a special majority approval from Parliament.
9. Direct Subsidies – Rather than a universal subsidy, the government should provide direct electricity subsidies to customers whom the government desires to support, to cushion their electricity costs. Such subsidy decisions could be made based on considerations of poverty alleviation, & industrial policy.
10. Competitive Bidding – The government should transition away from unsolicited proposals and establish a sound mechanism for competitive bidding on energy production projects.
*
_________
C. Building Blocks
*
Every ee carries these extracts below to counter: 1) The constant harangue about exports, when they must at all times serve to advance or recapture and control of our home markets to develop modern industry. 2) We need to learn about machine industry versus handicraft, assembly and manufacture 3) The rules of the Sangha require constant interaction between people.
*
• ‘The biggest handicap to industrial development is not the lack of capital but the absence of external economics, such as cheap power, cheap transport, technical and managerial ability, and above all the lack of a home market. The home market in an agricultural country is essentially the rural market. It is only a prosperous peasantry that can provide the home market for our industry. This is the connection between a guaranteed price for paddy and the industrialization of our country’ – Philip Gunawardena
*
• ‘The Creation of a Home Market for our Industry is the pivot on which the future industrialisation of our country rests. In Ceylon’s context The Home Market essentially means The Peasant Market. To create the home market therefore we must substantially raise the living standards of the mass of the peasants so that they will be able to buy the goods produced by our industry. This demonstrates clearly the necessary connection between Industrialization & Agrarian Reform.’ – Policy Statement of the Ministry of Industries, 1956
*
• ‘Their field of production, the smallholding, admits of no division of labor in its cultivation, no application of science and, therefore, no diversity of development, no variety of talent, no wealth of social relationships. Each individual peasant family is almost self-sufficient; it itself directly produces the major part of its consumption and thus acquires its means of life more through exchange with nature than in intercourse with society.’ – Karl Marx, The 18th Brumaire of Louis Bonaparte, p124
*
• ‘Japan will retain and encourage the branches of the machine industry that yield high added value, but production facilities that involve a low degree of processing and generate low added value should be moved to developing countries… so that Japan can concentrate on high technology & knowledge-intensive industry.’– Japan’s Council on Industrial Structure, 1977 (in SBD de Silva, The Political Economy of Underdevelopment)
*
• Economics Not Taught – The Machines Nobody Knows – The Extraordinary Culture of Machine Tools – If we were a truly ‘developing’ country, here are the questions a national media would need to ask: A plan requires a political, economic & military strategy, which will first assess peasant & worker power, land (including natural resources), & capital, that the nation possesses, and the time needed to transform these powers into material reality:
Here’s ee’s Index of a Real Economy or, at least, how a real economy would be measured:
1. The index of a strong economy is modern industry.
2. The index of modern industry is the production of machines.
3. Machine tools (MT) are the most important of all machines.
4. MT is needed for huge diversified metal fabricating industries (auto, electrical, etc.)
5. MT is essential for production of machines for all other industries.
6. Full data on machinery production is needed:
7. What portion of our machinery needs are supplied by machines built in Sri Lanka?
8. What is the trend? Are we producing more or less machines than we did before?
9. Data on imports & exports of machinery is needed (esp shipments of MTs & other Industrial Machinery)
10. MT production vs imports, must include: Mining & Metallurgical Machinery, Pulp & Paper Machinery, Textile Machinery, Woodworking Machinery, Logging Machinery, Sawmill Machinery, Office & Business Machines (adapted from: ee 20-26 Sept 2020).
*
• Making Central Banks Independent of the People?
– anchor.fm/shiran-illanperuma/episodes
– youtube.com/watch?v=_AWg6VvTj9g
– eesrilanka.wordpress.com/2019/08/10/imf-independence-the-central-bank/
– eesrilanka.wordpress.com/2020/06/27/make-the-central-bank-independent-of-capitalism/
*
• On State-Owned Enterprises and Privatization
– anchor.fm/shiran-illanperuma/episodes/On-State-Owned-Enterprises-and-the-Privatization-Debate-w-Vinod-Moonesinghe-e1vric4
*
__________________________________________________________
D. News Index______________________________________________
• ee News Index provides headlines & links to make sense of the weekly focus of published English ‘business news’ to expose the backwardness of multinational, corporate controlled ‘local media’:
*
D1. Sovereignty
(ee is pro-politics, pro-politician, pro-nation-state, anti-corporatist, anti-expert, anti-NGO)
ee Sovereignty news emphasizes sovereignty as economic sovereignty – a strong nation is built on modern (machine-making) industrialization fueled by a producer culture.
• Uniting the Sinhala nation with the Tamil people through Buddhism – Nalin De Silva
– http://www1.kalaya.org/2024/01/blog-post_13.html
• India’s annexation of Sikkim & Lessons for Sri Lanka
– https://www.lankaweb.com/news/items/2024/01/18/indias-annexation-of-sikkim-lessons-for-sri-lanka/
• Whites wish to Jail Gothabaya, Mahinda and Maitripala & install Ranil for 5 years
– http://www1.kalaya.org/2024/01/blog-post_17.html
• Sri Lanka President invites Indian firms to privatization
– https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-president-invites-indian-firms-to-privatization-147709/
• India, SL exploring synergies in new areas to achieve economic development goals: Envoy
‘India is also considering multiple energy projects in the power sector to enable power grid connectivity and is working on setting up a virtual LNG pipeline from Kuchi to Colombo’
• Sri Lanka has to pay costs of scrapping LRT to re-start Japan loans opposition says
‘opposition MP Harsha de Silva said after meeting Japanese Finance Minister Suzuki, Shunichi.’
• IMF meets Constitutional Council to interfere in Commissioner Selection Process
– https://island.lk/imf-urges-sri-lanka-to-make-urgent-preparations-for-property-taxation/
• Wide ranging powers for Truth, Unity and Reconciliation Commission
• Warning issued over USAID’s ‘Open Government Partnership’ Action Plan
– https://island.lk/warning-issued-over-proposed-open-government-partnership-action-plan/
• Monarchy Morocco grabs leadership of UN Rights Body from South Africa amidst criticism
– https://www.africanews.com/2024/01/10/morocco-takes-leadership-of-un-rights-body-amid-criticism//
• Sri Lanka seeks UN help for Vesak celebrations
– https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-seeks-un-help-for-vesak-celebrations-147962/
• President meets high level Indian CEOs in Davos; briefs on SL’s economic outlook
• Ranil to address NAM and G77 and China summits in Uganda, focusing on global south ties
• President Wickremesinghe urges global unity at Non-Aligned Movement summit
• Reawakening of Global South makes NAM relevant again; first test is Gaza
• NAM, once perceived as weak states, evolve beyond that characterization -President
• President says future lies in hands of NAM member States
– https://www.ft.lk/front-page/President-says-future-lies-in-hands-of-NAM-member-States/44-757578
• Oppose spread of big power rivalry & build a multipolar world – President tells world leaders
• Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit & Issue-based Strategic Alignment – Sunday Times
• UN system has been rendered exceptionally hapless – Island Editorial
– https://island.lk/role-of-religion-in-current-world-disorder/
• Sri Lanka to speed up negotiations to use sea area beyond exclusive economic zone
• US Tech giants warn against Lanka’s Online Safety Bill
– https://island.lk/asia-internet-coalition-calls-for-overhaul-of-the-draft-online-safety-bill/
• Justice Minister briefs Swiss Ambassador on LTTEers in custody
– https://island.lk/justice-minister-briefs-swiss-ambassador-on-ltteers-in-custody/
• Presidential pardon for two LTTE prisoners serving life terms
• People’s tribunal condemns police for excesses at Jaffna Conference in Jan. 1974 – Jeyaraj
• Commission for Truth, Unity, and Reconciliation in Sri Lanka – A Bill
– https://www.ft.lk/columns/Commission-for-Truth-Unity-and-Reconciliation-in-Sri-Lanka-A-Bill/4-757435
• Sri Lanka-India passenger ferry services to resume this week
• Pathfinder Shipping with Indian & Norwegian partners will reestablish Talamannar-Rameshwaram ferry link
‘The PF report was released in New Delhi in August last year in association with two Indian think tanks, NatStrat and Vivekananda International Foundation.’
– https://island.lk/pathfinder-promotes-tourism-connectivity-in-south-india/
• Sri Lanka discusses economic ties, EDR with India envoy
– https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-discusses-economic-ties-edr-with-india-envoy-147549/
• Team from Buddhavanam project visits Buddhist rock caves in Sri Lanka
‘Tripitaka viz., Sutr, Vinaya and Abhidhamma pitakas, which were transmitted orally until that time, were written on palm leaves under the auspices of Sri Lankan king Devanampiya Tissa’
• TNA MP seeks economic weapon from Tamil Nadu
• Lanka cannot stop Indian fishermen in Palk Strait but going to stop Houthi attacks
• Indian trawler and ten fishermen detained in Sri Lankan waters
– https://island.lk/indian-trawler-and-ten-fishermen-detained-in-sri-lankan-waters/
• Navy nabs 12 Indian fishers for poaching in SL waters
– https://island.lk/navy-nabs-12-indian-fishers-for-poaching-in-sl-waters/
• Ten more poaching Indian fishers held
– https://island.lk/ten-more-poaching-indian-fishers-held/
• Navy detain three Indian trawlers poaching in Sri Lankan waters
– https://island.lk/navy-detain-three-indian-trawlers-poaching-in-sri-lankan-waters/
• Tamil Nadu CM wants release of Indian fishermen held in Lanka
– https://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=96540
• Devananda warns against endangering lives of encroaching Indian fishers
– https://island.lk/devananda-warns-against-endangering-lives-of-encroaching-indian-fishers/
• 61 oil tanks in Trinco leased to India for 50 years
– https://www.themorning.lk/articles/WxM8Am06MLNwD1W7h5CA
• High Commissioner of India visits Kandy Chief Precepts of Asgiriya and Malwatte chapters
– https://www.themorning.lk/articles/cVCioI4iH3rzPedqnycR
• Indian Ambassador visits Hanthana Estate Indian Housing Project
• SLN Deployment in Red Sea in the interest of Sri Lanka’s economy
• Sri Lanka sails into murky waters in the Red Sea
– https://island.lk/sri-lanka-sails-into-murky-waters-in-the-red-sea/
• An SLN Red Sea deployment?
– https://island.lk/an-sln-red-sea-deployment/
• ‘Israel’ Has Lost The Ground War In Gaza
– indi.ca
• SLAF helicopter crash-lands in Central African Republic; crew safe
• SLAF Helicopter Crash in Central Africa: Defence Ministry refutes Al-Shabaab hostage claims
• MoD says no Sri Lankan taken hostage
– https://island.lk/mod-says-no-sri-lankan-taken-hostage/
• Somali army searching for ‘hostages’ missing from SLAF chopper
– https://island.lk/somali-army-searching-for-hostages-missing-from-slaf-chopper/
• Cardinal asks govt. to solve internal problem before trying to tackle international issues
• Cardinal calls on people to muster courage to enforce system change
– https://island.lk/cardinal-calls-on-people-to-muster-courage-to-enforce-system-change/
• Japan’s FM visit to strengthen economic relations
– https://www.sundaytimes.lk/240114/news/japans-fm-visit-to-strengthen-economic-relations-545306.html
• English Princess’ skillfully crafted itinerary by England’s Foreign & Commonwealth Office
‘She visited the Dalada Maligawa and the Jaffna Public Library on Thursday’
– https://www.sundaytimes.lk/240114/news/places-for-princess-545409.html
– https://www.sundaytimes.lk/240114/news/princess-anne-concludes-a-power-packed-visit-545309.html
• English Vice Admiral Timothy Laurence and wife Anne visits British Council office
‘Representatives from the Museum of Modern Art (MMCA), The National Trust Sri Lanka, Design Development Corporation, Ceylon Theatres, Scope Cinemas, Agenda14 and The Gratiaen Trust’
• Gnanam’s Hatch receives their Princess Anne; announce expansion to England
– https://www.ft.lk/front-page/Hatch-receives-Princess-Anne-announce-expansion-to-UK/44-757376
• Sri Lanka remains open for positive role in dousing India-Maldives tension
• Emotional Tightrope in Indo-Maldives Relations
‘Feeble minds, devoid of strategic principles and ethical conduct, persist in their unabated campaign of animosity against India,’
– https://island.lk/emotional-tightrope-in-indo-maldives-relations/
• Indian citizen require ‘prior approvals’ before visiting India’s Lakshadweep, Andaman and Nicobar Islands
• Maldives government suspended the three junior ministers who criticised the Indian PM
– https://www.sundaytimes.lk/240114/business-times/tourism-power-play-in-the-region-544903.html
• A Company Family: The untold history of Obama and the CIA
– https://mronline.org/2021/10/07/a-company-family-the-untold-history-of-obama-and-the-cia/
• Citigroup chose Obama’s 2008 cabinet, WikiLeaks document reveals
‘Then-presidential candidate Obama played a critical political role in shepherding the massively unpopular bank bailout through Congress….’
– https://www.wsws.org/en/articles/2016/10/15/wiki-o15.html
• North Korea conducts underwater nuclear weapons system test – BBC
• Taiwan: cross-strait brinkmanship to continue
– https://www.indianpunchline.com/taiwan-cross-strait-brinkmanship-to-continue/
• Morocco wins vote to lead UN human rights council after showdown with S. Africa
– https://www.africanews.com/2024/01/10/morocco-takes-leadership-of-un-rights-body-amid-criticism//
• Indian Navy rescues crew after Houthis hit ship off Yemen
– https://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=96531
• US President Engages in Therapeutic Killing of Yemeni Children
• Red Sea Politics: Ethiopia, Somalia, and the US/EU/NATO
– https://blackagendareport.com/red-sea-politics-ethiopia-somalia-and-useunato
• War On Gaza – Iran Demonstrates Its Means of Self-defense
– https://www.moonofalabama.org/2024/01/war-on-gaza-iran-demonstrates-its-means-of-self-defense
• South Africa’s Case at ICJ Also Exposes the US and the West
– https://blackagendareport.com/south-africas-case-icj-also-exposes-us-and-west
• South African Lawyer Provides Evidence of Israel’s Genocidal Intent
– https://blackagendareport.com/south-african-lawyer-provides-evidence-israels-genocidal-intent
• ICJ Hears Case Against Israel, U.S. Continues Support of Zionism – Part 2
• Namibia rejects Germany’s Support of the Genocidal Intent of the Racist Israeli State against Innocent Civilians in Gaza
• Canada opposes the South African Genocide Charges Against Israel at the ICJ
– https://socialistproject.ca/2024/01/canada-south-africa-genocide-charges-against-israel-icj/
• Hague’s Slow Proceedings
– https://www.craigmurray.org.uk/archives/2024/01/your-man-in-the-hague-in-a-good-way/
– https://www.craigmurray.org.uk/archives/2024/01/your-man-in-the-hague-in-a-good-way-part-2/
• “Human Animals”
– https://island.lk/human-animals/
• Red Sea becoming messier
– https://island.lk/red-sea-becoming-messier/
• Ceasefire Vs. Liberation (Notes from The Resistance)
– indi.ca
• Decoding Iran’s missile, drone strikes
‘Pakistan has an entire history of serving US interests in the region’
– https://www.indianpunchline.com/decoding-irans-missile-drone-strikes/
• Pakistan Hits Baloch Separatist Hideouts in Iran
– https://english.newsfirst.lk/2024/01/18/pakistan-hits-baloch-separatist-hideouts-in-iran
• JVP points out disastrous consequences if Ranil sends naval vessel to Red Sea
– https://island.lk/jvp-points-out-disastrous-consequences-if-ranil-sends-naval-vessel-to-red-sea/
• Houthis Declare Safe Passage for All Russian, Chinese Ships in Red Sea
– https://www.zerohedge.com/geopolitical/houthis-declare-safe-passage-russian-chinese-ships-red-sea
• Houthis, the Red Sea, and SL Politics – UN International Consultant for Undersea Cables
– https://www.dailymirror.lk/opinion/Houthis-the-Red-Sea-and-Sri-Lankan-Politics/172-275150
• U.S. bombs Yemen for fourth time in a week
– https://www.radiohc.cu/en/noticias/internacionales/344810-us-bombs-yemen-for-fourth-time-in-a-week
• Malta-flagged cargo ship heading to Israel hit by missile in Red Sea
• English oil giant Shell halts Red Sea shipments after U.S.-Anglo strikes on Yemen
• The US, Israel Lose Battlefield Control – Houthis Attack US Destroyer, Hit Greek-Us Owned Bulker; Iran Hits US Base In Kurdish Capital, Erbil
“The US need controlled instability to realize their own plans..But this instability has long been out of Washington’s control.”
• Red Sea alert: Standing foreign policy on its head
‘now a strong ally of Washington and in a close embrace with Israel which is a major arms supplier to New Delhi now, it would not surprise some if gentle nudges from both capitals had any influence.’
• Kremlin Tries to Sit on The Fence in the Middle of the Red Sea
– https://johnhelmer.net/kremlin-tries-to-sit-on-the-fence-in-the-middle-of-the-red-sea/#more-89171
• Bypassing England’s Parliament: The Royal Prerogative; and Bombing Yemen
• Why USA is Losing to Yemen
– indi.ca
• When The Hell that is War Loses its Power
– https://www.the-american-interest.com/2014/07/19/when-the-hell-that-is-war-loses-its-power/
• U.S. is Painting Itself into a Corner in the Red Sea
– https://sonar21.com/u-s-is-painting-itself-into-a-corner-in-the-red-sea/
• U.S. Middle East Policy Has Failed
‘Washington continues to reach for its old playbook: throwing money, weapons, and military assets’
– https://foreignpolicy.com/2024/01/11/israel-hamas-gaza-war-us-middle-east-policy-saudi-biden/
• An anniversary the West would rather forget: Leningrad
– https://www.indianpunchline.com/an-anniversary-west-would-rather-forget/
• Non-Aligned Movement blasts Israel’s war on Gaza at Kampala summit
• Ukraine Copies Russia’s ‘Active Defense’ Tactic
– https://www.moonofalabama.org/2024/01/ukraine-copies-russias-active-defense-tactic
• Former Presidential Spokesman Arestovich Speaks of Peace and A Multinational Ukraine
• Ukraine’s President and English PM Have Differing Views on English Security Guarantees
– https://www.eurointegration.com.ua/eng/news/2024/01/12/7177340/
• Ukraine – Iovi Snubs Bovi – Huffy Bovi Moos Back
– https://www.moonofalabama.org/2024/01/ukraine-iovi-snubs-bovi-huffy-bovi-moos-back
• New War Drums Chill Europe with Renewed “Putin Invasion” Fears
– https://simplicius76.substack.com/p/new-war-drums-chill-europe-with-renewed
• Defending England from a more dangerous world – War Secretary Grant Shapps
– https://www.gov.uk/government/speeches/defending-britain-from-a-more-dangerous-world
• Bypassing England’s Parliament: The Royal Prerogative; and Bombing Yemen
• The Three Evils of Society, Martin Luther King, Jr., 1967
– https://blackagendareport.com/speech-three-evils-society-martin-luther-king-jr-1967
• Righteous Protest Drowned Out as Empire Worshipped at Mother Emanuel AME Church
– https://blackagendareport.com/president-biden-campaign-disruption-charleston
• Palestinians welcome Chile and Mexico’s call for ICC probe into Gaza war
*
________________________________________________________________
D2. Security (the state beyond ‘a pair of handcuffs’, monopolies of legitimate violence)
ee Security section focuses on the state (a pair of handcuffs, which sposedly has the monopoly of legitimate violence), and how the ‘national security’ doctrine is undermined by private interests, with no interest in divulging or fighting the real enemy, whose chief aim is to prevent an industrial renaissance as the basis of a truly independent nation.
• 14,022 Community police committees established in all Grama Niladari divisions to keep tabs on visitors
– https://island.lk/community-police-committees-keeping-tabs-on-visitors/
• Sri Lanka failed to study outdated, autocratic US Insurrection Act when reforming PTA
‘Insurrection Act represents an extraordinary delegation of authority, granting President one of the powers the founders of US Republic feared most: the ability to turn a standing army against US people.
• Has the JVP unequivocally ruled out an armed struggle to win government?
• “As the premier think tank on national security in Sri Lanka, INSS stands as a beacon of intellectual exploration.” – Defence Secretary
• The Judiciary Unbowed, Holding Law-Breakers To Account
‘the surrounding of the residence of the then Chief Justice by hooligans backed by that government, hurling abuse and pelting stones while the police stood idly by.’
– https://www.dailymirror.lk/opinion/The-Judiciary-Unbowed-Holding-Law-Breakers-To-Account/172-275368
• Hakeem commends new contempt law for legal clarity
– https://island.lk/hakeem-commends-new-contempt-law-for-legal-clarity/
• Mujibur Rahuman Challenges Tennakoon’s IGP Bid Over Prior Actions
• Draft law requires Police to establish Specialised Anti-Terrorism Agency
• Strength of airport and aviation security to be increased
– https://island.lk/strength-of-airport-and-aviation-security-to-be-increased/
• Pressure mounts on govt. to halt Operation Yukthiya
‘Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch and International Commission of Jurists have joined over 30 international human rights organisations’
– https://island.lk/pressure-mounts-on-govt-to-halt-operation-yukthiya/
• Tiran explains police action to foreign diplomats
‘Domestic institutions dealing with reconciliation: Office on Missing Persons, Office for Reparations, Office for National Unity and Reconciliation, Interim Secretariat of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and Office for Overseas Sri Lankans…also present’
– https://island.lk/tiran-explains-police-action-to-foreign-diplomats/
• Kerala cannabis with street value of over Rs. 13 mn detected on Pungudutivu Island
– https://island.lk/kerala-cannabis-with-street-value-of-over-rs-13-mn-detected/
• Kerala cannabis with a street value of Rs. 02 mn found on Vankalavadi beach,
– https://island.lk/kerala-cannabis-with-a-street-value-of-rs-02-mn-found/
• Cop arrested for attempting to sell Ice
– https://island.lk/cop-arrested-for-attempting-to-sell-ice/
• Army, police looking for 23 Kandakadu escapees
– https://island.lk/army-police-looking-for-23-kandakadu-escapees/
• Kandakadu: Overcrowding leads to clashes as new patients fail to adjust
• National Police Commission (NPC) urges action as Police Yukthiya operations come under fire
• Sri Lankan govt to persist with anti-drug operation despite UN concerns
• Supreme Court deems Duminda Silva’s presidential pardon invalid
– https://island.lk/supreme-court-deems-presidential-pardon-for-duminda-unlawful/
– https://www.ft.lk/front-page/SC-nullifies-Presidential-Pardon-granted-to-Duminda-Silva/44-757460
• Former MP Duminda yet to be transferred to Prison hospital
• Duminda’s Conviction, Gotabaya’s Pardon and the Supreme Court Ruling
• Executive madness – Island Editorial
– https://island.lk/executive-madness/
• Police to trace traffic offenders in Colombo using CCTV system from next week
• Re-elected uncontested: Kaushalya Nawaratne secures second term as BASL President
– https://island.lk/re-elected-uncontested-kaushalya-nawaratne-secures-second-term-as-basl-president/
• Sekou Odinaga, Black Liberation activist who helped free Assata Shakur, dies at 79
*
_____________________________________________________________
D3. Economists (Study the Economists before you study the Economics)
ee Economists shows how paid capitalist/academic ‘professionals’ confuse (misdefinitions, etc) and divert (with false indices, etc) from the steps needed to achieve a modern industrial country.
• Surpassing neoliberal fictions towards mission-oriented state – Amali Wedagedara
– https://island.lk/surpassing-neoliberal-fictions-towards-mission-oriented-state/
• We Administrators developed Sri Lanka on Rupees till the end of 1977 – Garvin Karunaratne
• Can We Survive without a Homegrown Solution? – Shivanthi Ranasinghe
– https://www.lankaweb.com/news/items/2024/01/17/can-we-survive-without-a-homegrown-solution/
• De-Premadasa-ising SJB policy – Jayatilleka
‘The Blueprint launch (Matara) signalled there would no Janasaviya-2, at this time of greatest social need, rendering talk of ‘Social Democracy’ hollow’
– https://www.ft.lk/columns/A-paler-shade-of-red-A-1956-or-1977-in-2024/4-757457
• Sri Lanka president, business community seek FDI and PPP in Switzerland
‘John Keels Holdings Krishan Balendra, Commercial Bank Sanath Manatunge, Colombo Stock Exchange Dilshan Wirasekara, Janashakthi Insurance Prakash Schaffter, Sri Lanka Ports Authority Keith Bernard, Aitken Spence Stasshani Jayawardena and Parakrama Dissanayake, Galle Face Group Sanjeev Gardiner, Sri Lankan Airlines Ashok Pathirage, People’s Bank Sujeewa Rajapakse, and Dialog Axiata Supun Weerasinghe.
• Ranil Wickremesinghe ‘Pulling back from the brink’ at the World Economic Forum (WEF)
• Ravi K says Govt. has the right to revise detrimental IMF conditions
• TISL urges CIABOC to rise to public expectations
– https://island.lk/tisl-urges-ciaboc-to-rise-to-public-expectations/
• Business confidence regains lost ground
‘CTC’s PepperCube notes, “Inflation & taxes continue to challenge the nation & business community.”
– https://www.ft.lk/front-page/Business-confidence-regains-lost-ground/44-757400
• Should We be Informants to Boost Tax Revenue?
– https://island.lk/should-we-be-informants-to-boost-tax-revenue/
• Dismantling US$ dominance: De-dollarization strategies: C.A. Saliya
– https://island.lk/dismantling-us-dominance-de-dollarization-strategies/
• Extended Fund Facility agreement has to be amended: Sajith informs IMF
• Economic consequences of US expanding Gaza war – Sanderatne
‘increase the costs of fuel, fertiliser and food imports and disrupt international supply chains.’
• Sri Lanka would be able to reduce its debt burden with export growth – Abeyratne
‘complete repaying current foreign debt with accumulating interests only by the period 2043-2048’
– https://www.sundaytimes.lk/240114/business-times/sri-lankas-over-burdened-generation-544897.html
• Economy 2024: More challenging than the two previous years – Wijewardena
– https://www.ft.lk/columns/Economy-2024-More-challenging-than-the-two-previous-years/4-757391
• Is Sri Lanka’s economic recovery sustainable? – Harischandra
‘It is noteworthy to end this article with a quote from Prof. Ricardo Hausmann’
– https://www.ft.lk/columns/Is-Sri-Lanka-s-economic-recovery-sustainable/4-757484
• SL cannot risk populist policies when it needs to accelerate growth – World Bank Devarajan
– https://www.dailymirror.lk/opinion/Four-Priorities-for-Sri-Lanka-in-Election-Year-2024/172-275219
• Fear Psychosis, Scarecrows and a Religious Conman – Daily Mirror Editorial
• Bank consolidation an alternative to parate execution to ensure stability – G de Silva
• Budget 2024: Sri Lanka’s Road to Economic Recovery? – Talal Rafi, OFR
– https://www.lankaweb.com/news/items/2024/01/17/budget-2024-sri-lankas-road-to-economic-recovery/
• SL government uses IMF bailouts to hurt ethnic minorities –Abouharb & Reinsberg
– https://island.lk/how-governments-use-imf-bailouts-to-hurt-political-opponents-new-research/
• International commercial mediator training and accreditation program in Sri Lanka
• How We Came to This Pass: Rise of Militant Islam (2019): Sathananthan
– https://www.colombotelegraph.com/index.php/how-we-came-to-this-pass-rise-of-militant-islam/
• How We Came to This Pass – II
– https://www.colombotelegraph.com/index.php/how-we-came-to-this-pass-ii/
• How We Came to This Pass – Waiting on IMF (2022)
– https://www.colombotelegraph.com/index.php/how-we-came-to-this-pass-waiting-on-imf/
• How We Came to This Pass – The Aragalaya Challenge
– https://www.colombotelegraph.com/index.php/how-we-came-to-this-pass-the-aragalaya-challenge/
• How We Came to This Pass: A Quest for Scapegoats
– https://www.colombotelegraph.com/index.php/how-we-came-to-this-pass-a-quest-for-scapegoats/
• Govt. notches up success but at a cost – USAID NPC Perera
‘government collecting revenue in ways that is causing misery to the many but is sparing others,’
– https://island.lk/govt-notches-up-success-but-at-a-cost/
• Enemies of progress – Island Editorial
– https://island.lk/enemies-of-progress/
• India Centre for Policy Research FCRA Registration Cancelled; CPR Exploring Legal Options
• China Wants to Ditch the Dollar – Zongyuan Zoe Liu
‘Ganzhou now produces nearly 70% of the country’s rare earth mineral products, with China fulfilling roughly 90% of global demand.’
– https://www.noemamag.com/china-wants-to-ditch-the-dollar/
• What Happened to the US Machine Tool Industry?
– https://www.construction-physics.com/p/what-happened-to-the-us-machine-tool/comments
• The Last Cut for Alexei Kudrin is the Deepest – Oligarchs Aim to Bury his Corpse At Discount
• Rich getting richer and poorer getting poorer.
• Oxfam report finds the ultra-rich are still getting richer as 5 billion people become poorer
• Colombian president rejects capitalism at World Economic Forum in Davos
• Argentinian president claims capitalism is the answer to the world’s problems
• Davos and the Melting World Economy – Roberts
– https://thenextrecession.wordpress.com/2024/01/16/davos-and-the-melting-world-economy/
• Saving Bidenomics – K. Sabeel Rahman
‘Biden’s industrial policy program promises a massive shift from decades of neoliberal orthodoxy. Can it deliver inclusive gains in time?’
– https://www.bostonreview.net/articles/saving-bidenomics/
*
____________________________________________
D4. Economy (Usually reported in monetary terms)
ee Economy section shows how media usually measures economy by false indices like GDP, etc., in monetary terms, confusing money and capital, constantly calling for privatization, deregulation, moaning about debt & balance of payments, without stating the need for modern industrial production.
• MP drops bombshell over EPF discrepancy, demands immediate remedy: asks if IMF is blind
– https://island.lk/mp-drops-bombshell-over-epf-discrepancy-demands-immediate-remedy/
• US IMF cranks up pressure on SL; next tranche put off to April – US Verite
– https://island.lk/imf-cranks-up-pressure-on-sl-next-tranche-put-off-to-april-verite-chief/
• IMF expects Sri Lanka to reach private creditor deal by next review
– https://economynext.com/imf-expects-sri-lanka-to-reach-private-creditor-deal-by-next-review-148056/
• Sri Lanka’s economic reform programme yielding first signs of recovery – IMF
– https://island.lk/sri-lankas-economic-reform-programme-yielding-first-signs-of-recovery-imf/
• IMF Chief says important reforms starting to pay off in Sri Lanka
• Positive signs in Sri Lanka’s economic reforms – more to be done : IMF
• Treasury Secy says no more IMF medicine hereafter
– https://island.lk/treasury-secy-says-no-more-imf-medicine-hereafter/
• IMF talks tough on tax evasions, corruption
– https://island.lk/imf-sounds-tough-on-tax-evasions-corruption/
• Power and energy sector reforms form IMF’s prime focus
– https://island.lk/power-and-energy-sector-reforms-form-prime-focus-at-top-level-talks/
• IMF meets Constitutional Council to interfere in commissioner selection process
– https://island.lk/imf-urges-sri-lanka-to-make-urgent-preparations-for-property-taxation/
• IMF visits Northern and Eastern provinces
– https://island.lk/sri-lankas-economic-reform-programme-yielding-first-signs-of-recovery-imf/
• IMF team meets Sri Lanka finance and energy ministers
– https://economynext.com/imf-team-meets-sri-lanka-finance-and-energy-ministers-147788/
• IMF representatives meet NPP leaders
– https://www.lankaweb.com/news/items/2024/01/18/imf-representatives-meet-npp-leaders/
• SJB, NPP hold talks with IMF delegation; Sajith slams govt over tax burden
• IMF urges Sri Lanka to make urgent preparations for property taxation
– https://island.lk/imf-urges-sri-lanka-to-make-urgent-preparations-for-property-taxation/
• IMF suggests Sri Lanka to adopt country specific action plan for economic prosperity
• Treasury Secretary insists Lanka did not declare bankruptcy
‘What it did on April 12, 2022, was declare a debt standstill, which meant that it would not pay back selected loans for a specific period.’
• Central Bank unveils reforms for State banks to boost governance, regulations
“For State-owned banks, which account for 48% of the banking sector assets, the Central Bank expects to issue guidance to the Finance Ministry on appointments to the Board of Directors of such banks”
• Central Bank to roll out phase II masterplan under NBFI consolidation effort
• First Capital: 80% probability monetary watchdog keeps policy rates at previous levels
• COYLE urges public to obtain TIN to avoid detriment of unbearable penalties
• Sri Lanka rupee not a one-way bet, hedging instruments, deepening needed: CB Governor
• Sri Lanka banks say their ISB restructure should be cushioned with SLDB model
‘Sri Lanka banks have 1.5 trillion rupees in stage 3 non-performing loans from the economic crisis with about 13 percent of assets going bad….ISB restructuring is single largest short-to-medium term issue’
• Sri Lanka private credit expands in November
– https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-private-credit-expands-in-november-147366/
• 2024 begins with a bang: A shock resignation and host of new bills passed
‘Contempt of Court, Tribunal or Institution Bill, Notaries (Amendment) Bill and the Prevention of Frauds (Amendment) Bill were passed with amendments. The Mediation Board (Amendment) Bill, Recognition and Enforcement of International Settlement Agreements Resulting from Mediation Bill, Powers of Attorney (Amendment) Bill were passed’
• Sri Lanka consumer confidence improves marginally in December 2023: survey
• Siyambalapitiya urges VAT compliance by businesses
– https://www.ft.lk/front-page/Siyambalapitiya-urges-VAT-compliance-by-businesses/44-757576
• Circular issued curtailing government expenses
– https://www.sundaytimes.lk/240114/news/circular-issued-curtailing-government-expenses-545385.html
• Imports and Exports (Control) Act, No. 1 of 1969 amended
‘Labor Ministry SUV, 2 buses for Education Ministry, th3ree mobile maternity units, and 21 double cabs for Health Ministry’
– https://www.sundaytimes.lk/240114/news/labour-ministry-gets-approval-to-import-suv-545400.html
– https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-labour-ministry-to-import-suv-health-double-cabs-147286/
• Sri Lanka budget revenues up 58-pct to October, domestic borrowings down
• Sri Lanka must agree with official & private creditors before 2nd review of EFF in June: IMF
• CBSL to address the increased levels of impaired assets in licensed banks
• Banks cannot be landlords acquiring lands, after executing the Parate
• Global economy to weaken in 2024: WEF
– https://island.lk/global-economy-to-weaken-in-2024-wef/
*
_______________________________________________________________
D5. Workers (Inadequate Stats, Wasteful Transport, Unmodern Plantations, Services)
ee Workers attempts to correct the massive gaps and disinformation about workers, urban and rural and their representatives (trade unions, etc), and to highlight the need for organized worker power
• Sri Lanka wages lowest in Asia-Oceania for managers, staff, Japan firms find
• DAT allowance dispute: 72 health sector unions launch indefinite strike today
“If the government tries to break the strike by deploying the military or if some senior officials try to intimidate striking workers, we will withdraw from the voluntary services as well.”
– https://island.lk/dat-allowance-dispute-72-health-sector-unions-launch-indefinite-strike-today/
• Health sector trade union action to resume; protest campaigns to be launched island-wide
– https://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=96528
• Striking health workers shouldn’t be granted docs allowance under any circumstances – Udaya
• Sri Lanka ministers meet health unions over 35,000 rupee demand
– https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-ministers-meet-health-unions-over-35000-rupee-demand-147574/
• Talks fail but health workers agree to call off strike
– https://island.lk/talks-fail-but-health-workers-agree-to-call-off-strike/
• Health sector strike to resume on 01 Feb.
– https://island.lk/health-sector-strike-to-resume-on-01-feb/
• Increase in DAT allowance result of GMOA proposal to Prez
– https://island.lk/increase-in-dat-allowance-result-of-gmoa-proposal-to-prez/
• Govt.’s Catch-22
‘35,000-rupee increase in state sector doctors DAT (Disturbance, Availability & Transport) allowance has prompted non-physician health workers to launch a strike demanding that they be paid the same’
– https://island.lk/govt-s-catch-22/
• Illegitimacy & immorality in privileges Government Medical Officers enjoy – Kusal Perera
– https://www.ft.lk/columns/DAT-and-Tit-for-Tat-fight-for-equality/4-757434
• Concerns raised over assault on Oncologist amidst strike
– https://www.themorning.lk/articles/unJnh4uvDB3uCv4aK5CZ
– https://island.lk/doctor-remanded-for-allegedly-assaulting-minor-workers/
• Sri Lanka short of 630 medical specialists among 61 specialties this year
• Challenge before Sri Lanka Medical Association
– https://island.lk/challenge-before-sri-lanka-medical-association/
• Secret filming of doctors’ changing room: Kandy hospital worker arrested
• Port workers on strike: Give me that, give me that, give me that Banana
• Record high electricity disconnections in 2023
– https://www.ft.lk/front-page/Record-high-electricity-disconnections-in-2023/44-757415
• CEB workers’ protest sparks suspension of 15 employees
– https://english.newsfirst.lk/2024/01/19/15-ceb-employees-interdicted
– https://www.adaderana.lk/news/96536/15-ceb-workers-interdicted
– https://www.ft.lk/front-page/CEB-workers-protest-sparks-suspension-of-15-employees/44-757575
• Trade unions meet to decide on action to be taken against CEB suspending 15 workers
• CEB prioritising financial gain over consumer welfare
– https://www.ft.lk/front-page/Record-high-electricity-disconnections-in-2023/44-757415
• Officer shoot Vegtable Delivery Trucker in Narammala recklessly – Police Spokesman
• Selling Sri Lanka Telecom (SLT)
‘Indian billionaire Mukesh Ambani’s Jio Platforms, India. Pettigo Comercio International LDA, the parent group of Lyca Mobile CEO businessman Subaskaran Allirajah.’
• Telecommunication Engineers’ Union writes open letter to President on SLT sale; questions why only 3 bidders
• Siyambalapitiya outlines fiscal plan for public sector workers’ salary hike
• President’s appointments of ministry secretaries bypasses Seniority
• University non-academic staff strike over allowance
‘token strike is joined by 23 trade unions’
• University non-academic staff to reach decision on future trade union actions
– https://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=96538
• Colombo University student protest
Demands of the protest were to resolve their hostel issues, provide sufficient academic staff and to increase the ‘Mahapola’ scholarship.
– https://sundaytimes.lk/online/news-online/InPix-Colombo-University-student-protest/2-1144744
• FUTA deeply concerned about police attacks at University of Sri Jayewardenepura
– https://island.lk/futa-deeply-concerned-about-police-attacks/
• University non-academic workers stage token strike
– https://island.lk/university-non-academic-workers-stage-token-strike/
• Protest march held in Jaffna calling to stop cattle slaughter.
• Sri Lanka’s tuk tuk drivers to be registered, issued QR code
‘there are only 350,000 commercial tuk tuk drivers in the country.’
– https://economynext.com/sri-lankas-tuk-tuk-drivers-to-be-registered-issued-qr-code-147649/
• Sri Lanka adds 300,000 more families to Aswesuma welfare scheme
– https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-adds-300000-more-families-to-aswesuma-welfare-scheme-147942/
• Torrential rains disrupt lives of 200,000 people in several districts
• Five houses completely buried in Passara landslide, 178 people displaced
• Canadian Cultural Anthropologist New Director for ILO Country Office in Sri Lanka
• Labour Ministry gets approval to import SUV
– https://www.sundaytimes.lk/240114/news/labour-ministry-gets-approval-to-import-suv-545400.html
• Record high electricity disconnections in 2023
– https://www.ft.lk/front-page/Record-high-electricity-disconnections-in-2023/44-757415
• Treat without discrimination, whether labelled ‘pauper’ or ‘to pay’
‘seven key ethical considerations that affect cardiothoracic surgeons and medical professionals – informed consent; auditing; innovation & research; conflict of interest; dilemmas; stress; and honesty’
• Sri Lanka to set aside Rs14bn for housing of estate workers
– https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-to-set-aside-rs14bn-for-housing-of-estate-workers-147403/
• Sri Lanka’s Tea Labour Market explained: US Advocata
‘a main culprit of these high costs are labor costs’
– https://youtu.be/pW51lyLv7PY?si=JQEYlQ4uAnc7zsy3
• India’s National Investigation Agency (NIA) charges four in Sri Lanka human trafficking case
• Saudi Arabia lowers salary ceiling for Sri Lanka housemaids: report
– https://economynext.com/saudi-arabia-lowers-salary-ceiling-for-sri-lanka-housemaids-report-147799/
• Sri Lankans in Yemen fear ‘being caught in the crossfire’ as Colombo plans to join US-led attacks on Houthis
• Workers from Israel and Lebanon fleeing could affect inward remittances adversely
• English High Commiss tells professionals who leave SL due to crisis of responsibility to return
• SL Migrants To NZ Must Be Aware of NZ Scams & Criminal Enterprises – NZ High Commiss
• Court questions Immigration Chief’s double standards on Diana’s citizenship issue
• Lanka to relax visa procedures for all categories within two weeks
– https://island.lk/lanka-to-relax-visa-procedures-for-all-categories-within-two-weeks/
• NPP not expecting to legalize prostitution: Harini
• Newlywed Sri Lankans forced to remain childless
– https://www.dailymirror.lk/news-features/Newlywed-Sri-Lankans-forced-to-remain-childless/131-275059
• Research on sex work during SL civil war: Sex workers & their faint cries to access basic rights
• German tourist’s solo stroll turns nightmarish
– https://www.dailymirror.lk/breaking-news/German-tourists-solo-stroll-turns-nightmarish/108-275404
• Questioning Western knowledge from outside & Sinhala Buddhist knowledge from inside: Nalin De Silva
– http://www1.kalaya.org/2024/01/blog-post_14.html
• Our Harrow Eton Oxford Cambridge Values Education – all fall apart today: Nalin De Silva
– http://www1.kalaya.org/2024/01/blog-post_18.html
• Buddhists during the Portuguese period – Nalin De Silva
– http://www1.kalaya.org/2024/01/blog-post_15.html
• Science and education – Nalin De Silva
– http://www1.kalaya.org/2024/01/blog-post_20.html
• CID makes second arrest over leaking of question papers
– https://island.lk/cid-makes-second-arrest-over-leaking-of-question-papers/
• Zone24x7 and STEMUP Educational Foundation to empower Sri Lankan students with AI
• Dissent as education: Teaching in a time of repression
– https://island.lk/dissent-as-education-teaching-in-a-time-of-repression/
• India offers scholarship for studying Hindi in India
– https://island.lk/india-offers-scholarship-for-studying-hindi-in-india/
• Association of Cardiothoracic & Thoracic Surgeons hosts Annual Academic Sessions 2024
• Re-elected uncontested: Kaushalya Nawaratne secures second term as BASL President
– https://island.lk/re-elected-uncontested-kaushalya-nawaratne-secures-second-term-as-basl-president/
• Death cult leader’s suicide and the advent of Maithree Buddha imposter
• Insulting Buddhism: Court orders CB to submit report on self-styled godman’s bank accounts
• Self-proclaimed ‘Avalokiteshvara Bodhisathva’ arrested by CID sleuths
– https://island.lk/self-proclaimed-avalokiteshvara-bodhisathva-arrested-by-cid-sleuths/
– https://island.lk/self-proclaimed-bodhisathva-remanded/
• Supreme Court recalls appeals in Sivaloganathan Vidya Case, sets date for acquittal review
• Burghers in Kandy and at Kingswood College
– https://island.lk/burghers-in-kandy-and-at-kingswood-college/
• Personal Details of India’s Top Industrialists Leaked due to Security Bug in MCA Portal
‘Aadhaar-based KYC directors were “accessible without authorisation.” – including celebrities and industrialists like Shah Rukh Khan, Virat Kohli, Gautam Adani, Mukesh Ambani and Ratan Tata.’
• When Arab Workers Stood Against Zionism
– https://blackagendareport.com/when-arab-workers-stood-against-zionism
• England parliament approves new copy of Sunak’s controversial Rwanda bill
• NBA’s Draymond Green and the Israeli Defense Force: Bullies of a Feather….
– https://blackagendareport.com/draymond-green-and-israeli-defense-force-bullies-feather
• Strategy, the Movement and Power: Debating Labour and Community Organizing
– https://socialistproject.ca/2024/01/strategy-the-movement-and-power/
*
_______________________________________________________________
D6. Agriculture (Robbery of rural home market; Machines, if used, mainly imported)
ee Agriculture emphasizes the failure to industrialize an agriculture that keeps the cultivator impoverished under moneylender and merchant, and the need to develop the rural home market, monetization and commercialization, to produce, rather than import, agricultural machinery.
• Sri Lanka to have pricing formula for water: Minister
– https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-to-have-pricing-formula-for-water-minister-147299/
• Number of closed farms in the country exceeds 14,000: COPA
• New agricultural policies to be drafted into National Agricultural Development Act this Year
• Sri Lanka allocates Rs910mn for rural development in Matara
– https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-allocates-rs910mn-for-rural-development-in-matara-147949/
• Keeri Samba shortage, low cultivation trends – ICI/CIC Prof Marambe
• Train transporting Prima flour derails near Ragama Station
• COPF ticks off Finance Ministry, IRD for failure to collect taxes from sugar scammers
– https://www.themorning.lk/articles/flYoBNO8ycBp4KZ7luTy
– https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-seeks-investor-interest-to-sell-litro-gas-147689/
– https://island.lk/heads-crooks-win/
• “Told you to plant something’’ – Agriculture Minister on skyrocketing vegetable prices
– https://www.dailymirror.lk/insight/Told-you-to-plant-something/374-275358
• Minister of Agriculture warns of another vegetable shortage
– https://english.newsfirst.lk/2024/01/20/minister-of-agriculture-warns-of-another-vegetable-shortage
• Sri Lanka agriculture to go high tech with 100 drones
– https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-agriculture-to-go-high-tech-with-100-drones-147677/
• Black Soldier Flies; potential source of animal protein
– https://island.lk/black-soldier-flies-potential-source-of-animal-protein/
• Labour Minister blasts Treasury mandarins for ignoring socioeconomic realities of fishers
• Unveiling Sri Lanka’s Fishing Dilemma: Quality Loss and Climate Challenges
• Bad weather further burdens fishermen who return with almost empty nets
• New technology figuring in the preparation of dried and Maldive fish for export
– https://island.lk/new-technology-figuring-in-the-preparation-of-dried-and-maldive-fish-for-export/
– https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-exports-dried-fish-products-to-korea-australia-147385/
• EDB, Universities & Associations Strengthen Ornamental Fish Industry to Boost Exports
The ornamental fish industry comprises various stakeholders, including fish breeders, farmers, out-growers, middlemen, collectors, and exporters from different parts of the island.’
• Three (03) persons held in Mannar for illegal possession of 14,163 conch shells
– https://island.lk/three-03-persons-held-in-mannar-for-illegal-possession-of-14163-conch-shells/
• Sri Lanka cinnamon farmers GI-certified with World-Bank’s IFC support
‘market research provider Euromonitor International identified high-value markets…GI promoted by European Union (EU), SL Standards Institution, Industrial Technology Institute and Department of Cinnamon Development’
– https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-cinnamon-farmers-gi-certified-with-ifc-support-147598/
• Back-to-back bumper mango harvests create worries of oversupply
– https://island.lk/back-to-back-bumper-mango-harvests-create-worries-of-over-supply/
• Russian Federation donates sunflower oil worth USD 1.5 mn to Sri Lanka
• Price of fertilizer used in tea cultivation reduced by Rs. 2000
– https://island.lk/price-of-fertilizer-used-in-tea-cultivation-reduced-by-rs-2000/
• Sri Lanka tea prices down 18-pct in 2023
– https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-tea-prices-down-18-pct-in-2023-147250/
• Sri Lanka tea production up 1.3-pct in 2023, exports down
– https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-tea-production-up-1-3-pct-in-2023-exports-down-147700/
• 2023 brews highest tea export earnings
– https://www.ft.lk/front-page/2023-brews-highest-tea-export-earnings/44-757464
• 2023 tea crop improves marginally
– https://www.ft.lk/business/2023-tea-crop-improves-marginally/34-757420
• Sri Lanka tea prices rise at second auction in 2024
– https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-tea-prices-rise-at-second-auction-in-2024-147501/
• Colombo Tea Auction sees 5.1 MnKgs under hammer this week
• Sri Lanka’s Tea Labour Market explained: US Advocata
‘a main culprit of these high costs are labor costs’
– https://youtu.be/pW51lyLv7PY?si=JQEYlQ4uAnc7zsy3
• Beyond Plantations: Kahawatte spans 12,400 hectares across Nawalapitiya and Sabaragamuwa
– https://island.lk/beyond-plantations-kahawattes-holistic-approach-to-sustainable-prosperity/
• The Proprietary Planter – An Extinct
‘A good proportion of investors were retired military men who had served in the East and thus were familiar with the climate and its potential.’
– https://island.lk/the-proprietary-planter-an-extinct/
• The Other W.A. de Silva (1869-1942)
• People in five districts advised to wear masks due to toxic air blowing from India
• Horana Plantations and WNPS PLANT building ambitious 9km forest corridor
• Exotic birds imported in violation of quarantine regulations
– https://island.lk/exotic-birds-imported-in-violation-of-quarantine-regulations/
• Elephants in the Anthropocene – WNPS Monthly Lecture
‘a postdoctoral researcher at the Centre for Conservation and Research, Sreedhar is a member of the IUCN Species Survival Commission Asian Elephant Specialist Group.’
– https://island.lk/elephants-in-the-anthropocene/
• After COP28: What’s next for Sri Lanka? – UN
‘UN in Sri Lanka is leveraging its country-level SDG Fund’
– https://www.sundaytimes.lk/240114/news/after-cop28-whats-next-for-sri-lanka-545288.html
• RW meets former US Vice President and climate champion Al Gore
• The farmers’ protests in Germany: A social uprising against the coalition government
‘In order to remain viable, farms must constantly expand by leasing new land, investing in new machinery and increasing their specialisation’
– https://www.wsws.org/en/articles/2024/01/15/1b41-j15.html
*
______________________________________________________________
D7. Industry (False definitions, anti-industrial sermons, rentier/entrepreneur, etc)
ee Industry notes the ignorance about industrialization (versus handicraft and manufacture), the dependence on importing foreign machinery, the need to make machines that make machines, build a producer culture. False definitions of industry, entrepreneur, etc, abound, and the need for a holistic political, economic and military strategy to overcome domination by merchants and moneylenders.
• Sri Lanka President invites Indian firms to privatization
– https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-president-invites-indian-firms-to-privatization-147709/
• Power and energy sector reforms form IMF’s prime focus
– https://island.lk/power-and-energy-sector-reforms-form-prime-focus-at-top-level-talks/
• India’s National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) to construct Sampur solar power project
– https://island.lk/power-and-energy-sector-reforms-form-prime-focus-at-top-level-talks/
• India working on setting up a virtual LNG pipeline from Kuchi to Colombo: Envoy
• Sri Lanka seeks investor interest to sell Litro Gas
– https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-seeks-investor-interest-to-sell-litro-gas-147689/
• Selling Sri Lanka Telecom (SLT) to India
‘Indian billionaire Mukesh Ambani’s Jio Platforms, India. Pettigo Comercio International LDA, the parent group of Lyca Mobile CEO businessman Subaskaran Allirajah.’
– https://economynext.com/regional-rivals-china-india-eye-sri-lanka-telecom-147326/
– https://www.ft.lk/front-page/Govt-receives-3-RfQs-to-divestiture-Sri-Lanka-Telecom-shares/44-757367
• Sri Lanka revises import duties for 1,222 items under Singapore FTA
– https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-revises-import-duties-for-1222-items-under-singapore-fta-147311/
• Sri Lanka manufacturing, services expand in Dec in festive demand: PMI
– https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-manufacturing-services-expand-in-dec-in-festive-demand-pmi-147560/
– https://island.lk/manufacturing-and-services-pmis-rise-in-december-2023/
• Manufacturing, services sectors in December fail to sustain November upturn
• NMRA, CID to do second factory visit on Monday with CEB Engineer
‘owner of the Isolez Biotech Pharma AG (Pvt) Ltd. Sudath Janaka Fernando had claimed he could not remember where the main switchboard is located to turn the power on’
• The anatomy of Sri Lanka’s worst ever health scandal
‘special pathway”–introduced under Minister Rambukwella’s watch to buy billions of rupees worth of drugs and medical devices without vetting for quality, safety and efficacy’
– https://island.lk/a-welcome-move-3/
• SJB is planning to move another motion of no confidence against Keheliya Rambukwella
‘the government is determined to prevent the mastermind behind it from being exposed’
– https://island.lk/a-welcome-move-3/
• Nu Life Biotech to manufacture antibiotics in Sri Lanka
‘Sri Lanka spends around 120 billion rupees to import medicines, according to the statement, and only 20 percent of the country’s pharmaceutical needs are met through the local manufacture of medicine’
– https://economynext.com/nu-life-biotech-to-manufacture-antibiotics-in-sri-lanka-147760/
• Going to Unawatuna with traditional medicine
– http://www1.kalaya.org/2024/01/blog-post_19.html
• 61 oil tanks in Trinco leased for 50 years
– https://www.themorning.lk/articles/WxM8Am06MLNwD1W7h5CA
• Kanchana admits consumers charged Rs. 50 per litre of fuel to settle USD 700 mn Indian loan
• SJB alleges Kanchana did away with 1% royalty on Sinopec, etc., to settle loans, passed debt burden on to consumers
• Russia struts the world nuclear energy stage like a colossus
• Underhand gas deals cost govt. additional Rs 1.138 bn
– https://island.lk/underhand-gas-deals-cost-govt-additional-rs-1-138-bn/
• Germany’s DIMO Energy and Siemens’LV power panel manufacturing for locals, export
• Now most opportune moment to invest in Sri Lanka’s renewable energy sector – President
• Sectoral Oversight Committee not amused by electricity regulator & CEB ignoring directive to digitalise
• Govt. institutions to light up for Independence Day celebrations
• JICA-EDB to introduce Sri Lankan ICT companies to Japanese market
• Govt. increases casino and distillery licence fees
– https://island.lk/govt-increases-casino-and-distillery-licence-fees/
• Hard liquor giant moving into soft liquor manufacture
– https://island.lk/hard-liquor-giant-moving-into-soft-liquor-manufacture/
• Train transporting Prima flour derails near Ragama Station
• WB road safety consultant in productive meet with AAC official
– https://island.lk/wb-road-safety-consultant-in-productive-meet-with-aac-official/
• Sri Lanka to resume work on 600 roads from Feb
– https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-to-resume-work-on-600-roads-from-feb-148006/
• Sri Lanka’s DMT to end backlog in issuing 865,000 licenses for temporary holders by Oct 2024
• Sri Lanka to issue on arrival driving license for foreigners from April: State Minister
• SLTB to launch luxury bus service targeting foreign tourists
– https://island.lk/sltb-to-launch-luxury-service-targeting-foreign-tourists/
Immigration and Emigration Department partners with VFS Global, visa outsourcing company
– https://www.ft.lk/front-page/Visa-system-overhaul-to-boost-investment-tourism/44-757532
• Red Sea crisis sees container boom in Colombo port
– https://www.lankaweb.com/news/items/2024/01/16/red-sea-crisis-sees-container-boom-in-colombo-port/
• Bunkering, TS volumes surge in Colombo
– https://www.sundaytimes.lk/240114/business-times/bunkering-ts-volumes-surge-in-colombo-544922.html
• Red Sea shipping attacks pressure China’s exporters as delays, costs mount – Reuters
‘The Suez Canal is a primary route for China’s westward shipments of goods, including around 60% of its exports to Europe’
• Microsoft Sri Lanka empowers Exxon’s McLarens Group to forge ahead in tech innovation
– https://island.lk/microsoft-sri-lanka-empowers-mclarens-group-to-forge-ahead-in-tech-innovation/
• Cement industry suffers continuous contraction
– https://www.ft.lk/front-page/Cement-industry-suffers-continuous-contraction/44-757411
• Sri Lanka UDA properties draw interest from China, Japan, Korea investors
• Singapore’s Surbana Jurong consultancy revived for mega development plans
• CMC to remove illegal settlements and buildings within Colombo
– https://www.themorning.lk/articles/vDIwTkmvhpaQwck9gAGc
• India’s CEAT helps keep Suwa Seriya ambulances on the road
– https://island.lk/ceat-helps-keep-suwa-seriya-ambulances-on-the-road/
• Sri Lanka sees steep shipping cost rises amid Red Sea troubles
– https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-sees-steep-shipping-cost-rises-amid-red-sea-troubles-147380/
• India is a massive opportunity for us: SriLankan Airlines CEO
‘Whether we privatize or not will make a difference. That’s the goal.”
– https://island.lk/india-is-a-massive-opportunity-for-us-srilankan-airlines-ceo/
• Imported canned fish temporarily suspended after local manufacturers complain of VAT woes
• Laklooms, one of the country’s early hand loom and batik industry
– https://island.lk/karuna-de-silva-of-laklooms/
• How elephant poop becomes fancy paper in Sri Lanka
‘the local government opened 12 factories in the 1960s to utilize waste straw from rice paddies for paper-making. But by 1993, only two of them remained.’
– https://island.lk/how-elephant-poop-becomes-fancy-paper-in-sri-lanka/
• Great Wall Motors uses former Holden factory to build milestone electric car
– https://www.drive.com.au/news/gwm-uses-former-holden-factory-for-electric-car
• Scientific Misconduct and Fraud: The Final Nail in Psychiatry’s Antidepressant Coffin
• What Happened to the US Machine Tool Industry?
– https://www.construction-physics.com/p/what-happened-to-the-us-machine-tool/comments
• It’s Time to Nationalize and Then Break Up Boeing
‘If USA wants to make civilian airplanes here, the government must step in, take over Boeing, and then design a competitive industry’
– https://www.thebignewsletter.com/p/its-time-to-nationalize-and-then
• FAA in no rush to lift 737 MAX 9 grounding as cancellations mount
• The fallout for Boeing will extend far beyond the 737 Max 9 grounding
– https://theaircurrent.com/industry-strategy/boeing-spirit-737-max-9-grounding-fallout/
• Microsoft uses AI to find material for better lithium ion batteries
– https://www.themorning.lk/articles/xnaQsLtkkWRwvYgXRBu8
• The Nuclear Energy Dilemma: Climate Savior or Existential Threat?
– https://socialistproject.ca/2024/01/nuclear-energy-dilemma-climate-savior-or-existential-threat/
• The Price of Steel – The British Steel Industry Must Not Only Be Preserved But Expanded
– https://classconsciousnessproject.blog/2024/01/19/the-price-of-steel/
*
______________________________________________________________________
D8. Finance (Making money from money, banks, lack of investment in modernity)
ee Finance tracks the effects of financialization, the curious role of ratings agencies, false indices, etc., and the rule of moneylenders, preventing investment in modern production.
• Why stepmotherly treatment to oppressed segments of society via Micro Finance Bill?
• Microfinance & Credit Regulatory Authority Bill protecting microfinance companies
– https://island.lk/protest-against-microfinance-and-credit-regulatory-authority-bill/
• Micro-finance and Credit Authority Bill: Crying for Govt. help from under a heap of loans!
• Licensed Finance Companies (LFCs) focus on pawning and gold loans for more stable revenue
• Court of Appeal issues notices to NTB Directors over parate action of Rs. 300 million property
• Green Lanka and Mercantile Investments settle debt dispute amicably
• NDB strategy inputs by World Bank’s International Finance Corporation (IFC)
• Heshana Kuruppu inducted as the 27th president of CA Sri Lanka
‘inducted..the presence of a distinguished gathering including Deshamanya Mahesh Amalean, Chairman of MAS Holdings’
– https://island.lk/heshana-kuruppu-inducted-as-the-27th-president-of-ca-sri-lanka/
• Bandara elected to CPA PNG Council for seventh consecutive year
– https://www.ft.lk/business/Bandaraelected-to-CPA-PNG-Council-for-seventh-consecutive-year/34-757425
• Bank of Ceylon (England) digital transformation with Ifinity Global partnership
• Sri Lanka working with foreign payment apps for QR payments
– https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-working-with-foreign-payment-apps-for-qr-payments-147416/
• Salient features of the new Listing Rules on Corporate Governance
– https://www.ft.lk/columns/Salient-features-of-the-new-Listing-Rules-on-Corporate-Governance/4-757511
• Five companies delist from CSE this week
‘Indo-Malay PLC, Good Hope PLC, Selinsing PLC, Shalimar (Malay) PLC and Nestle Lanka PLC’
– https://www.dailymirror.lk/business-news/Five-companies-delist-from-CSE-this-week/273-275399
– https://www.ft.lk/front-page/Four-more-companies-de-list-from-CSE/44-757531
• Sri Lanka rupee opens at 321.60/85 to the US dollar (J16)
– https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-rupee-opens-at-321-60-85-to-the-us-dollar-147369/
• Three regional telecom players show interest in SLT shares as latter appreciate
– https://island.lk/three-regional-telecom-players-show-interest-in-slt-shares-as-latter-appreciate/
• Sri Lanka stocks close down, Ceylinco boosts turnover
– https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-stocks-close-down-ceylinco-boosts-turnover-147443/
• Sri Lanka rupee closes at 321.40/60 to the US dollar
– https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-rupee-closes-at-321-40-60-to-the-us-dollar-147455/
• Downturn at CSE persists as YTD net foreign selling tops Rs. 1 b mark
• Sri Lanka rupee opens stronger at 321.20/40 to the US dollar (J17)
– https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-rupee-opens-stronger-at-321-20-40-to-the-us-dollar-147523/
• Sri Lanka stocks close down, driven by banks
– https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-stocks-close-down-driven-by-banks-147620/
• Sri Lanka rupee closes stronger at 320.90/321.10 to the US dollar
– https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-rupee-closes-stronger-at-320-90-321-10-to-the-us-dollar-147633/
• Sri Lanka 3-month T-bill yield down 36bp
– https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-3-month-t-bill-yield-down-36bp-147643/
• Net foreign outflows within first 15 days of New Year hit Rs. 1 billion
– https://island.lk/net-foreign-outflows-within-first-15-days-of-new-year-hit-rs-1-billion/
• Stock market’s woes persist amidst net foreign selling
– https://www.ft.lk/front-page/Stock-market-s-woes-persist-amidst-net-foreign-selling/44-757461
J18
• Investors’ doubts and anxieties impede share market momentum
– https://island.lk/investors-doubts-and-anxieties-impede-share-market-momentum/
• Sri Lanka rupee opens at 320.25/50 to the US dollar
– https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-rupee-opens-at-320-25-50-to-the-us-dollar-147703/
• Sri Lanka stocks close down, as selling pressure in banks continues
– https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-stocks-close-down-as-selling-pressure-in-banks-continues-147838/
• Sri Lanka rupee closes at 320.70/90 to the US dollar
– https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-rupee-closes-at-320-70-90-to-the-us-dollar-147841/
J19
• Sri Lanka rupee opens at 320.60/321.00 to the US dollar
– https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-rupee-opens-at-320-60-321-00-to-the-us-dollar-147891/
• Sri Lanka rupee closes at 320.20/40 to the US dollar
– https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-rupee-closes-at-320-20-40-to-the-us-dollar-148018/
• Colombo stock market dips to six month low
– https://www.ft.lk/front-page/Colombo-stock-market-dips-to-six-month-low/44-757577
• Sri Lanka stocks close down for second week
– https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-stocks-close-down-for-second-week-148014/
• US legal system is an unlevel playing field tilted in favor of Wall Street’s Banks / Corporates
*
_________________________________________________________________
D9. Business (Rentierism: money via imports, real-estate, tourism, insurance, fear, privatization)
ee Business focuses on the rentier diversions of the oligarchy, the domination by a merchant mafia, making money from unproductive land sales, tourism, insurance, advertising, etc. – the charade of corporate press releases disguised as ‘news’
• Sellers misleading customers: Concern over what is happening over VAT
• Consumer-durable retailer Singer companies set for merger
‘part of the bigger conglomerate – Hayleys Group. (subsidiary of Singer, Singer Finance, a mid-sized licensed finance company in Sri Lanka’
– https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-singer-companies-set-for-merger-147912/
– https://www.dailymirror.lk/business-news/Singer-Sri-Lanka-to-merge-with-subsidiaries/273-275398
• Sunshine Holdings appoints Shyam Sathasivam as Group CEO
‘A committee member of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce (CCC) and the former president of the Sri Lanka Chamber of Pharmaceutical Industry (SLCPI). Shyam started his career at Arthur Andersen’
– https://island.lk/sunshine-holdings-announces-the-appointment-of-shyam-sathasivam-as-group-ceo/
• Export Credit Insurance Corporation (SLECIC) & Sri Lanka’s economic turnaround
– https://island.lk/slecic-to-the-fore-of-sri-lankas-economic-turnaround/
• Kiriella urges Minister Siyambalapitiya: ‘Hands off Kandy! No Casinos in our sacred city’
• Sri Lanka EDB signs World Fair Trade Network cooperation framework
– https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-edb-signs-world-fair-trade-network-cooperation-framework-147584/
• India’s ITC Ratnadipa Colombo set to open next month: Harin
– https://www.ft.lk/front-page/ITC-Ratnadipa-Colombo-set-to-open-next-month-Harin/44-757397
• Sri Lanka to clear barriers to yacht-based tourism
– https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-to-clear-barriers-to-yacht-based-tourism-147269/
• LKI Executive Director chairs panel on ‘SL as a Destination: From Antiquity to Modernity’
• Sri Lanka plans to draw higher spending tourists with Southern cultural events
• Reckitt & Colman’s Lalith de Mel served on boards of 27 companies abroad & 11 in Sri Lanka
*
______________________________________________________
D10. Politics (Anti-parliament discourse, unelected constitution)
ee Politics points to the constant diversions and spectacles and the mercantile and financial forces funding the political actors, of policy hijacked by private interests minus public oversight.
• Presidential Secretariat to prorogue Parliament on January 26
• Speaker Wajira Abeywardena’s family members in parliamentary staff subject of lobby talk
– https://island.lk/speakers-family-members-in-his-own-and-parliamentary-staff-subject-of-lobby-talk/
• Regulation of Election Expenditure Act No 3 of 2023 put in place to scrutinize funding sources of political parties – MP Wajira Abeywardena
• Sri Lanka’s Election Expenditure Act: A Step Towards Transparency – Abeywardena
• Moragoda wants empowered Senate/Upper House for religious, ethnic, and regional diversity
– https://island.lk/ex-hc-to-india-moragoda-calls-for-abolition-of-provincial-councils/
• Malwathu Prelate tells AKD country at risk of complete deterioration unless taken over by new group
• Election bribes have ceased to work: JVP AKD
– https://island.lk/election-bribes-have-ceased-to-work-akd/
• Ranil to contest presidential election as ‘Grand Alliance’ candidate
• Insights into Sri Lanka’s next presidential election and challenges faced by NPP
‘The burning of the Meetiyagoda Weaving Mills in 1971 during the insurrection had a significant impact on the local community in Batapola and Meetiyagoda.’
– https://island.lk/insights-into-sri-lankas-next-presidential-election-and-challenges-faced-by-npp/
• Pillayan talks of elections and the East, says Ranil is the best bet for the country
• New MP Wasalathilaka is major financier of the SJB & close relative of Jalani Premadasa
‘owned a franchise in the recently concluded LPL cricket tournament.’
– https://www.sundaytimes.lk/240114/columns/545347-545347.html
– https://www.sundaytimes.lk/240114/news/nayana-fills-vacancy-545328.html
• My own SJB colleagues betrayed me: Chaminda Wijesiri laments
• On Lenin’s Philosophical Notebooks (2018) – Emiliano Alessandroni
– https://redsails.org/nei-quaderni-filosofici-di-lenin/
*
__________________________________________________________
D11. Media (Mis/Coverage of economics, technology, science and art)
ee Media shows how corporate media monopoly determines what is news, art, culture, etc. The media is part of the public relations (corporate propaganda) industry. The failure to highlight our priorities, the need to read between the lines. To set new perspectives and priorities.
• US Tech giants ring the warning bell as Lanka unveils controversial Online Safety Bill
– https://island.lk/asia-internet-coalition-calls-for-overhaul-of-the-draft-online-safety-bill/
• Over 70-pct of Sri Lankan public unaware of Online Safety Bill: USAID CPA survey
• Sri Lanka opposition promises to repeal planned online speech law
‘We won’t jeopardize ties with major platforms like Meta, Google, and YouTube, essential for #lka economic growth,” Harsha de Silva said’
– https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-opposition-promises-to-repeal-planned-online-speech-law-147435/
– https://www.ft.lk/front-page/SJB-vows-to-repeal-OSB-within-week-of-assuming-power/44-757403
• Second Reading of the Online Safety Bill will be held on January 23 and 24.
‘Parliament usually meets in the second and fourth weeks from Tuesday to Friday’
– https://island.lk/debate-in-late-jan-sittings-restricted/
• NMSJ Karu asks for postponement of debate on Online Safety Bill, fresh consultations
– https://island.lk/nmsj-asks-for-postponement-of-debate-on-online-safety-bill-fresh-consultations/
• Sajith requests speaker to postpone Online Safety Bill
– https://economynext.com/sri-lanka-opposition-promises-to-repeal-planned-online-speech-law-147435/
• Online Safety Bill: Chilling free speech, urge 58 groups
– https://english.newsfirst.lk/2024/01/20/online-safety-bill-chilling-free-speech-urge-groups
• Creative industries remain an untapped sector in Sri Lanka
– https://economynext.com/creative-industries-remain-an-untapped-sector-in-sri-lanka-147725/
• Govt promises to check distortion of religious teachings
– https://island.lk/govt-promises-to-check-distortion-of-religious-teachings/
• The sound of silence of Suranimala
‘I was one of the corporate executives who had to ignore advertising spent on The Sunday Leader, purely because it was a risk to the brand to associate with Lasantha…’
– https://www.themorning.lk/articles/NoxJiEJ1sxLRlxo2S42Z
• “A glass of blood to drink”: The insurgent poetry of Lakdhas Wikkramasinha
– https://www.himalmag.com/jvp-insurrection-1971-sri-lankan-poetry-lakdhas-wikkramasinha/
• Music Workshop in Memory of Maestro Khemadasa
– https://www.dailymirror.lk/news-features/Music-Workshop-in-Memory-of-Maestro-Khemadasa/131-275313
• Music laced with hate speech is transforming Indian politics.
– https://www.newsclick.in/unequal-music
• The Fascinating History of Television – From Idiot Box to Intelligent Box
‘In 1992 government decided to allow private TV stations to be established’
• Mainstream Media Lies About U.S. Wars in Iraq Wear On
– https://www.moonofalabama.org/2024/01/mainstream-media-lies-about-us-wars-in-iraq-wear-on.html
• In Australia the banning started in earnest when the Ukraine war commenced in 2014
– https://johnhelmer.net/russia-once-it-was-possible-to-talk-like-this-to-listen/#more-89191
• Who’s for Homer, Propagandist for God-Ordered Genocide and for those Following God’s Orders to Kill
• Ask a Foolish Question – Robert Sheckley, 1953
– https://redsails.org/ask-a-foolish-question/
• On Three Short Stories – Roderic Day, 2024
– https://redsails.org/on-three-short-stories/
• Year of Troubles: The Hatchets Come Out for Substack and Simplicius
– https://simplicius76.substack.com/p/year-of-troubles-the-hatchets-come
*
_________________________________________________
email: econenews@gmail.com
blog: eesrilanka.wordpress.com
_________________________________________________
e-Con e-News 