AGP Executive Report

Asian Games 2026 (Sports): Sri Lanka’s Rumesh Pathirage struck gold in the men’s javelin at Nagoya, finishing with 88.55m in rain-soaked conditions, while India’s Yashvir Singh took silver (85.72m) and Rohit Yadav bronze (84.35m). Port City Colombo (Business/Diplomacy): Qatar Chamber officials met Sri Lanka’s Port City Colombo Economic Commission in Doha to discuss trade ties and high-value investment opportunities, with Qatar urged to explore joint ventures. Cyclone Ditwah Recovery (Infrastructure): China and Sri Lanka signed an agreement to rebuild 14 bridges damaged by Cyclone Ditwah, aiming to restore transport links and strengthen the wider road network. Public Health (Aid): India dispatched about 3 tonnes of anti-TB medicines to Colombo to support Sri Lanka’s health system. Transport (Rail): Upcountry train services between Colombo Fort, Peradeniya and Gampola are set to resume from Oct 2 after restoration work on cyclone-damaged track. Media (Local Industry): BMI Group launched Ahasa TV, a new education-focused channel aimed at family viewing and quality programming.

Road Safety Update: Sri Lanka’s driver demerit points system is set to start with a six-month pilot from October 1, running until March 31, 2027, with 33 traffic offences covered and digital tracking planned via existing online fine systems. Public Service Digital Push: The GovHR (Public Service Human Resource Management Information System) has been launched to centralise HR records and manage recruitment and career processes as Sri Lanka prepares to hire over 120,000 public servants. Energy & Accountability: An audit at Norochcholai found diesel worth over Rs160 million was not properly delivered for restart operations, with investigations ongoing and a storage officer removed. Transport Finance Concern: Expressway loans of Rs. 611.37 billion may take over 171 years to repay from current earnings, with the Treasury covering shortfalls. Asian Games Cricket: India advanced to the men’s semi-finals after rain abandoned their quarter-final vs Afghanistan; the next semi-final opponent will be either Sri Lanka or Nepal depending on weather. Sports Spotlight: England wrapped up their ODI summer with a 223-run win over Sri Lanka, powered by Tom Banton’s maiden ODI century. Tourism & Culture: Sri Lanka’s W15 Hanthana Estate and W15 Ambuluwawa received international recognition at the World Travel Awards 2026.

Fuel Relief Plan: President Anura Kumara Dissanayake says Sri Lanka will provide a three-month fuel subsidy for October to December, with Rs. 41 billion allocated, as the Cabinet paper is set to go before ministers on Sept 28. Anti-Corruption Push: Speaking at a Gampaha rally, the President vowed “no limit” to action against theft of public property, saying major corruption cases are under way, including those needing international support. UNGA Diplomacy: Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath is set to lead Sri Lanka’s national statement at the 81st UN General Assembly on Sept 28, outlining the country’s foreign policy priorities. Tourism Boost: Sri Lanka has been ranked among the world’s top 10 fastest-improving tourism economies in the World Economic Forum’s 2026 Travel & Tourism Development Index. Cricket Spotlight: England wrapped up their ODI series win over Sri Lanka at The Oval with a 223-run victory, powered by Tom Banton’s maiden England ODI century (126) and Harry Brook’s 77.

Judicial Reform Debate: The National Movement for Social Justice (NMSJ) has urged lawmakers to rethink Sri Lanka’s proposed 22nd Amendment, warning it could force the Supreme Court to rule on matters tied to its own judges’ tenure, raising concerns over judicial independence. Diplomatic Expansion: Sri Lanka has appointed two new Honorary Consuls in Georgia—one in Tbilisi and another in Batumi—to boost consular help, trade and tourism links. Tourism Push: Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath says Sri Lanka is in talks about hosting the Miss Universe pageant, pitching it as a boost for tourism and global visibility. Energy & Business Wins: First Energy won two clean-energy awards for a building-integrated solar installation at the People’s Bank head office; Daraz Sri Lanka received Bronze at SLIM DIGIS 2.6 for its 2025 11.11 campaign; and Zirateh secured three SLIM Digis awards in automotive marketing. Public Safety: Sri Lanka Police clarified rules on vehicle repossessions after warnings to leasing firms. Health Alert: Dengue cases are rising as rains persist, with over 1,200 new cases reported.

Crackdown on drugs: Canada’s border agency seized 44kg of hashish and 13kg of cocaine bound for Sri Lanka at Toronto Pearson on Sept. 3, arresting and remanding one suspect. Sri Lanka politics: Opposition MPs are preparing a no-confidence motion against Speaker Jagath Wickramaratne, citing 46 allegations over use of state resources and official conduct. UN diplomacy: Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath will lead Sri Lanka’s delegation to the 81st UN General Assembly, delivering the national statement and holding talks with UN leaders and foreign ministers. Judicial reform backlash: Sri Lanka’s controversial anti-terror and judicial changes continue to draw fierce criticism, with rights groups warning about harsher curbs and impacts on anti-corruption safeguards. Sports—Asian Games cricket: Quarter-final line-ups are set for the men’s cricket event, with Sri Lanka facing Nepal after rain disrupted other matches. Sports—cricket decider: England drafted Dan Lawrence after Jos Buttler’s hamstring injury for the ODI decider vs Sri Lanka at The Oval, with Jordan Cox in contention.

Constitutional Reform Watch: Sri Lanka’s 22nd Amendment debate is heating up as the Supreme Court says the judges’ retirement-age bill can pass without a referendum, with proposals including raising Supreme Court retirement to 67 and Court of Appeal to 65—while critics warn it could weaken judicial independence. Anti-Drug Operations: The Sri Lanka Navy says it has seized narcotics worth over Rs. 55 billion this year, arresting nearly 300 suspects and seizing heroin, “Ice,” cocaine, hashish, narcotic pills and even 55 tonnes of beedi leaves. Rabies Push: Sri Lanka is expanding dog vaccination and awareness to curb rabies, reporting 1.69 million dogs vaccinated in 2025 and a drop in human deaths. Tax Rules Update: From Nov 1, 2026, a valid TIN certificate will be required for key transactions like opening bank accounts, vehicle registration, land registration and credit cards. Sports—SL Cricket: Sri Lanka levelled the England ODI series at Headingley with Kusal Mendis’ 121 and Dunith Wellalage’s impact, setting up the Oval decider. Sports—Asian Games Cricket: Rain knocked Japan out of men’s cricket at the Asian Games; Nepal advanced and will face Sri Lanka in the quarter-finals.

Judicial Reform Vote: Sri Lanka’s parliament approved the controversial 22nd Amendment, extending Supreme Court judges’ retirement from 65 to 67 and Court of Appeal judges from 63 to 65, with 158 MPs voting in favour amid opposition protests over judicial independence and a backlog of about 1.1 million cases. Public Service Hiring: The government says it will recruit over 120,000 people into public service in 2026, including around 30,000 teachers and rural officials, with more hiring planned for health and agriculture. VAT on Books: Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya said the upcoming budget will likely revise VAT on books, following requests tied to protecting reading culture. AI Push: Sri Lanka AI Week 2026 was launched to boost AI skills and innovation, featuring international experts and a National AI Expo on Sept 29-30. Cricket—ODI Decider: England’s Jos Buttler is ruled out of the ODI series decider at The Oval with a left hamstring twinge; Jordan Cox is expected to keep wicket as England face Sri Lanka after the series was levelled. Sports—SAFF Cup Build-up: Sri Lanka’s football team will play Seychelles, Syria and Mauritius in FIFA-approved matches ahead of the SAFF Cup, aiming to end a 31-year wait since 1995.

Drug Bust: Sri Lanka Navy says it has seized illicit drugs worth over Rs. 55 billion this year, arresting about 300 suspects and taking 50 vessels into custody, including 1,080kg heroin, 590kg crystal meth, 256kg cocaine, 4 million narcotic pills, 51kg hashish, and 55 tonnes of smuggled beedi leaves, with cannabis also detected in the Gurunagar lagoon. Public Finance Rules: The Inland Revenue Department says a valid TIN certificate will be mandatory from Nov 1, 2026 for key transactions like opening bank accounts, getting credit cards, registering businesses, land and vehicle registrations, and corporate share transfers. Justice & Closure: After the Sept 22 Easter Sunday bombing verdict, victim survivors say closure is still missing as suspicions remain and more related cases are pending. Courts Go Digital: Colombo District Court begins electronic filing for Small Claims cases under the e-Courts project, with lawyers able to submit documents online 24/7. Environment & Weather: 20 more forests covering nearly 9,538 hectares will be declared reserves under the Vanaspathi programme, while the Met Department warns of showers, possible heavy rain around 100mm, and strong winds as a Bay of Bengal system weakens. Energy Policy: The National Chamber of Commerce urges President Dissanayake to intervene over rooftop solar policy changes, warning of a potential electricity shortfall by mid-2027. Public Service Hiring: Sri Lanka has started recruiting over 120,000 public sector workers in 2026, including about 30,000 teachers. Health Alert: MRI reports a rise in Influenza A H1N1 cases, urging people to seek medical advice and avoid self-medicating with NSAIDs. Tourism & Culture: Preparations are underway for a boat service to view Adam’s Bridge sandbanks in Mannar for World Tourism Day, and a Mid-Autumn Festival cultural gala was held in Colombo.

ODI Decider Drama: Sri Lanka stunned England at Headingley, winning by 16 runs to level the three-match series 1-1 after captain Kusal Mendis struck 121 and Dunith Wellalage took 3-49; England’s chase collapsed when Jos Buttler pulled up with a hamstring injury at 254-4, retired hurt, and could only add two more runs before dismissal, leaving the hosts short on 305-9. Constitutional Showdown: Sri Lanka’s Parliament began a two-day debate on the controversial 22nd Amendment to raise judges’ retirement ages, with opposition leaders and supporters protesting claims it threatens judicial independence. Easter Bombings Verdict: Sri Lanka’s High Court sentenced 15 men over the 2019 Easter Sunday church bombings, with terms ranging up to 260 years, and all convicted defendants set to appeal. Foreign Policy Spotlight: Foreign Affairs Minister Vijitha Herath is set to deliver Sri Lanka’s national statement at the UN General Assembly in New York later this month. Energy Hub Talks: Sri Lanka and the UAE discussed developing Trincomalee as a regional energy hub, alongside renewed plans to strengthen parliamentary ties and tourism cooperation. Scam Alert: SLBFE warned the public about a fake website using its name and logo to steal personal details from job seekers targeting Israel.

Easter Justice: Sri Lanka’s High Court Trial-at-Bar sentenced 15 men over the 2019 Easter Sunday attacks to prison terms ranging from 200 to 260 years, while nine accused were acquitted and one accused died during the trial. Anti-Rabies Push: A new “Elimination of Rabies and Registration of Dogs” Bill was tabled in Parliament, proposing nationwide dog registration, wider dog vaccination, and new advisory committees to replace the current rabies and dog registration laws. Police Update: Police released a composite sketch and launched an investigation into the alleged abduction and sexual abuse of a 13-year-old girl at Galle Face Green, and also introduced a WhatsApp number (071 8595950) for police clearance inquiries while system maintenance pauses online submissions. Public Safety: A private bus crashed into the rear of an SLTB bus in Buttala, injuring 12 people. Drought Planning: Environment Minister Dammika Patabedi said Sri Lanka will seek international assistance to prepare for future droughts through a UN-backed fund. Diplomacy & Labour: Sri Lanka and Qatar discussed expanding ties beyond employment into investment, development, maritime and aviation connectivity. Sports (Sri Lanka-linked): In Asian Games action, India’s men’s hockey beat Sri Lanka 8-2, while Sri Lanka’s indoor cricket juniors named a squad for the World Series in South Africa.

Easter Sunday Justice: Sri Lanka’s High Court has sentenced 15 men over the 2019 Easter attacks to 200–260 years each, with all convicted set to appeal; one convict, Abu Thariq, told court he believes key masterminds are still at large and says he is ready to give evidence. IMF Watch: The IMF says Sri Lanka’s economy grew 4.2% in Q2 and calls H1 fiscal performance “strong,” but warns recovery could be derailed by El Niño and Middle East fallout, urging tax and revenue reforms and protection of anti-corruption safeguards. Anti-Terror Law: Sri Lanka has gazetted a new Anti-Terrorism Bill to replace the PTA, expanding the definition of terrorism and adding cyber and critical infrastructure protections—while critics fear it may be harsher. Parliament & 22A: BASL urges MPs to vote freely on the 22nd Amendment after the Supreme Court said no referendum is required. Trade & Customs: Sri Lanka Customs will go paperless from Oct 1 with an electronic declaration system, and export earnings topped $12bn in the first eight months of 2026. Electricity Relief: Parliament approved Rs. 17.213bn to ease electricity bill pressure. El Niño Risk: Sri Lanka faces drought and heavy rain risks, as the IMF flags climate shocks alongside global uncertainty.

Easter Sunday Verdict: Sri Lanka’s High Court convicted 15 men over the 2019 Easter bombings and sentenced them to prison terms ranging from 200 to 260 years, with properties confiscated; nine others were acquitted. Central Bank Crackdown: The CBSL ordered asset freezes on six companies and their directors, citing alleged violations linked to its non-bank financial institutions probe. IMF Update: The IMF said Sri Lanka’s economy stayed resilient, growing 4.2% in 2026 Q2, but warned downside risks remain as inflation rose to 8% in August and risks from the Middle East and El Niño continue. Sports—Asian Games: India crushed Sri Lanka in women’s T20 cricket final, winning by 147 runs to retain gold; in men’s hockey, India hammered Sri Lanka 16-1. Cricket—ODI: England beat Sri Lanka in the 1st ODI with Will Jacks’ five-for and an unbeaten 46, taking an 89-run win. Digital Economy: A UK-Sri Lanka forum backed by the British High Commission explored turning rising mobile usage into business growth.

Easter Bombings Verdict: Sri Lanka’s High Court convicted 15 men over the 2019 Easter Sunday attacks, sentencing each to 200 years and ordering property confiscation; the court acquitted nine others, with the blasts killing more than 260 people and injuring over 500. ODI Cricket—England vs Sri Lanka: Will Jacks powered England to an 89-run win in the first ODI at Chester-le-Street, smashing an unbeaten 46 and taking 5-22 as Sri Lanka were bowled out for 176; England won the toss and batted first, with debutant Sachindu Colombage impressing for Sri Lanka. Asian Games Cricket: India won women’s T20 gold against Sri Lanka by 147 runs, with Smriti Mandhana’s 79 and a huge 216-3 total; Sri Lanka were dismissed for 69 as spinners dominated. Constitutional/Justice Watch: Sri Lanka’s Supreme Court ruled the 22nd Amendment Bill needs only a two-thirds parliamentary special majority and no referendum, raising fresh concerns about judicial independence. Sports—Asian Games Day 4: India’s Day 4 spotlight includes Manu Bhaker and Mirabai Chanu, plus men’s badminton semifinal vs China.

Asian Games Cricket: India’s women defended their Asian Games title in emphatic style, beating Sri Lanka by 147 runs in the gold-medal final at Korogi Sports Park. Sports Spotlight: Smriti Mandhana top-scored with 79 off 45, Shafali Verma made 48, and Richa Ghosh finished unbeaten on 49 as India posted a record 216/3 before spinners bundled Sri Lanka out for 69. Justice Watch: A Sri Lankan court is set to deliver a verdict in the Easter bombings trial, with Naufer Moulavi and others facing charges tied to the 2019 attacks. Economy & Finance: Fitch upgraded Sri Lanka’s long-term credit rating to ‘B-’ with a stable outlook, citing macro-stabilisation and structural reforms, while warning debt and FX buffers remain tight. Prison Overcrowding: Officials discussed faster court procedures and community service/work camps for minor offenders to ease severe prison overcrowding. Legal Aid for Anojan: Sri Lanka’s Foreign Minister said lawyers Faiszer Musthapha and Upul Kumarapperuma will provide free legal assistance for death-row Sivarasa Anojan in Saudi Arabia. Weather Alert: Meteorologists warned October-November could bring worse winds and landslide risks as El Niño conditions intensify.

Asian Games Cricket: India’s women take on Sri Lanka in the Asian Games final on Tuesday, with Shafali Verma’s unbeaten 100 and India’s strong form set against Sri Lanka’s Chamari Athapaththu-led chase heroics. Parliament & Death Sentence Case: Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath will make a special statement in Parliament on Sivarasa Anojan, a Sri Lankan sentenced to death in Saudi Arabia, after President Dissanayake met Anojan’s parents and pledged diplomatic and legal efforts for a pardon. Sports—England vs Sri Lanka: England look to ODI revival in a bruising tour after heavy defeats, while England’s Lions appoint Jonathan Trott as head coach for winter tours including Sri Lanka. Local Justice—Bond Scam: Lawyer says Nimal Perera must face legal action over the Central Bank bond scam and alleged insider trading, citing SEC findings. Weather & Safety: Sri Lanka Navy puts 171 disaster relief teams on standby as heavy rains and a low-pressure system raise flood risks, with fishing vessels warned to move to safer waters. Energy: Sri Lanka connects its first grid-scale battery storage system (10MW/40MWh) to the national grid, part of a wider storage rollout. Qatar-Labour Talks: Qatar and Sri Lanka’s joint labour committee meets in Doha to strengthen cooperation on regulating recruitment and training workers.

Fuel Price Pressure: Sri Lanka is weighing legal options to let private fuel distributors set prices within a government band, after firms like LIOC, Sinopec and RM Parks cut diesel supply by about 50% due to losses from global oil costs and subsidy removal. Maritime & Weather Readiness: The Navy has put 171 disaster-relief teams on standby and deployed 14 units across the South and West as heavy rains and flood risks rise. Road Safety Crackdown: Police plan on-site drug testing kits for drivers within 2–3 months, after a pilot found over 5% of bus drivers were allegedly driving under narcotics. Legal & Governance: The Supreme Court dismissed a 35-year-old bid by an Indian national to recover seized gold at BIA, ruling transit passengers fall under Customs jurisdiction; separately, a warrant was issued for former minister Wimal Weerawansa over a 2016 UN protest case. Music Licensing: New rules now require event licences for certain copyrighted music at weddings, hotels, corporate functions and DJ/band shows, with fees based on attendance. Sports (Asian Games): India and Sri Lanka set for the women’s cricket gold-medal rematch after India beat Bangladesh by 114 runs and Sri Lanka edged Pakistan.