19 March, 2024

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Sirisena Enjoys Kehel Kole Bath While Ravi K Wants Public To Tighten Belts: Full Text Of The Budget Speech

As President Maithripala Sirisena enjoyed a scrumptious lunch in a kehel kole (banana leaf) today, Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake unveiled a mixed bag of goodies, aimed at tightening the belt of the public by increasing the taxes while also reducing essential items such as green gram, dhal, potatoes, white sugar, LP Gas and Kerosene.maithripala-photo-via-his-media-director

Photo via President’s media director Dharmasri Bandara Ekanayake’s Facebook Page

Delivering the annual budget speech in Parliament this afternoon, Karunanayake announced an increase the Telecommunication Levy on internet services by 25%, despite his government initially promoting the use of internet prior to elections last year, by way of promising to provide free Wi-Fi across the country, which is yet to be realized.

He also proposed for a SIM activation levy of Rs. 200 to be imposed from next year, due to the large number of SIM cards sold monthly. According to Karunanayake, more than 150,000 SIM cards are sold in Sri Lanka monthly. “Annual Spectrum License Fee (ASLF) has not been revised for a considerable period of time. Hence, I propose to increase the Annual Spectrum Licensee Fee by 25 percent, with effect from January 1, 2017,” he said.

Karunanayake also said that the Annual Spectrum License Fee (ASLF) has not been revised for a considerable period of time, hence he proposed the increase the Annual Spectrum Licensee Fee by 25 percent, with effect from January 1, 2017.

In support of the country’s digitalization process, all mobile telephone operators will be given a 6 months period to convert their infrastructure to provide at least 3G coverage. Any operator who failed to implement within this period will be liable for a surcharge of Rs.100 million per District. All metro areas are required to be converted to 4G by 30th June 2018, according to the Finance Minister.

He also proposed to introduce the Excise (Special Provisions) Duty on the importation of beer can at the rate of Rs.10 per can of not more than 325 millilitre and Rs. 15 per can of more than 325 millilitre. Further, Custom Duty (CD) on the importation of powdered milk will be increased from Rs.500/- to Rs.800/- per liter on the importation of potable alcohol.

He also insisted that the Ceylon Tobacco Company donate Rs. 500 million to the Presidential Fund to be utilized by the Presidential Task Force for the antismoking campaign from next year.

Meanwhile, the corporate income tax rate has been proposed to be revised to create a three tier structure of 14 percent, 28 percent and 40 percent. Income tax rate applicable on liquor, tobacco, betting and gaming, etc. will be continued at the rate of 40 percent. SMEs, Exporters of goods and services, Agricultural sector and Education sector will be subjected to the lower rate of 14 percent. All others including banking, finance, manufacturing and trading will be subjected to income tax at 28 percent. Income tax rate of 10 percent currently applicable on funds, dividends, treasury bills and bonds will be increased to 14 percent. The SME category will be redefined in a rationalized manner.

With Holding Tax (WHT) on interest income will be increased to 5 percent from the present level and the exemption applicable on savings account with less than Rs. 60,000 per annum will be removed. WHT will be re-introduced on specified fees where the payment exceeds Rs. 50,000 per month. Interest income of senior citizens up to Rs. 1.5 million per annum, which is Rs. 125,000 per month will be exempted from income tax.

Read the budget speech in full here

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Latest comments

  • 40
    5

    The president is eating an average basic Sri Lankan lunch with three vegetables. The Colombo Telegraph is giving a wrong picture to overseas readers

    • 26
      8

      This is very right. I hate to see this repeating. CT is simply against Mr Sirisena.

      For me, he is the most humble person in lanken politics. We can learn from him lot.

      Had Rajaakshe been in his place today, he would have spent over 1lack of rupees for his lunch or not ? No matter over 30% of the nation provably have no access to drinking water – as Sirasa gammadda revealed lately.

      Regardless of the politics, being played by each individual, we need to allow respect where it is due.

      • 10
        6

        Ravi K. must know that Charity begins at home.

        All Sri Lankans should refuse to pay income taxes and start a movement against taxes, as long as the Parliament of corrupt Morons has Duty free cars and permits.

        • 2
          7

          You are a fool.

        • 1
          3

          Now their talks have been as if the current regime introdcuted VAT.

          Each and everyone living in srilanka MUST be entitled to lankan tax systems.

          People should be made very clear that Europeans in general pay more taxes than anyone else. That is why those countries look like clean, ordered, well organized and and… If first time traveller would put the feet on an any country in Europe, would surprise just having got to see, the disipline, law and order and well organized systems. That is what they get to see first. Taxes and proper systems help them to keep order the countries.

      • 1
        3

        Rajapakse is eating 4 course meal at home ordering from 5 star hotels.

      • 1
        1

        DID YOU SEE HIM EATING A B’ DAY CAKE WITH A FORK ON RW B DAY CELEBRATIONS. WHAT IS SO GREAT EATING ON A KEHEL KOLE AS EVEN THE LAMPAIS IN SL ARE WRAPPED IN KEHEL KOLA. PEOPLE IN SL ATTACH TOO MUCH IMPORTANCE TO IRRELEVANT MATTERS. THAT IS THE REASON THAT SL ARE SO FOOLISH TO MAKE PEOPLE LOOK GREAT ON UNIMPORTANT MATTERS. IWOULD LOVE TO EAT ON A KEHEL KOLE TOO AT EVERY OPPORTUNITY IF I HAVE THE CHANCE. DOES THAT MEAN I FALL INTO THE HUMBLE CATEGORY AS WELL. UNFORTUNATELY THE CIRCUMSTANCES WHEN WORKING DENY THIS OPPORTUNITY UNLIKE FOR PRIVILEDGED PEOPLE.

        • 4
          1

          sarojini

          “IWOULD LOVE TO EAT ON A KEHEL KOLE TOO AT EVERY OPPORTUNITY IF I HAVE THE CHANCE. DOES THAT MEAN I FALL INTO THE HUMBLE CATEGORY AS WELL.”

          No, you don’t.

          You shouldn’t entertain such rich thoughts. On the contrary you are a public bigot who is free to unleash whatever is unreasonable,unethical and unethical.

        • 3
          0

          @Sarojini, Dumb woman, learn how to write English first, what makes you think it needed to be capitalized your rant; it is OK if you want to scream : I love BLACK DICKS

      • 1
        0

        Rarityminds – I totally agree with you on your sentiments expressed on the President. He has not forgotten his rural
        beginning and he still leads a humble life, though he is
        the President of the country. He had made several trips
        to poor North, walked into their poor mud homes and mingled
        with the poor. He may have even shared the meals with them.
        None of the past Presidents or even the Sinhala ministers
        ever did this before. None of the Provinces suffer like the
        N/E suffer, which the majority masses do not realise but the
        President certainly realised. He has taken to heart the poor conditions the people live in the North and East and there could be some truth in his saying that he will settle all the problems of the Tamils slowly and steadily and that may be the reason TNA is lying low without agitation. Sudden change to hi fi living is not there in him and his family. This is a blessing the poor people got.
        He will become the hero of the Tamils of N/E if he frees the
        people from armed forces and armed militia (Like AAWAs& BAAVAs) harassment, eradicate drug menace, find employment, and stop illegal colonization & erecting Buddhist statues in all nooks & corners of N/E with no worshippers around and release all the
        lands, including the prime and fertile lands, confiscated during the war to the rightful owners .People crave for peace in their areas after 40 years of suffering due to war and the rest of us must have sympathy on them. This is what Buddhism teaches, not hatred.

    • 24
      7

      Dr M.L.A.M.Najimudeen

      “The president is eating an average basic Sri Lankan lunch with three vegetables.”

      This could be another public relation exercise by Sirisena’s spin doctors.

      The budget demands the people tighten up their belt.

      The timing of the release of this photo is perfect. Sirisena wants people to know he lives a frugal life.

    • 14
      9

      CT ……DISGRACE AND SHAME ON YOU!!

      A humble meal has become a luxury on your Stupid web site.
      CUT THE CRAP AND GET ON WITH SOME DIRE NEWS FOR THE UPLIFTMENT OF OUR COUNTRY.

      You guys had become garbage site.
      Don’t you have news like that Nammaal or Jokeitha had fallen off the HORSE???

    • 7
      0

      Look carefully. This Kehel koley is a gimmick. Traditionally the Kehel koley is heated a bit before a meal is wrapped with it. The Kehel koley you see in the picture does not appear to have been heated nor does it have fold marks on it. The other, which I cannot understand is who carries dishes separately with a meal wrapped in a Kehel koley? It looks like a Banana Leaf service in the Parliament Canteen.

      • 5
        0

        The Professional

        ” Traditionally the Kehel koley is heated a bit before a meal is wrapped with it.”

        The spin doctors should take note of your point.

      • 1
        0

        The Professional,
        Congratulations Sherlock Holmes !You are exactly correct.Lets ask First Lady to do a proper job by heating kesel kole before wrapping otherwise it will get torn.Or else those Spin Doctors of Media team led by Chamuditha to be more Professional or else ask H.E.Sirisena to be more Professional in fooling people.

        This looks like French President Hollande takes train to Luxomberg European Parliament .In the media it was fan fare but in reality entire train was booked & Helicopter was flying overhead cost is same as taking a flight .Your guess is good as mine !

      • 1
        0

        The Professional – What the President is seen eating is a
        ‘lamparis’ meal with three extra portion of curries. It’s
        origin is Portughese. Its a luxury meal for the poor but
        an ordinary meal for the elite. Its tastier when fingers
        are used to eat.

  • 15
    8

    RE: Sirisena Enjoys Kehel Kole Bath While Ravi K Wants Public To Tighten Belts: Full Text Of The Budget Speech

    Sirisena Enjoys Kehel Kole Bath. Are you trying to say that you are a Gamarala?

    Why? Didn’t Mahinda Rajapaksa, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, crooks, criminals and cronies did not give sufficient fraction of the stolen public loot, when the independent commissions the the independent judiciary were criticized and maligned?

    Yahapalanaya Turncoat, Traitor Gon Sirisena, whom are you trying to fool? Only the Modayas?

    Some are Fools, but fortunately not All are Fools.

    Okkoma Horu.
    Mahinda Rajapaksa MaRa HoRaaaaaaaaaa
    Basil Rajapaksa MaRa HoRaaaaaaaaaa
    Gotabaya Rajapaksa MaRa HoRaaaaaaaaaa
    Okkomma MaRa HoRuuuuuooooooooo

    • 7
      7

      Amarasiri, please dont make you a fool please.

      Why you put him to the same bunch. You know the context very well.

      Your terminology should see it different else, it is going to be too much.

      Para, Low IQ Gamarala or other few are getting bored to us now. Please be factual.

      Do you think in lanken context, it will be easy anyone else to deliver SOMEthing more tangible ?

      Dont put the entire blame on President ? Is that right you learnt man ?

      Almost entire public sector has been rotten over the years, how can president and politicians alone do the job ?

      • 11
        0

        Samuel Jayaweera

        “Almost entire public sector has been rotten over the years, how can president and politicians alone do the job ?”

        Yes, and Sirisena is making it worse, like a tradition. What he was elected to do and what he is doing are poles apart. Does he qualify for the Title of Turncoat and Traitor to those 62 lakhs who voted for him?

        Read:

        Ekneligoda Disappearance: Following Pressure From Maithri, Remaining Two Army Intelligence Officers Released

        The independence of the country’s judiciary continued to be in question, with the last two Army Intelligence Officers, who were remanded in connection with the disappearance of Prageeth Ekneligoda, also released today by the Court.

        https://www.colombotelegraph.com/index.php/ekneligoda-disappearance-following-pressure-from-maithri-remaining-two-army-intelligence-officers-released/

        • 2
          1

          I agree with you to someextent that he had no other choice than appointing UPFA former men as ministers. But after 19A was passed, he has to rely on the commissions being away from his interference. That is how the fundementals of the inedeppendent commissions. There he can still interfere as the HEAD OF state if he feels something is going wrong.
          FCID has been doing a great job- but still its work is no even near to standards. That we can understand not having proper men in proper place. If I go to compare this appalling situation with that of FBI or Germany s CID or the like counterpart bodies, there I should be fully wrong.
          I think lanken situation should be changed from the beginingin on. Even people of the country should be made very clear that their contribution is indispensible if everything to be run as seen in a developed country. Besides, the media above all is attacking more UNP and Mr Sirisena while they in the same time are doing lot more to protect Mr Rajapakshe.
          JVPers in the mean time, make every effort to be the best force accusing the current govt for not having taken any rigorous actions against the sharks yet. Correct, if majority of the people gave a mandate to JVPrs,they woudl have gone similarly to the insurgency we faced in late 80ties. Their punishments as you know had been even worsst to ones being practised in Saudi or Ruwanda.
          That Wasantha Samarasinghe or other small guys with few years of exp in lanken politics cant know the little of the lanken politics. That was the reason why JVPrs failed to score the least in the last two elections. People woudl not like any forces that would not respect the human values. We all know that the law and order should be given the higest priority in a country, but that cant be started in a society where people disagrees to that. Most like corrupted leaders than the others.
          Today GOOD GOVERANCE has been a joke for them not knowing the meaning of the word. If a politician would distribute silredi, sewining machines or other items free, people would vote for them easily without thinking twice. That is how average mindset works in this country. No matter even if your mother woudl have been whintevanned, the average men would welcome if money is being offered to that too. They have no respect for their elders today.
          I thought western societies are the worst, but each time I travel to lanka I learn to know the deterioration fo the society reached in the country is the worst. The average youth have no respect to anyone but to their digital gadgets. That is the saddest reality in this country.
          But I really see some developments in the country today – with lot more profs being joined to open discussions telecasting inthe local TV. There they too have thought to join their knowledge in the people s awareness programs.

          Devil is no that dark as appeared to be, should be made clear to everyone. Else, we will remain as it is eeven if some really do lot to change the system while the majority being against.

    • 5
      3

      As the saying in the village goes, Kolambata Kiri, Gamata Kekiri.

    • 4
      7

      Amarasiri, this is certainly unfair. Let the man eat in peace. In our culture we do not disturb even animals when they are eating.

      If a kultur politician goes and has lunch at a 5 star hotel you will not say anything. But when a man from the village eats from a Kehe Kole, you make such a big fuss.

      It shows how partisan you are.

      • 7
        2

        EDWIN RODRIGO

        “Amarasiri, this is certainly unfair. Let the man eat in peace. In our culture we do not disturb even animals when they are eating.”

        Did Gotabaya eat alive Lasantha, Ekliyagoda, Thagudeen and others? Is that why Sirisena do not want Gotabaya and cronies not to be disturbed, afraid they will turn to ve Avtars?

        EDWIN RODRIGO, the Avtars of Lasantha Wickramatunga , Ekliyagoda, Thagudeen and several other Avtas who did not identify appeared and asked why Turncoat, Traitor Sirisena is criticising the independent commissions, maligning the independent commissions, and asking judges to release those who made us Avtars, and is Sirisena being paid from the loot of Mahinda Rajapaksa, Gotabaya RAjapaksa ans cronies.

        Do you you have an answer next time these Avtars appear for Amarasiri to convey. The reply, Sirisena is eating rice using a Kekel Kola, is not acceptable to the Avtars.

        • 1
          3

          Amarasiri,

          Winston Churchill said “Criticism may not be agreeable, but it is necessary. It fulfils the same function as pain in the human body. It calls attention to an unhealthy state of things”. However, in this case, we can be sure that Churchill is irrelevant, because with all the overseas travelling he does with our wellbeing in mind (Bahu Jana Hithaya Bahu Jana Sukhaya), he probably does not get time even to eat, leave alone read the comments of Baka Pandithayas like Amarasiri.

          As far a I am concerned, I am open to criticism, however harsh and unjustified it may be, as long as it is not about me. But there is always a place and time for it. And while a man is eating is neither a good time nor a good place.

          Stressing the great importance of food, Buddha proclaimed ‘Sabbe satta aharatthitika’. It is said that whenever any wanderer came to him for advice, Buddha ensured that he is given food if he is hungry, before discussing the problem.

          In the case of the President, we have a guy who is overburdened with problems. Franz Kafka’s saying “So long as you have food in your mouth, you have solved all questions for the time being” must be how he feels. If you take me, the only thing I like better than talking about Food is eating – preferably ‘unhealthy’ food loaded with nice preservatives and tasty additives. I firmly believe that old people like me should avoid health food like plague. At my age, preservatives preserve and additives add.

          I am sorry that I am digressing to a completely irrelevant topic ‘my food’. It must be because I am hungry. Therefore, let me save ‘My Document’ close ‘My Computer’ and get a quick snack and come back. Then we can resume our discussion on what should be done to our Kehel Mal President. Sorry Kehel Kola President.

        • 1
          3

          Egad Amarasiri!

          Is MS is trying to pass a subtle message to the high IQ harayas in our society like you and me? Looks like he wants to tell us what everything has come to, thanks to the kulturs like Ranil, Ravi and Arjuna. The only thing that remains of the much vaunted Yahapalanaya is the Kehel Mal Kehel Kolay – the wrapping – the only contribution that the Yahapalana harayas made to the project.

          See those Pyrex dishes, the silver cutlery, the serviette holder, the nice crockery (probably Noritake)? I don’t have to spell out to a smart guy like you what all these signify. They are what the kulturs brought in. Soon the meal will be over, the kehel koley will be destined to the Kunu Bakkiya and the Pyrex et al will be given a nice cleanup and take up the pride of place in the Vat Not.

          Look at MS’s face. Does he not look like a man who is about to choke on his own bath kata because he has swallowed more than what he can chew? Again is that not what happened to this gullible Yahapalakaya, who would have done much better if he had stuck to his hopper meals with Mara.

          See those dishes pushed far away? What do they contain? Why are they pushed away out of reach of MS and out of sight of the lens? The right answers are intertwined with the fate of nation. You see why they say, “A picture is worth a thousand speeches”.

          This is serious and this is the time for all able bodied harayas to come to the aid of the big haraya.

          • 3
            0

            EDWIN RODRIGO,

            “This is serious and this is the time for all able bodied harayas to come to the aid of the big haraya.”

            Yes. This is bloody serious and this is the time for all able bodied harayas, kultas and parays to come together and expose the big harayas and the so called kultas, all of whom are parays. This is very serious and this is the time for all able bodied harayas, kultas. and parayas to come together to EXPOSE the big haraya, irrespective of their Kaduwa (English) is sharp or not.

            Why?

            The BIG HARAYA had committed several Cardinal Sins.

            So how is he paying for the sins of being a Turncoat, Traitor, Gona( Sinhala Colloquial) by downgrading the independent commissions and the independent judiciary, applying undue pressure to release criminals and killers, and accepting the loot of the Mahinda Rajapaksa and his cronies?

            By eating rice and curry in a Kehel Kola? Whom is he fooling? Only the Modayas, Mootals and Fools, and not the majority of those who voted for him.

            Turncoat, Traitor, Gona Sirisena thinks that he can be atoned for his Sins by eating rice and curry on Plantain leaves. Ane Aiyo Anichung!

            No.

            To be atoned, he needs to get get back to Yahapalanaya, Good Governance, let the independent commissions and judiciary do theit duty under the law and the constitution. We alo want the Gon Wessa Daham charged for his crimes.

            There are sufficient grounds for the impeachment of Sirisena.

            Eating ice on a Kehel Kola is just synt to get the idiots distracted, a public relations damage control activity.

            What should Amarsiri tell the Avatars? Wait until the killers die of old age?

            • 0
              2

              Amarasiri,

              You asked me, “What should Amarasiri tell the Avatars? Wait until the killers die of old age”?

              Let me try to help you by pointing out what TOB (Teachings of Buddha) says about ghosts.

              The Buddhist chronicle ‘Petavatthu’ is composed of 51 verse narratives describing specifically how the effects of bad acts can lead to rebirth as petas (ghosts) due to karmic action. It gives prominence to the doctrine that giving alms to monks may benefit the ghosts. In my opinion, not only to monks, who are already over fed anyway, you can give food, clothes etc. to those who do not have or are short of them. It is called Dana. TOB also says ‘Sabba Danan Dhamma Danan Jinathi’ – Giving knowledge is the noblest giving of all. So you may also donate books, computers and even smart phones (as long as they are not exploding Samsung S7’s) to the needy.

              If you are seeking revenge, Buuddha also said : “Nahi Verena Verani…” Hate cannot be overcome by hate but only by love, kindness and understanding. So try to have sympathy for MARA & Co. They were just vehicles through which Lasantha et al were subjected to such tragic deaths, which in turn was due to karmic action for some bad acts committed by them in the past. Mara and Co will be punished for what they did in their next birth. There is no need to push Karma. Be patient. It also explains why MS as a good Buddhist is dilly dallying on this matter.

              So my response to your question is, tell those Avatars to read our posts in CT and they will understand and find solace.

              • 1
                0

                EDWIN RODRIGO

                “Be patient. It also explains why MS as a good Buddhist is dilly dallying on this matter.”

                The 62 lakhs have been patient. What did they get from the “good” Sinhala “Buddhist” Sirisena?.

                A Turncoat, A Traitor, A Gona and and a Kappam. Santhosam taker.

                What we have is Angulimala in Reverse. Sinisena joins the Crooks and Killers and becomes the new Savior of the Crooks and Killers.

                So, in order to atone the sins of the crooks and Killers, Sirisena need to be put to the Cross or given the standard treatment for traitors.

                Did you notice the sarcastic smile on Sirisena when eating, the Perathaya, or rather the Mala Perathaya?

      • 2
        0

        Hi Edwin, are u from Germany ?
        The manner you spelled Culture as Kultur gave me the feeling you could perhaps be from Germany.

        I would love to eat on a Kehelkole when coming to srilanka next.

        What we have to learn from the picture is how humble he has been compared to his predecessor – Athigaru.

        Athigaru and his family made them heros abusing so called war victory. In the same time, grass eating majority folks believed him. Even today, as Trump got elected, even lanken Rajaakshes are still popular MORE among rural cow dung eating folks.
        Last July I happeend to travel tot he country, there, I met myself teachers – retired ones, that criticised any other leaders but being part of Rajapakshes. Asked why, their reasons were, autobahn – sourthern high way and few other projects thatallowed any ones to grab funds and do their businesses. They had not sensed about high corruption deals. Media has kept all the information away from Rural folks for the political survival of Rajapakshes. I myself felt shortly before the last PE election, it was not srilanka but an african country just being compelled to see the manner sky high posters were displayed whereever you walk up and odwn the streets of colombo. It was so disgusting and how high profile wastages that had been ?

        • 2
          0

          Sam, I am not from Germany. I live and work in ME. The word ‘kulta’, derived from ‘kultur’, was very popular in the University in our times to describe guys from Royal, St. Thomas etc. who were fluent in English.

          The word ‘hara’ derived from Haramanis was used for people like us from Ananda, Nalanda and rural schools, who as opposed to kultas, went on murdering the good old Queen’s English unwittingly on a daily basis.

          There was war between the kultas and haras that was mostly friendly but occasionally violent.

          In the present context. Ranil, Ravi, Arjuna et al. are kultas while MS, MR, Gota, SF et al. are haras.

          I agree with most of the things that you say about Mara & Co. But it is not all due to stupidity that they admire Mara. He (with SF) finished the war and then went on to build up the infrastructure. He was lucky because the money came from China who had their coffers overflowing at that time. It is not so anymore. Not only Sri Lanka but many other countries benefitted from China at that time.

          I don’t think massive borrowing is not the way to go. Encouraging investment, generating employment, taxation of the business owners as well as workers and spending the funds so earned on infrastructure projects thus creating a beneficial positive feed back effect is the way to go.

          N.B.: In ME they import fresh Kehel Kola. Hopefully we can meet one day and have a meal of Kehel Kola together in SL or here!

          • 1
            0

            Dear Edwin, appreciate your swift response to my previous comment.
            Each time travelling to SL, I have spent few hours in Quatar/Dubai. All was good until MR et al abused those funds no second to Mugabe or former InD Prez Suharatho. Even we sent and thousands of Euros at the time Tsunami strokes destroyed the country, funds flew to from all over the world. Most of them were not properly used for those who were really in need. Today, the statistics show over 5000 millions of dollars had gone missing. None of today s authorities did enough yet to collect that sums. But as we see, the investigations are said to be on going. Chinese loans were not becasue of Rajaakshe but Mrs B had maintained good relationship with China from that day on. Rajaakshe just abused China for loans. Last weeks silly reactions of chinese envoys regarding the percentages of the loans taken from China prove how Rajaakshes and lanken press men had been with them. I have never seen foreign ambassadors giving the kind of talks to the press in GErmany. Those ridiculous repsonses given by the chinese envoy on that day should be highly criticised by foreign ministry. Sounded as if the Embassador acted as the head of state of china.

            • 0
              0

              I like to know you better. You may contact me through my Guru Prof Kumar David, a regular contributor to CT.

              • 0
                0

                May be I would come and see you in ME where you are. So that we could have a meal on kehelkole.

                • 0
                  0

                  Sure. We would be delighted to have you here. Try to avoid summer June to September.

    • 1
      6

      Dear Amarasiri,

      You have always been a man who spoke out as much as you could, and spoke the truth always. For that you are still respected.

      We have all been rather disappointed with many statements that have recently been made by President Sirisena. We ALL did as much as we could to get him elected, and we are right to be critical.

      However, you are now fast becoming predictable – and that is bad. Whatever Maithripala, the simple man, did you castigate. Please reconsider this approach.

      • 3
        0

        Dear Sinhala_Man

        “However, you are now fast becoming predictable – and that is bad. Whatever Maithripala, the simple man, did you castigate. Please reconsider this approach.”

        It is the President Maithripala Sirisena who has turned out to be a predictable Traitor. Just look at his behaviour and his son’s behaviour and how Sirisena is appointing and dealing with former crooks. Did 62 lalks vote him for that and the other items described below.

        There is no need to be an apologist for Sirisena, as he has gone well past those limits. For Sirisena’s sins, for the redemption of the people of Sri Lanka, Sirisena must be sacrificed on the cross, unless he reverts back to Good Governance and Law and order. He shoud be impeached, and the Gon Wassa Daham put on jail.

        To add insult to injury he had disrupted the work of the independent commissions and the judiciary, met for several hours with the crooks, cronies and criminal of Rajapaksa and Gotabaya Rajapaksa, and only God knows what was transacted, but can be deduced, and that seems to have emboldened the crooks and the killers.

        Is Sirisena a Double Agent? At least from his actions and behaviour . there is support for Sirisena as a

        1. Turncoat

        2. Traitor

        3. A Kappam, Santhosam taker, form the Rajapaksa’s stolen billions from the People, from circumstantial evidence.

        From Bulath Vine, Vettila Vine and Grape Vine News….

        Blue brigand crooks coming out of remand like ants from anthills after Maithripala’s ‘cyanide’ speech.
        Alles and Ekneliyagoda murder suspects too out !

        (Vine News – 09.Nov.2016,) The practice of granting bail without citing reasons to the Rajapakse brigand rogues who outrageously robbed public property and the culprits who committed murder for and on behalf of Rajapakses using the label of ‘war heroes’ , is being continued recklessly by courts in the wake of the recent odious ‘ cyanide’ speech of the president . Today too , Tiran Alles the notorious RADA rogue and two other suspects incriminated in the Ekneliyagoda murder were enlarged on bail.

        The primary defense advanced by the black coated sharks on behalf of these criminals was : even the president has charged that the FCID and the CID which filed action in court against these criminals are discharging their tasks based on political agendas.

        Nalin Laduwahetti the lawyer for Alles cited president’s statement as a defense when requesting bail for his client. On the earlier occasion , the high court rejected this argument and remanded the culprit , but today the appeal court vacated that order and directed the high court to grant bail. Perhaps this is the first time bail was granted to a suspect this way who is facing clear and cogent charges under the Public Property Act of robbing a whopping Rs. 2000 million without building a single house for the Tsunami victims out of a sum of Rs. 6500 million of the public funds granted to him for that specific purpose.

        Meanwhile the two suspects (fourth and fifth accused) who flaunted the label of ‘war heroes’ , namely , Wadugedera Winnie Priyantha Nilanjan Upasena alias Suresh and Seneviratne Mudiyansalage Ravindra Upasena alias Ranji , and were the remaining two of the suspects in remand custody in connection with Ekneliyagoda murder , were ordered to be released on bail by the Avissawella High court judge , Amal Thilakarathne today (08) . They were released on a cash bail of Rs. 1 million and two surety bails in a sum of Rs. 3 million each. This means that all the suspects in Ekneliyagoda case are now out on bail.

        While releasing these culprits on bail , in respect of the cases against Wimal Weerawansa and Gotabaya Rajapakse long dates were given by court – postponed the case 7 to 8 months at once, meaning that these two criminals were afforded the opportunity to enjoy to the hilt , their criminalities notwithstanding .

        The incumbent president Maithripala Sirisena who made most solemn and public promises as common candidate during the run up to the last presidential elections that the murderers of Ekneliyagoda will be apprehended and punished , did a dramatic turnabout recently . In his recent odious cyanide speech , and the subsequent interview with a newspaper , lamented that the suspects in Ekneliyagoda murder are in remand custody for a period of 16 long months , in addition to making a number of obnoxious statements directly bringing pressure to bear on the courts

  • 6
    1

    The prez just made me hungry.

    • 7
      0

      De Silva

      Did you hear Sirisena’s voice in your head today?

      You don’t seem to suffer from Misophonia.

  • 4
    6

    That looks a very basic meal for most sri lankans, atleast the man is being simple. Why does CT stoop down to such low levels of journalism to show the rest of us a different picture. Shame on you CT.

    • 4
      0

      Oma Yang.

      You are falling for the public relations stunt for the fools and idiots who eat grass in the country. He is exploring and exploiting the fools more and more, while releasing the crooks and killers.

      Based on his recent actions, he has been classified as a

      Turncoat,

      Traitor, and

      Gona (Whore) to Good Governance.

  • 5
    3

    Obviously a publicity photo by MS’s Press team, probably to indicate to the public that the President has a humble lunch, just like an average person (the difference being in plastic wrapper, not a banana leaf).

    It was rumored a similar ‘humble’ President of the past, Premadasa, had fresh organic vegetables flown in from N’Eliya by helicopter for his simple lunch consisting of 7 vegetables.

    Does anyone give a monkey’s about what the President or the PM eat?

  • 11
    0

    Mr President very nice of you as you are eating like a typical Sri Lankan. However, please take your son under control. He is acting like a idiot. Let the police to arrest him and put him in Jail so that, he will learn a lessen hard way.

  • 4
    3

    Bit rustic for a leader

    Are you sure president, Plastic banana leaf or natural one?

  • 3
    6

    He should have stayed in his post with Mahinda.

    • 6
      0

      srinath.gunaratnam

      “He should have stayed in his post with Mahinda.”

      And continued have lavish meals at the Temple Trees.

      He refused to have the last supper with the clan chief.

      • 1
        0

        Srinath is an another house fly of Clan chief. We know all these very well.

        He will never sense it. But the guy is said tobe continue abuse social funds being offered to refugees in the UK. Why not the bugger return to lanka and join hand with his CLan chief.

        Right at the moment, innocient syrians being the ones on the earth who are really in need: if Srinaths would return home can leave more space to others who are really in need.

        UK -Humanitarian Association

      • 0
        0

        Native,

        He is the one who made Mahinda a clan chief by referring to him as the King!

    • 2
      0

      Srinath,

      I have no word to name you – should be the most stupidiest person.

      I really dont know why you hang on with Athigaru yet. Almost everyone with a little brain is becoming clear today, how abusive the bugger had been, and as to why MR preponed for the Presidential Election.

      Not even a 10 year old would agree with you man. Why you guys behave let alone today.

      We perfectly know how Rajapakshe men grabed billions of dollars from so called development projects. These are facts.

      Please contact Rajitha Senaratne and his ministry to get more.
      Few days ago, he reconfirmed these statements. And 3.5 Billions of US dollars are proved to be deposited in DUBAI NATIONAL BANK under the names of VVIP men. I have no doubt about this, if you hve doubts please contact them and get it clear with them.

      Today,we have rights to ask for information. So please have your mind clear by talking to the authorities. If Rajitha may have lied, he has to face it if not today tomorrow. These cant be lies.

      • 2
        2

        He saved the Country from the cancer of terrorism and separatism.
        Thousands f generations will appreciate what he did!

        I guess you did not have to go to bed thinking your loved ones in the army would come in sealed coffins?

        I guess you did not have to see your father/mother go to work not knowing he would come home in one piece?

        Sri Lanka is the country of ungrateful! That is why they get this shit everyday!

        Nobody is guilty until proven, if has stolen, May he go to jail!

        But he is my living hero who stood up to western intimidation. and saved the country from destruction!

        • 4
          0

          srinath.gunaratnam

          “He saved the Country from the cancer of terrorism and separatism.”

          He did what the Hindians wanted him to do. He should be grateful to VP for winning two elections and a war.

          “Thousands f generations will appreciate what he did!”

          Probably yes, his descendants would be grateful for the wealth he amassed from the state, which could last for 1000 generations.

          “I guess you did not have to see your father/mother go to work not knowing he would come home in one piece?”

          Yes you are right again, it was the case since 5th April 1971.

          “Sri Lanka is the country of ungrateful! That is why they get this shit everyday!”

          Try not to ease yourself everyday, you will be blessed with constipation. It appears you do suffer from constipation.

          “But he is my living hero who stood up to western intimidation. and saved the country from destruction!”

          Only in this island, the Horas and war criminals become a Hero for wrong reasons.

          By the way, if you stop easing yourself every day the brain too stops working as it ought to be.

      • 0
        2

        You call me stupid and you believe Rajitha!
        He hehe hee!

        • 2
          0

          You may have plenty of time – please contact Rajith S for clarity.

          That can also help us all to see the truths.

          Please do so. That way you also contribute yourself to help us all.

          Thank you.

          Berlin/SDS

  • 0
    3

    Further, Custom Duty (CD) on the importation of powdered milk will be increased from Rs.500/- to Rs.800/- per liter on the importation of potable alcohol.

    Above is part of the article.

    what does it mean ?

    • 1
      1

      Well, that is an excellent question!

      What can that sentence possibly mean?

      In one sense it is clear that our economy is in such a bad way that we can’t possibly allow even milk that is so necessary for growing children (and even I consider it important to have a bit daily) cannot be alloed in – we must produce it ourselves or stunt ourselves. But powder dooes not get imported in liters.

      On the other hand alcohol is measured in liters. And taxing it is in order because those who consume this inessential item can be made to pay for it.

      But the sentence as it stands is nonsense. Please CT don’t write things that undermines your credibility!

  • 4
    4

    Interest payments on LKR 600 Billion, in new loans which the Singapore Mahendran arranged for Yahapalanaya with the help of Ranil and Malik alone need LKR 84 Billion a year.

    That is with the average rate of 14 Percent..

    Will all these new Tax increases cover this LKR 84 Billion for the next 29 years?.

    Then you still have the Capital of LKR 600 Billion to pay PT, when the Bonds mature in 30 years.

    FM Ravi who is good at looking after Galleon left over funds said the other day that he has to pay back LKR 19 Trillion ..

    Will this new tax revenue cover all that too?.

    Is he calculating the interest of this 19 trillion at the same rate of 14 percent something which his boss agrered to pay the FIL & SIL of the PT?..

    Or is it just 2 percent at the Chinese ambassador said in Colombo?.

    Which ever way the PAYE Yahapalana suckers have their work cut out, to help Galleon to look after them.

    I didn’t see any Keeramin in the Banana Leaf feed, which the Yahapalana President. is enjoying…

  • 0
    1

    My GOD! If “SAMANTHABADRA” – the self proclaimed “Buddha” living in a temple in Nedimale, sees this picture, he will perform “Sathkkriya” for the President to gain consciousness to “EAT LIKE A KING”. This “SAMANTHABADRA” “Buddha” once told his devotees, (referring to the news report that this President brings his lunch packed in a “Banan Leaf” from home) that a KING must eat and behave like a KING. So does this picture shows that this President does not heed the advice of a “Buddha”, of course a self proclaimed and named himself as SAMANTHABADRA. I am happy that this President has been able to IGNORE that advice of a FAKE BIDDHA.

    • 2
      0

      [Edited out]

      • 3
        0

        srinath.gunaratnam

        “[Edited out]”

        Excellent

        Thanks for keeping it brief.

        I have given you a thumbs up.

  • 5
    3

    Isn’t this a joke, releasing photos by President media. This is an unusual photo. You bring your “bath mula” rapped in banana leaves with all the curries. Having separate dishes of the curries are unusual. This is an eyewash to show public and international readers the simplicity of this bloke

    • 2
      0

      It is anyone’s prerogative as how to have Lunch,whether on Kehelkole or on a gilded Plate,whether to use fingers or cutlery.It is simply a personal choice.

      But to advertise same is simply cheap publicity.President’s Media Director has a long way to go from his Sirasa experience to becoming a professional Media person

      Then again I wonder in what context did CT publish this photo which has no relevance at all to the subject (Budget proposals)

  • 7
    0

    The best President Sirisena can do is to visit Dubai and ask the Sheik to order National Bank to return US$3.6 billion held by Rajapakse clan back to Sri Lanka as it is money laundered and bribes. In the Satana TV show Rajitha Senaratne clearly stated that he had evidence which he has presented to the investigators. So why delay. This would solve the tax issues in Sri Lanka and improve the budget. This would be the best contribution President Sirisena can give to the country and to prove his effective leadership capabilities.ed

    • 3
      0

      It may be good and sensible idea.but don’t forget he don’t betrayed his old boss.

      One thing he will do is try to cover up.we Sri lankans easily forget all these.

      How he saved his son not once its twice now.so he is getting ready to bring his son to politics he is getting the right attitude to be in parliament.

    • 2
      0

      Suba Anagathayak thru Yahapalanaya = Latest version of hoodwinking

  • 0
    0

    Simplicity by anyone should be admired.That is the oriental culture.When the Head of the country is that it should be appreciated.The problem in our country is that every thing whether correct or wrong is seen through coloured spectacles that you weare.This is not healthy for a country. We should have the courage to judge what is good and bad independently and comment on them objectively. We should use the opportunity of commenting on thes matters in the press or elsewhere to create an overall impression and assist to lead the country on a helpful path. It is sad to see that this opportunity is used very often to crack jokes and ridicule others.Coming back to the subject matter what the President should do at this stage is to be more decisive and effectual on certain matters like C-Bank Gate ( like the US Watergate) and take action to wipe out corruption or at least to reduce them considerably. However, it is seen that he is increasingly making public addresses and running from one venue to another and from one subject to another. So he eventually will become a Katha President but not an Action President. You can address the people but those should be matched with requisite action as the late President Mr. Premadasa did. We appreciate that the current President is in a difficult position being in a colition where UNP has more seats and Mr.Mahinda Rajapakse is pulling his legs. This is where the ability and the commitment of the President should be shown paticularly that he is a Stateman but not and ordinary politician looking at survival.Prove youself before it is too late Mr. President.Take the lead to wipe out curuption irrespective of by which interests they are committed.Then your stock will go up people will support you.Start with the C Bank Gate which is the burning issue at present and punish that crook who assisted his son in law to loot the wealth of the country and recover the loot. If there a need for a special procecutor as some suggests go for it. People are depending on you to do the correct thing as PM unfortunately is a party to this national crime.

  • 3
    0

    Is there any relevance of the Photo to the Budget proposals as such. ?

    In the Budget proposal the Minister reiterated on the continuance of the Senior citizens Term deposit scheme at 15% interest with a ceiling of Rs1.5 millions.Is this going to be another empty rhetoric since the same was promised in the last Budget but not implemented so far.Central Bank who is supposed to issue operating guidelines to Commercial Banks on the matter seems to be waiting for directions from the Treasury for the last one Year !!!

    Surely the Minister is aware of this situation and perhaps needs only a phone call to his officials at the Treasury to wake up from their slumber.

    Grandiose plans are of no value if a simple issue of this nature cannot be attended to within a reasonable time frame

  • 0
    0

    This is called reality. To tackle the debt burden the govt will have to continue increasing taxes regardless of their election promises. Thing will get worse before they get better.

  • 5
    2

    what a loser, what a joker….6.2M fools made puppet a presedent…Disgrace to the core

    • 0
      1

      Not yet give him 4 years

  • 3
    0

    This president ruined parliament appointing all defeated slfp members as MPP as ministers. These defeated members were all rejected by the people. He t too would have been rejected if UNP didn’t vote for him. He is not fit to be president for appointing these defeated politicians.

  • 3
    1

    Why not? If a president is having an average lunch that would hardly cost less than 500 rupees, it only shows An Exemplary President there.

    Look at CT’s own report dated 10 April 2015 where MR hosted 3 functions at the cost of 18 Million rupees only for food.

    Link here: https://www.colombotelegraph.com/index.php/rs-18-million-spent-on-food-alone-at-three-rajapaksa-functions/

  • 1
    2

    CT appears to be run by a bunch of fools. C’mon the man eating some rice and curry is an issue for the country? What is he supposed to eat? Think about what the Parayapaksas ate? All I see him eating is a simple meal, what’s wrong with that?

  • 2
    0

    To President’s media director! who are you trying to fool this time? We know how you guys eat with the prez.
    What are the dishes on the table in front of Kehelkole? Do these dishes come wrapped with Kehelkole? Or from a five star hotel? I am just curious!
    You guys still think that the entire world is as foolish as you to believe what you just spit out through the President’s Media Division and the PM’s media unit.
    Now there is now way to know the truth in Sri Lanka.
    1. Cabinet spokesman is a liar.
    2. Prez’s media director is an hypocrite.
    We need to rely on private media only?

  • 0
    0

    It is funny/ sad that the President’s Kesel Kola meal has drawn attention away from the ‘Pick Pocket’ budget presented by Ravi Karunanayake with cabinet approval. What a clever ploy!

    We indeed are a nation of lotus eaters!

    Dr.Rajasingham Narendran

    • 1
      0

      Rajasingham,

      George W. Bush, on seeing the US budget is supposed to have said, “It’s clearly a budget. It’s got a lot of numbers in it”.

      Bush had to deal only with thousands, millions and billions. In Sri Lanka we have to deal with all those and then also the lakshas, kotis, prakotis, nahuthas and asankaiyas. No one knows how many zeros these have and no one cares, least of all Ravi. He does not have enough cash to reduce petrol prices but has an ample supply of zeros to complete the budget. If Bush was our President, he would have said “It’s clearly a budget. It’s got a lot of zeros in it”.

      On the other hand, the food on that kehel kolay looks something real and substantial. I even get the special smell of the banana leaf that makes me go bananas. My greatest fear is not the budget but that all the salivation that is going on when you guys see it may make Il Presidante ill with indigestion.

      The budget is the distraction not the food.

  • 1
    0

    When President Srisena eat the that food that he brought from home during budget speech, some medias are flashing it a big news and praising him like s “simple man” example to other leaders”, and etc and trying to portray him like Nelson Mandela or Mahadma Ghandi. He is yet another politician. There were so many political leaders in the world were so simple and corruption free. Doctors may have advised President Sirisena to eat healthy food from home or he may be scared to eat outside. Why some medias are praising him for everything he does. If he is really simple why do have to show the picture in the media? All political stunts

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