The Welfare Benefits Board informs that the information census of the second phase of the “Aswesuma” welfare benefit program implemented as per the instructions of President Ranil Wickremesinghe will be conducted from July 15 to 30.

Member of Parliament Wajira Abeywardena stated that some parties that failed to win the elections are initiating strikes to destabilize the country.

Director General Jagath D. Dias stated that although some public sector employees are on strike, the pensions for 708,231 registered pensioners due on July 10th, was released to the Banks today (09).

President Ranil Wickremesinghe paid tribute to the late Mr. R. Sampanthan, acknowledging him as a leader who championed the rights not only of the Tamil people but also of all Sri Lankans. He emphasized that both Mr. Sampanthan and himself were committed to the cause of an undivided Sri Lanka. The President urged everyone to unite in successfully concluding the discussions initiated with Mr. Sampanthan.