Wednesday 11 November 2026Wed 11 Nov 2026
Cargills Bank and Toyota Lanka (Pvt) Ltd signed a memorandum of understanding on October 19, 2026, to offer special financing packages for customers purchasing Toyota vehicles. Under the partnership, customers can access vehicle loans with special interest rates and a maximum repayment period of 10 years. Borrowers who fully settle their loans prematurely after three years will not be charged an early settlement fee.
Former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, currently residing in India, has requested a new passport and identity card to return to Bangladesh in December. Her assistants said on 9 November that she plans to surrender in court. Bangladesh's interim government previously cancelled her passport and identity card. Her political party is also banned following a violent youth uprising that ended her rule more than two years ago. Meanwhile, foreign media reported that the Chief Prosecutor of Bangladesh's International Crimes Tribunal warned that Hasina has no legal option left other than facing a death sentence.
The Department of Meteorology forecast rainfall exceeding 100 mm on 10 November across the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, and Uva Provinces, and Galle and Matara Districts. Showers were expected elsewhere after 1:00 p.m. By 5:30 a.m., Deniyaya recorded 162.5 mm of rain, Udugama 139 mm, and Dehiowita 115 mm. Rising water levels prompted the Irrigation Department to issue minor flood warnings for the Gin River and Attanagalu Oya basins. Separately, police reported that a 61-year-old man and his 60-year-old wife died from electrocution that morning in Aulegama, Wariyapola.
Pakistan reached 281 for five against Sri Lanka before bad light ended day one after 67.2 overs in the first Test at Rawalpindi on 9 November. Four batters scored half-centuries, including Mohammad Taha (51), Babar Azam (50), and unbeaten Saud Shakeel (57). Daily News reported debutant Tayyab Arif scored 51, while other outlets reported 57. Arif and Azan Awais (30) shared an 86-run opening stand after Sri Lanka captain Kusal Mendis chose to field. Mendis took four catches as wicketkeeper. Asitha Fernando took two wickets, while Milan Rathnayake, Dilshan Madushanka, and Sonal Dinusha took one each. Daily News reported Salman Ali Agha scored 18, while Dinamina recorded 16, with play resuming on 10 November.
US President Donald Trump stated in a CNN interview on Sunday (8) that new military strikes on Iran are highly unlikely if both sides sign a strong agreement to end their conflict. Trump warned that the US military remains ready, claiming three aircraft carriers are prepared and that 38 Iranian bridges could be knocked down within an hour. On Sunday afternoon, Trump announced that “Task Force Iron Gate” is operational to restrict sanctioned goods and weapons across Iran's land borders and the Caspian Sea. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps dismissed the plan as mere wordplay, with spokesperson Sardar Mohebi saying American economic pressure would fail to destroy Iran’s economy.
Afghanistan knocked Sri Lanka out of the Under-19 Asia Cup on 9 November 2026 with a 106-run victory in Al Amerat, Oman. Batting first, Afghanistan scored 275 all out in 49.5 overs, led by opener Subhan Zakhail’s 107 and Abidullah Nadarjan’s 55. Sri Lankan seamer Sethmika Seneviratne took 3 for 44. Sri Lanka was bowled out for 169 in 34.1 overs. Afghan paceman Noor Ali Niazi took 4 for 35, while Kithma Withanapathirana top-scored for Sri Lanka with 58 runs. Afghanistan advanced to the semi-finals alongside Bangladesh, which defeated Malaysia by 205 runs, though Daily News reported the defeated opponent was Maldives.
India and ASEAN nations are collaborating to protect the production and supply chains of key goods, components, and critical minerals against global economic challenges. The India-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement in Goods is currently under review to eliminate bilateral trade barriers and facilitate unimpeded trade. India is also sharing its technological expertise with ASEAN members to improve the digital economy, cross-border digital payment systems, and supply networks. Vietnam has emerged as India's key strategic partner in the region, with notable growth in trade and investment across manufacturing, renewable energy, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture.
Approximately 34 people died after a migrant boat sank off Senegal, the Senegalese news agency reported. Senegal's Ministry of Interior said on 9 November that one person was rescued, while the number of missing persons remains unconfirmed. Saliou Diouf, founder of Senegalese migrant aid group Bossa Fee, stated all recovered bodies are Senegalese nationals. Search operations continue, and the nationalities of others aboard have not been confirmed. The Canary Islands remain a major Atlantic Ocean gateway to Europe for West African migrants. Spanish rights group Walking Borders recorded 635 deaths on this Atlantic route between January and May.
Dr. Yamuna Rajapaksha, a specialist in respiratory diseases, has advised individuals with a cough persisting for more than two weeks to consult an experienced doctor to identify its cause. Speaking at the Health Education and Promotion Bureau, she noted that coughs from colds or flu typically subside within a week, whereas coughs exceeding 14 days can be an early symptom of tuberculosis. Persistent coughing may also indicate pneumonia, bronchitis, or allergies. She warned to seek care if accompanied by breathing difficulties, chest pain, continuous fever, night sweats, coughing blood, or unexplained weight loss. Recent health data shows respiratory diseases, excluding pneumonia, are the third leading cause of hospital admissions in Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka drew 2-2 against Bhutan in their opening SAFF Championship Group A match in Dhaka on 8 November. Bhutan took the lead through Dawa Tshering, but Sri Lanka led 2-1 at half-time following goals from Oliver Kelaart and Ahmed Waseem Razeek. Bhutan captain Chencho Gyeltshen equalised late in the second half. Daily News reported Gyeltshen scored in the 78th minute, while Thinakaran placed the goal in the 76th minute. Following the match, Sri Lankan coach Abdullah Almutairi strongly criticized the refereeing decisions. Sri Lanka faces hosts Bangladesh in their next match on 11 November. Daily News reported Sri Lanka must win to qualify for the semi-finals, whereas Thinakaran reported that a draw would secure qualification.
Western Province won the overall boxing championship at the 50th National Sports Festival with 20 medals, including eight golds, at the Royal MAS Arena in Colombo. Central Province finished runners-up with 14 medals, including seven golds. Jointly organised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and the Department of Sports Development, the seven-day competition featured 198 boxers from all nine provinces across 20 weight categories. Western Province’s G.K.P.U. Mihiran was named Best Male Boxer after winning the 50–55kg bantamweight title. Central Province’s N.K.G.C.J. Siriwardhana was crowned Best Female Boxer following her 48–51kg flyweight victory. Thinakaran reported that Southern Province placed third with two gold medals, while Northern Province finished fourth with one gold, two silver and five bronze medals.
An Indian Air Force IL-76 MD heavy cargo transport aircraft has set a world record by landing at the Nyoma airbase in Eastern Ladakh, located at an altitude of 13,629 feet. The Indian Air Force stated that the aircraft established a record for landing at the highest-altitude airbase, noting it had never landed at such an elevation before. The force highlighted the landing as a milestone strengthening India's strategic airlift capabilities. The Soviet-made four-engine aircraft, inducted in 1985 and named 'Gajraj', is used to transport troops, T-72 tanks, BMP infantry fighting vehicles, and disaster relief supplies across difficult terrains.
The Zahira College Colombo Old Boys' Rugby Association held the Zahira Rugby Night and Felicitation Ceremony on Saturday, November 7, at the Cinnamon Lakeside Hotel in Colombo. College Principal Rizvi Marikar chaired the event, while Rugby Association President Irfan Lye delivered the welcome address. Former team captain Rizvi Fouard attended as chief guest and presented awards. The ceremony honored Zahira College's first-string rugby team for securing second place in the 2026 Rugby League competition. Former players Riza Abdeen, Tony Amit, Ifthikar Ahamed, and Fouard were also recognized for their contributions to college rugby.
On 9 November 2026, the Presidential Media Division announced the appointment of new secretaries to two ministries. Attorney Roshan Gamage, a Special Grade Officer of the Sri Lanka Administrative Service, was appointed as the new Secretary to the Ministry of Digital Economy. Dhanapala, also a Special Grade Officer and the outgoing Digital Economy Secretary, was appointed Secretary to the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. Daily News named him T. R. W. S. Dhanapala, whereas other outlets gave his initials as D.R.W.S. The Secretary to the President presented the appointment letters at the Presidential Secretariat. Daily News and Thamilan named him Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake (or Kumanayaka), while Thinakaran and Virakesari named him Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumara.
The Colombo Chief Magistrate’s Court on November 9 remanded Osman Gunasekara, known as Gampaha Osman, until November 13 following his 180-day detention over the murder of underworld figure Ganemulla Sanjeeva. Gunasekara, aged 69, was arrested on May 13, 2026, in Gampaha. He is accused of conspiring with overseas organized crime groups, providing the firearm, and aiding the assassination. Police seized a foreign-made repeater firearm, 10 live bullets, and two magazines during his arrest. The magistrate instructed the Commissioner of Prisons to ensure special security for the suspect. Sanjeeva, named Sanjeeva Kumara Samararatne, was shot dead inside the Colombo Hulftsdorp Court complex on February 19, 2025, by a gunman disguised as a lawyer.
Speaking at the Trade Union Federation's national conference on 7 November at Colombo's B.T. Sirisena Grounds, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake announced several welfare schemes for the upcoming budget. Dissanayake stated that measures will be introduced through the 2027 budget to further raise the income tax threshold on earned income, providing relief to monthly salaried employees. The announcement comes amid global fuel and gas price volatility linked to conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine. The government has allocated substantial subsidies to shield domestic fuel, goods, and service charges from global market increases.
The Supreme Court has concluded hearings on all petitions filed by various parties challenging provisions of the Organized Crime Prevention Bill. The court announced that its determination on the petitions will be officially sent to the President and the Speaker of Parliament. Once the Speaker announces the decision in Parliament, it will determine whether the Bill requires a simple majority, a special majority, or a public referendum to be passed.
Tamil Eelam Liberation Organization leader Selvam Adaikkalanathan welcomed the appointment of a Parliamentary Select Committee to investigate the 1983 ethnic riots and Welikada prison massacres. Adaikkalanathan said past governments shielded perpetrators, alleging external thugs carried out the prison killings under President J.R. Jayewardene. He demanded justice and punishment for those who killed TELO founders Kuttimani, Thangathurai, and Jegan. He added that respecting the right of people to build memorials and commemorate loved ones would foster reconciliation, while also urging the government to hold provincial council elections.
The Global Business Forum 2026 – Season 3, Sri Lanka Chapter, and the Global Brands Awards ceremony were held on 31 October at Temple Trees in Colombo. Organised by ANYELP GROUP, founded by Zakir Hussain, the event brought together international business leaders, entrepreneurs, and delegates to promote professional networking, innovation, leadership, technology, and sustainable growth. The Global Brands Awards honoured selected entrepreneurs, businesses, and professionals for their leadership, innovation, and industry contributions, while also encouraging emerging young entrepreneurs. Nobel Peace Prize laureate Professor Mohan Munasinghe addressed the gathering on business sustainability and artificial intelligence. Educational strategist Chirag Nanda spoke on technological change and future leadership, while Indian actor Mohammed Ali also attended.
Overseas Realty (Ceylon) PLC launched ‘Havelock City Residences’, the fifth and final phase of the Havelock City mixed-use development, on 29 October 2026 at the Hilton Colombo. The developer reported that 50% of the apartments were sold prior to the official launch, with the project now nearing completion. Designed by Singapore’s P&T Group, the phase offers two-, three-, and four-bedroom apartments and penthouses within the 18-acre development, which includes a seven-acre landscaped courtyard. Resident amenities include walking and jogging tracks, gymnasiums, squash courts, function halls, and an integrated assisted living concept.
First Capital Holdings PLC, a subsidiary of Janashakthi Group, has received a Gold Award from the Sri Lanka Institute of Training and Development. The award recognises the company's innovative approaches to developing employee skills, strengthening internal learning practices, and building future-ready capabilities within the capital market sector. Dilshan Wirasekara, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of First Capital Holdings PLC, said the recognition reflects the firm's view of employee skills development as a continuous investment in its future.
HNB PLC has partnered with Indra Traders to provide specialized vehicle leasing schemes for registered, pre-owned, new unregistered, and Foton vehicles. The scheme offers low interest rates, discounted HNB General Insurance policies, and an HNB credit card with the first year's annual fee waived for eligible customers. For new unregistered vehicles, Indra Traders offers a two-year engine and gearbox warranty, a three-year hybrid battery warranty, three free first-year labor services, and a 10 percent discount on spare parts. Buyers of pre-owned vehicles receive a six-month engine and gearbox warranty alongside up to six free labor services during the first year. HNB Senior Chairman and Head of Consumer Banking Kanchana Karunagama stated the initiative aims to combine accessible financing with long-term maintenance benefits.
Union Assurance held its Family Fiesta 2026 at Panhouse Studio in Panadura, bringing together staff from all departments alongside their families. The event featured interactive experiences, activities, and live performances for all ages. It was organized to honor employee contributions, relieve stress, and foster community under the company's "People-first" corporate culture. Union Assurance Chief People Officer Nisansala Paranayapa said meaningful relationships and connections are essential for a thriving workplace, emphasizing the vital role families play in supporting employees.
Katunayake Airport customs officials seized 39 drones and 16 microphones brought from Singapore by Samagi Jana Balawegaya MP Nalin Bandara. Most outlets reported the arrival occurred on 8 November, though Daily Mirror stated it was on 11 August. Customs spokesperson Chandana Punchihewa said the items lacked an import control licence, telecommunications regulatory approval, and defence ministry clearance. Dinamina reported the equipment was found in luggage belonging to Bandara and his wife arriving on flight UL-307. Bandara stated that his son's company imported the drones, adding that only the defence ministry permit had expired. Customs detained the equipment and instructed the MP to present the required approvals as investigations continue.
On 8 November, state institutions launched a joint program to clear drainage systems and control flooding across Colombo following heavy rainfall on 6 November. The initiative was launched under Colombo Municipal Council Mayor Vrai Kelly Balthazar and Deputy Minister of Urban Development Eranga Gunasekara. Participating bodies include the Sri Lanka Army, Colombo Municipal Council, and land, urban, and road development authorities. Aruna and Thinakaran reported that authorities identified 60 obstructed drainage locations across five Colombo divisions to clear. In contrast, Hiru News reported a cleaning operation covering 30 locations. Officials attributed the drainage failures to prolonged lack of maintenance, unauthorized constructions, unsystematic urban development, and poor inter-agency coordination. The program aims to provide immediate relief and long-term sustainable solutions.
The Department of Meteorology warned on 7 November that heavy rains exceeding 100 mm could affect 14 districts between 5:00 p.m. and 1:00 a.m. the following day. The alert covers Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara, Kegalle, Ratnapura, Kurunegala, Puttalam, Galle, Matara, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Badulla, Monaragala, and Hambantota districts. The department cautioned that downpours could trigger flash floods, rockfalls, reduced visibility, and transport disruptions. It urged vigilance from residents in low-lying, river basin, and landslide-prone areas, as well as motorists in hilly regions. Earlier, showers and thundershowers with lightning and temporary strong winds were forecast across several provinces. The department also warned maritime and fishing communities of a low-pressure system expected to develop in the Bay of Bengal.
The foundation stone for a model village of 170 houses was laid on 6 November at Aparagala Estate in the Welimada Divisional Secretariat Division. The Rs. 850 million government project will house estate sector families who lost homes in the Didwa disaster or live in high-risk zones. Plantation and Community Infrastructure Minister Samantha Vidyaratna and Housing Minister Dr. Susil Ranasinghe led the event. Built across 12.5 acres, each family will receive 10 perches of land and Rs. 5 million provided in three installments of Rs. 2 million, Rs. 1.5 million, and Rs. 1.5 million. The site will include roads, water, electricity, a community hall, a playground, and livelihood support. Minister Vidyaratna noted this is the largest post-Didwa housing project built in a single location.
US President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Thursday designating the White House Oval Office and surrounding rooms as a national monument to prevent future presidents from altering or destroying them. The order directs the National Park Service to maintain the office while preserving presidential authority to redecorate, choose furnishings, and make operational or security adjustments that do not impair its historic structure. Trump, who added gold features to the office during his second term, claimed the premises previously suffered from broken windows, cracked walls, and damaged stonework. The order coincides with unapproved East Wing ballroom construction facing legal challenges. Daily News reported the wing was already torn down, whereas Thinakaran reported demolition was underway.
Sri Lanka defeated PCB Patron’s XI by 142 runs in their three-day warm-up match at the Islamabad Club Cricket Oval, according to Virakesari. Chasing 254, the hosts were dismissed for 111. Other outlets reported at the second day's close, where Sri Lanka reached 121 for six, establishing a 193-run lead helped by a 56-run stand between Anjala Bandara and Milan Rathnayake. Earlier, PCB Patron’s XI declared their first innings at 151 for eight, though Thinakaran reported 158 for eight, after Sri Lanka declared on 223 for seven. Virakesari reported Sri Lanka were bowled out for 181 in their second innings, before Kesara Nuwantha took four wickets and Eshan Malinga claimed three. The match concluded Sri Lanka’s preparations ahead of the first Test against Pakistan, scheduled for 9 November in Rawalpindi.
The Department of Meteorology forecast rainfall exceeding 75 mm in parts of the Western, Sabaragamuwa, and North-Western provinces, as well as the Galle, Matara, Kandy, and Nuwara Eliya districts on 6 November. Showers or thundershowers were also expected in the Southern and Eastern provinces and Mullaitivu district, with Thinakaran noting morning rain in Eastern coastal areas. Rain was forecast elsewhere after 1:00 p.m. Misty conditions were anticipated during the morning in parts of the Sabaragamuwa, Central, and Uva provinces. The department advised the public to take precautions against hazards caused by temporary strong winds and lightning strikes during thundershowers.
Wednesday 11 November 2026Wed 11 Nov 2026
