In brief
Ashraff
Shipping and Rehabilitation minister and Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) leader MHM Ashraff, 52, was killed in a helicopter crash near Aranayake, 43 miles north-east of Colombo, on 16 September. Thirteen others, including PA’s Digamadulla election candidate Kathirgamathamby, also died. Mr Ashraff established the SLMC in 1981 to promote Muslim rights and aspirations. Some members of the SLMC suspect foul play and have demanded an investigation.
Massacre
After two Home Guards were shot dead by suspected Tiger cadre at Mahindapura in Trincomalee District on 2 October, seven Tamil farmers were hacked to death in retaliation at Poonagar in Eechilampathai.
Disappeared
Amnesty International said in September that Trincomalee resident GMM Zackariya was arrested by the Navy at a checkpoint, in the presence of his wife and child, on 11 August. The Navy has denied the arrest.
Emergency
President Chandrika recalled Parliament on 14 September, under article 70(7) of the Constitution, in order to extend Emergency. Parliament was dissolved on 18 August.
Order
The Court of Appeal ordered on 25 September that officers of the government poverty alleviation programme Samurthi should not become involved in campaign on behalf of any political party during working hours.
Protest
Sprinter Susanthika Jayasinghe wore a yellow ribbon during the 100 metre semi-final race at the Sydney Olympics on 22 September, to support the campaign for free and fair elections in Sri Lanka. Ms Jayasinghe, who won a bronze medal later in the 200 metre race, has accused a government minister of sexual harassment.
Next article.
Back to Sri Lanka Monitor Index page
Back to The Refugee Council Welcome page