Melani Manel Perera

In its Easter message, the bishops' conference denounces at the same time the serious repercussions of the twenty-year civil conflict on the population, disparity among the social classes, the increasing cost of living, and insecurity.

In Sri Lanka, journalists remain the targets of security forces, and of intimidation on the part of the political authorities. The latest aggression against a state television journalist ignites protests in the sector.

Twenty-six organisations come together to slam the harm the civil war has had on women’s lives. More than 50,000 widows, both Tamil and Sinhala, are without protection and work, victims of sexual abuse.

The secretary of the ministry for social services and assistance has reminded the international non-governmental organisations, the private sector, and government institutions of the urgent responsibility of defending the youngest.

NGOs want to stop the 10 March local elections, claiming that voters are being intimidated and that the poll will only strengthen the central government’s hold over the area and militarise the local administration. The Elections Commission has however dismissed all the accusations.

The explosion destroyed building near the capital’s port. Police had been combing the area. So far no one has claimed responsibility. Suspicions point to the Tamil Tigers.

A JVP parliamentarian, member of the All Island General Fisheries Federation warns: if the government does not change its policies in favour of licenses to large foreign companies, a National protest will ensue.

Neil Samson died from gunshot wounds. Gunmen shot at him when he was with his family. Colombo’s Anglican bishop condemns the murder, consequence of a culture of war that is spreading across the country. He calls for an “impartial investigation” into the case.

Sri Lanka’s Congress of Religions, business organisations and professional associations present a proposal to both government and opposition on how to end the civil war, implement electoral reform and protect press freedom.

Bishop Rayappu is providing his version of the attack on the shrine of Saint Anthony, in which six soldiers died three days ago. The press has indirectly accused the Church of having facilitated the attack, by asking for the presence of military personnel at the building. A statement today refutes this, and asks for a correction.

Families of fishermen who went missing in 1999 are still struggling to make ends meet with dignity; they renew their appeal to the government for financial help.

At least 7-8,000 faithful in Tewatta, at the national basilica dedicated to the Virgin Mary. There is great fear of travelling after the many attacks, but the desire to come here was greater, for the annual commemoration of the miracle that saved the country from the world war. And to ask for a new miracle.