⚠️ Parliament Extends State of Emergency Amid Relief Delays

• Emergency Regulations Extended: On Tuesday, Parliament voted overwhelmingly to extend the state of emergency first imposed by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake on 28 November 2025 following Cyclone Ditwah. Critics argue the continuation lacks justification as the government claims the situation is now under control. • Sweeping Powers Maintained: The active regulations grant far-reaching authority, including the requisitioning of private premises and vehicles, enhanced search and arrest powers for police and armed forces, and penalties for spreading rumors or false statements. • Unutilized 'Rebuilding Sri Lanka' Fund: According to Deputy Finance Minister Anil Jayantha Fernando, the initiative accumulated Rs. 9,583 million as of 24 April 2026. However, the National Audit Office (NAO) disclosed to the Committee on Public Finance that these funds remain unutilized in a special Treasury account. • Institutional Delays: Despite Cabinet approval in December 2025 to set up "Rebuilding Sri Lanka" as a statutory fund under the Presidential Secretariat, the NAO confirmed it has not yet been legally established. • Ground Reality: Despite government assurances, those affected by the cyclone face severe relief bottlenecks. Many citizens have yet to receive promised land outside high-risk zones or the financial assistance required to rebuild homes and restore disrupted livelihoods.