Security was stepped up outside Sri Lanka's top court on Friday ahead of an expected ruling on whether the president broke the law by sacking parliament last month, a decision that could potentially lead to impeachment proceedings.

President Maithripala Sirisena plunged the country into crisis on October 26 when he fired the prime minister and appointed the contentious Mahinda Rajapakse in his place. He then dissolved parliament on November 9.

Four days later, the Supreme Court issued an interim ruling suspending Sirisena's decree and restoring parliament, which almost immediately passed a no-confidence motion against Rajapakse.

The court's seven-judge bench was likely to deliver a final ruling on the constitutionality of Sirisena's move on Friday.

"If the morning session is brief, we can expect a decision later today," a court official said.

Sacked premier Ranil Wickremesinghe's party and their allies, who command a majority in the 225-member assembly, have suggested that they could begin impeachment proceedings again Sirisena depending on the ruling.

Wickremesinghe's party loyalists believe that the court decision will go in their favour, a view held by many independent lawyers.

Problems for Sirisena were compounded on Monday when the Court of Appeal suspended the entire cabinet and asked Rajapakse to explain on what authority he was holding office.

With parliamentary proceedings degenerating into brawls, the United States, the European Union and other powers have raised concerns over the crisis in the strategically important island nation of 21 million people.

Only China has recognised the appointment of Rajapakse, who during his decade as president until 2015 relied heavily on Beijing for diplomatic and financial support.

As president from 2005 until 2015, he ended Sri Lanka's four-decade civil war in 2009 by crushing the rebel Tamil Tigers.

But 40,000 ethnic Tamils were allegedly massacred in the process. Rajapakse and his family are also alleged to have profited from his time in power through corrupt deals.

During an earlier stint as prime minister from 2001 until 2004, Wickremesinghe is credited with pulling Sri Lanka out of its first ever recession, in part with reforms that have endeared him to the West.

Security was stepped up outside Sri Lanka's top court on Friday ahead of an expected ruling on whether the president broke the law by sacking parliament last month, a decision that could potentially lead to impeachment proceedings.

Security was stepped up outside Sri Lanka's top court on Friday ahead of an expected ruling on whether the president broke the law by sacking parliament last month, a decision that could potentially lead to impeachment proceedings. President Maithripala Sirisena plunged the country into crisis on October 26 when he fired the prime minister and appointed the contentious Mahinda Rajapakse in his place. He then dissolved parliament on November 9. Four days later, the Supreme Court issued an interim ruling suspending Sirisena's decree and restoring parliament, which almost immediately passed a no-confidence motion against Rajapakse. The court's seven-judge bench was likely to deliver a final ruling on the constitutionality of Sirisena's move on Friday. "If the morning session is brief, we can expect a decision later today," a court official said. Sacked premier Ranil Wickremesinghe's party and their allies, who command a majority in the 225-member assembly, have suggested that they could begin impeachment proceedings again Sirisena depending on the ruling. Wickremesinghe's party loyalists believe that the court decision will go in their favour, a view held by many independent lawyers. Problems for Sirisena were compounded on Monday when the Court of Appeal suspended the entire cabinet and asked Rajapakse to explain on what authority he was holding office. With parliamentary proceedings degenerating into brawls, the United States, the European Union and other powers have raised concerns over the crisis in the strategically important island nation of 21 million people. Only China has recognised the appointment of Rajapakse, who during his decade as president until 2015 relied heavily on Beijing for diplomatic and financial support. As president from 2005 until 2015, he ended Sri Lanka's four-decade civil war in 2009 by crushing the rebel Tamil Tigers. But 40,000 ethnic Tamils were allegedly massacred in the process. Rajapakse and his family are also alleged to have profited from his time in power through corrupt deals. During an earlier stint as prime minister from 2001 until 2004, Wickremesinghe is credited with pulling Sri Lanka out of its first ever recession, in part with reforms that have endeared him to the West.

Sri Lanka court set to rule on sacking of parliament

Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena said that the current political crisis in the country will not drag on beyond a week even as a war of words between him and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lankas-ousted-pm-likens-president-to-hitler-181568">ousted prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe</a> intensified.

His statement came days after a lower court temporarily barred Sirisena-appointed prime minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-crisis-rajapaksa-files-appeal-in-supreme-court-against-interim-courts-order-181435">Mahinda Rajapaksa</a> from performing his duties.

Sri Lanka is going through a major political crisis since October 26 when President Sirisena, in a controversial move, removed Wickremesinghe and installed ex-strongman Rajapaksa in his place.

The president later dissolved Parliament and called for a snap election on January 5. However, the Supreme Court overturned Sirisena's decision to dissolve Parliament and halted the preparations for snap polls.

In a statement, Sirisena said that he has always taken decisions in the best interest of the country and the people.

"The current political crisis will not drag on beyond seven days," he said on Twitter.

In his strongest yet statement against the president, United National Party (UNP) leader Wickremesinghe on Tuesday said the United National Front (UNF) was prepared to face elections and they are "not afraid of elections."

"Don't be like Hitler and some of the other dictators who used the referendum," Wickremesinghe was quoted as saying by Sri Lanka Mirror.

Sirisena, speaking at the SLFP special convention at the Sugathadasa Indoor Stadium on Tuesday, said that he had been left with no option but to sack Wickremesinghe as he was destroying the noble principles of good governance.

"He destroyed me as well to some extent," the President said, adding that the former prime minister attempted to grab powers which were decentralised under the 13th Amendment to the Constitution.

President Maithripala Sirisena added that Wickremesinghe is a stubborn, headstrong person who was following far right wing neo-liberal policies.

On Tuesday, Rajapaksa filed an appeal before the Supreme Court against a court order that barred him from acting as Prime Minister.

The Court of Appeal in an interim order Monday temporary halted Rajapaksa and his Cabinet from functioning in their positions in response to a case filed by 122 legislators against his disputed government. The court set the hearing of the case for December 12 and 13.

As many as 122 parliamentarians of Wickremesinghe's UNP, Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) and Tamil National Alliance last month filed a petition in the Court of Appeal challenging Rajapaksa's authority as the prime minister.

The interim ruling was a major blow to both President Sirisena and Rajapaksa.

Ousted prime minister Wickremesinghe and Rajapaksa both claim to be the prime ministers. Wickremesinghe says his dismissal is invalid because he still holds a majority in the 225-member Parliament.

Prior to the crisis, Wickramasinghe's UNP had the backing of 106 parliamentarians while Rajapaksa and Sirisena combine had 95 seats. 
Rajapaksa has, so far, failed to prove his majority in Parliament.

Wickremesinghe, with the support from the main Tamil party, claims to have the support of more than 113 legislators, required for a simple majority.

The Tamil National Alliance (TNA) has 16 seats in the house and JVP has six legislators.

The UNF has moved three no trust motions against Rajapaksa, who has refused to step down.

The Sri Lankan president has said that due to sharp personal differences with Wickremesinghe, he would not reappoint him as the Prime Minister.

However, Wickremesinghe's UNP claims that Sirisena will be left with no choice as he would be the man who will command the confidence in the House.&nbsp;

Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena said that the current political crisis in the country will not drag on beyond a week even as a war of words between him and ousted prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe intensified.

Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena said that the current political crisis in the country will not drag on beyond a week even as a war of words between him and ousted prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe intensified. His statement came days after a lower court temporarily barred Sirisena-appointed prime minister Mahinda Rajapaksa from performing his duties. Sri Lanka is going through a major political crisis since October 26 when President Sirisena, in a controversial move, removed Wickremesinghe and installed ex-strongman Rajapaksa in his place. The president later dissolved Parliament and called for a snap election on January 5. However, the Supreme Court overturned Sirisena's decision to dissolve Parliament and halted the preparations for snap polls. In a statement, Sirisena said that he has always taken decisions in the best interest of the country and the people. "The current political crisis will not drag on beyond seven days," he said on Twitter. In his strongest yet statement against the president, United National Party (UNP) leader Wickremesinghe on Tuesday said the United National Front (UNF) was prepared to face elections and they are "not afraid of elections." "Don't be like Hitler and some of the other dictators who used the referendum," Wickremesinghe was quoted as saying by Sri Lanka Mirror. Sirisena, speaking at the SLFP special convention at the Sugathadasa Indoor Stadium on Tuesday, said that he had been left with no option but to sack Wickremesinghe as he was destroying the noble principles of good governance. "He destroyed me as well to some extent," the President said, adding that the former prime minister attempted to grab powers which were decentralised under the 13th Amendment to the Constitution. President Maithripala Sirisena added that Wickremesinghe is a stubborn, headstrong person who was following far right wing neo-liberal policies. On Tuesday, Rajapaksa filed an appeal before the Supreme Court against a court order that barred him from acting as Prime Minister. The Court of Appeal in an interim order Monday temporary halted Rajapaksa and his Cabinet from functioning in their positions in response to a case filed by 122 legislators against his disputed government. The court set the hearing of the case for December 12 and 13. As many as 122 parliamentarians of Wickremesinghe's UNP, Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) and Tamil National Alliance last month filed a petition in the Court of Appeal challenging Rajapaksa's authority as the prime minister. The interim ruling was a major blow to both President Sirisena and Rajapaksa. Ousted prime minister Wickremesinghe and Rajapaksa both claim to be the prime ministers. Wickremesinghe says his dismissal is invalid because he still holds a majority in the 225-member Parliament. Prior to the crisis, Wickramasinghe's UNP had the backing of 106 parliamentarians while Rajapaksa and Sirisena combine had 95 seats. Rajapaksa has, so far, failed to prove his majority in Parliament. Wickremesinghe, with the support from the main Tamil party, claims to have the support of more than 113 legislators, required for a simple majority. The Tamil National Alliance (TNA) has 16 seats in the house and JVP has six legislators. The UNF has moved three no trust motions against Rajapaksa, who has refused to step down. The Sri Lankan president has said that due to sharp personal differences with Wickremesinghe, he would not reappoint him as the Prime Minister. However, Wickremesinghe's UNP claims that Sirisena will be left with no choice as he would be the man who will command the confidence in the House.

Sri Lanka political crisis to end in seven days: President Maithripala Sirisena

Sri Lankan strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa, who was appointed premier in a controversial move by President Maithripala Sirisena, will move the Supreme Court Tuesday against a lower court order, which barred him from acting as prime minister.

The Court of Appeal temporary on Monday halted Rajapaksa and his Cabinet from functioning in their positions in response to a case filed by 122 legislators against the disputed government.

The court set the hearing of the case for December 12 and 13.

"We will not agree with the interim order issued by the Court of Appeal today suspending the cabinet. We will appeal to the Supreme Court tomorrow against it," Rajapaksa said in a press statement.&nbsp;

He said it was the Supreme Court, which has the power to interpret the Constitution.

The interim ruling was a major blow to both President Sirisena and Rajapaksa after the former had appointed his ex-rival as the prime minister on October 26, plunging the country into a major constitutional crisis.

Sirisena later dissolved Parliament, almost 20 months before its term was to end, and ordered a snap election. The Supreme Court overturned Sirisena's decision to dissolve Parliament and halted the preparations for snap polls.

Both Wickremesinghe and Rajapaksa claim to be the prime ministers. Wickremesinghe says his dismissal is invalid because he still holds a majority in the 225-member Parliament.

Speaker Karu Jayasuriya has officially conveyed that the House does not recognise Rajapaksa as the legal prime minister until he proved his majority in the House.

The United National Front led by Wickremesinghe has moved three motions of no trust against Rajapaksa. However, he refused to step down.&nbsp;

The parliamentarians comprising members of the UNF, JVP and TNA ? also filed a petition in the Supreme Court against the former president, challenging him to prove on what authority he is holding office as the prime minister after the Parliament voted twice to defeat him on November 14 and November 16.&nbsp;

Sri Lankan strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa, who was appointed premier in a controversial move by President Maithripala Sirisena, will move the Supreme Court Tuesday against a lower court order, which barred him from acting as prime minister.

Sri Lankan strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa, who was appointed premier in a controversial move by President Maithripala Sirisena, will move the Supreme Court Tuesday against a lower court order, which barred him from acting as prime minister. The Court of Appeal temporary on Monday halted Rajapaksa and his Cabinet from functioning in their positions in response to a case filed by 122 legislators against the disputed government. The court set the hearing of the case for December 12 and 13. "We will not agree with the interim order issued by the Court of Appeal today suspending the cabinet. We will appeal to the Supreme Court tomorrow against it," Rajapaksa said in a press statement. He said it was the Supreme Court, which has the power to interpret the Constitution. The interim ruling was a major blow to both President Sirisena and Rajapaksa after the former had appointed his ex-rival as the prime minister on October 26, plunging the country into a major constitutional crisis. Sirisena later dissolved Parliament, almost 20 months before its term was to end, and ordered a snap election. The Supreme Court overturned Sirisena's decision to dissolve Parliament and halted the preparations for snap polls. Both Wickremesinghe and Rajapaksa claim to be the prime ministers. Wickremesinghe says his dismissal is invalid because he still holds a majority in the 225-member Parliament. Speaker Karu Jayasuriya has officially conveyed that the House does not recognise Rajapaksa as the legal prime minister until he proved his majority in the House. The United National Front led by Wickremesinghe has moved three motions of no trust against Rajapaksa. However, he refused to step down. The parliamentarians comprising members of the UNF, JVP and TNA ? also filed a petition in the Supreme Court against the former president, challenging him to prove on what authority he is holding office as the prime minister after the Parliament voted twice to defeat him on November 14 and November 16.

Lanka crisis: Rajapaksa to move SC against lower court order of barring him from acting as PM

An appeal was filed Tuesday in Sri Lanka's Supreme Court against a court order that barred <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/lanka-crisis-rajapaksa-to-move-sc-against-lower-court-order-of-barring-him-from-acting-as-pm-181372">Mahinda Rajapaksa</a> from acting as Prime Minister.

The Court of Appeal in an interim order Monday temporary halted Rajapaksa and his Cabinet from functioning in their positions in response to a case filed by 122 legislators against his disputed government. The court set the hearing of the case for December 12 and 13.

MP Gamini Lokuge said the appeal was filed in the Supreme Court against the interim order issued by the Court of Appeal, Daily Mirror reported.

Rajapaksa had said on Monday that he would appeal against the Court of Appeal's interim order.

"We will not agree with the interim order issued by the Court of Appeal today suspending the Cabinet. We will appeal to the Supreme Court first thing tomorrow against it," Rajapaksa said in a statement.&nbsp;

He said that it was the Supreme Court which has the power to interpret the Constitution.

As many as 122 parliamentarians of Wickremesinghe's United National Party (UNP), Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) and Tamil National Alliance last month filed a petition in the Court of Appeal challenging Rajapaksa's authority as the prime minister.

The interim ruling was a major blow to both President Maithripala Sirisena and Rajapaksa after the former had appointed his ex-rival as the prime minister on October 26, plunging the country into a major constitutional crisis.

Sirisena later dissolved Parliament, almost 20 months before its term was to end, and ordered snap election. The Supreme Court overturned Sirisena's decision to dissolve Parliament and halted the preparations for snap polls.

The political crisis has crippled the government for more than a month.

Ousted prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and Rajapaksa both claim to be the prime ministers. Wickremesinghe says his dismissal is invalid because he still holds a majority in the 225-member Parliament.

Prior to the crisis, Wickramasinghe's UNP had the backing of 106 parliamentarians while Rajapaksa and Sirisena combine had 95 seats.

Rajapaksa has, so far, failed to prove his majority in Parliament. 
Wickremesinghe, with the support from the main Tamil party, claims to have the support of more than 113 legislators, required for simple majority.

The Tamil National Alliance (TNA) has 16 seats in the house and JVP has six legislators.

The UNF has moved three no trust motions against Rajapaksa, who has refused to step down.

The Sri Lankan president has said that due to sharp personal differences with Wickremesinghe he would not reappoint him as the Prime Minister.

However, Wickremesinghe's UNP claims that Sirisena will be left with no choice as he would be the man who will command the confidence in the House.&nbsp;

An appeal was filed Tuesday in Sri Lanka's Supreme Court against a court order that barred Mahinda Rajapaksa from acting as Prime Minister. The Court of Appeal in an interim order Monday temporary halted Rajapaksa and his Cabinet from functioning in their positions in response to a case filed by 122 legislators against his disputed government.

An appeal was filed Tuesday in Sri Lanka's Supreme Court against a court order that barred Mahinda Rajapaksa from acting as Prime Minister. The Court of Appeal in an interim order Monday temporary halted Rajapaksa and his Cabinet from functioning in their positions in response to a case filed by 122 legislators against his disputed government. The court set the hearing of the case for December 12 and 13. MP Gamini Lokuge said the appeal was filed in the Supreme Court against the interim order issued by the Court of Appeal, Daily Mirror reported. Rajapaksa had said on Monday that he would appeal against the Court of Appeal's interim order. "We will not agree with the interim order issued by the Court of Appeal today suspending the Cabinet. We will appeal to the Supreme Court first thing tomorrow against it," Rajapaksa said in a statement. He said that it was the Supreme Court which has the power to interpret the Constitution. As many as 122 parliamentarians of Wickremesinghe's United National Party (UNP), Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) and Tamil National Alliance last month filed a petition in the Court of Appeal challenging Rajapaksa's authority as the prime minister. The interim ruling was a major blow to both President Maithripala Sirisena and Rajapaksa after the former had appointed his ex-rival as the prime minister on October 26, plunging the country into a major constitutional crisis. Sirisena later dissolved Parliament, almost 20 months before its term was to end, and ordered snap election. The Supreme Court overturned Sirisena's decision to dissolve Parliament and halted the preparations for snap polls. The political crisis has crippled the government for more than a month. Ousted prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and Rajapaksa both claim to be the prime ministers. Wickremesinghe says his dismissal is invalid because he still holds a majority in the 225-member Parliament. Prior to the crisis, Wickramasinghe's UNP had the backing of 106 parliamentarians while Rajapaksa and Sirisena combine had 95 seats. Rajapaksa has, so far, failed to prove his majority in Parliament. Wickremesinghe, with the support from the main Tamil party, claims to have the support of more than 113 legislators, required for simple majority. The Tamil National Alliance (TNA) has 16 seats in the house and JVP has six legislators. The UNF has moved three no trust motions against Rajapaksa, who has refused to step down. The Sri Lankan president has said that due to sharp personal differences with Wickremesinghe he would not reappoint him as the Prime Minister. However, Wickremesinghe's UNP claims that Sirisena will be left with no choice as he would be the man who will command the confidence in the House.

Sri Lanka crisis: Rajapaksa files appeal in Supreme Court against interim court's order

Breaking News: Sri Lankan court restrains Mahinda Rajapaksa from acting as PM

After twice failing to prove the majority in the parliament, President Maithripapala Sirisena's controversially appointed Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa on Sunday called for holding snap parliamentary polls in order to end the crisis in the island nation.

Sri Lanka has witnessed turmoil since Srisena sacked the prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and installed Rajapaksa in his place on October 26.

The island nation's president later dissolved Parliament and ordered a snap election. However, his decision was overturned by the country's apex court which also halted the preparations for snap polls.

With Wickremesinghe refusing to resign from his post, both him and Rajapaksa claim to be the prime ministers.&nbsp;

Wickremesinghe says his dismissal is invalid because he still holds a majority in the 225-member Parliament.&nbsp;

In a statement, Rajapaksa cites occasions in the history when Parliament had been dissolved to call parliamentary elections in Sri Lanka to avoid crisis and bring in political stability.&nbsp;

"The only way to restore stability to a destabilised democracy will be through a general election. According to our Constitution, sovereignty is vested in the people and not in Parliament," the former strongman said.

Rajapaksa has, so far, failed to prove his majority in Parliament.

After twice failing to prove the majority in the parliament, President Maithripapala Sirisena's controversially appointed Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa on Sunday called for holding snap parliamentary polls in order to end the crisis in the island nation.

After twice failing to prove the majority in the parliament, President Maithripapala Sirisena's controversially appointed Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa on Sunday called for holding snap parliamentary polls in order to end the crisis in the island nation. Sri Lanka has witnessed turmoil since Srisena sacked the prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and installed Rajapaksa in his place on October 26. The island nation's president later dissolved Parliament and ordered a snap election. However, his decision was overturned by the country's apex court which also halted the preparations for snap polls. With Wickremesinghe refusing to resign from his post, both him and Rajapaksa claim to be the prime ministers. Wickremesinghe says his dismissal is invalid because he still holds a majority in the 225-member Parliament. In a statement, Rajapaksa cites occasions in the history when Parliament had been dissolved to call parliamentary elections in Sri Lanka to avoid crisis and bring in political stability. "The only way to restore stability to a destabilised democracy will be through a general election. According to our Constitution, sovereignty is vested in the people and not in Parliament," the former strongman said. Rajapaksa has, so far, failed to prove his majority in Parliament.

Sri Lanka turmoil: Mahinda Rajapaksa calls for fresh polls

The US has put on hold its discussions with <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-top-military-official-wijegunaratne-detained-over-mass-murder-cover-up-180033">Sri Lanka</a> on its potential participation in an American aid initiative on poverty reduction due to the disruption in the country's democratic process following the ouster of Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, a senior official has said.

Sri Lanka plunged into a political crisis after President Maithripala Sirisena dismissed Wickremesinghe and replaced him with former strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa.&nbsp;

Rajapaksa has failed to muster support of the majority in the Parliament.

"Because of this disruption to Sri Lanka's democratic process, we have put on hold discussions about Sri Lanka's potential participation in Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) programmes," the senior Trump administration official told PTI when asked about the relationship with Colombo and the Trump Administration.&nbsp;

The latest move by the Trump Administration could be seen as a setback for Sri Lanka, which was expecting a major investment from the US in the island nations transport and land sectors.&nbsp;

The proposed MCC Sri Lanka Compact was designed to spur economic growth and investment by the private sector to reduce poverty and increase economic opportunities for its people, according to MCC Chief Operating Officer Jonathan Nash who visited Sri Lanka in September this year for talks with Sri Lankan authorities.

The United States believes that the steps taken by President Sirisena were unconstitutional and wants the country to get back to its democratic&nbsp; 
process at the earliest.

Just before Sirisena dismissed the Wickremesinghe government, Sri Lanka and the US were in the final stage of the discussions. The MCC was to fund the compact entirely through grants which do not need to be repaid rather than loans.

Discussions on the MCC would now resume only after the constitutional crisis in Sri Lanka is restored through democratic means.&nbsp;

"We are concerned about the extra-constitutional steps that President Sirisena has taken," the senior administration official told PTI. &nbsp; &nbsp; 
"The longer the situation continues, the greater the risk of ethnic turmoil and violence," warned the official.

The US has put on hold its discussions with Sri Lanka on its potential participation in an American aid initiative on poverty reduction due to the disruption in the country's democratic process following the ouster of Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, a senior official has said.

The US has put on hold its discussions with Sri Lanka on its potential participation in an American aid initiative on poverty reduction due to the disruption in the country's democratic process following the ouster of Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, a senior official has said. Sri Lanka plunged into a political crisis after President Maithripala Sirisena dismissed Wickremesinghe and replaced him with former strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa. Rajapaksa has failed to muster support of the majority in the Parliament. "Because of this disruption to Sri Lanka's democratic process, we have put on hold discussions about Sri Lanka's potential participation in Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) programmes," the senior Trump administration official told PTI when asked about the relationship with Colombo and the Trump Administration. The latest move by the Trump Administration could be seen as a setback for Sri Lanka, which was expecting a major investment from the US in the island nations transport and land sectors. The proposed MCC Sri Lanka Compact was designed to spur economic growth and investment by the private sector to reduce poverty and increase economic opportunities for its people, according to MCC Chief Operating Officer Jonathan Nash who visited Sri Lanka in September this year for talks with Sri Lankan authorities. The United States believes that the steps taken by President Sirisena were unconstitutional and wants the country to get back to its democratic process at the earliest. Just before Sirisena dismissed the Wickremesinghe government, Sri Lanka and the US were in the final stage of the discussions. The MCC was to fund the compact entirely through grants which do not need to be repaid rather than loans. Discussions on the MCC would now resume only after the constitutional crisis in Sri Lanka is restored through democratic means. "We are concerned about the extra-constitutional steps that President Sirisena has taken," the senior administration official told PTI. "The longer the situation continues, the greater the risk of ethnic turmoil and violence," warned the official.

US puts on hold discussions over Sri Lanka's participation in MCC amid political crisis

Sri Lanka's Speaker Karu Jayasuriya on Thursday met President Maithripala Sirisena and apprised him about the negative impact of ongoing policy crisis on the country's currency, foreign investments and arrival of tourists.

Jayasuriya's meeting with the President is being seen as an attempt to end the impasse that the island nation is facing since the sacking of Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe by Sirisena and appointment of strongman <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-parliament-bars-rajapaksa-from-using-state-funds-after-cutting-budget-180216">Mahinda Rajapaksa</a> as the country's premier over a month ago.

The island nation is witnessing a political crisis since Sirisena's controversial move to sack Wickeremesinghe and install Rajapaksa as the prime minister in his place on October 26.

Sirisena later dissolved Parliament, almost 20 months before its term was to end, and ordered snap election. The Supreme Court overturned Sirisena's decision to dissolve Parliament and halted the preparations for snap polls.

Jayasuriya, in a statement released after his meeting with Sirisena, said that he pointed out the adverse economic impact from the impasse on the Sri Lankan rupee, foreign investments and the slump in tourist arrivals.&nbsp;

"He promised to take appropriate action tomorrow in consultation with the Leader Of the Opposition and the leaders of UNF," the statement said.

Sirisena and Jayasuriya are said to be not on the same page.

Jayasuriya's decision not to recognise Rajapaksa until he proved his majority had led to a clash with the executive. He is accused of being biased against Rajapaksa and Sirisena, further escalating the impasse.&nbsp;

Also, Sirisena's UPFA has continued to boycott parliamentary sessions in protest against the speaker.

Earlier in the day, a Sirisena loyalist Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe, who was the only legislature from Sirisena's party who took part in a debate on the expenditure of the Prime Minister's Office, invited Jayasuriya to hold talks with the President to end the crisis.

Parliament on Thursday overwhelmingly passed a motion to suspend the expenditure of the Prime Minister's Office, dealing a major blow to Rajapaksa.

Wickremesinghe has held on to the post despite his sacking as he maintained that his removal was illegal in terms of the 19th amendment to the constitution.

Sirisena has said he would never appoint Wickremesinghe as the prime minister as he found it personally hard to work with him.

Wickremesinghe claims that the Constitution does not allow for personal prejudices and the president would be duty bound to accept the person who commands a majority in Parliament.

Sri Lanka's Speaker Karu Jayasuriya on Thursday met President Maithripala Sirisena and apprised him about the negative impact of ongoing policy crisis on the country's currency, foreign investments and arrival of tourists.

Sri Lanka's Speaker Karu Jayasuriya on Thursday met President Maithripala Sirisena and apprised him about the negative impact of ongoing policy crisis on the country's currency, foreign investments and arrival of tourists. Jayasuriya's meeting with the President is being seen as an attempt to end the impasse that the island nation is facing since the sacking of Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe by Sirisena and appointment of strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa as the country's premier over a month ago. The island nation is witnessing a political crisis since Sirisena's controversial move to sack Wickeremesinghe and install Rajapaksa as the prime minister in his place on October 26. Sirisena later dissolved Parliament, almost 20 months before its term was to end, and ordered snap election. The Supreme Court overturned Sirisena's decision to dissolve Parliament and halted the preparations for snap polls. Jayasuriya, in a statement released after his meeting with Sirisena, said that he pointed out the adverse economic impact from the impasse on the Sri Lankan rupee, foreign investments and the slump in tourist arrivals. "He promised to take appropriate action tomorrow in consultation with the Leader Of the Opposition and the leaders of UNF," the statement said. Sirisena and Jayasuriya are said to be not on the same page. Jayasuriya's decision not to recognise Rajapaksa until he proved his majority had led to a clash with the executive. He is accused of being biased against Rajapaksa and Sirisena, further escalating the impasse. Also, Sirisena's UPFA has continued to boycott parliamentary sessions in protest against the speaker. Earlier in the day, a Sirisena loyalist Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe, who was the only legislature from Sirisena's party who took part in a debate on the expenditure of the Prime Minister's Office, invited Jayasuriya to hold talks with the President to end the crisis. Parliament on Thursday overwhelmingly passed a motion to suspend the expenditure of the Prime Minister's Office, dealing a major blow to Rajapaksa. Wickremesinghe has held on to the post despite his sacking as he maintained that his removal was illegal in terms of the 19th amendment to the constitution. Sirisena has said he would never appoint Wickremesinghe as the prime minister as he found it personally hard to work with him. Wickremesinghe claims that the Constitution does not allow for personal prejudices and the president would be duty bound to accept the person who commands a majority in Parliament.

Sri Lanka Speaker Jayasuriya meets President Sirisena in a bid to end impasse

Sri Lankan Parliament Thursday overwhelmingly passed a motion to suspend the expenditure of the Prime Minister's Office, dealing a major blow to strongman <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-parliament-passes-motion-to-cut-prime-ministers-budget-180182">Mahinda Rajapaksa</a> who was appointed premier by President Maithripala Sirisena in a controversial move that plunged the country into a constitutional crisis.

The motion was passed with 123 lawmakers voting in favour of the motion and none opposing it in the 225-member House as Rajapaksa's supporters boycotted the session.&nbsp;

"Such a motion cannot be presented by the Opposition. It must be presented only by a government minister," SB Dissanayake, a member of Sirisena's United People's Freedom Alliance (UPFA) party, said.

Observers opine that the passing of the motion, stripping prime minister's secretary from spending money from the state account, was yet another indication that Rajapaksa lacked simple majority of 113 in the House to continue as the premier.&nbsp;

The motion, which was approved, read, "Parliament resolves that from November 15, Secretary to the Prime Minister has no authority to approve any expenditure drawn from the funds of the Republic and any person taking any action in violation of this resolution will be dealt with according to the law."&nbsp;

Lanka is witnessing a political crisis since October 26 when President Sirisena sacked Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and replaced him with Rajapaksa.&nbsp;

Sirisena later dissolved Parliament, almost 20 months before its term was to end, and ordered a snap election. The Supreme Court overturned Sirisena's decision to dissolve Parliament and halted the preparations for snap polls.

Both Wickremesinghe and Rajapaksa claim to be the prime ministers. Wickremesinghe says his dismissal is invalid because he still holds a majority in the 225-member Parliament.

Speaker Karu Jayasuriya has officially conveyed that the House does not recognise Rajapaksa as the legal prime minister until he proved his majority in the House.

The United National Front led by Wickremesinghe has moved three motions of no trust against Rajapaksa. However, he refused to step down.&nbsp;

The parliamentarians comprising members of the UNF, JVP and TNA ? filed a petition in the Supreme Court against the former president, challenging him to prove on what authority he is holding office as the prime minister after the Parliament voted twice to defeat him on November 14 and November 16.&nbsp;

The November 16 session witnessed unprecedented violence as lawmakers threw furniture and chilli powder at each other.&nbsp;

Jayasuriya had called the police into the House as lawmakers were seen breaking furniture to attack the police, while there were video images of some MPs carrying sharp objects and an MP was seen throwing chilli powder mixed with water at the policemen. The violence had left some lawmakers injured.

The Speaker Thursday announced he has appointed a committee to probe the violence in the Parliament.

Sri Lankan Parliament Thursday overwhelmingly passed a motion to suspend the expenditure of the Prime Minister's Office, dealing a major blow to strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa who was appointed premier by President Maithripala Sirisena in a controversial move that plunged the country into a constitutional crisis.

Sri Lankan Parliament Thursday overwhelmingly passed a motion to suspend the expenditure of the Prime Minister's Office, dealing a major blow to strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa who was appointed premier by President Maithripala Sirisena in a controversial move that plunged the country into a constitutional crisis. The motion was passed with 123 lawmakers voting in favour of the motion and none opposing it in the 225-member House as Rajapaksa's supporters boycotted the session. "Such a motion cannot be presented by the Opposition. It must be presented only by a government minister," SB Dissanayake, a member of Sirisena's United People's Freedom Alliance (UPFA) party, said. Observers opine that the passing of the motion, stripping prime minister's secretary from spending money from the state account, was yet another indication that Rajapaksa lacked simple majority of 113 in the House to continue as the premier. The motion, which was approved, read, "Parliament resolves that from November 15, Secretary to the Prime Minister has no authority to approve any expenditure drawn from the funds of the Republic and any person taking any action in violation of this resolution will be dealt with according to the law." Lanka is witnessing a political crisis since October 26 when President Sirisena sacked Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and replaced him with Rajapaksa. Sirisena later dissolved Parliament, almost 20 months before its term was to end, and ordered a snap election. The Supreme Court overturned Sirisena's decision to dissolve Parliament and halted the preparations for snap polls. Both Wickremesinghe and Rajapaksa claim to be the prime ministers. Wickremesinghe says his dismissal is invalid because he still holds a majority in the 225-member Parliament. Speaker Karu Jayasuriya has officially conveyed that the House does not recognise Rajapaksa as the legal prime minister until he proved his majority in the House. The United National Front led by Wickremesinghe has moved three motions of no trust against Rajapaksa. However, he refused to step down. The parliamentarians comprising members of the UNF, JVP and TNA ? filed a petition in the Supreme Court against the former president, challenging him to prove on what authority he is holding office as the prime minister after the Parliament voted twice to defeat him on November 14 and November 16. The November 16 session witnessed unprecedented violence as lawmakers threw furniture and chilli powder at each other. Jayasuriya had called the police into the House as lawmakers were seen breaking furniture to attack the police, while there were video images of some MPs carrying sharp objects and an MP was seen throwing chilli powder mixed with water at the policemen. The violence had left some lawmakers injured. The Speaker Thursday announced he has appointed a committee to probe the violence in the Parliament.

Sri Lanka Parliament bars Rajapaksa from using state funds after cutting budget

Sri Lanka's controversially appointed prime minister Mahinda Rajapaksa said Sunday that stability in the country could only be restored through a fresh round of parliamentary elections.

The country is witnessing a political crisis since President Maithripala Sirisena last month abruptly sacked prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and replaced him with former strongman Rajapksa in a move termed by many as unconstitutional.

Both Wickremesinghe and Rajapaksa have been claiming to be the legitimate prime minister since October 26.

Rajapaksa, in his first televised address since becoming the prime minister, said on Sunday that the purported government, led by Sirisena, was only an interim arrangement and that stability could only be restored through a fresh round of parliamentary polls.

He said that President Sirisena has entrusted him to resurrect the falling economy and living standards of the people.

"It is now barely a month since the change of government on October 26. What we have now is only an interim government. When a downward trend manifests itself, it is difficult to turn things around in a month or two," Rajapaksa said in the address.

Rajapaksa said Wickremesinghe's United National Party is hesitant to face elections unlike all other parties.

He alleged that the Wickremesinghe government borrowed USD 20.7 billion in three years due to which "it will take a while to turn things around".

Rajapaksa has so far failed to prove his parliamentary majority. He has been defeated in at least three no trust motions in Parliament.

However, he has refused to step down and said that these motions are not recognised, accusing parliamentary Speaker Karu Jayasuriya of bias. 
Jayasuriya has said that Parliament will not recognise Rajapaksa until he proved his majority in a floor test.

The political crisis began with Wickremesinghe's sacking on October 26.

Sirisena later dissolved Parliament, almost 20 months before its term was to end, and ordered snap election. The Supreme Court overturned&nbsp;Sirisena's decision to dissolve Parliament and halted the preparations for&nbsp;snap polls.

Speaker Jayasuriya then ordered a floor test in the 225-member assembly to end the ongoing political crisis, a move which invited the wrath of the government of Rajapaksa.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka's controversially appointed prime minister Mahinda Rajapaksa said Sunday that stability in the country could only be restored through a fresh round of parliamentary elections.

Sri Lanka's controversially appointed prime minister Mahinda Rajapaksa said Sunday that stability in the country could only be restored through a fresh round of parliamentary elections. The country is witnessing a political crisis since President Maithripala Sirisena last month abruptly sacked prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and replaced him with former strongman Rajapksa in a move termed by many as unconstitutional. Both Wickremesinghe and Rajapaksa have been claiming to be the legitimate prime minister since October 26. Rajapaksa, in his first televised address since becoming the prime minister, said on Sunday that the purported government, led by Sirisena, was only an interim arrangement and that stability could only be restored through a fresh round of parliamentary polls. He said that President Sirisena has entrusted him to resurrect the falling economy and living standards of the people. "It is now barely a month since the change of government on October 26. What we have now is only an interim government. When a downward trend manifests itself, it is difficult to turn things around in a month or two," Rajapaksa said in the address. Rajapaksa said Wickremesinghe's United National Party is hesitant to face elections unlike all other parties. He alleged that the Wickremesinghe government borrowed USD 20.7 billion in three years due to which "it will take a while to turn things around". Rajapaksa has so far failed to prove his parliamentary majority. He has been defeated in at least three no trust motions in Parliament. However, he has refused to step down and said that these motions are not recognised, accusing parliamentary Speaker Karu Jayasuriya of bias. Jayasuriya has said that Parliament will not recognise Rajapaksa until he proved his majority in a floor test. The political crisis began with Wickremesinghe's sacking on October 26. Sirisena later dissolved Parliament, almost 20 months before its term was to end, and ordered snap election. The Supreme Court overturned Sirisena's decision to dissolve Parliament and halted the preparations for snap polls. Speaker Jayasuriya then ordered a floor test in the 225-member assembly to end the ongoing political crisis, a move which invited the wrath of the government of Rajapaksa.

Fresh parliamentary polls need of hour in Sri Lanka: Mahinda Rajapaksa

Sri Lanka President Maithripala Sirisena on Sunday recounted the political crisis that has crippled Sri Lanka's government for4 over a month now and vowed never to reappoint ousted primed minister Ranil Wickremesinghe.

Wickremesinghe's alliance on Friday won control of a powerful panel in Parliament, dealing a major blow to President Maithripala Sirisena and his prime ministerial appointee Mahinda Rajapaksa.

Both Wickremesinghe and Rajapaksa claim to be the prime ministers. Wickremesinghe says his dismissal is invalid because he still holds a majority in the 225-member Parliament.&nbsp;

But Sirisena choked back tears in a meeting with foreign correspondents as he accused Wickremesinghe, who he sacked on October 26, of being "highly corrupt".

"Even if the UNP has the majority I told them not to bring Ranil Wickremesinghe before me, I will not make him prime minister," he said, referring to Wickremesinghe's United National Party.

Sri Lanka is witnessing a political crisis since President Sirisena abruptly sacked Wickremesinghe on October 26.

Sri Lanka President Maithripala Sirisena on Sunday recounted the political crisis that has crippled Sri Lanka's government for4 over a month now and vowed never to reappoint ousted primed minister Ranil Wickremesinghe.

Sri Lanka President Maithripala Sirisena on Sunday recounted the political crisis that has crippled Sri Lanka's government for4 over a month now and vowed never to reappoint ousted primed minister Ranil Wickremesinghe. Wickremesinghe's alliance on Friday won control of a powerful panel in Parliament, dealing a major blow to President Maithripala Sirisena and his prime ministerial appointee Mahinda Rajapaksa. Both Wickremesinghe and Rajapaksa claim to be the prime ministers. Wickremesinghe says his dismissal is invalid because he still holds a majority in the 225-member Parliament. But Sirisena choked back tears in a meeting with foreign correspondents as he accused Wickremesinghe, who he sacked on October 26, of being "highly corrupt". "Even if the UNP has the majority I told them not to bring Ranil Wickremesinghe before me, I will not make him prime minister," he said, referring to Wickremesinghe's United National Party. Sri Lanka is witnessing a political crisis since President Sirisena abruptly sacked Wickremesinghe on October 26.

Sri Lanka president Sirisena vows never to reappoint ousted PM Wickremesinghe

Ousted Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe's alliance on Friday won control of a powerful panel in Parliament, dealing a major blow to President Maithripala Sirisena and his prime ministerial appointee Mahinda Rajapaksa.

Sirisena's party members walked out of Parliament, which resumed its session on Friday after being adjourned on Monday, protesting against Speaker Karu Jayasuriya's move to appoint five members of the United People's Freedom Alliance (UPFA) which is led by the President.

The Speaker named five members from the United National Front (UNF) of Wickremesinghe, and one each from the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) and the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP).

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sri-lanka-state-banks-to-borrow-up-to-1-billion-abroad-before-end-of-2018-178833">Sri Lanka state banks to borrow up to $1 billion abroad before </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sri-lanka-state-banks-to-borrow-up-to-1-billion-abroad-before-end-of-2018-178833">end</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sri-lanka-state-banks-to-borrow-up-to-1-billion-abroad-before-end-of-2018-178833"> of 2018</a>

This is in continuation of the political unrest plaguing the country since October 26.

Both Wickremesinghe and Rajapaksa claim to be the prime ministers. Wickremesinghe says his dismissal is invalid because he still holds a majority in the 225-member Parliament.

Jayasuriya, at the start of the session, announced that following a meeting of all party leaders which ended without an agreement over the composition of the committee, he had decided to grant five members each to the UPFA and the UNF.

The committee would comprise 12 members, he said.

Senior UPFA member Dinesh Gunawardena slammed the speaker's conduct as biased.

"I urge you to recognise us as the government and give us the majority in the select committee.

"We have precedents that even during the minority governments in the past the government had been given majority in the select committee," he said.

Lakshman Kiriella on behalf of the ousted government said that Jayasuriya has declared the members based on two previous votes that there was no government and the purported government does not exist.

Wimal Weerawansa, another Sirisena backer, said that if Jayasuriya was not recognising the government, they would not recognise Jayasuriya as the Speaker.

"We will leave the chamber allowing you to conduct a meeting of the United National Party," Weerawansa said and led Sirisena's side out of the chamber.

Jayasuriya then proceeded to take a vote on his decision on the select committee composition after a vote was moved by JVP's Vijitha Herath.

The proposal was adopted with 121 votes for and nothing against. The members of the UNF, Sri Lanka Muslim Congress and the Tamil National Alliance voted in favour.

Sri Lanka is witnessing a political crisis since President Sirisena abruptly sacked Wickremesinghe on October 26.

Sirisena later dissolved Parliament, almost 20 months before its term was to end, and ordered snap election. The Supreme Court overturned Sirisena's decision to dissolve Parliament and halted the preparations for snap polls.

Speaker Jayasuriya then ordered a floor test in the 225-member assembly to end the ongoing political crisis, a move which invited the wrath of the government of Rajapaksa.

The UNF has already moved two motions of no trust against Rajapaksa and they are to move a third vote again, perhaps Friday. Rajapaksa, however, has refused to step down.

On Wednesday, Wickremesinghe's party handed Parliament another motion, demanding suspension of funds of all ministry secretaries whom they claim had been illegally appointed since October 26.

Ousted Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe's alliance on Friday won control of a powerful panel in Parliament, dealing a major blow to President Maithripala Sirisena and his prime ministerial appointee Mahinda Rajapaksa.

Ousted Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe's alliance on Friday won control of a powerful panel in Parliament, dealing a major blow to President Maithripala Sirisena and his prime ministerial appointee Mahinda Rajapaksa. Sirisena's party members walked out of Parliament, which resumed its session on Friday after being adjourned on Monday, protesting against Speaker Karu Jayasuriya's move to appoint five members of the United People's Freedom Alliance (UPFA) which is led by the President. The Speaker named five members from the United National Front (UNF) of Wickremesinghe, and one each from the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) and the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP). Also read: Sri Lanka state banks to borrow up to $1 billion abroad before end of 2018 This is in continuation of the political unrest plaguing the country since October 26. Both Wickremesinghe and Rajapaksa claim to be the prime ministers. Wickremesinghe says his dismissal is invalid because he still holds a majority in the 225-member Parliament. Jayasuriya, at the start of the session, announced that following a meeting of all party leaders which ended without an agreement over the composition of the committee, he had decided to grant five members each to the UPFA and the UNF. The committee would comprise 12 members, he said. Senior UPFA member Dinesh Gunawardena slammed the speaker's conduct as biased. "I urge you to recognise us as the government and give us the majority in the select committee. "We have precedents that even during the minority governments in the past the government had been given majority in the select committee," he said. Lakshman Kiriella on behalf of the ousted government said that Jayasuriya has declared the members based on two previous votes that there was no government and the purported government does not exist. Wimal Weerawansa, another Sirisena backer, said that if Jayasuriya was not recognising the government, they would not recognise Jayasuriya as the Speaker. "We will leave the chamber allowing you to conduct a meeting of the United National Party," Weerawansa said and led Sirisena's side out of the chamber. Jayasuriya then proceeded to take a vote on his decision on the select committee composition after a vote was moved by JVP's Vijitha Herath. The proposal was adopted with 121 votes for and nothing against. The members of the UNF, Sri Lanka Muslim Congress and the Tamil National Alliance voted in favour. Sri Lanka is witnessing a political crisis since President Sirisena abruptly sacked Wickremesinghe on October 26. Sirisena later dissolved Parliament, almost 20 months before its term was to end, and ordered snap election. The Supreme Court overturned Sirisena's decision to dissolve Parliament and halted the preparations for snap polls. Speaker Jayasuriya then ordered a floor test in the 225-member assembly to end the ongoing political crisis, a move which invited the wrath of the government of Rajapaksa. The UNF has already moved two motions of no trust against Rajapaksa and they are to move a third vote again, perhaps Friday. Rajapaksa, however, has refused to step down. On Wednesday, Wickremesinghe's party handed Parliament another motion, demanding suspension of funds of all ministry secretaries whom they claim had been illegally appointed since October 26.

Sri Lanka crisis: Wickremsinghe's alliance wins control of parliament panel

Sri Lanka`s three state banks will borrow up to $1 billion from foreign sources before the end of 2018 and use the money to pay off maturing foreign loans, Finance Ministry Secretary SR Attygalle said on Thursday.

The move comes as Sri Lanka faces a worsening political crisis with a newly appointed government refusing to resign despite losing two confidence votes in parliament.&nbsp;

The government is now trying to shore up a badly shaken investor confidence which is reflected in the decision by Moody`s Investors Service to downgrade its rating deeper into junk territory on Tuesday.&nbsp;

The Sri Lankan rupee has fallen to record lows in recent days and its dollar bond yields have spiked.

The island nation is scheduled to repay more than $5.8 billion, including $1.54 billion in interest payments, in the next 12 months, the central bank`s latest data showed.&nbsp;

"The state banks will borrow through 1- to 3-year maturity bonds and money can be used to repay foreign loans next year. We expect there could be a slight increase in borrowing costs due to Moody`s rating downgrade," Attygalle told Reuters.

The state banks can borrow on their own balance sheets but if the government gives a sovereign guarantee the loans may require parliamentary approval. That would be difficult to get as Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa does not have majority support in parliament.

President Maithripala Sirisena`s sacking of prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and his replacement by Rajapaksa last month, amid the competing influences of China and India, have shattered the island`s fragile ruling coalition.

Bank of Ceylon, People`s Bank, and National Savings Bank will conduct the borrowing through syndicated loans.&nbsp;

Eran Wickramaratne, who was a junior finance minister in the government of the deposed prime minister Wickremesinghe, said the previous administration had not planned to use the state banks for borrowing overseas this year. It was concerned that such borrowings would weaken the state banks, he said.&nbsp;

The previous Rajapaksa-led government did give sovereign guarantees for state bank loans in 2013. National Savings Bank had borrowed $750 million through an international five-year bond in 2013.&nbsp;

Analysts say Sri Lanka will have to borrow at "very expensive" rates on international markets because of the political uncertainty.

Sri Lanka`s three state banks will borrow up to $1 billion from foreign sources before the end of 2018 and use the money to pay off maturing foreign loans, Finance Ministry Secretary SR Attygalle said on Thursday.

Sri Lanka`s three state banks will borrow up to $1 billion from foreign sources before the end of 2018 and use the money to pay off maturing foreign loans, Finance Ministry Secretary SR Attygalle said on Thursday. The move comes as Sri Lanka faces a worsening political crisis with a newly appointed government refusing to resign despite losing two confidence votes in parliament. The government is now trying to shore up a badly shaken investor confidence which is reflected in the decision by Moody`s Investors Service to downgrade its rating deeper into junk territory on Tuesday. The Sri Lankan rupee has fallen to record lows in recent days and its dollar bond yields have spiked. The island nation is scheduled to repay more than $5.8 billion, including $1.54 billion in interest payments, in the next 12 months, the central bank`s latest data showed. "The state banks will borrow through 1- to 3-year maturity bonds and money can be used to repay foreign loans next year. We expect there could be a slight increase in borrowing costs due to Moody`s rating downgrade," Attygalle told Reuters. The state banks can borrow on their own balance sheets but if the government gives a sovereign guarantee the loans may require parliamentary approval. That would be difficult to get as Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa does not have majority support in parliament. President Maithripala Sirisena`s sacking of prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and his replacement by Rajapaksa last month, amid the competing influences of China and India, have shattered the island`s fragile ruling coalition. Bank of Ceylon, People`s Bank, and National Savings Bank will conduct the borrowing through syndicated loans. Eran Wickramaratne, who was a junior finance minister in the government of the deposed prime minister Wickremesinghe, said the previous administration had not planned to use the state banks for borrowing overseas this year. It was concerned that such borrowings would weaken the state banks, he said. The previous Rajapaksa-led government did give sovereign guarantees for state bank loans in 2013. National Savings Bank had borrowed $750 million through an international five-year bond in 2013. Analysts say Sri Lanka will have to borrow at "very expensive" rates on international markets because of the political uncertainty.

Sri Lanka state banks to borrow up to $1 billion abroad before end of 2018

Sri Lanka political crisis: Both Rajapaksa & Wickremesinghe claim to be prime minister

Sri Lankan parliament descends into farce amid political turmoil

Sri Lanka has been reeling from a turbulent political crisis for almost a month, when President Maithripala Sirisena on October 26 abruptly sacked then-Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and installed the now-ousted Mahinda Rajapaksa, the country's former President, as the new premier.

The power struggle has left the Sri Lankan democratic system in tatters, with massive protests being held by the United National Party (UNP), where its members and supporters of Wickremesinghe have repeatedly called President Sirisena's move as "unconstitutional".

Even Wickremesinghe voiced his views, asserting that he was legally still the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka. He and his supporters have accused Sirisena of staging an "undemocratic coup".

Sirisena further suspended the country's Parliamentary proceedings until November 16. Amid rising demands by legislators to end the political crisis in the South Asian island nation, the Sri Lankan President preponed the date to reconvene the Parliament on November 14.

Defending his decision to oust Wickremesinghe, the Sri Lankan President claimed that the former's political conduct was unbecoming of civilised politics, as he grossly violated the principles of good governance. Sirisena asserted that political change was necessary, as Wickremesinghe "destroyed the concept and the noble expectations of good governance by his actions during the last few years."

Sirisena then called for a snap election to be held on January 5. Amidst the political chaos, the Sri Lankan Supreme Court stepped in and suspended Sirisena's order to dissolve the island nation's Parliament and call a snap general election. The court will hear more arguments and would deliver a verdict next month.

The Sri Lankan President remained defiant, saying that he would not re-appoint Wickremesinghe, in what was a move, considered by many, to allow Rajapaksa to buy more time to gain legislators, in order to prove his majority in the Parliament.

China, whose protege is Rajapaksa, was bankrolling this entire process.

The political turmoil in Sri Lanka turned topsy-turvy, when Rajapaksa, was defeated in the Parliament during a 'No-Confidence' motion on November 15. The No-Confidence motion against Rajapaksa was passed after 122 members voted against him in the 225-member House. In an unusual turn of events, the Parliament became a virtual war-zone, when the legislators got into fistfights, hurled objects at each other and even tried to attack Speaker Karu Jayasuriya following Rajapaksa's loss in the trust vote.

The Parliament was reconvened in Colombo after the UNP lawmakers approved a motion of no-confidence in Rajapaksa's "purported" cabinet. They even passed motions declaring President Sirisena's move as illegal.

Following this major upset for Mahinda Rajapaksa, he is using his money and muscle power to obstruct the functioning of the House, and also intimidating his opponents and their supporters. An atmosphere of absolute terror now prevails in the country, with the complicity of President Sirisena, who is allowing Mahinda Rajapaksa's goons a free run.

Legislators supporting Rajapaksa, hurled chairs at police officers and throw chilli powder at the leaders of opposing parties.

"They (MPs of Sirisena - Rajapaksa faction) have assaulted me by using a copy of the Constitution, and they have used chilli powder mixed with water to attack the MPs," The Guardian quoted Member of Parliament, Vijitha Herath, as saying on Friday.

With Sirisena vehemently rejecting the no-confidence vote against Rajapaksa, Speaker Jayasuriya said that Sri Lanka as of now does not have a Prime Minister or a Cabinet.

While the Parliament is expected to be reconvened on November 19, there is still no clear sign on whether the political turmoil would come to an end soon.

The political parties are now waiting for the Supreme Court's verdict next month to see if the House will be dissolved and elections will be announced or whether the Wickremesinghe-led government will continue in office.

Many countries, including India and the United States, are closely watching the developments in the island nation, and have called on the Sirisena government to act as per the Constitution and refrain from committing violence and to restore democracy.

Sri Lanka has been reeling from a turbulent political crisis for almost a month, when President Maithripala Sirisena on October 26 abruptly sacked then-Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and installed the now-ousted Mahinda Rajapaksa, the country's former President, as the new premier.

Sri Lanka has been reeling from a turbulent political crisis for almost a month, when President Maithripala Sirisena on October 26 abruptly sacked then-Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and installed the now-ousted Mahinda Rajapaksa, the country's former President, as the new premier. The power struggle has left the Sri Lankan democratic system in tatters, with massive protests being held by the United National Party (UNP), where its members and supporters of Wickremesinghe have repeatedly called President Sirisena's move as "unconstitutional". Even Wickremesinghe voiced his views, asserting that he was legally still the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka. He and his supporters have accused Sirisena of staging an "undemocratic coup". Sirisena further suspended the country's Parliamentary proceedings until November 16. Amid rising demands by legislators to end the political crisis in the South Asian island nation, the Sri Lankan President preponed the date to reconvene the Parliament on November 14. Defending his decision to oust Wickremesinghe, the Sri Lankan President claimed that the former's political conduct was unbecoming of civilised politics, as he grossly violated the principles of good governance. Sirisena asserted that political change was necessary, as Wickremesinghe "destroyed the concept and the noble expectations of good governance by his actions during the last few years." Sirisena then called for a snap election to be held on January 5. Amidst the political chaos, the Sri Lankan Supreme Court stepped in and suspended Sirisena's order to dissolve the island nation's Parliament and call a snap general election. The court will hear more arguments and would deliver a verdict next month. The Sri Lankan President remained defiant, saying that he would not re-appoint Wickremesinghe, in what was a move, considered by many, to allow Rajapaksa to buy more time to gain legislators, in order to prove his majority in the Parliament. China, whose protege is Rajapaksa, was bankrolling this entire process. The political turmoil in Sri Lanka turned topsy-turvy, when Rajapaksa, was defeated in the Parliament during a 'No-Confidence' motion on November 15. The No-Confidence motion against Rajapaksa was passed after 122 members voted against him in the 225-member House. In an unusual turn of events, the Parliament became a virtual war-zone, when the legislators got into fistfights, hurled objects at each other and even tried to attack Speaker Karu Jayasuriya following Rajapaksa's loss in the trust vote. The Parliament was reconvened in Colombo after the UNP lawmakers approved a motion of no-confidence in Rajapaksa's "purported" cabinet. They even passed motions declaring President Sirisena's move as illegal. Following this major upset for Mahinda Rajapaksa, he is using his money and muscle power to obstruct the functioning of the House, and also intimidating his opponents and their supporters. An atmosphere of absolute terror now prevails in the country, with the complicity of President Sirisena, who is allowing Mahinda Rajapaksa's goons a free run. Legislators supporting Rajapaksa, hurled chairs at police officers and throw chilli powder at the leaders of opposing parties. "They (MPs of Sirisena - Rajapaksa faction) have assaulted me by using a copy of the Constitution, and they have used chilli powder mixed with water to attack the MPs," The Guardian quoted Member of Parliament, Vijitha Herath, as saying on Friday. With Sirisena vehemently rejecting the no-confidence vote against Rajapaksa, Speaker Jayasuriya said that Sri Lanka as of now does not have a Prime Minister or a Cabinet. While the Parliament is expected to be reconvened on November 19, there is still no clear sign on whether the political turmoil would come to an end soon. The political parties are now waiting for the Supreme Court's verdict next month to see if the House will be dissolved and elections will be announced or whether the Wickremesinghe-led government will continue in office. Many countries, including India and the United States, are closely watching the developments in the island nation, and have called on the Sirisena government to act as per the Constitution and refrain from committing violence and to restore democracy.

Explainer: Sri Lanka's escalating political turmoil

Sri Lanka's president on Thursday urged the speaker of parliament and some political parties to seek a fresh no-confidence motion against a prime minister he appointed last month, creating political instability in the south Asian country.

Parliament on Wednesday passed a no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa and his government with the backing of 122 of the 225 lawmakers in a voice vote, followed by a signed document.

President Maithripala Sirisena has rejected the view of parliament that Rajapaksa's appointment was unconstitutional. Sirisena has called for a new motion on Friday.

"The president informed them to show their majority in parliament in a proper way following parliamentary procedure and agreed to act according to the constitution," Sirisena's media team said in a statement.

Sri Lanka's president on Thursday urged the speaker of parliament and some political parties to seek a fresh no-confidence motion against a prime minister he appointed last month, creating political instability in the south Asian country.

Sri Lanka's president on Thursday urged the speaker of parliament and some political parties to seek a fresh no-confidence motion against a prime minister he appointed last month, creating political instability in the south Asian country. Parliament on Wednesday passed a no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa and his government with the backing of 122 of the 225 lawmakers in a voice vote, followed by a signed document. President Maithripala Sirisena has rejected the view of parliament that Rajapaksa's appointment was unconstitutional. Sirisena has called for a new motion on Friday. "The president informed them to show their majority in parliament in a proper way following parliamentary procedure and agreed to act according to the constitution," Sirisena's media team said in a statement.

Sri Lanka president Sirisena seeks fresh no-confidence motion against new PM

Sri Lanka's Parliament witnessed complete chaos on Friday as rival lawmakers threw chilli powder and furniture at each other, disrupting the proceedings for the second day, forcing the Speaker to summon police inside the House and adjourn the session until Monday.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Visuals of ruckus from Parliament of Sri Lanka in Colombo, a day after the disputed Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe was voted out of office. <a href="https://t.co/5Zuwk3olHQ">pic.twitter.com/5Zuwk3olHQ</a>
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The brawl occurred a day after Speaker Karu Jayasuriya announced there is no prime minister or government following a no-confidence motion against disputed prime minister Mahinda Rajapaksa. Friday's proceedings were to repeat the floor test which was disrupted on Thursday.

Ousted prime minister and United National Party (UNP) leader Ranil Wickremesinghe warned of anarchy if the situation in the country was not resolved.

The status quo must return to what it was before October 26, he was quoted as saying by Colombo Gazette.

President Maithripala Sirisena, who installed Rajapaksa as prime minister last month in a controversial move, had agreed to a floor test with the leaders of ousted prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe's coalition during crisis talks last night.

The MPs supporting Rajapaksa took over the seat of the Speaker, delaying the proceedings, officials said. They shouted slogans against Jayasuriya and broke furniture.

Some Rajapakse loyalists were also seen throwing chilli powder at rival legislators and police, the report said.

The Speaker called police inside Parliament chamber after 45 minutes of disruption. One of the rioting MPs Arundika Fernando occupied the seat of the Speaker with more MPs surrounding it.

Gamini Jayawickrema Perera, a senior parliamentarian, was injured in the melee as he was attacked with chili powder.

Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna MP Vijitha Herath had also come under a chili powder attack, Daily Mirror reported.

The rioting United People's Freedom Alliance (UPFA) members demanded the arrest of two legislators of the Wickremesinghe's UNP.

They charged that two UNP legislators, Palitha Thewarapperuma and Ranjan Ramanayake were carrying knives during the brawl on Tursday in which UPFA MP Dilum Amunugama was injured.

Police protected Jayasuriya from the rioting MPs as he called the Tamil National Alliance lawmaker MA Sumanthiran to propose the suspension of the standing orders.

Jayasuriya on the basis of a voice vote announced that the motion against Rajapaksa was defeated as physical voting could not take place due to the brawl.

The rioting MPs threw books at the police. Jayasuriya immediately suspended the sittings until November 19 and left the House in police protection.

President Sirisena said that he would not "prorogue the Parliament under any circumstances".

"I urge all Parliamentarians to uphold principles of democracy parliamentary traditions at all times. I will not prorogue Parliament under any circumstances," the president tweeted.

The trouble began in Parliament on Thursday when the Speaker agreed to a request from Wickremesinghe's UNP that a vote be taken on a statement made by Rajapaksa demanding fresh polls.

Jayasuriya allowed Rajapaksa to make a statement as a lawmaker after stating that he does not recognise the claim of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) leader who lost a no-confidence motion on Wednesday.

Rajapaksa's side has disputed the no-trust motion, saying proper procedure was not followed and accused Jayasuriya of bias towards his party.

Parliament on Wednesday passed the no-confidence motion against Rajapaksa after the Supreme Court overturned the presidential decree to dissolve the House and hold snap polls on January 5.

Amid raucous scenes, Parliament on Wednesday met for the first time since October 26, when Sirisena sacked premier Wickremesinghe, installed Rajapaksa in his place and suspended the House, plunging the island nation into an unprecedented Constitutional crisis.

The vote of no confidence against Rajapaksa has further complicated the political crisis. It is not yet clear whether Rajapaksa will resign or Wickremesinghe, who has the support of 122 lawmakers in the 225-member House, return to power.

Sri Lanka's Parliament witnessed complete chaos on Friday as rival lawmakers threw chilli powder and furniture at each other, disrupting the proceedings for the second day, forcing the Speaker to summon police inside the House and adjourn the session until Monday.

Sri Lanka's Parliament witnessed complete chaos on Friday as rival lawmakers threw chilli powder and furniture at each other, disrupting the proceedings for the second day, forcing the Speaker to summon police inside the House and adjourn the session until Monday. #WATCH: Visuals of ruckus from Parliament of Sri Lanka in Colombo, a day after the disputed Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe was voted out of office. pic.twitter.com/5Zuwk3olHQ — ANI (@ANI) November 16, 2018 × The brawl occurred a day after Speaker Karu Jayasuriya announced there is no prime minister or government following a no-confidence motion against disputed prime minister Mahinda Rajapaksa. Friday's proceedings were to repeat the floor test which was disrupted on Thursday. Ousted prime minister and United National Party (UNP) leader Ranil Wickremesinghe warned of anarchy if the situation in the country was not resolved. The status quo must return to what it was before October 26, he was quoted as saying by Colombo Gazette. President Maithripala Sirisena, who installed Rajapaksa as prime minister last month in a controversial move, had agreed to a floor test with the leaders of ousted prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe's coalition during crisis talks last night. The MPs supporting Rajapaksa took over the seat of the Speaker, delaying the proceedings, officials said. They shouted slogans against Jayasuriya and broke furniture. Some Rajapakse loyalists were also seen throwing chilli powder at rival legislators and police, the report said. The Speaker called police inside Parliament chamber after 45 minutes of disruption. One of the rioting MPs Arundika Fernando occupied the seat of the Speaker with more MPs surrounding it. Gamini Jayawickrema Perera, a senior parliamentarian, was injured in the melee as he was attacked with chili powder. Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna MP Vijitha Herath had also come under a chili powder attack, Daily Mirror reported. The rioting United People's Freedom Alliance (UPFA) members demanded the arrest of two legislators of the Wickremesinghe's UNP. They charged that two UNP legislators, Palitha Thewarapperuma and Ranjan Ramanayake were carrying knives during the brawl on Tursday in which UPFA MP Dilum Amunugama was injured. Police protected Jayasuriya from the rioting MPs as he called the Tamil National Alliance lawmaker MA Sumanthiran to propose the suspension of the standing orders. Jayasuriya on the basis of a voice vote announced that the motion against Rajapaksa was defeated as physical voting could not take place due to the brawl. The rioting MPs threw books at the police. Jayasuriya immediately suspended the sittings until November 19 and left the House in police protection. President Sirisena said that he would not "prorogue the Parliament under any circumstances". "I urge all Parliamentarians to uphold principles of democracy parliamentary traditions at all times. I will not prorogue Parliament under any circumstances," the president tweeted. The trouble began in Parliament on Thursday when the Speaker agreed to a request from Wickremesinghe's UNP that a vote be taken on a statement made by Rajapaksa demanding fresh polls. Jayasuriya allowed Rajapaksa to make a statement as a lawmaker after stating that he does not recognise the claim of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) leader who lost a no-confidence motion on Wednesday. Rajapaksa's side has disputed the no-trust motion, saying proper procedure was not followed and accused Jayasuriya of bias towards his party. Parliament on Wednesday passed the no-confidence motion against Rajapaksa after the Supreme Court overturned the presidential decree to dissolve the House and hold snap polls on January 5. Amid raucous scenes, Parliament on Wednesday met for the first time since October 26, when Sirisena sacked premier Wickremesinghe, installed Rajapaksa in his place and suspended the House, plunging the island nation into an unprecedented Constitutional crisis. The vote of no confidence against Rajapaksa has further complicated the political crisis. It is not yet clear whether Rajapaksa will resign or Wickremesinghe, who has the support of 122 lawmakers in the 225-member House, return to power.

Video: Chaos prevails in Lankan Parliament as leaders hurl chilli power, furniture 

Sri Lankan&nbsp;president on Friday said that he won`t suspend parliament "under any circumstances", after the prime minister he appointed lost his second confidence vote in three days.

Mahinda Rajapaksa was appointed as PM by&nbsp;Maithripala Sirisena last month.

Parliament passed a no-confidence motion against Mahinda Rajapaksa and his government by a voice vote after lawmakers supporting him tried to disrupt proceedings.

"I urge all parliamentarians to uphold principles of democracy, parliamentary traditions at all times," President Maithripala Sirisena said in a tweet. "I will not prorogue parliament under any circumstances."

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I urge all Parliamentarians to uphold principles of democracy parliamentary traditions at all times. I will not prorogue the Parliament under any circumstances.
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Earlier chaos prevailed in Sri Lankan parliament after clashes broke out between the two rival camps after Rajapaksa lost the no-confidence motion.&nbsp;

According to reports, Rajapaksa camp clashed with UNP members. The protesters also threw chilli powders at the Speaker, according to WION.&nbsp;

Sri Lankan president on Friday said that he won`t suspend parliament "under any circumstances", after the prime minister he appointed lost his second confidence vote in three days.

Sri Lankan president on Friday said that he won`t suspend parliament "under any circumstances", after the prime minister he appointed lost his second confidence vote in three days. Mahinda Rajapaksa was appointed as PM by Maithripala Sirisena last month. Parliament passed a no-confidence motion against Mahinda Rajapaksa and his government by a voice vote after lawmakers supporting him tried to disrupt proceedings. "I urge all parliamentarians to uphold principles of democracy, parliamentary traditions at all times," President Maithripala Sirisena said in a tweet. "I will not prorogue parliament under any circumstances." I urge all Parliamentarians to uphold principles of democracy parliamentary traditions at all times. I will not prorogue the Parliament under any circumstances. — Maithripala Sirisena (@MaithripalaS) November 16, 2018 × Earlier chaos prevailed in Sri Lankan parliament after clashes broke out between the two rival camps after Rajapaksa lost the no-confidence motion. According to reports, Rajapaksa camp clashed with UNP members. The protesters also threw chilli powders at the Speaker, according to WION.

Sirisena says he won't suspend parliament after Rajapaksa loses confidence vote

Sri Lanka's central bank raised its key monetary policy rates on Wednesday in a surprise move aimed at easing the pressure on the rupee and foreign capital outflows amid a deepening political crisis.

The central bank raised standing lending facility rate (SLFR) by 50 basis points to 9.00 per cent, its highest since 2013, and increased the standing deposit facility rate (SDFR) by 75 basis points to 8.00 per cent, its peak since 2009.

The policy tightening comes amid a political turmoil since President Maithripala Sirisena fired Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe last month and appointed a pro-China former president, Mahinda Rajapaksa, in his place.

Analysts polled by Reuters were expecting the central bank to leave the rates unchanged.

Sri Lanka`s key rates had been unchanged since a surprise cut in April.

The Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) also cut the Statutory Reserve Ratio (SRR) by 150 basis points to 6 per cent, a move which the central bank said was to neutralise the impact of the rate hike.

"The reduction in SRR is expected to release a substantial amount of rupee liquidity to the banking system, thus reducing the cost of funds of banks," the central bank said in a statement.&nbsp;

Since the president`s abrupt removal of former prime minister on October 26, the Sri Lankan bourse has suffered net foreign outflows to the tune of 7.7 billion rupees ($43.8 million) while its government securities saw net foreign selling worth 21 billion rupees. The rupee hit a record low of 176.15 on Tuesday.

"They want to stabilize the currency," Danushka Samarasinghe, an analyst at Softlogic Capital said.&nbsp;

"I did not the expect central bank to do this given the political uncertainty. I think they just carried out what they think is correct despite the political uncertainty."

Sri Lanka's central bank raised its key monetary policy rates on Wednesday in a surprise move aimed at easing the pressure on the rupee and foreign capital outflows amid a deepening political crisis.

Sri Lanka's central bank raised its key monetary policy rates on Wednesday in a surprise move aimed at easing the pressure on the rupee and foreign capital outflows amid a deepening political crisis. The central bank raised standing lending facility rate (SLFR) by 50 basis points to 9.00 per cent, its highest since 2013, and increased the standing deposit facility rate (SDFR) by 75 basis points to 8.00 per cent, its peak since 2009. The policy tightening comes amid a political turmoil since President Maithripala Sirisena fired Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe last month and appointed a pro-China former president, Mahinda Rajapaksa, in his place. Analysts polled by Reuters were expecting the central bank to leave the rates unchanged. Sri Lanka`s key rates had been unchanged since a surprise cut in April. The Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) also cut the Statutory Reserve Ratio (SRR) by 150 basis points to 6 per cent, a move which the central bank said was to neutralise the impact of the rate hike. "The reduction in SRR is expected to release a substantial amount of rupee liquidity to the banking system, thus reducing the cost of funds of banks," the central bank said in a statement. Since the president`s abrupt removal of former prime minister on October 26, the Sri Lankan bourse has suffered net foreign outflows to the tune of 7.7 billion rupees ($43.8 million) while its government securities saw net foreign selling worth 21 billion rupees. The rupee hit a record low of 176.15 on Tuesday. "They want to stabilize the currency," Danushka Samarasinghe, an analyst at Softlogic Capital said. "I did not the expect central bank to do this given the political uncertainty. I think they just carried out what they think is correct despite the political uncertainty."

Sri Lanka central bank raises key rates in surprise move

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/isro-to-launch-gsat-29-shortly-satellite-to-meet-communication-needs-of-remote-areas-177320">ISRO launches India's heaviest rocket, satellite on board will boost communication in Northeast, J&amp;K</a>

India's heaviest rocket the GSLV-MkIII-D2 blasted off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Prades carrying the communication satellite GSAT-29 on board. The satellite will boost communications in remote areas.&nbsp;

According to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), the GSLV-MkIII stands 43.4 metres tall and weighs 640 tonnes.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-rajapaksa-deputies-say-he-will-stay-in-office-177314">Sri Lanka: Rajapaksa deputies say he will stay in office despite losing trust vote</a>

Sri Lanka's parliament passed a no-confidence motion against newly appointed Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa on Wednesday, presenting a standoff with the opposition and throwing the country deeper into turmoil.

Deputies from Rajapaksa's party rejected the voice vote as illegal, saying it wasn't scheduled and that the pro-China former strongman would remain in office.

It wasn't immediately clear what President Maithripala Sirisena, who triggered the crisis by firing Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and naming Rajapaksa to the job last month, would do now.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/all-terror-attacks-finally-lead-back-to-single-source-modi-to-us-vp-mike-pence-177357">All terror attacks finally lead back to 'single source': Modi to US VP Mike Pence</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday told US Vice President Mike Pence that all the traces and all the leads in the global terror attacks ultimately leads to a "single source and single place of origin", in an apparent reference to Pakistan.

Modi, who held talks with Pence on a wide range of bilateral and global issues of mutual interests on the sidelines of the East Asia Summit here, also expressed concern over the participation of terrorists in the elections in Pakistan.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/deepika-padukone-and-ranveer-singh-are-now-officially-married-reports-177328">Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh are now married: Reports</a>

It's finally happened. Bollywood's favourite couple- Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh- are officially married. The couple tied the knot in a traditional Konkani ceremony on Wednesday morning at Lake Como, Italy.&nbsp;

According to media reports, the wedding began at 9 am in the morning. The ceremony was strictly a private one with only close friends and relatives in attendance. No mobile phones were allowed at the venue.&nbsp;

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rafale-deal-supreme-court-reserves-judgement-on-petitions-seeking-court-monitored-probe-177339">Rafale deal: SC reserves judgement on petitions seeking court-monitored probe</a>

After a four-hour long hearing, the Supreme Court reserved its judgement Wednesday on the clutch of petitions seeking a court-monitored probe into the Rafale deal.&nbsp;

The government’s response to the Supreme Court — the court had asked for pricing and decision-making details of the deal — met with fiery questions from the petitioners. The petitioners alleged that the procurement of the 36 Rafale jets was announced first and negotiations held later, when it should have been the other way round.&nbsp;

Questions about the pricing of the jets dominated the day's discourse with the petitioners quizzing the Centre about having provided the details twice in parliament but not to them.

ISRO launches India's heaviest rocket, satellite on board will boost communication in Northeast, J&K India's heaviest rocket the GSLV-MkIII-D2 blasted off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Prades carrying the communication satellite GSAT-29 on board.

ISRO launches India's heaviest rocket, satellite on board will boost communication in Northeast, J&K India's heaviest rocket the GSLV-MkIII-D2 blasted off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Prades carrying the communication satellite GSAT-29 on board. The satellite will boost communications in remote areas. According to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), the GSLV-MkIII stands 43.4 metres tall and weighs 640 tonnes. Sri Lanka: Rajapaksa deputies say he will stay in office despite losing trust vote Sri Lanka's parliament passed a no-confidence motion against newly appointed Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa on Wednesday, presenting a standoff with the opposition and throwing the country deeper into turmoil. Deputies from Rajapaksa's party rejected the voice vote as illegal, saying it wasn't scheduled and that the pro-China former strongman would remain in office. It wasn't immediately clear what President Maithripala Sirisena, who triggered the crisis by firing Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and naming Rajapaksa to the job last month, would do now. All terror attacks finally lead back to 'single source': Modi to US VP Mike Pence Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday told US Vice President Mike Pence that all the traces and all the leads in the global terror attacks ultimately leads to a "single source and single place of origin", in an apparent reference to Pakistan. Modi, who held talks with Pence on a wide range of bilateral and global issues of mutual interests on the sidelines of the East Asia Summit here, also expressed concern over the participation of terrorists in the elections in Pakistan. Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh are now married: Reports It's finally happened. Bollywood's favourite couple- Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh- are officially married. The couple tied the knot in a traditional Konkani ceremony on Wednesday morning at Lake Como, Italy. According to media reports, the wedding began at 9 am in the morning. The ceremony was strictly a private one with only close friends and relatives in attendance. No mobile phones were allowed at the venue. Rafale deal: SC reserves judgement on petitions seeking court-monitored probe After a four-hour long hearing, the Supreme Court reserved its judgement Wednesday on the clutch of petitions seeking a court-monitored probe into the Rafale deal. The government’s response to the Supreme Court — the court had asked for pricing and decision-making details of the deal — met with fiery questions from the petitioners. The petitioners alleged that the procurement of the 36 Rafale jets was announced first and negotiations held later, when it should have been the other way round. Questions about the pricing of the jets dominated the day's discourse with the petitioners quizzing the Centre about having provided the details twice in parliament but not to them.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Sri Lanka's parliament <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-parliament-votes-against-rajapakse-177250">passed a no-confidence motion</a> against newly appointed Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa on Wednesday, presenting a standoff with the opposition and throwing the country deeper into turmoil.

Deputies from Rajapaksa's party rejected the voice vote as illegal, saying it wasn't scheduled and that the pro-China former strongman would remain in office.

It wasn't immediately clear what President Maithripala Sirisena, who triggered the crisis by firing Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and naming Rajapaksa to the job last month, would do now.

Government officials said there was confusion about who was in charge.

"We need cabinet approvals to go ahead with large value projects," one told Reuters. "We don't know if a cabinet exists or not."

Sirisena dissolved parliament last week and ordered elections as a way to break the deadlock but the Supreme Court ordered a suspension of that decree on Tuesday until it had heard petitions challenging the decree as unconstitutional.

Wickremesinghe, who had refused to vacate the prime minister's residence, said he intended to discharge his official responsibilities now that he had proved his majority in parliament.

Speaker Karu Jayasuriya said the no-confidence vote against Rajapaksa was supported by 122 members of the 225-member house.

"A majority voted in favour of the no-confidence motion and thus the no-confidence motion was passed," Jayasuriya said in a statement.

But Rajapaksa's son Namal, who is also an MP, said the vote had not been put on the day's business and hence was not valid. Father and son left the chamber before the vote was taken and their supporters shouted slogans in support.

The instability in the island nation of 21 million people has raised concerns for its tourism-dependent economy, already expanding at its slowest pace in more than a decade.

On Wednesday, the central bank unexpectedly raised its key policy rates, a move aimed at defending a faltering rupee as foreign capital outflows picked up. But the currency, slid further to a record low.

Sri Lanka, located just off the southern coast of India, is also an arena of contest with China. Beijing invested billions of dollars in ports and other infrastructure when Rajapaksa was president, raising concerns in India about losing political influence in its backyard.

WAR HERO

Rajapaksa, under whose rule Sri Lanka achieved its 2009 victory in a decades-long conflict against rebels from the Tamil minority, is seen as a hero by many among Sri Lanka’s Buddhist majority. He has been accused by diplomats of human rights abuses during the war, which he denies.

Wickremesinghe, who has sought to promote ties with India and the West to balance Sri Lanka's relations with China, said he intended to do his job.

"We will now take steps to ensure that the government in place before the 26th Oct will continue. I wish to inform all government servants and police that you cannot carry out illegal orders from the purported government that has failed to demonstrate the confidence of the people," he tweeted.

According to the constitution, the president has to appoint a prime minister who in his opinion can command the majority in parliament.

Sirisena has said he will never appoint Wickremesinghe as prime minister again.

The parliamentary speaker has called the president's sacking of the prime minister to bring a former leader back to power a non-violent coup.

Sri Lanka's parliament passed a no-confidence motion against newly appointed Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa on Wednesday, presenting a standoff with the opposition and throwing the country deeper into turmoil.

Sri Lanka's parliament passed a no-confidence motion against newly appointed Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa on Wednesday, presenting a standoff with the opposition and throwing the country deeper into turmoil. Deputies from Rajapaksa's party rejected the voice vote as illegal, saying it wasn't scheduled and that the pro-China former strongman would remain in office. It wasn't immediately clear what President Maithripala Sirisena, who triggered the crisis by firing Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and naming Rajapaksa to the job last month, would do now. Government officials said there was confusion about who was in charge. "We need cabinet approvals to go ahead with large value projects," one told Reuters. "We don't know if a cabinet exists or not." Sirisena dissolved parliament last week and ordered elections as a way to break the deadlock but the Supreme Court ordered a suspension of that decree on Tuesday until it had heard petitions challenging the decree as unconstitutional. Wickremesinghe, who had refused to vacate the prime minister's residence, said he intended to discharge his official responsibilities now that he had proved his majority in parliament. Speaker Karu Jayasuriya said the no-confidence vote against Rajapaksa was supported by 122 members of the 225-member house. "A majority voted in favour of the no-confidence motion and thus the no-confidence motion was passed," Jayasuriya said in a statement. But Rajapaksa's son Namal, who is also an MP, said the vote had not been put on the day's business and hence was not valid. Father and son left the chamber before the vote was taken and their supporters shouted slogans in support. The instability in the island nation of 21 million people has raised concerns for its tourism-dependent economy, already expanding at its slowest pace in more than a decade. On Wednesday, the central bank unexpectedly raised its key policy rates, a move aimed at defending a faltering rupee as foreign capital outflows picked up. But the currency, slid further to a record low. Sri Lanka, located just off the southern coast of India, is also an arena of contest with China. Beijing invested billions of dollars in ports and other infrastructure when Rajapaksa was president, raising concerns in India about losing political influence in its backyard. WAR HERO Rajapaksa, under whose rule Sri Lanka achieved its 2009 victory in a decades-long conflict against rebels from the Tamil minority, is seen as a hero by many among Sri Lanka’s Buddhist majority. He has been accused by diplomats of human rights abuses during the war, which he denies. Wickremesinghe, who has sought to promote ties with India and the West to balance Sri Lanka's relations with China, said he intended to do his job. "We will now take steps to ensure that the government in place before the 26th Oct will continue. I wish to inform all government servants and police that you cannot carry out illegal orders from the purported government that has failed to demonstrate the confidence of the people," he tweeted. According to the constitution, the president has to appoint a prime minister who in his opinion can command the majority in parliament. Sirisena has said he will never appoint Wickremesinghe as prime minister again. The parliamentary speaker has called the president's sacking of the prime minister to bring a former leader back to power a non-violent coup.

Sri Lanka: Rajapaksa deputies say he will stay in office despite losing trust vote

A crisis sparked by the Sri Lanka president when he fired his prime minister on October 26 deepened Tuesday when the Supreme Court rejected his subsequent sacking of parliament.

Here is an overview of the drama unfolding in the Indian Ocean island nation:

Shock sacking

President Maithripala Sirisena's announcement that he has sacked Ranil Wickremesinghe, the prime minister with whom he has ruled in coalition since 2015, comes as a shock.

In another dramatic move, a new premier is named moments later -- highly controversial former strongman leader Mahinda Rajapakse -- who is shown on television being sworn in at a rushed ceremony.

It comes after disagreements between <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ousted-sri-lanka-pm-wickramasinghe-calls-for-alliance-to-save-the-country-177105">Sirisena and Wickremesinghe</a> over economic policy as well as day-to-day government administration.

Parliament suspended

Wickremesinghe vows to fight his sacking.

Overnight on October 26 to 27, Rajapakse loyalists storm two state-owned television networks they regard as loyal to the outgoing government and force them off the air.&nbsp;

On October 27 Wickremesinghe demands an emergency session of parliament so he can prove his majority.

Sirisena responds by suspending the assembly until November 16.

Police cancel all leave as tensions mount in Colombo, where Wickremesinghe continues to occupy the official prime minister's residence at Temple Trees.

Violence erupts

On October 28 parliamentary speaker Karu Jayasuriya says he recognises Wickremesinghe as the lawful prime minister until another candidate can prove a majority in parliament.

The sacked prime minister ignores a deadline to vacate Temple Trees.

The same day bodyguards for petroleum minister Arjuna Ranatunga, allied to Wickremesinghe, open fire inside a government ministry as a mob loyal to Sirisena besieges his office.&nbsp;

A 34-year-old man is killed and two other people are injured.&nbsp;

On October 29, amid warnings of a potential "bloodbath", police arrest Ranatunga after trade unions accuse him of ordering the previous day's shooting.

Sirisena appoints a 12-member cabinet giving the powerful finance portfolio to Rajapakse.

Parliament dissolved

Sirisena lifts the suspension of parliament on November 1, but in a U-turn hours later his party insists it will remain suspended.

On November 4 Sirisena announces parliament will reconvene on November 14.&nbsp;

A day later busloads of Rajapakse supporters rally near parliament.&nbsp;

On November 8 hundreds of cars carrying supporters of Wickremesinghe bring chaos to the capital's streets as they call for parliament to be reopened.

On November 9, hours after Sirisena's party announces he does not have a majority to get his prime minister nominee through the legislature, the president dissolves parliament.&nbsp;

He announces a snap election for January 5.

The United States voices concern as lawmakers warn that US aid is in question.

Parliament restored

On November 10 Wickremesinghe's United National Party (UNP), the country's biggest party, announces a legal challenge against the legislature's sacking.

The following day the speaker accuses Sirisena of "usurping" the rights of legislators and asks public servants to ignore his "illegal orders".

The president defends his decision in a televised address to the nation, saying a meeting of parliament could have led to clashes among rival MPs and possible "civil unrest".

On November 13 the Supreme Court decides to restore the sacked parliament, also ordering a halt to preparations for snap elections in January.

Parliament votes against Rajapaksa

In a major setback to President Maithripala Sirisena, the Sri Lankan Parliament on November 14 passed a "no-confidence motion" against the government headed by his controversially-appointed prime minister Mahinda Rajapaksa.

Parliament Speaker Karu Jayasuriya announced that a majority of the 225-member assembly supported the no-confidence motion against Rajapaksa, who was appointed by President Sirisena as prime minister on October 26 in place of Wickremesinghe.

Jayasuriya later adjourned the House until 10 am on November 15.

A crisis sparked by the Sri Lanka president when he fired his prime minister on October 26 deepened Tuesday when the Supreme Court rejected his subsequent sacking of parliament.

A crisis sparked by the Sri Lanka president when he fired his prime minister on October 26 deepened Tuesday when the Supreme Court rejected his subsequent sacking of parliament. Here is an overview of the drama unfolding in the Indian Ocean island nation: Shock sacking President Maithripala Sirisena's announcement that he has sacked Ranil Wickremesinghe, the prime minister with whom he has ruled in coalition since 2015, comes as a shock. In another dramatic move, a new premier is named moments later -- highly controversial former strongman leader Mahinda Rajapakse -- who is shown on television being sworn in at a rushed ceremony. It comes after disagreements between Sirisena and Wickremesinghe over economic policy as well as day-to-day government administration. Parliament suspended Wickremesinghe vows to fight his sacking. Overnight on October 26 to 27, Rajapakse loyalists storm two state-owned television networks they regard as loyal to the outgoing government and force them off the air. On October 27 Wickremesinghe demands an emergency session of parliament so he can prove his majority. Sirisena responds by suspending the assembly until November 16. Police cancel all leave as tensions mount in Colombo, where Wickremesinghe continues to occupy the official prime minister's residence at Temple Trees. Violence erupts On October 28 parliamentary speaker Karu Jayasuriya says he recognises Wickremesinghe as the lawful prime minister until another candidate can prove a majority in parliament. The sacked prime minister ignores a deadline to vacate Temple Trees. The same day bodyguards for petroleum minister Arjuna Ranatunga, allied to Wickremesinghe, open fire inside a government ministry as a mob loyal to Sirisena besieges his office. A 34-year-old man is killed and two other people are injured. On October 29, amid warnings of a potential "bloodbath", police arrest Ranatunga after trade unions accuse him of ordering the previous day's shooting. Sirisena appoints a 12-member cabinet giving the powerful finance portfolio to Rajapakse. Parliament dissolved Sirisena lifts the suspension of parliament on November 1, but in a U-turn hours later his party insists it will remain suspended. On November 4 Sirisena announces parliament will reconvene on November 14. A day later busloads of Rajapakse supporters rally near parliament. On November 8 hundreds of cars carrying supporters of Wickremesinghe bring chaos to the capital's streets as they call for parliament to be reopened. On November 9, hours after Sirisena's party announces he does not have a majority to get his prime minister nominee through the legislature, the president dissolves parliament. He announces a snap election for January 5. The United States voices concern as lawmakers warn that US aid is in question. Parliament restored On November 10 Wickremesinghe's United National Party (UNP), the country's biggest party, announces a legal challenge against the legislature's sacking. The following day the speaker accuses Sirisena of "usurping" the rights of legislators and asks public servants to ignore his "illegal orders". The president defends his decision in a televised address to the nation, saying a meeting of parliament could have led to clashes among rival MPs and possible "civil unrest". On November 13 the Supreme Court decides to restore the sacked parliament, also ordering a halt to preparations for snap elections in January. Parliament votes against Rajapaksa In a major setback to President Maithripala Sirisena, the Sri Lankan Parliament on November 14 passed a "no-confidence motion" against the government headed by his controversially-appointed prime minister Mahinda Rajapaksa. Parliament Speaker Karu Jayasuriya announced that a majority of the 225-member assembly supported the no-confidence motion against Rajapaksa, who was appointed by President Sirisena as prime minister on October 26 in place of Wickremesinghe. Jayasuriya later adjourned the House until 10 am on November 15.

The Sri Lankan constitutional crisis explained

Sri Lanka Parliament votes against Mahinda Rajapaksa govt

Sri Lanka's new prime minister Mahinda Rajapaksa and 44 former lawmakers have defected from the party led by President Maithripala Sirisena, splitting with the president barely two weeks after he installed Rajapaksa in office.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-president-sirisena-sacks-parliament-after-power-struggle-minister-176486">Sirisena dissolved parliament </a>on Friday night and called a general election for January 5 in a move that has drawn international criticism as it is likely to deepen the country's political crisis.

An intense power struggle has erupted in Sri Lanka in the past two weeks following Sirisena's sudden sacking of Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and the appointment of former leader Rajapaksa, a pro-China strongman, in his place.

Rajapaksa and 44 former lawmakers of the Sirisena-led centre-left Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) on Sunday joined Sri Lanka Podujana Peremuna (SLPP), a political party formed in 2016 by Rajapaksa's younger brother Basil, a former economy minister.

An SLPP source said 65 out of 82 former SLFP MPs will eventually join the new party.

Namal Rajapaksa, an ex-lawmaker and son of Rajapaksa, said the SLFP's policies had not been pursued by Sirisena in the coalition government with the Wickremesinghe-led centre-right United National Party (UNP).

"We all decided that this is the right time to join the SLPP," he told Reuters.

The SLPP recorded a landslide victory in local polls in February after Rajapaksa backed it. He did that while remaining in the SLFP.

Sirisena's allies have told Reuters that he wants a SLFP-led government. However, the defections will weaken Sirisena's more than seven-decade old party, they say.

Rohana Piyadaya, the SLFP secretary general declined to comment on the defections.

Sirisena's move to sack the parliament has drawn international criticism.

Farhan Haq, the spokesman for United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, said in a statement that Guterres has underlined the utmost importance of respecting democratic processes and institutions and resolving differences in accordance with the rule of law and due process.

"He renews his call on the Government to ensure peace and safety for all Sri Lankans and uphold its commitments to human rights, justice and reconciliation," the spokesman said.

Sirisena previously defected from the SLFP, then led by Rajapaksa, in 2014 to join an opposition coalition that ousted Rajapaksa.

Later Sirisena rejoined the SLFP, took over its leadership and formed a national government with Wickremesinghe's party.

However, a rift developed over policy towards China and India - Wickremesinghe has favoured Indian investment as a counter to Chinese inroads in Sri Lankan infrastructure projects - and over Sirisena's intention to contest the 2020 presidential election under Wickremesinghe's party.

Sri Lanka's new prime minister Mahinda Rajapaksa and 44 former lawmakers have defected from the party led by President Maithripala Sirisena, splitting with the president barely two weeks after he installed Rajapaksa in office.

Sri Lanka's new prime minister Mahinda Rajapaksa and 44 former lawmakers have defected from the party led by President Maithripala Sirisena, splitting with the president barely two weeks after he installed Rajapaksa in office. Sirisena dissolved parliament on Friday night and called a general election for January 5 in a move that has drawn international criticism as it is likely to deepen the country's political crisis. An intense power struggle has erupted in Sri Lanka in the past two weeks following Sirisena's sudden sacking of Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and the appointment of former leader Rajapaksa, a pro-China strongman, in his place. Rajapaksa and 44 former lawmakers of the Sirisena-led centre-left Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) on Sunday joined Sri Lanka Podujana Peremuna (SLPP), a political party formed in 2016 by Rajapaksa's younger brother Basil, a former economy minister. An SLPP source said 65 out of 82 former SLFP MPs will eventually join the new party. Namal Rajapaksa, an ex-lawmaker and son of Rajapaksa, said the SLFP's policies had not been pursued by Sirisena in the coalition government with the Wickremesinghe-led centre-right United National Party (UNP). "We all decided that this is the right time to join the SLPP," he told Reuters. The SLPP recorded a landslide victory in local polls in February after Rajapaksa backed it. He did that while remaining in the SLFP. Sirisena's allies have told Reuters that he wants a SLFP-led government. However, the defections will weaken Sirisena's more than seven-decade old party, they say. Rohana Piyadaya, the SLFP secretary general declined to comment on the defections. Sirisena's move to sack the parliament has drawn international criticism. Farhan Haq, the spokesman for United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, said in a statement that Guterres has underlined the utmost importance of respecting democratic processes and institutions and resolving differences in accordance with the rule of law and due process. "He renews his call on the Government to ensure peace and safety for all Sri Lankans and uphold its commitments to human rights, justice and reconciliation," the spokesman said. Sirisena previously defected from the SLFP, then led by Rajapaksa, in 2014 to join an opposition coalition that ousted Rajapaksa. Later Sirisena rejoined the SLFP, took over its leadership and formed a national government with Wickremesinghe's party. However, a rift developed over policy towards China and India - Wickremesinghe has favoured Indian investment as a counter to Chinese inroads in Sri Lankan infrastructure projects - and over Sirisena's intention to contest the 2020 presidential election under Wickremesinghe's party.

Sri Lanka PM, 44 ex-MPs defect from party led by president ahead of election

The concerns raised by the international community on the legality of Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena dissolving parliament and announcing snap polls in January are unfounded, a senior minister said here Sunday.&nbsp;

The political crisis in the island nation deepened on Friday as Sirisena dissolved parliament and announced snap polls on January 5 after it became evident that he did not have enough support in the House for Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, who was appointed by him under controversial circumstances.

"It was a decision made after obtaining legal advice and opinion even from former chief justices...We have let the people to decide, so there is nothing wrong in it," Transport and Civil Aviation Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva said.&nbsp;

The concerns raised by the international community on the legality of the President's move are unfounded, the Sirisena loyalist said.

UN chief Antonio Guterres, the European Union and several countries, including the US, the UK, Australia and Norway, have expressed concern over Sirisena's move to dissolve the parliament, which was to reconvene on November 14.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka is facing a major constitutional crisis after Sirisena ousted Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and replaced him with Rajapaksa on October 26 and suspended parliament. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Sirisena had earlier claimed at a public rally that he has the support of 113 parliamentarians in the 225-member House to prove the premiership of Rajapaksa.

His comments came after Speaker Karu Jayasuriya slammed Sirisena's "unconstitutional and undemocratic" actions to sack Wickremesinghe and suspend Parliament, saying he will not recognise Rajapaksa as the new premier unless he wins a floor test.

With eight United National Party (UNP) and one Tamil National Alliance (TNA) legislators defecting to the Rajapaksa camp, the former president was hopeful of passing the floor test.&nbsp;

Sirisena had earlier suspended parliamentary proceedings until November 16. However, owing to domestic and international pressure, he later issued a notice to reconvene parliament on November 14.&nbsp;

The parliament would now convene on January 17 after the snap polls.

The concerns raised by the international community on the legality of Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena dissolving parliament and announcing snap polls in January are unfounded, a senior minister said here Sunday.

The concerns raised by the international community on the legality of Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena dissolving parliament and announcing snap polls in January are unfounded, a senior minister said here Sunday. The political crisis in the island nation deepened on Friday as Sirisena dissolved parliament and announced snap polls on January 5 after it became evident that he did not have enough support in the House for Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, who was appointed by him under controversial circumstances. "It was a decision made after obtaining legal advice and opinion even from former chief justices...We have let the people to decide, so there is nothing wrong in it," Transport and Civil Aviation Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva said. The concerns raised by the international community on the legality of the President's move are unfounded, the Sirisena loyalist said. UN chief Antonio Guterres, the European Union and several countries, including the US, the UK, Australia and Norway, have expressed concern over Sirisena's move to dissolve the parliament, which was to reconvene on November 14. Sri Lanka is facing a major constitutional crisis after Sirisena ousted Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and replaced him with Rajapaksa on October 26 and suspended parliament. Sirisena had earlier claimed at a public rally that he has the support of 113 parliamentarians in the 225-member House to prove the premiership of Rajapaksa. His comments came after Speaker Karu Jayasuriya slammed Sirisena's "unconstitutional and undemocratic" actions to sack Wickremesinghe and suspend Parliament, saying he will not recognise Rajapaksa as the new premier unless he wins a floor test. With eight United National Party (UNP) and one Tamil National Alliance (TNA) legislators defecting to the Rajapaksa camp, the former president was hopeful of passing the floor test. Sirisena had earlier suspended parliamentary proceedings until November 16. However, owing to domestic and international pressure, he later issued a notice to reconvene parliament on November 14. The parliament would now convene on January 17 after the snap polls.

International concerns on Sri Lanka elections unfounded: Minister

Sri Lanka plunged deeper into crisis Saturday after President Maithripala Sirisena called a snap election, leaving the country facing a further two months of damaging political paralysis with a pair of bitter rivals claiming to run his government.

In what opponents condemned as an illegal move, Sirisena dissolved parliament on Friday and announced a January election after it became clear his designated prime minister -- former president Mahinda Rajapakse -- would not be able to command a majority in the current legislature.

Rakapakse and ousted premier Ranil Wikremesinghe, who has refused to leave his post,&nbsp;have been battling for power for two weeks as international concern grows over the mounting turmoil in the strategically important island nation.

Sirisena signed a decree dismissing the island's 225-member assembly and scheduled parliamentary elections for January 5, nearly two years ahead of schedule.

In a bid to head off any revolt against his action he also suspended parliament.

There was no immediate comment from Wickremesinghe, but his United National Party (UNP) said it will challenge Sirisena's sacking of the legislature.

"This dissolution by the President is illegal and goes against the constitution," the UNP said on Twitter. "We will be fighting this to ensure that democracy reigns supreme in the country."

"He has robbed the people of their rights and the democracy that we have enjoyed," the UNP said.

Sirisena had come under increased international pressure from the United States, the United Nations and the European Union to allow parliament to vote on which prime minister should form a government.

Washington swiftly criticised Sirisena's latest move.&nbsp;

"The US is deeply concerned by news the Sri Lanka parliament will be dissolved, further deepening the political crisis," the US State Department said in a statement on Twitter.

"As a committed partner of Sri Lanka, we believe democratic institutions and processes need to be respected to ensure stability and prosperity," it said.

Sri Lanka plunged deeper into crisis Saturday after President Maithripala Sirisena called a snap election, leaving the country facing a further two months of damaging political paralysis with a pair of bitter rivals claiming to run his government.

Sri Lanka plunged deeper into crisis Saturday after President Maithripala Sirisena called a snap election, leaving the country facing a further two months of damaging political paralysis with a pair of bitter rivals claiming to run his government. In what opponents condemned as an illegal move, Sirisena dissolved parliament on Friday and announced a January election after it became clear his designated prime minister -- former president Mahinda Rajapakse -- would not be able to command a majority in the current legislature. Rakapakse and ousted premier Ranil Wikremesinghe, who has refused to leave his post, have been battling for power for two weeks as international concern grows over the mounting turmoil in the strategically important island nation. Sirisena signed a decree dismissing the island's 225-member assembly and scheduled parliamentary elections for January 5, nearly two years ahead of schedule. In a bid to head off any revolt against his action he also suspended parliament. There was no immediate comment from Wickremesinghe, but his United National Party (UNP) said it will challenge Sirisena's sacking of the legislature. "This dissolution by the President is illegal and goes against the constitution," the UNP said on Twitter. "We will be fighting this to ensure that democracy reigns supreme in the country." "He has robbed the people of their rights and the democracy that we have enjoyed," the UNP said. Sirisena had come under increased international pressure from the United States, the United Nations and the European Union to allow parliament to vote on which prime minister should form a government. Washington swiftly criticised Sirisena's latest move. "The US is deeply concerned by news the Sri Lanka parliament will be dissolved, further deepening the political crisis," the US State Department said in a statement on Twitter. "As a committed partner of Sri Lanka, we believe democratic institutions and processes need to be respected to ensure stability and prosperity," it said.

Sri Lanka crisis deepens as president calls snap election

The European Union joined a chorus of international voices demanding an end to Sri Lanka's two-week-old political crisis Friday, saying the island nation's international reputation and investments were at risk.

President Maithripala Sirisena on October 26 sacked Ranil Wickremesinghe, prime minister, replacing him with the divisive Mahinda Rajapakse.

Wickremesinghe is holed up in his official residence refusing to go, saying his removal would be illegal, while Rajapakse is running a parallel administration from the prime minister's office.

President Sirisena has suspended parliament until next Wednesday as he and Rajapakse try to gather enough support among lawmakers to vote Wickremesinghe out, an effort that looks to be failing. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Amid rumours that Sirisena may seek to delay matters further, the EU, in a joint statement with Norway and Switzerland, said that parliament should vote "immediately when reconvened".

"Any further delay could damage Sri Lanka's international reputation and deter investors," the statement said.

The United States, the United Nations and several other countries including Australia have also urged Colombo to end the unprecedented power struggle and restore confidence.

Wickremesinghe late Thursday thanked his supporters and urged them not to give up.

"In extraordinary numbers and with extraordinary courage you came out on to the streets, you spoke out," Wickremesinghe said in a video message posted on Facebook.

"You have not let this country be plunged into the darkness of dictatorship. For this inspiring effort, I want to thank everyone who has risen to fight for democracy and justice," he said.

His supporters staged a noisy cavalcade of motorcycles, auto-rickshaws, cars and vans in the capital Colombo on Thursday.

The power struggle on the island of 21 million people has paralysed much of the administration, according to legislators on both sides of the dispute.

Sirisena has filled only 22 of 30 cabinet positions -- purposefully keeping some jobs vacant to tempt legislators of Wickremesinghe's party to defect to Rajapakse's side.

According to latest counts, Wickremesinghe has 103 MPs after gaining a defector on Tuesday, while Rajapakse and Sirisena have 101.&nbsp;

Most of the remaining 21 MPs are set to oppose Rajapakse, observers say.

The European Union joined a chorus of international voices demanding an end to Sri Lanka's two-week-old political crisis Friday, saying the island nation's international reputation and investments were at risk.

The European Union joined a chorus of international voices demanding an end to Sri Lanka's two-week-old political crisis Friday, saying the island nation's international reputation and investments were at risk. President Maithripala Sirisena on October 26 sacked Ranil Wickremesinghe, prime minister, replacing him with the divisive Mahinda Rajapakse. Wickremesinghe is holed up in his official residence refusing to go, saying his removal would be illegal, while Rajapakse is running a parallel administration from the prime minister's office. President Sirisena has suspended parliament until next Wednesday as he and Rajapakse try to gather enough support among lawmakers to vote Wickremesinghe out, an effort that looks to be failing. Amid rumours that Sirisena may seek to delay matters further, the EU, in a joint statement with Norway and Switzerland, said that parliament should vote "immediately when reconvened". "Any further delay could damage Sri Lanka's international reputation and deter investors," the statement said. The United States, the United Nations and several other countries including Australia have also urged Colombo to end the unprecedented power struggle and restore confidence. Wickremesinghe late Thursday thanked his supporters and urged them not to give up. "In extraordinary numbers and with extraordinary courage you came out on to the streets, you spoke out," Wickremesinghe said in a video message posted on Facebook. "You have not let this country be plunged into the darkness of dictatorship. For this inspiring effort, I want to thank everyone who has risen to fight for democracy and justice," he said. His supporters staged a noisy cavalcade of motorcycles, auto-rickshaws, cars and vans in the capital Colombo on Thursday. The power struggle on the island of 21 million people has paralysed much of the administration, according to legislators on both sides of the dispute. Sirisena has filled only 22 of 30 cabinet positions -- purposefully keeping some jobs vacant to tempt legislators of Wickremesinghe's party to defect to Rajapakse's side. According to latest counts, Wickremesinghe has 103 MPs after gaining a defector on Tuesday, while Rajapakse and Sirisena have 101. Most of the remaining 21 MPs are set to oppose Rajapakse, observers say.

European Union demands end to Sri Lanka crisis

Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena has ordered the suspended parliament to reconvene on Nov. 14, clearing the way for a vote on his decision to sack the elected prime minister and replace him with wartime nationalist Mahinda Rajapaksa.

Sirisena abruptly fired Prime Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sacked-sri-lanka-pm-wickremesinghe-supporters-make-last-stand-at-his-home-175385">Ranil Wickremesinghe</a> on Oct. 26 and appointed former president Rajapaksa to lead the ruling coalition instead, raising fears at home and abroad that this could derail Sri Lanka's halting national reconciliation process.

Wickremesinghe says his dismissal is unconstitutional. His United National Party submitted a motion to that effect to parliament but Sirisena suspended its session until Nov. 16, citing a need for Rajapaksa to make arrangements for the new government prevented the vote.

Sirisena's decree for the house to reconvene on Nov. 14 was published in the official gazette on Sunday.

It was not clear if and when the 225-member parliament would vote on the UNP's motion that Wickremesinghe's dismissal was illegal.

Rajapaksa led Sri Lanka to a military defeat of Tamil separatist guerrillas in 2009 but has since faced widespread allegations of human rights abuse and targeting of Tamil civilians.

Wickremesinghe told Reuters earlier on Sunday that the United States and Japan had frozen more than a billion dollars of development aid after his abrupt dismissal raised doubts about the future of democracy in the island.

This follows a warning from the EU that it could withdraw duty-free concessions for Sri Lankan exports if it didn't stick to commitments on national reconciliation.

Sirisena's summons comes after Wickremesinghe's UNP said on Friday that 118 lawmakers had met the speaker to demand parliament be allowed to convene.

Before Wickremesinghe's dismissal, the UNP held 107 seats. Of those, eight have defected to support Rajapaksa. One out of 16 Tamil MPs also joined Rajapaksa.

Among the causes for the animosity between Wickremesinghe and Sirisena is Wickremesinghe's refusal to back the president's bid to stand in the next election in late 2019. Sirisena has also accused Wickremesinghe's government of not taking seriously an alleged assassination plot against him.

Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena has ordered the suspended parliament to reconvene on Nov. 14, clearing the way for a vote on his decision to sack the elected prime minister and replace him with wartime nationalist Mahinda Rajapaksa.

Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena has ordered the suspended parliament to reconvene on Nov. 14, clearing the way for a vote on his decision to sack the elected prime minister and replace him with wartime nationalist Mahinda Rajapaksa. Sirisena abruptly fired Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on Oct. 26 and appointed former president Rajapaksa to lead the ruling coalition instead, raising fears at home and abroad that this could derail Sri Lanka's halting national reconciliation process. Wickremesinghe says his dismissal is unconstitutional. His United National Party submitted a motion to that effect to parliament but Sirisena suspended its session until Nov. 16, citing a need for Rajapaksa to make arrangements for the new government prevented the vote. Sirisena's decree for the house to reconvene on Nov. 14 was published in the official gazette on Sunday. It was not clear if and when the 225-member parliament would vote on the UNP's motion that Wickremesinghe's dismissal was illegal. Rajapaksa led Sri Lanka to a military defeat of Tamil separatist guerrillas in 2009 but has since faced widespread allegations of human rights abuse and targeting of Tamil civilians. Wickremesinghe told Reuters earlier on Sunday that the United States and Japan had frozen more than a billion dollars of development aid after his abrupt dismissal raised doubts about the future of democracy in the island. This follows a warning from the EU that it could withdraw duty-free concessions for Sri Lankan exports if it didn't stick to commitments on national reconciliation. Sirisena's summons comes after Wickremesinghe's UNP said on Friday that 118 lawmakers had met the speaker to demand parliament be allowed to convene. Before Wickremesinghe's dismissal, the UNP held 107 seats. Of those, eight have defected to support Rajapaksa. One out of 16 Tamil MPs also joined Rajapaksa. Among the causes for the animosity between Wickremesinghe and Sirisena is Wickremesinghe's refusal to back the president's bid to stand in the next election in late 2019. Sirisena has also accused Wickremesinghe's government of not taking seriously an alleged assassination plot against him.

As pressure grows, Sri Lanka President Sirisena summons parliament on November 14

The banquet hall at Sri Lanka's ousted prime minister's official residence is packed with supporters — many sleeping on chairs and the floor — who have come to stand guard as he tussles for power with an old rival.

Thousands of loyalists from across the country are camped out at the Temple Trees residence in Colombo, a colonial-era bungalow where Ranil Wickremesinghe has been holed up since his <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-president-sirisena-under-increasing-global-pressure-to-end-political-crisis-174157">shock dismissal</a> more than a week ago.

Day and night they top up coconut oil lamps and keep jasmine-perfumed incense sticks burning in the 5,000-capacity banquet hall -- usually reserved for state dinners and VIP weddings -- while the 69-year-old plots his next move.

President Maithripala Sirisena sacked Wickremesinghe on October 26 but he has refused to accept the decision or to leave the residence so former strongman leader Mahinda Rajapakse — who was named in his place — can move in.

SM Faheed, a 73-year-old diehard supporter of Wickremesinghe's United National Party (UNP), vowed to stay there until the constitutional crisis is resolved.

"I will not leave until Ranil is given the PM's chair," Faheed said. "We are here to support him and make sure no one tries to throw him out of Temple Trees."

"If I have to, I will stay here till I die."

Wickremesinghe has asked lawmakers to vote to decide between him and Rajapakse and end the crisis, but parliament has been suspended since his sacking.

"If I win... (Rajapakse) must stand down. If he wins, I will leave Temple Trees and move away," Wickremesinghe told AFP on Friday.

But he will have trouble convincing his followers to give way.

Prayers for victory 
Shakuntala Devi travelled 400 kilometres (250 miles) from the Tamil city of Jaffna in the north of the country to join the crowd that grows each day.

Volunteers bring meals to Devi and others while Buddhist monks chant prayers that are broadcast on a public address system within the premises.

Devi said she wanted to show solidarity after Wickremesinghe's government built 5,000 homes for people like her who were displaced by the civil war that ended in 2009.

"I came to show my gratitude to the prime minister," she said.

Another protester who gave her name as Sandya said: "We want to tell Sirisena: If you have any shame, call parliament and let our leader take back his seat."&nbsp;

Others in the huge crowd echoed her views, with one person saying Sri Lanka had "become the laughing stock of the world".

"Sirisena is the most ungrateful man. May he be cursed and be struck by lightning," said Jayanthi Jayewardena, an elderly supporter.

Sirisena won the presidency from Rajapakse in 2015 with the help of Wickremesinghe and his UNP. The two formed a coalition, but have since fallen out badly.&nbsp;

Matters came to a head with the sacking, which Wickremesinghe acknowledged had surprised him.

'Desperate people' 
Sirisena has cut Wickremesinghe's official bodyguard retinue and pool of limousines. A depleted plain clothes contingent now keeps watch over the residence while a private cleaning company has also been hired.

A few police commandos in camouflage uniform can also be seen.&nbsp;

Legislators loyal to Wickremesinghe keep up back-to-back press conferences at the residence which has become the centre of media attention, with crowds mobbing visiting politicians and asking for selfies.

In comparison Rajapakse has remained low-key, quietly organising a campaign to win over MPs to support him when parliament eventually meets.&nbsp;

Huge sums have allegedly been offered to potential defectors and some lawmakers have already left the UNP.

Wickremesinghe, who has been speaking to local and foreign journalists while conducting talks with allies, said he was concerned that the power struggle could degenerate into street violence.

"There can be trouble in the country if this goes on," he said.&nbsp;

"We will be calling on our people not to resort to violence... but you don't know what arises in a situation like this. A few desperate people can start off a bloodbath."

The banquet hall at Sri Lanka's ousted prime minister's official residence is packed with supporters — many sleeping on chairs and the floor — who have come to stand guard as he tussles for power with an old rival.

The banquet hall at Sri Lanka's ousted prime minister's official residence is packed with supporters — many sleeping on chairs and the floor — who have come to stand guard as he tussles for power with an old rival. Thousands of loyalists from across the country are camped out at the Temple Trees residence in Colombo, a colonial-era bungalow where Ranil Wickremesinghe has been holed up since his shock dismissal more than a week ago. Day and night they top up coconut oil lamps and keep jasmine-perfumed incense sticks burning in the 5,000-capacity banquet hall -- usually reserved for state dinners and VIP weddings -- while the 69-year-old plots his next move. President Maithripala Sirisena sacked Wickremesinghe on October 26 but he has refused to accept the decision or to leave the residence so former strongman leader Mahinda Rajapakse — who was named in his place — can move in. SM Faheed, a 73-year-old diehard supporter of Wickremesinghe's United National Party (UNP), vowed to stay there until the constitutional crisis is resolved. "I will not leave until Ranil is given the PM's chair," Faheed said. "We are here to support him and make sure no one tries to throw him out of Temple Trees." "If I have to, I will stay here till I die." Wickremesinghe has asked lawmakers to vote to decide between him and Rajapakse and end the crisis, but parliament has been suspended since his sacking. "If I win... (Rajapakse) must stand down. If he wins, I will leave Temple Trees and move away," Wickremesinghe told AFP on Friday. But he will have trouble convincing his followers to give way. Prayers for victory Shakuntala Devi travelled 400 kilometres (250 miles) from the Tamil city of Jaffna in the north of the country to join the crowd that grows each day. Volunteers bring meals to Devi and others while Buddhist monks chant prayers that are broadcast on a public address system within the premises. Devi said she wanted to show solidarity after Wickremesinghe's government built 5,000 homes for people like her who were displaced by the civil war that ended in 2009. "I came to show my gratitude to the prime minister," she said. Another protester who gave her name as Sandya said: "We want to tell Sirisena: If you have any shame, call parliament and let our leader take back his seat." Others in the huge crowd echoed her views, with one person saying Sri Lanka had "become the laughing stock of the world". "Sirisena is the most ungrateful man. May he be cursed and be struck by lightning," said Jayanthi Jayewardena, an elderly supporter. Sirisena won the presidency from Rajapakse in 2015 with the help of Wickremesinghe and his UNP. The two formed a coalition, but have since fallen out badly. Matters came to a head with the sacking, which Wickremesinghe acknowledged had surprised him. 'Desperate people' Sirisena has cut Wickremesinghe's official bodyguard retinue and pool of limousines. A depleted plain clothes contingent now keeps watch over the residence while a private cleaning company has also been hired. A few police commandos in camouflage uniform can also be seen. Legislators loyal to Wickremesinghe keep up back-to-back press conferences at the residence which has become the centre of media attention, with crowds mobbing visiting politicians and asking for selfies. In comparison Rajapakse has remained low-key, quietly organising a campaign to win over MPs to support him when parliament eventually meets. Huge sums have allegedly been offered to potential defectors and some lawmakers have already left the UNP. Wickremesinghe, who has been speaking to local and foreign journalists while conducting talks with allies, said he was concerned that the power struggle could degenerate into street violence. "There can be trouble in the country if this goes on," he said. "We will be calling on our people not to resort to violence... but you don't know what arises in a situation like this. A few desperate people can start off a bloodbath."

Sacked Sri Lanka PM Wickremesinghe, supporters make last stand at his home

The European Union will consider stripping Sri Lanka of its duty-free access if it backs off commitments on rights, the EU ambassador said, amid worries stoked by the president`s replacing of the elected premier by a wartime nationalist.

The European Union is worried the return of Mahinda Rajapaksa, as prime minister, could derail halting progress made towards national reconciliation following a war with ethnic minority Tamil separatists that killed tens of thousands, many during the final stages under his watch as president.&nbsp;

"The government got GSP on the basis of certain commitments, if these commitments are not met, then we would consider withdrawal," EU ambassador to Sri Lanka, Tung-Lai Margue, told Reuters on Thursday.

Margue was referring to Generalised System of Preferences Plus status, under which Sri Lanka’s top exports of garments and fish get lucrative concessions in the world`s largest single market.

Margue was among a group of diplomats who met President Maithripala Sirisena this week for a briefing on the crisis sparked by his sacking of the prime minister.

The EU provides the trade concessions to developing countries, while it also monitors certain conditions including human rights.

Sri Lanka promised the EU in 2016 it would work toward reconciliation with Tamils, who mostly live in the north and east of the predominantly Buddhist nation, through greater political and economic autonomy.

Sri Lanka also pledged to provide justice and reparations to victims of human rights violations committed during the 26-year civil war, many of which were blamed on Rajapaksa and his brother, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, who was his defence secretary.&nbsp;

Both say the military only targeted insurgents, not civilians.

The European Union will consider stripping Sri Lanka of its duty-free access if it backs off commitments on rights, the EU ambassador said, amid worries stoked by the president`s replacing of the elected premier by a wartime nationalist.

The European Union will consider stripping Sri Lanka of its duty-free access if it backs off commitments on rights, the EU ambassador said, amid worries stoked by the president`s replacing of the elected premier by a wartime nationalist. The European Union is worried the return of Mahinda Rajapaksa, as prime minister, could derail halting progress made towards national reconciliation following a war with ethnic minority Tamil separatists that killed tens of thousands, many during the final stages under his watch as president. "The government got GSP on the basis of certain commitments, if these commitments are not met, then we would consider withdrawal," EU ambassador to Sri Lanka, Tung-Lai Margue, told Reuters on Thursday. Margue was referring to Generalised System of Preferences Plus status, under which Sri Lanka’s top exports of garments and fish get lucrative concessions in the world`s largest single market. Margue was among a group of diplomats who met President Maithripala Sirisena this week for a briefing on the crisis sparked by his sacking of the prime minister. The EU provides the trade concessions to developing countries, while it also monitors certain conditions including human rights. Sri Lanka promised the EU in 2016 it would work toward reconciliation with Tamils, who mostly live in the north and east of the predominantly Buddhist nation, through greater political and economic autonomy. Sri Lanka also pledged to provide justice and reparations to victims of human rights violations committed during the 26-year civil war, many of which were blamed on Rajapaksa and his brother, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, who was his defence secretary. Both say the military only targeted insurgents, not civilians.

Sri Lanka risks EU trade concessions over political slide back: Envoy