The sharp political differences between Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe have been further reflected in the allocation of key departments under various ministries.

According to the subjects gazette published on Saturday, Sirisena has kept control of the police department under him as the minister of defence.

The UNP led by Wickremesinghe argues that the police cannot be controlled by Sirisena whereas the 19th amendment to the Constitution has restricted the president to just one ministry in addition to the defence ministry.

Sirisena had also kept the government printer under him which is the authority which publishes government-gazetted decrees.

Sirisena's differences with Wickremesinghe led to a collapse of the unity government between the two leaders on October 26 as Sirisena sacked Wickremesinghe as premier and withdrew his

UPFA alliance from the unity government, triggering a constitutional and political crisis never before seen in the island nation.

Both Wickremesinghe and former president Mahinda Rajapaksa who was appointed prime minister by Sirisena, were claiming the premiership.

Wickremesinghe citing the 19A said Sirisena had no power to sack him. After a 50-day standoff, Wickremesinghe was restored to office.

The country's highest court has termed Sirisena's action to dismiss parliament and his call for a fresh election as illegal.

Since Wickremesinghe's reinstatement a new Cabinet was sworn in. The UNP wants the Cabinet to consist of 30 members apart from Sirisena and Wickremesinghe.

"We have asked for the opinion of the attorney general on the number of ministers. The president and prime minister who hold portfolios must be excluded in our view," minister Mano Ganesan said.

The 19A amendment has restricted the Cabinet to 30 members when a single political party holds power without any coalition arrangement with another party. Sirisena had ignored the names of those who had crossed over from his SLFP to join Wickremesinghe when the prime minister recommended them for ministerial posts.

Under the Constitution, Cabinet ministers are appointed by the president under advise from the prime minister.

Significantly, Sirisena has also appointed his own representatives to state media directorates while giving Wickremesinghe's UNP control over institutions.

According to the subjects gazette published on Saturday, Sirisena has kept control of the police department under him as the minister of defence.

The sharp political differences between Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe have been further reflected in the allocation of key departments under various ministries. According to the subjects gazette published on Saturday, Sirisena has kept control of the police department under him as the minister of defence. The UNP led by Wickremesinghe argues that the police cannot be controlled by Sirisena whereas the 19th amendment to the Constitution has restricted the president to just one ministry in addition to the defence ministry. Sirisena had also kept the government printer under him which is the authority which publishes government-gazetted decrees. Sirisena's differences with Wickremesinghe led to a collapse of the unity government between the two leaders on October 26 as Sirisena sacked Wickremesinghe as premier and withdrew his UPFA alliance from the unity government, triggering a constitutional and political crisis never before seen in the island nation. Both Wickremesinghe and former president Mahinda Rajapaksa who was appointed prime minister by Sirisena, were claiming the premiership. Wickremesinghe citing the 19A said Sirisena had no power to sack him. After a 50-day standoff, Wickremesinghe was restored to office. The country's highest court has termed Sirisena's action to dismiss parliament and his call for a fresh election as illegal. Since Wickremesinghe's reinstatement a new Cabinet was sworn in. The UNP wants the Cabinet to consist of 30 members apart from Sirisena and Wickremesinghe. "We have asked for the opinion of the attorney general on the number of ministers. The president and prime minister who hold portfolios must be excluded in our view," minister Mano Ganesan said. The 19A amendment has restricted the Cabinet to 30 members when a single political party holds power without any coalition arrangement with another party. Sirisena had ignored the names of those who had crossed over from his SLFP to join Wickremesinghe when the prime minister recommended them for ministerial posts. Under the Constitution, Cabinet ministers are appointed by the president under advise from the prime minister. Significantly, Sirisena has also appointed his own representatives to state media directorates while giving Wickremesinghe's UNP control over institutions.

Sirisena keeps control of police as Lanka political crisis festers

Sri Lanka's ruling UNP has no intention to go for an early snap general election, a party spokesman said Friday, ending weeks of speculation that the government may dissolve parliament before the end of its term.

Ajith P Perera, a United National Party (UNP) spokesman, said no parliamentary election would be held before February 2020 when President Maithripala Sirisena could sack the assembly.

"We must make it very clear that the UNP has not expressed any willingness to dissolve parliament before its term ends," Perera said.

The decision is contrary to the expectations of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa's new political party Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP).

Buoyed by the excellent showing in the local council elections held in February, the SLPP leadership insists for an early election to gain control of the government.

They won over 70 per cent of the 300 plus local councils by thrashing both major parties of Sirisena's Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) and the UNP of prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe.

Mano Ganesan, a government ally and a minister said the decision that the general election will be held only when they are due in August 2020 was taken at a high level meeting held last night.

"The President if he so wishes could call an early presidential election, but all other elections would be held on schedule," Ganesan said.

Sri Lanka faced a major constitutional and political crisis which lasted over 50 days after Sirisena took a controversial decision of sacking Wickremesinghe as Prime Minister to replace him with Rajapaksa in late October.

The Supreme Court court in a landmark ruling said that Sirisena's subsequent action to dismiss parliament and set a fresh parliamentary poll for January 5 was illegal.

He was then forced to restore Wickremesinghe in office as Rajapaksa was not able to prove his majority in parliament.

Rajapaksa's SLPP has been clamouring for an early poll which they claim would be the key to end the political crisis and an unstable government resulting due to the never-ending rift between Sirisena and Wickremesinghe.

"We challenge the prime minister to dissolve the assembly with two thirds majority to hold an early election. We will support that resolution," Rajapaksa's elder son and legislator Namal Rajapaksa said.

The SLPP and Sirisena now find fault with the 19th amendment to the Constitution which took away powers of the President to dissolve parliament at his wish.

As per the amendment, he cannot do so until parliament has seen off four and a half years of its term.

However, parliament could resolve with two thirds to dissolve the assembly to call a snap election.

Ajith P Perera, a United National Party (UNP) spokesman, said no parliamentary election would be held before February 2020 when President Maithripala Sirisena could sack the assembly.

Sri Lanka's ruling UNP has no intention to go for an early snap general election, a party spokesman said Friday, ending weeks of speculation that the government may dissolve parliament before the end of its term. Ajith P Perera, a United National Party (UNP) spokesman, said no parliamentary election would be held before February 2020 when President Maithripala Sirisena could sack the assembly. "We must make it very clear that the UNP has not expressed any willingness to dissolve parliament before its term ends," Perera said. The decision is contrary to the expectations of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa's new political party Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP). Buoyed by the excellent showing in the local council elections held in February, the SLPP leadership insists for an early election to gain control of the government. They won over 70 per cent of the 300 plus local councils by thrashing both major parties of Sirisena's Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) and the UNP of prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe. Mano Ganesan, a government ally and a minister said the decision that the general election will be held only when they are due in August 2020 was taken at a high level meeting held last night. "The President if he so wishes could call an early presidential election, but all other elections would be held on schedule," Ganesan said. Sri Lanka faced a major constitutional and political crisis which lasted over 50 days after Sirisena took a controversial decision of sacking Wickremesinghe as Prime Minister to replace him with Rajapaksa in late October. The Supreme Court court in a landmark ruling said that Sirisena's subsequent action to dismiss parliament and set a fresh parliamentary poll for January 5 was illegal. He was then forced to restore Wickremesinghe in office as Rajapaksa was not able to prove his majority in parliament. Rajapaksa's SLPP has been clamouring for an early poll which they claim would be the key to end the political crisis and an unstable government resulting due to the never-ending rift between Sirisena and Wickremesinghe. "We challenge the prime minister to dissolve the assembly with two thirds majority to hold an early election. We will support that resolution," Rajapaksa's elder son and legislator Namal Rajapaksa said. The SLPP and Sirisena now find fault with the 19th amendment to the Constitution which took away powers of the President to dissolve parliament at his wish. As per the amendment, he cannot do so until parliament has seen off four and a half years of its term. However, parliament could resolve with two thirds to dissolve the assembly to call a snap election.

Sri Lanka's ruling UNP rules out early snap poll

Sri Lanka's central bank is expected to leave its key interest rates steady on Friday, a Reuters poll showed, despite heavy pressure on the rupee from a political crisis that triggered foreign outflows from stocks and government bonds.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-president-sirisena-meets-party-organisers-hints-2019-may-be-election-year-186363">President Maithripala Sirisena</a> was forced to reinstate Ranil Wickremesinghe as prime minister 51 days after sacking him, as his preferred PM, pro-China former president Mahinda Rajapaksa, failed to secure a parliamentary majority.

An uneasy <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/2018-will-be-remembered-for-worst-political-crisis-in-lankas-history-186606">truce between Wickremesinghe and Sirisena </a>could undermine economic policies, analysts say.

All analysts expect the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) to leave key rates steady as Wickremesinghe's government aims to focus on economic growth, which has been sluggish due to tight policies, ahead of a presidential poll next year and general election in 2020.

All 10 economists surveyed, expected the central bank to keep both its standing deposit facility rate (SDFR) and standing lending facility rate (SLFR) to be left at 8.00 per cent and 9.00 per cent respectively.

The central bank raised SDFR by 75 bps and SLFR by 50 bps last month, while reduced the statutory reserve ratio (SRR) by 150 bps to 6.00 per cent.

All 10 analysts saw the SRR remaining steady.

Sirisena's abrupt change of prime minister and his decision to dissolve parliament, which was later ruled unconstitutional, created panic and uncertainty among investors.

The Sri Lankan rupee hit a fresh low of 181.85 per dollar on Wednesday while the island nation's dollar bonds have also plummeted as foreign investors sell their holdings. The rupee has fallen nearly 5 per cent since the political crisis started on October 26. It has dropped 18.4 per cent so far this year.

"Political pressure would be against increasing the rates," said Danushka Samarasinghe, the CEO at Softlogic Capital Markets.

"However, if rates are increased, it will be better for safeguarding foreign investments in the bond market and also might be favourable from a fiscal point of view."

Foreign investors have sold a net 13.7 billion rupees worth of stocks since the political crisis began and about 56.7 billion rupees worth of bonds between October 25 and December 19, bourse and central bank data showed.

Sri Lanka has seen net outflows of 149 billion rupees ($821 million) from government bonds so far this year, central bank data showed.

Sri Lanka's central bank is expected to leave its key interest rates steady on Friday, a Reuters poll showed, despite heavy pressure on the rupee from a political crisis that triggered foreign outflows from stocks and government bonds.

Sri Lanka's central bank is expected to leave its key interest rates steady on Friday, a Reuters poll showed, despite heavy pressure on the rupee from a political crisis that triggered foreign outflows from stocks and government bonds. President Maithripala Sirisena was forced to reinstate Ranil Wickremesinghe as prime minister 51 days after sacking him, as his preferred PM, pro-China former president Mahinda Rajapaksa, failed to secure a parliamentary majority. An uneasy truce between Wickremesinghe and Sirisena could undermine economic policies, analysts say. All analysts expect the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) to leave key rates steady as Wickremesinghe's government aims to focus on economic growth, which has been sluggish due to tight policies, ahead of a presidential poll next year and general election in 2020. All 10 economists surveyed, expected the central bank to keep both its standing deposit facility rate (SDFR) and standing lending facility rate (SLFR) to be left at 8.00 per cent and 9.00 per cent respectively. The central bank raised SDFR by 75 bps and SLFR by 50 bps last month, while reduced the statutory reserve ratio (SRR) by 150 bps to 6.00 per cent. All 10 analysts saw the SRR remaining steady. Sirisena's abrupt change of prime minister and his decision to dissolve parliament, which was later ruled unconstitutional, created panic and uncertainty among investors. The Sri Lankan rupee hit a fresh low of 181.85 per dollar on Wednesday while the island nation's dollar bonds have also plummeted as foreign investors sell their holdings. The rupee has fallen nearly 5 per cent since the political crisis started on October 26. It has dropped 18.4 per cent so far this year. "Political pressure would be against increasing the rates," said Danushka Samarasinghe, the CEO at Softlogic Capital Markets. "However, if rates are increased, it will be better for safeguarding foreign investments in the bond market and also might be favourable from a fiscal point of view." Foreign investors have sold a net 13.7 billion rupees worth of stocks since the political crisis began and about 56.7 billion rupees worth of bonds between October 25 and December 19, bourse and central bank data showed. Sri Lanka has seen net outflows of 149 billion rupees ($821 million) from government bonds so far this year, central bank data showed.

Sri Lanka central bank seen keeping rates steady despite pressure on rupee: Report

The year 2018 would be etched in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sri-lanka">Sri Lanka</a>'s history as the most turbulent one politically as the cash-strapped country saw an unprecedented power struggle between the president and the prime minister, causing much concern in major world capitals, including in New Delhi.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-president-sirisena-meets-party-organisers-hints-2019-may-be-election-year-186363">President Maithripala Sirisena</a>'s dramatic move to sack <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/wickremesinghe-acknowledges-differences-with-sirisena-on-ministerial-appointments-185841">Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe</a> and install former strongman <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/former-pm-mahinda-rajapaksa-becomes-sri-lankas-main-opposition-leader-185083">Mahinda Rajapaksa</a> in his place following differences over policy issues left the country without a functioning government for nearly two months.

Rajapaksa's return to power drew concern in India that China would tighten its grip on the country. The veteran leader, who is credited for ending the brutal civil war with the LTTE in 2009, is under intense criticism for his decade-long authoritarian rule.

However, a Supreme court verdict forced President Sirisena to reinstate United National Party (UNP) leader Wickremesinghe on December 16, ending Rajapaksa brief regime.

During the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-political-crisis-ends-as-president-sirisena-names-new-cabinet-185567">political crisis</a>, New Delhi sought to maintain a hands-off approach not wanting to be seen as taking sides. India chose to stay non-committal when Rajapaksa succeeded Wickremesinghe, who is seen as pro-India.

Following Wickremesinghe's re-appointment, India welcomed the resolution of the political crisis and exuded confidence that relations between the two countries will continue to move on in an upward trajectory.

The US, the European Union, Australia and Norway also welcomed the peaceful resolution of the political crisis in Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka came closer to China under Rajapaksa's decade-long tenure as the president, with Beijing pumping millions of dollars in the country's infrastructure since the end of the civil war.

However, some of the projects had been reversed under the Sirisena-Wickremesinghe government as Chinese debt hit the country's economy.

China sees Lanka as crucial in its ambitious plan to expand trade routes, while India is concerned about growing Chinese influence in the Indian Ocean.

Despite India's concerns over China's forays in Sri Lanka, including its acquisition of the strategic port of Hambantota, New Delhi and Colombo kept their relationship warm in 2018 with high-level exchanges and signing of pacts.

Prime Minister Wickremesinghe visited India in October and held talks with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi on ways to deepen the bilateral ties.

During the talks, Modi and Wickremesinghe reviewed the progress in the implementation of various decisions taken during the high-level exchanges in the recent past, including Modi's visit to Sri Lanka in May 2017. They also discussed the progress of India-assisted development projects in the island nation.

The two countries signed an agreement for construction of 1,200 houses through 50 model villages, using Indian grant assistance of 60 crore Srilankan rupees.

The long-standing issue of fishermen, however, remained unresolved as India and Sri Lanka could not find common ground.

Both sides have agreed to set up Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to expedite the release and handing over of fishermen in each other's custody on completion of respective legal and procedural formalities.

During the year, the Lankan economy grew at a slower than expected. The economy suffered due to nearly two month of political turmoil that led to government dysfunction.

Sri Lanka owes over US $50 billion to foreign lenders, which is 77 per cent of its gross domestic product (GDP).

The country has to pay back more than US $4 billion of its foreign loans, which just got harder as the political turmoil has sent the rupee to its lowest ever level against the US dollar. Sri Lankan rupee weakened nearly 17 per cent this year.

Though the reinstatement of Wickremesinghe has brought some hope in Sri Lanka, the political stability in the country in the coming months would be decided by how the prime minister and the president work together despite their differences over policy issues.

This will also determine the path of India's ties with Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

The year 2018 would be etched in Sri Lanka's history as the most turbulent one politically as the cash-strapped country saw an unprecedented power struggle between the president and the prime minister, causing much concern in major world capitals, including in New Delhi.

The year 2018 would be etched in Sri Lanka's history as the most turbulent one politically as the cash-strapped country saw an unprecedented power struggle between the president and the prime minister, causing much concern in major world capitals, including in New Delhi. President Maithripala Sirisena's dramatic move to sack Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and install former strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa in his place following differences over policy issues left the country without a functioning government for nearly two months. Rajapaksa's return to power drew concern in India that China would tighten its grip on the country. The veteran leader, who is credited for ending the brutal civil war with the LTTE in 2009, is under intense criticism for his decade-long authoritarian rule. However, a Supreme court verdict forced President Sirisena to reinstate United National Party (UNP) leader Wickremesinghe on December 16, ending Rajapaksa brief regime. During the political crisis, New Delhi sought to maintain a hands-off approach not wanting to be seen as taking sides. India chose to stay non-committal when Rajapaksa succeeded Wickremesinghe, who is seen as pro-India. Following Wickremesinghe's re-appointment, India welcomed the resolution of the political crisis and exuded confidence that relations between the two countries will continue to move on in an upward trajectory. The US, the European Union, Australia and Norway also welcomed the peaceful resolution of the political crisis in Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka came closer to China under Rajapaksa's decade-long tenure as the president, with Beijing pumping millions of dollars in the country's infrastructure since the end of the civil war. However, some of the projects had been reversed under the Sirisena-Wickremesinghe government as Chinese debt hit the country's economy. China sees Lanka as crucial in its ambitious plan to expand trade routes, while India is concerned about growing Chinese influence in the Indian Ocean. Despite India's concerns over China's forays in Sri Lanka, including its acquisition of the strategic port of Hambantota, New Delhi and Colombo kept their relationship warm in 2018 with high-level exchanges and signing of pacts. Prime Minister Wickremesinghe visited India in October and held talks with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi on ways to deepen the bilateral ties. During the talks, Modi and Wickremesinghe reviewed the progress in the implementation of various decisions taken during the high-level exchanges in the recent past, including Modi's visit to Sri Lanka in May 2017. They also discussed the progress of India-assisted development projects in the island nation. The two countries signed an agreement for construction of 1,200 houses through 50 model villages, using Indian grant assistance of 60 crore Srilankan rupees. The long-standing issue of fishermen, however, remained unresolved as India and Sri Lanka could not find common ground. Both sides have agreed to set up Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to expedite the release and handing over of fishermen in each other's custody on completion of respective legal and procedural formalities. During the year, the Lankan economy grew at a slower than expected. The economy suffered due to nearly two month of political turmoil that led to government dysfunction. Sri Lanka owes over US $50 billion to foreign lenders, which is 77 per cent of its gross domestic product (GDP). The country has to pay back more than US $4 billion of its foreign loans, which just got harder as the political turmoil has sent the rupee to its lowest ever level against the US dollar. Sri Lankan rupee weakened nearly 17 per cent this year. Though the reinstatement of Wickremesinghe has brought some hope in Sri Lanka, the political stability in the country in the coming months would be decided by how the prime minister and the president work together despite their differences over policy issues. This will also determine the path of India's ties with Sri Lanka.

2018 will be remembered for worst political crisis in Lanka's history

Over 45,000 people from nearly 14,000 families have been hit by flash floods triggered by heavy rains in Sri Lanka's northern province.

No deaths or disappearances have been reported so far, disaster management officials said on Sunday. The five affected districts are Mullaithivu, Kilinochchi, Mannar, Vavuniya and Jaffna.

Some areas in the affected districts received more than 350 mm of rainfall last night, causing flash floods.

The officials said that over 8,500 people have been sheltered in 52 welfare camps.

The search and rescue teams have been mobilised together with boats.&nbsp;

The Navy and the Army personnel have also been engaged in the relief and rescue missions. &nbsp; &nbsp;

President Maithripala Sirisena has directed officials to provide immediate relief to the affected people.&nbsp;

Over 45,000 people from nearly 14,000 families have been hit by flash floods triggered by heavy rains in Sri Lanka's northern province. No deaths or disappearances have been reported so far, disaster management officials said on Sunday.

Over 45,000 people from nearly 14,000 families have been hit by flash floods triggered by heavy rains in Sri Lanka's northern province. No deaths or disappearances have been reported so far, disaster management officials said on Sunday. The five affected districts are Mullaithivu, Kilinochchi, Mannar, Vavuniya and Jaffna. Some areas in the affected districts received more than 350 mm of rainfall last night, causing flash floods. The officials said that over 8,500 people have been sheltered in 52 welfare camps. The search and rescue teams have been mobilised together with boats. The Navy and the Army personnel have also been engaged in the relief and rescue missions. President Maithripala Sirisena has directed officials to provide immediate relief to the affected people.

Over 45,000 people hit by flash floods in northern Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka's President Maithripala Sirisena named a 30-member cabinet Thursday to end a crippling seven-week<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/victory-for-democracy-says-reinstated-sri-lankan-pm-wickremesinghe-184636"> power struggle with his prime minister</a>, but only after a final tussle over who should control the police.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pms-termination-done-in-good-faith-reinstated-him-to-uphold-democracy-sri-lanka-president-sirisena-184631">Sirisena reinstated Ranil Wickremesinghe as prime minister</a> on Sunday after the Supreme Court threw out his attempt to dissolve <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-parliament-to-convene-on-tuesday-for-first-time-after-pm-wickremesinghes-reinstatement-185010">parliament</a> and hold early elections in the Indian Ocean nation.&nbsp;

"The forming of the cabinet was delayed because the president wanted to retain media and the police," government spokesman Rajitha Senaratne said as the new cabinet was announced.&nbsp;

"He conceded the media ministry, but will retain control over the police for a little longer."

No law and order minister was named in the new cabinet and Sirisena, who also serves as defence minister, will take responsibility for the police. &nbsp;

The key posts of finance minister and foreign minister remained unchanged from Wickremesinghe's deposed government. Mangala Samaraweera stays as finance minister and Tilak Marapana as foreign chief.

Sirisena sparked the political crisis on October 26 when he sacked Wickremesinghe in a bid to name nationalist firebrand <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/mahinda-rajapaksa-sri-lankas-former-strongman-and-hardline-politician-184884">Mahinda Rajapakse</a> as prime minister. He had to backtrack in the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/former-pm-mahinda-rajapaksa-becomes-sri-lankas-main-opposition-leader-185083"> face of opposition</a> from the legislature, where he had no majority and Sri Lankan courts.

In a statement in New York, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who called for "restraint" at the beginning of the crisis, welcomed its conclusion "by peaceful, constitutional means".

Guterres called for all sides to use the appointment of the new cabinet to "resolve outstanding political differences... in the interest of the people of Sri Lanka."

Shortly after giving Wickremesinghe his job back on Sunday, Sirisena made it clear that working with the new government would be difficult.

"I still believe that I should not have made <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ranil-wickremesinghe-sri-lankas-reformist-premiere-184790">Ranil Wickremesinghe</a> the prime minister, but I bow to the wishes of the majority in parliament," Sirisena said.

"But, I don't know how far we will succeed in fulfilling the wishes of our people."

Sirisena came to power in 2015 with the help of Wickremesinghe's United National Party (UNP), but personal and political clashes came to a head with the October sacking.

The 69-year-old Wickremesinghe refused to give way to former president Rajapakse, leaving the country with two claimants to the prime minister's post and no functioning government.

The Sri Lankan parliament backed Wickremesinghe's claim that his dismissal was illegal, voting six times against Rajapakse during tumultuous sessions that at times erupted into brawls.

Sri Lanka's President Maithripala Sirisena named a 30-member cabinet Thursday to end a crippling seven-week power struggle with his prime minister, but only after a final tussle over who should control the police.

Sri Lanka's President Maithripala Sirisena named a 30-member cabinet Thursday to end a crippling seven-week power struggle with his prime minister, but only after a final tussle over who should control the police. Sirisena reinstated Ranil Wickremesinghe as prime minister on Sunday after the Supreme Court threw out his attempt to dissolve parliament and hold early elections in the Indian Ocean nation. "The forming of the cabinet was delayed because the president wanted to retain media and the police," government spokesman Rajitha Senaratne said as the new cabinet was announced. "He conceded the media ministry, but will retain control over the police for a little longer." No law and order minister was named in the new cabinet and Sirisena, who also serves as defence minister, will take responsibility for the police. The key posts of finance minister and foreign minister remained unchanged from Wickremesinghe's deposed government. Mangala Samaraweera stays as finance minister and Tilak Marapana as foreign chief. Sirisena sparked the political crisis on October 26 when he sacked Wickremesinghe in a bid to name nationalist firebrand Mahinda Rajapakse as prime minister. He had to backtrack in the face of opposition from the legislature, where he had no majority and Sri Lankan courts. In a statement in New York, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who called for "restraint" at the beginning of the crisis, welcomed its conclusion "by peaceful, constitutional means". Guterres called for all sides to use the appointment of the new cabinet to "resolve outstanding political differences... in the interest of the people of Sri Lanka." Shortly after giving Wickremesinghe his job back on Sunday, Sirisena made it clear that working with the new government would be difficult. "I still believe that I should not have made Ranil Wickremesinghe the prime minister, but I bow to the wishes of the majority in parliament," Sirisena said. "But, I don't know how far we will succeed in fulfilling the wishes of our people." Sirisena came to power in 2015 with the help of Wickremesinghe's United National Party (UNP), but personal and political clashes came to a head with the October sacking. The 69-year-old Wickremesinghe refused to give way to former president Rajapakse, leaving the country with two claimants to the prime minister's post and no functioning government. The Sri Lankan parliament backed Wickremesinghe's claim that his dismissal was illegal, voting six times against Rajapakse during tumultuous sessions that at times erupted into brawls.

Sri Lanka political crisis ends as President Sirisena names new cabinet

The US has said it is looking forward to continue to engage with the reinstated Sri Lankan <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ranil-wickremesinghe-sri-lankas-reformist-premiere-184790">Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe</a>, now that the nearly two-month-long political crisis in the South Asian country has been resolved peacefully and democratically.

Sri Lankan <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/rajapaksa-bribed-parliamentarians-to-prove-majority-president-sirisena-182684">President Maithripala Sirisena</a> had controversially sacked Wickremesinghe as prime minister on October 26 and appointed Sinhala strongman <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/former-pm-mahinda-rajapaksa-becomes-sri-lankas-main-opposition-leader-185083">Mahinda Rajapaksa</a> in his place. The shock move had plunged Sri Lanka into an unprecedented constitutional crisis.

Sirisena had to reinstate Wickremesinghe on Sunday after the Supreme Court ruled that his action violated the constitution and the legislature voted confidence in Wickremesinghe.

"We are pleased to have seen the democratic, constitutional processes play out through the courts in Sri Lanka, ultimately addressing the political crisis in keeping with democratic and constitutional norms," Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia David Ranz told a group of Indian reporters on Wednesday.

"We look forward to continuing to engage with Prime Minister Wickremesinghe and his cabinet as well as President Sirisena to advance cooperation on bilateral and regional issues of common interest," said Ranz, who just returned from a trip to Sri Lanka.

The US, he said, anticipates the Sri Lankan government will focus on taking steps to bolster the economy and restore the country's international standing.

"During my visit, I conveyed that, as a friend and partner of Sri Lanka for 70 years, the United States wished to see the political crisis resolved in a manner befitting Sri Lanka's democratic traditions and in keeping with its status as South Asia's oldest democracy," he said.

The US has said it is looking forward to continue to engage with the reinstated Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, now that the nearly two-month-long political crisis in the South Asian country has been resolved peacefully and democratically.

The US has said it is looking forward to continue to engage with the reinstated Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, now that the nearly two-month-long political crisis in the South Asian country has been resolved peacefully and democratically. Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena had controversially sacked Wickremesinghe as prime minister on October 26 and appointed Sinhala strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa in his place. The shock move had plunged Sri Lanka into an unprecedented constitutional crisis. Sirisena had to reinstate Wickremesinghe on Sunday after the Supreme Court ruled that his action violated the constitution and the legislature voted confidence in Wickremesinghe. "We are pleased to have seen the democratic, constitutional processes play out through the courts in Sri Lanka, ultimately addressing the political crisis in keeping with democratic and constitutional norms," Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia David Ranz told a group of Indian reporters on Wednesday. "We look forward to continuing to engage with Prime Minister Wickremesinghe and his cabinet as well as President Sirisena to advance cooperation on bilateral and regional issues of common interest," said Ranz, who just returned from a trip to Sri Lanka. The US, he said, anticipates the Sri Lankan government will focus on taking steps to bolster the economy and restore the country's international standing. "During my visit, I conveyed that, as a friend and partner of Sri Lanka for 70 years, the United States wished to see the political crisis resolved in a manner befitting Sri Lanka's democratic traditions and in keeping with its status as South Asia's oldest democracy," he said.

Looking forward to continuing to engage with PM Wickremesinghe: US

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ranil-wickremesinghe-sworn-in-as-the-prime-minister-of-sri-lanka-184452">Ranil Wickremesinghe</a> Sunday staged a triumphant comeback as Sri Lankan Prime Minister to end the unprecedented political turmoil in the country, 51 days after he was sacked by his bete noire and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pms-termination-done-in-good-faith-reinstated-him-to-uphold-democracy-sri-lanka-president-sirisena-184631">President Maithripala Sirisena</a>, who also dissolved Parliament, controversial decisions which were nullified by the Supreme Court.

Wickremesinghe, the 69-year-old United National Party leader, was administered the oath of office by President Sirisena, who had sacked him on October 26 and installed former rival and ex-strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa in his place.

The UNP leader had refused to step down asserting that his sacking was illegal.

His re-appointment comes a day after Rajapaksa resigned Saturday, after two crucial Supreme Court decisions made his efforts to cling to&nbsp; 
premiership untenable.

"Today marks a victory not for myself or for the UNP. It is a victory for Sri Lanka's democratic institutions and the sovereignty of our citizens. I thank everyone who stood firm in defending the constitution and ensuring the triumph of democracy," Wickremesinghe said after assuming office.

A sheepish Sirisena, who had ruled out reappointing Wickremesinghe as prime minister, was smiling with Wickremesinghe as he handed him the letter of appointment.

Wickremesinghe's supporters took to streets to celebrate after he took oath at the Presidential Secretariat for the record fifth time.

UNP Assistant Leader Ravi Karunanayake said that talks were held Saturday and more discussions will take place Sunday to select the Cabinet.

The Cabinet is expected to be limited to 30 and will include a few Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) members who have offered support to Wickremesinghe.

It is expected a new Cabinet will be formed by Monday and a vote on account will be passed to provide for the required provisions until a budget for 2019 is formulated, Sri Lankan media reported.

Earlier, Wickremesinghe's party said it was ready to work with President Sirisena, who was "misled by some groups" against the unity government.

UNP deputy leader Sajith Premadasa said that he was not surprised that the President had agreed to appoint Wickremesinghe as Prime Minister again despite taking a firm position earlier that he will not appoint the UNP leader.

"This showed the true character of the President," he was quoted as saying by the Colombo Gazette.

Premadasa said that the President was "misled by some groups who were against the unity Government" and this resulted in the President removing Wickremesinghe.

"But now truth has prevailed," he said. "The party is prepared to work with Sirisena again in the government."

Premadasa said, "The lessons from the incident must be used to strengthen the foundation of democracy and promote justice and fairness."

Sirisena and Rajapaksa suffered reversal setbacks since October 26, forcing the president to reinstate Wickremesinghe.

Rajapaksa, 73, had sought to secure a majority in the 225-member Parliament but failed. Sirisena then dissolved Parliament and called snap elections on January 5.

However, the Supreme Court overturned his decision and halted the preparations for snap polls.

The Supreme Court on Thursday unanimously declared that the dissolution of Parliament by Sirisena was "illegal".

The apex court on Friday also refused to stay a court order restraining&nbsp; 
Rajapaksa from holding the office of Prime Minister until it fully heard the case next month.

Rajapaksa signed his resignation letter during a multi-religious service at his home that was attended by several lawmakers of United People's Freedom Alliance (UPFA), Buddhist and other religious leaders.

After signing the resignation letter, Rajapaksa said that following the February 10 local government election, the aim of his party is to have a general election.

However, he said that he has no intention of remaining as Prime Minister without a general election being held, and in order to not hamper the President in any way, he resigned from the position of Prime Minister and made way for the President to form a new Government.

Rajapaksa said that since a general election can no longer be held, the UPFA cannot implement any of the measures they had planned to take "to prevent the country from becoming another Greece."

Most of the countries had not recognised Rajapaksa's government. The global credit rating agencies -- the Fitch, the Standard &amp; Poor's and the Moody's -- had also downgraded Sri Lanka's rating owing to the current political crisis.&nbsp;

Ranil Wickremesinghe Sunday staged a triumphant comeback as Sri Lankan Prime Minister to end the unprecedented political turmoil in the country, 51 days after he was sacked by his bete noire and President Maithripala Sirisena, who also dissolved Parliament, controversial decisions which were nullified by the Supreme Court.

Ranil Wickremesinghe Sunday staged a triumphant comeback as Sri Lankan Prime Minister to end the unprecedented political turmoil in the country, 51 days after he was sacked by his bete noire and President Maithripala Sirisena, who also dissolved Parliament, controversial decisions which were nullified by the Supreme Court. Wickremesinghe, the 69-year-old United National Party leader, was administered the oath of office by President Sirisena, who had sacked him on October 26 and installed former rival and ex-strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa in his place. The UNP leader had refused to step down asserting that his sacking was illegal. His re-appointment comes a day after Rajapaksa resigned Saturday, after two crucial Supreme Court decisions made his efforts to cling to premiership untenable. "Today marks a victory not for myself or for the UNP. It is a victory for Sri Lanka's democratic institutions and the sovereignty of our citizens. I thank everyone who stood firm in defending the constitution and ensuring the triumph of democracy," Wickremesinghe said after assuming office. A sheepish Sirisena, who had ruled out reappointing Wickremesinghe as prime minister, was smiling with Wickremesinghe as he handed him the letter of appointment. Wickremesinghe's supporters took to streets to celebrate after he took oath at the Presidential Secretariat for the record fifth time. UNP Assistant Leader Ravi Karunanayake said that talks were held Saturday and more discussions will take place Sunday to select the Cabinet. The Cabinet is expected to be limited to 30 and will include a few Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) members who have offered support to Wickremesinghe. It is expected a new Cabinet will be formed by Monday and a vote on account will be passed to provide for the required provisions until a budget for 2019 is formulated, Sri Lankan media reported. Earlier, Wickremesinghe's party said it was ready to work with President Sirisena, who was "misled by some groups" against the unity government. UNP deputy leader Sajith Premadasa said that he was not surprised that the President had agreed to appoint Wickremesinghe as Prime Minister again despite taking a firm position earlier that he will not appoint the UNP leader. "This showed the true character of the President," he was quoted as saying by the Colombo Gazette. Premadasa said that the President was "misled by some groups who were against the unity Government" and this resulted in the President removing Wickremesinghe. "But now truth has prevailed," he said. "The party is prepared to work with Sirisena again in the government." Premadasa said, "The lessons from the incident must be used to strengthen the foundation of democracy and promote justice and fairness." Sirisena and Rajapaksa suffered reversal setbacks since October 26, forcing the president to reinstate Wickremesinghe. Rajapaksa, 73, had sought to secure a majority in the 225-member Parliament but failed. Sirisena then dissolved Parliament and called snap elections on January 5. However, the Supreme Court overturned his decision and halted the preparations for snap polls. The Supreme Court on Thursday unanimously declared that the dissolution of Parliament by Sirisena was "illegal". The apex court on Friday also refused to stay a court order restraining Rajapaksa from holding the office of Prime Minister until it fully heard the case next month. Rajapaksa signed his resignation letter during a multi-religious service at his home that was attended by several lawmakers of United People's Freedom Alliance (UPFA), Buddhist and other religious leaders. After signing the resignation letter, Rajapaksa said that following the February 10 local government election, the aim of his party is to have a general election. However, he said that he has no intention of remaining as Prime Minister without a general election being held, and in order to not hamper the President in any way, he resigned from the position of Prime Minister and made way for the President to form a new Government. Rajapaksa said that since a general election can no longer be held, the UPFA cannot implement any of the measures they had planned to take "to prevent the country from becoming another Greece." Most of the countries had not recognised Rajapaksa's government. The global credit rating agencies -- the Fitch, the Standard & Poor's and the Moody's -- had also downgraded Sri Lanka's rating owing to the current political crisis.

Victory for democracy, says reinstated Sri Lankan PM Wickremesinghe

Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena, who on Sunday reappointed <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ready-to-work-with-sirisena-again-wickremesinghes-united-national-party-184455">Ranil Wickremesinghe as prime minister</a> after sacking him from the job nearly two months ago, said his move to terminate the premier was done in "good faith" and the reinstatement was done to uphold parliamentary traditions and democracy.

On October 26, Sirisena ousted the United National Party (UNP) leader and installed former rival and ex-strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa, 73, in his place, a move which plunged the island nation into a constitutional crisis.&nbsp;

However, Rajapaksa resigned on Saturday after two crucial Supreme Court decisions made his efforts to cling to premiership untenable, paving the way for the return of 69-year-old Wickremesinghe who had refused to step down asserting that his sacking was illegal.&nbsp;

"I did everything after consulting very senior lawyers and former chief justices. I acted in good faith and I will be remembered in the history for this," Sirisena, 67, said addressing Wickremesinghe and his party leaders after administering him the oath of office.&nbsp;

The president said he had sacked Wickremesinghe and called for a fresh election to give 15 plus million voters to exercise their right to vote, but "122 legislators blocked" the effort.&nbsp;

Sirisena, who had earlier vowed to never reinstate Wickremesinghe, said he reappointed him to uphold parliamentary traditions and democracy.&nbsp;

He is expected to swear in the new Cabinet on Monday. "A Cabinet of 30 lawmakers would be appointed within the next 48 hours," Eran Wickremaratne, a senior UNP leader, said.&nbsp;

Earlier, Wickremesinghe's party said it was ready to work with Sirisena, who was "misled by some groups" against the unity government. 
Sirisena and Rajapaksa suffered reversal setbacks since October, forcing the president to reinstate Wickremesinghe.

Rajapaksa had sought to secure a majority in the 225-member Parliament but failed. Sirisena then dissolved Parliament and called snap elections on January 5.

However, the Supreme Court overturned his decision and halted the preparations for snap polls.

The Supreme Court on Thursday unanimously declared that the dissolution of Parliament by Sirisena was "illegal".

The apex court on Friday also refused to stay a court order restraining Rajapaksa from holding the office of Prime Minister until it fully heard the case next month.

Rajapaksa signed his resignation letter during a multi-religious service at his home that was attended by several lawmakers of United People's Freedom Alliance (UPFA), Buddhist and other religious leaders.

He said since a general election can no longer be held, the UPFA cannot implement any of the measures they had planned to take "to prevent the country from becoming another Greece."

Rajapaksa said he has no intention of remaining as premier without a general election being held, and in order to not hamper the President in any way, he resigned from the position of Prime Minister and made way for the President to form a new government.

Most of the countries had not recognised Rajapaksa's government. The global credit rating agencies -- the Fitch, the Standard &amp; Poor's and the Moody's -- had also downgraded Sri Lanka's rating owing to the current political crisis.&nbsp;

Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena, who on Sunday reappointed Ranil Wickremesinghe as prime minister after sacking him from the job nearly two months ago, said his move to terminate the premier was done in "good faith" and the reinstatement was done to uphold parliamentary traditions and democracy.

Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena, who on Sunday reappointed Ranil Wickremesinghe as prime minister after sacking him from the job nearly two months ago, said his move to terminate the premier was done in "good faith" and the reinstatement was done to uphold parliamentary traditions and democracy. On October 26, Sirisena ousted the United National Party (UNP) leader and installed former rival and ex-strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa, 73, in his place, a move which plunged the island nation into a constitutional crisis. However, Rajapaksa resigned on Saturday after two crucial Supreme Court decisions made his efforts to cling to premiership untenable, paving the way for the return of 69-year-old Wickremesinghe who had refused to step down asserting that his sacking was illegal. "I did everything after consulting very senior lawyers and former chief justices. I acted in good faith and I will be remembered in the history for this," Sirisena, 67, said addressing Wickremesinghe and his party leaders after administering him the oath of office. The president said he had sacked Wickremesinghe and called for a fresh election to give 15 plus million voters to exercise their right to vote, but "122 legislators blocked" the effort. Sirisena, who had earlier vowed to never reinstate Wickremesinghe, said he reappointed him to uphold parliamentary traditions and democracy. He is expected to swear in the new Cabinet on Monday. "A Cabinet of 30 lawmakers would be appointed within the next 48 hours," Eran Wickremaratne, a senior UNP leader, said. Earlier, Wickremesinghe's party said it was ready to work with Sirisena, who was "misled by some groups" against the unity government. Sirisena and Rajapaksa suffered reversal setbacks since October, forcing the president to reinstate Wickremesinghe. Rajapaksa had sought to secure a majority in the 225-member Parliament but failed. Sirisena then dissolved Parliament and called snap elections on January 5. However, the Supreme Court overturned his decision and halted the preparations for snap polls. The Supreme Court on Thursday unanimously declared that the dissolution of Parliament by Sirisena was "illegal". The apex court on Friday also refused to stay a court order restraining Rajapaksa from holding the office of Prime Minister until it fully heard the case next month. Rajapaksa signed his resignation letter during a multi-religious service at his home that was attended by several lawmakers of United People's Freedom Alliance (UPFA), Buddhist and other religious leaders. He said since a general election can no longer be held, the UPFA cannot implement any of the measures they had planned to take "to prevent the country from becoming another Greece." Rajapaksa said he has no intention of remaining as premier without a general election being held, and in order to not hamper the President in any way, he resigned from the position of Prime Minister and made way for the President to form a new government. Most of the countries had not recognised Rajapaksa's government. The global credit rating agencies -- the Fitch, the Standard & Poor's and the Moody's -- had also downgraded Sri Lanka's rating owing to the current political crisis.

PM's termination done in 'good faith', reinstated him to uphold democracy: Sri Lanka President Sirisena

Ranil Wickremesinghe was sworn in as Sri Lanka's new prime minister on Sunday, making a remarkable comeback weeks after being ousted by President Maithripala Sirisena under controversial circumstances.

His reinstatement to power is being expected to end a political crisis gripping the country since October when he was surprisingly sacked.

Born on 24 March 1979 in Colombo, Ranil Wickremesinghe is a lawyer by profession and comes from an affluent family. 
&nbsp; 
He was first known as the nephew of Sri Lanka's first executive president, Junius Jayewardene.&nbsp;

He also received an honorary doctorate from Deakin University in Australia in 2017, for his significant contributions in reforms in economy, education and human rights.

Wickremesinghe began his political journey in 1994 when he became the leader of the United National Party (UNP) and progressed through its ranks.

Wickremesinghe was appointed as Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs in the new government of JR Jayewardene and was soon promoted to the post of Minister of Youth Affairs and Employment and became the youngest cabinet minister of Sri Lanka.

Under the Presidency of Ranasinghe Premadasa, Wickremasinghe was appointed as the Minister of Industry, under which he initiated industrial reforms and established the Biyagama Special Economic Zone.

In 1989 he got appointed as the Leader of the House.&nbsp;

On May 1993 Wickremesinghe came to power as he sworn in as prime minister after President Ranasinghe Premdana was assassinated by the Tamil Tigers and BV Wijetunga was appointed an acting president.

During his term, he was credited for pushing the country through an impressive economic transformation and was generally backed by the business community for his free-market policies.

He was made the minister of industries and leader of the house and then he went on to be prime minister for 16 months until Chandrika Kumaratunga's People's Alliance coalition came to power in 1994.

In the same year, he became the leader of the United National Party when party leader Gamini Dissanayake was killed by suspected rebels of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (Tamil Tigers).

In the 1999 election, Wickremesinghe was nominated as United National Party's Presidential candidate. After a tense election campaign in the wake of the violent North Western Provincial Council election, Wickremesinghe lost in the presidential elections in what observers said was a sympathy vote for President Kumaratunga after she was injured in a bomb attack.

After the loss of the 1999 presidential elections, Wickremasinghe unsuccessfully led his party in the 2000 parliamentary elections, again losing out Kumaratunga's People's alliance.

However, in 2001 UNP/UNFGG-led by Wickremesinghe&nbsp;won 109 seats and People's Alliance was able to obtain only 77 seats. Consequently, he was able to form a new UNF government and sworn as the 17th Prime Minister of Sri Lanka on 9 December 2001.

During his prime ministerial tenure, Wickremesinghe&nbsp;managed a ceasefire between the government and Tamil Tiger rebels - ending 20 years of civil war - brokered by Norwegian mediators in February 2002.

He also pushed close relations with its neighbours and West.

In July 2002 he met George W Bush, then President of the United States, the first time in 18 years&nbsp;a Sri Lankan leader met the US leader in the White House.&nbsp;

This visit was primarily focused on building new relationships based on economic links between the United States and Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

He also met then Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Tony Blair, the Prime Minister of Japan Junichiro Koizumi and the Prime Minister of India Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

Many of these visits were focused on the issues regarding resolving the Ethnic Problem in Sri Lanka.

Wickramasinghe again lost power in 2004 in which Kumaratunga's alliance won 105 seats, defeating former who only got eight seats.

Kumaratunga commissioned Mahinda Rajapaksa as Prime Minister.

In 2005 as well Wickramasinghe lost to Rajapaksa in the presidential election with a narrow margin.

Rajapaksa lost his bid for a third term in January 2015 after calling for an early presidential election, two years ahead of schedule, ending a decade of rule that critics say had become increasingly authoritarian and marred by nepotism and corruption.

Opposition candidate Maithripala Sirisena, a one-time ally of Rajapaksa who had defected in November the previous year and derailed what the president thought would be an easy win, took 51.3 per cent of the votes polled in the election. Rajapaksa got 47.6 per cent.

Wickremesinghe was sworn in as Sri Lanka's new prime minister on August 21, 2015, and his alliance signed an agreement with President Maithripala Sirisena's party to work together in a national unity government to implement reform agenda.

Sri Lanka woke up to political uncertainty on October 27 after&nbsp;President Sirisena, who had sacked him on October 26 and installed former rival and Rajapaksa in his place.

Ranil Wickremesinghe was sworn in as Sri Lanka's new prime minister on Sunday, making a remarkable comeback weeks after being ousted by President Maithripala Sirisena under controversial circumstances.

Ranil Wickremesinghe was sworn in as Sri Lanka's new prime minister on Sunday, making a remarkable comeback weeks after being ousted by President Maithripala Sirisena under controversial circumstances. His reinstatement to power is being expected to end a political crisis gripping the country since October when he was surprisingly sacked. Born on 24 March 1979 in Colombo, Ranil Wickremesinghe is a lawyer by profession and comes from an affluent family. He was first known as the nephew of Sri Lanka's first executive president, Junius Jayewardene. He also received an honorary doctorate from Deakin University in Australia in 2017, for his significant contributions in reforms in economy, education and human rights. Wickremesinghe began his political journey in 1994 when he became the leader of the United National Party (UNP) and progressed through its ranks. Wickremesinghe was appointed as Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs in the new government of JR Jayewardene and was soon promoted to the post of Minister of Youth Affairs and Employment and became the youngest cabinet minister of Sri Lanka. Under the Presidency of Ranasinghe Premadasa, Wickremasinghe was appointed as the Minister of Industry, under which he initiated industrial reforms and established the Biyagama Special Economic Zone. In 1989 he got appointed as the Leader of the House. On May 1993 Wickremesinghe came to power as he sworn in as prime minister after President Ranasinghe Premdana was assassinated by the Tamil Tigers and BV Wijetunga was appointed an acting president. During his term, he was credited for pushing the country through an impressive economic transformation and was generally backed by the business community for his free-market policies. He was made the minister of industries and leader of the house and then he went on to be prime minister for 16 months until Chandrika Kumaratunga's People's Alliance coalition came to power in 1994. In the same year, he became the leader of the United National Party when party leader Gamini Dissanayake was killed by suspected rebels of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (Tamil Tigers). In the 1999 election, Wickremesinghe was nominated as United National Party's Presidential candidate. After a tense election campaign in the wake of the violent North Western Provincial Council election, Wickremesinghe lost in the presidential elections in what observers said was a sympathy vote for President Kumaratunga after she was injured in a bomb attack. After the loss of the 1999 presidential elections, Wickremasinghe unsuccessfully led his party in the 2000 parliamentary elections, again losing out Kumaratunga's People's alliance. However, in 2001 UNP/UNFGG-led by Wickremesinghe won 109 seats and People's Alliance was able to obtain only 77 seats. Consequently, he was able to form a new UNF government and sworn as the 17th Prime Minister of Sri Lanka on 9 December 2001. During his prime ministerial tenure, Wickremesinghe managed a ceasefire between the government and Tamil Tiger rebels - ending 20 years of civil war - brokered by Norwegian mediators in February 2002. He also pushed close relations with its neighbours and West. In July 2002 he met George W Bush, then President of the United States, the first time in 18 years a Sri Lankan leader met the US leader in the White House. This visit was primarily focused on building new relationships based on economic links between the United States and Sri Lanka. He also met then Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Tony Blair, the Prime Minister of Japan Junichiro Koizumi and the Prime Minister of India Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Many of these visits were focused on the issues regarding resolving the Ethnic Problem in Sri Lanka. Wickramasinghe again lost power in 2004 in which Kumaratunga's alliance won 105 seats, defeating former who only got eight seats. Kumaratunga commissioned Mahinda Rajapaksa as Prime Minister. In 2005 as well Wickramasinghe lost to Rajapaksa in the presidential election with a narrow margin. Rajapaksa lost his bid for a third term in January 2015 after calling for an early presidential election, two years ahead of schedule, ending a decade of rule that critics say had become increasingly authoritarian and marred by nepotism and corruption. Opposition candidate Maithripala Sirisena, a one-time ally of Rajapaksa who had defected in November the previous year and derailed what the president thought would be an easy win, took 51.3 per cent of the votes polled in the election. Rajapaksa got 47.6 per cent. Wickremesinghe was sworn in as Sri Lanka's new prime minister on August 21, 2015, and his alliance signed an agreement with President Maithripala Sirisena's party to work together in a national unity government to implement reform agenda. Sri Lanka woke up to political uncertainty on October 27 after President Sirisena, who had sacked him on October 26 and installed former rival and Rajapaksa in his place.

Ranil Wickremesinghe: Sri Lanka's reformist Premiere

Sri Lanka's ousted Prime Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ranil-wickremesinghe-sworn-in-as-the-prime-minister-of-sri-lanka-184452">Ranil Wickremesinghe</a>'s United National Party (UNP) has said it is ready to work with President Maithripala Sirisena, who was "misled by some groups" against the unity government.

Sirisena sacked Wickremesinghe on October 26 and appointed Mahinda Rajapaksa in his place, in a controversial move which plunged the island nation into a constitutional crisis.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/mahinda-rajapaksa-resigns-as-sri-lankas-pm-ranil-wickremesinghe-likely-to-take-oath-on-sunday-184207">Rajapaksa resigned on Saturday </a>after two crucial Supreme Court decisions made his efforts to cling to premiership untenable, paving the way for the return of 69-year-old Wickremesinghe who had refused to step down asserting that his sacking was illegal.

UNP deputy leader Sajith Premadasa said that he was not surprised that the President had agreed to appoint Wickremesinghe as Prime Minister again despite taking a firm position earlier that he will not appoint Wickremesinghe.

"This showed the true character of the President," he was quoted as saying by the Colombo Gazette.

Premadasa said that the President was "misled by some groups who were against the unity Government" and this resulted in the President removing Wickremesinghe. But now truth has prevailed,"&nbsp;he said.

"The party is prepared to work with Sirisena again in the government," he said.

Premadasa said, "The lessons from the incident must be used to strengthen the foundation of democracy and promote justice and fairness."&nbsp;

UNP General Secretary MP Akila Viraj Kariyawasam said the new Cabinet will be appointed within two days.

Sri Lanka's ousted Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe's United National Party (UNP) has said it is ready to work with President Maithripala Sirisena, who was "misled by some groups" against the unity government.

Sri Lanka's ousted Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe's United National Party (UNP) has said it is ready to work with President Maithripala Sirisena, who was "misled by some groups" against the unity government. Sirisena sacked Wickremesinghe on October 26 and appointed Mahinda Rajapaksa in his place, in a controversial move which plunged the island nation into a constitutional crisis. Rajapaksa resigned on Saturday after two crucial Supreme Court decisions made his efforts to cling to premiership untenable, paving the way for the return of 69-year-old Wickremesinghe who had refused to step down asserting that his sacking was illegal. UNP deputy leader Sajith Premadasa said that he was not surprised that the President had agreed to appoint Wickremesinghe as Prime Minister again despite taking a firm position earlier that he will not appoint Wickremesinghe. "This showed the true character of the President," he was quoted as saying by the Colombo Gazette. Premadasa said that the President was "misled by some groups who were against the unity Government" and this resulted in the President removing Wickremesinghe. But now truth has prevailed," he said. "The party is prepared to work with Sirisena again in the government," he said. Premadasa said, "The lessons from the incident must be used to strengthen the foundation of democracy and promote justice and fairness." UNP General Secretary MP Akila Viraj Kariyawasam said the new Cabinet will be appointed within two days.

Ready to work with Sirisena again: Wickremesinghe's United National Party

Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) official Spokesperson &nbsp;Raveesh Kumar on Sunday welcomed the resolution of the political unrest in Sri Lanka,&nbsp;

"As a close neighbour and true friend, India welcomes the resolution of the political situation in Sri Lanka. This is a reflection of the maturity demonstrated by all political forces, and also of the resilience of Sri Lankan democracy and its institutions," ANI reported quoting the spokesperson.

India remains committed to taking forward its people-oriented development projects in Sri Lanka, he further said.

"We are confident that India-Sri Lanka relations will continue to move on an upward trajectory," Kumar added.

The statement comes after the former Sri Lankan Prime Minister, Ranil Wickremesinghe was reinstated as the Premier on Sunday.&nbsp;

Wickremesinghe sworn-in a day after disputed Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa resigned from the office.

Political crisis prevailed in the island nation for two months after Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena abruptly ousted the then-Prime Minister Wickremesinghe and appointed Rajapaksa, the country`s former President, as the new premier on October 26.

Sirisena later dissolved Parliament, almost 20 months before its term was to end, and ordered a snap election. However, the country's Supreme Court struck down his decision.&nbsp;

Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) official Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar on Sunday welcomed the resolution of the political unrest in Sri Lanka, "As a close neighbour and true friend, India welcomes the resolution of the political situation in Sri Lanka.

Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) official Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar on Sunday welcomed the resolution of the political unrest in Sri Lanka, "As a close neighbour and true friend, India welcomes the resolution of the political situation in Sri Lanka. This is a reflection of the maturity demonstrated by all political forces, and also of the resilience of Sri Lankan democracy and its institutions," ANI reported quoting the spokesperson. India remains committed to taking forward its people-oriented development projects in Sri Lanka, he further said. "We are confident that India-Sri Lanka relations will continue to move on an upward trajectory," Kumar added. The statement comes after the former Sri Lankan Prime Minister, Ranil Wickremesinghe was reinstated as the Premier on Sunday. Wickremesinghe sworn-in a day after disputed Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa resigned from the office. Political crisis prevailed in the island nation for two months after Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena abruptly ousted the then-Prime Minister Wickremesinghe and appointed Rajapaksa, the country`s former President, as the new premier on October 26. Sirisena later dissolved Parliament, almost 20 months before its term was to end, and ordered a snap election. However, the country's Supreme Court struck down his decision.

India welcomes resolution of political unrest in Sri Lanka

Ranil Wickremesinghe is expected to take oath as Sri Lanka's Prime Minister on Sunday after disputed Premier <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/mahinda-rajapaksa-to-resign-as-sri-lanka-prime-minister-tomorrow-says-son-namal-184099">Mahinda Rajapaksa will resign </a>on Saturday, signalling an end to the nearly two-month power tussle in the island nation.

President Maithripala Sirisena has reportedly agreed to reinstate ousted Prime Minister Wickremesinghe in the post after a discussion with him over the phone on Friday, Colombo Page reported.

Wickremesinghe's United National Party (UNP) said that it was decided during the discussion that he will take oath as the Prime Minister at 10 am on Sunday.

The President removed Wickremesinghe from the post of Prime Minister on October 26 and appointed former president Rajapaksa as the Premier, plunging the country into an unprecedented crisis.

Wickremesinghe refused to accept the sacking and challenged it in a court and in the Parliament.

The daily reported that a new Cabinet will be sworn in on Monday. The Cabinet will consist of 30 members and include six Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) parliamentarians, it said.

Rajapaksa's son on Friday announced that the former strongman will resign on Saturday, after two crucial Supreme Court decisions made the embattled leader's efforts to cling to premiership untenable.

The apex court on Friday refused to stay a court order restraining Rajapaksa, 73, from holding the office of Prime Minister until it fully heard the case next month.

"To ensure stability of the nation, Former President @PresRajapaksa has decided to resign from the Premiership tomorrow after an address to the nation," Rajapaksa's son Namal tweeted.

The Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) with former president, SLFP and others will "now work to form a broader political coalition with President Sirisena", Namal, a lawmaker, added.

The apex court's Friday ruling came a day after it unanimously declared that the dissolution of Parliament by President Sirisena was "illegal".&nbsp;

Ranil Wickremesinghe is expected to take oath as Sri Lanka's Prime Minister on Sunday after disputed Premier Mahinda Rajapaksa will resign on Saturday, signalling an end to the nearly two-month power tussle in the island nation.

Ranil Wickremesinghe is expected to take oath as Sri Lanka's Prime Minister on Sunday after disputed Premier Mahinda Rajapaksa will resign on Saturday, signalling an end to the nearly two-month power tussle in the island nation. President Maithripala Sirisena has reportedly agreed to reinstate ousted Prime Minister Wickremesinghe in the post after a discussion with him over the phone on Friday, Colombo Page reported. Wickremesinghe's United National Party (UNP) said that it was decided during the discussion that he will take oath as the Prime Minister at 10 am on Sunday. The President removed Wickremesinghe from the post of Prime Minister on October 26 and appointed former president Rajapaksa as the Premier, plunging the country into an unprecedented crisis. Wickremesinghe refused to accept the sacking and challenged it in a court and in the Parliament. The daily reported that a new Cabinet will be sworn in on Monday. The Cabinet will consist of 30 members and include six Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) parliamentarians, it said. Rajapaksa's son on Friday announced that the former strongman will resign on Saturday, after two crucial Supreme Court decisions made the embattled leader's efforts to cling to premiership untenable. The apex court on Friday refused to stay a court order restraining Rajapaksa, 73, from holding the office of Prime Minister until it fully heard the case next month. "To ensure stability of the nation, Former President @PresRajapaksa has decided to resign from the Premiership tomorrow after an address to the nation," Rajapaksa's son Namal tweeted. The Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) with former president, SLFP and others will "now work to form a broader political coalition with President Sirisena", Namal, a lawmaker, added. The apex court's Friday ruling came a day after it unanimously declared that the dissolution of Parliament by President Sirisena was "illegal".

Wickremesinghe likely to take oath as Sri Lanka's PM on Sunday

In a landmark judgement, Sri Lanka's Supreme Court on Thursday ruled that President Maithripala Sirisena's sacking of parliament last month was illegal.

Delivering the judgement to a packed courtroom, Chief Justice Nalin Perera said the judges agreed that Sirisena violated the constitution when he dissolved the legislature prematurely.

Here's a look at what the Supreme Court's ruling means for the key players in Sri Lanka's political crisis.

Maithripala Sirisena:

The Sri Lankan President triggered the unprecedented political crisis on October 26 when he fired Wickremesinghe and appointed the contentious former strongman Mahinda Rajapakse in his place.

Sirisena then dissolved parliament on November 9 despite provisions that he could not dissolve the legislature until it completes four and a half years out of its five-year term which ends in August 2020.

Now that the country's Supreme Court has termed his move unconstitutional, Sirisena faces the prospect of impeachment proceedings starting against him. Sacked PM Ranil Wickremesinghe's United National Party (UNP) could move to impeach the President - he has the backing of 106 parliamentarians in the 225-member parliament as against 95 for Sirisena and Mahinda Rajapaksa combine.

An impeachment motion, however, requires two-third votes in Parliament, and Wickremesinghe commands only a simple majority. So, the scenario looks highly unlikely for now.

Today's verdict also means that no snap parliamentary election could be called by Sirisena at least until February 2020.

Ranil Wickremesinghe:

Wickremesinghe was unceremoniously ousted from the post of Sri Lanka's prime minister after President Sirisena sacked him in October and installed former president Mahinda Rajapaksa in his place.

Wickremesinghe held his ground without leaving his official residence as he claimed his dismissal was illegal. He said the 19th amendment to the Constitution had made Sirisena powerless to remove a sitting prime minister.

He has won three trust votes in parliament so far. Rajapaksa has so far failed to prove his majority on the floor of the House. Though Wickremesinghe's UNP had the backing of 106 parliamentarians, 117 out of 225 lawmakers in parliament voted to pass a confidence motion in his leadership in the latest trust vote on Wednesday.

And with the Supreme Court also giving a major setback to the President, UNP claims that Sirisena will be left with no choice but to reappoint Wickremesinghe as PM because he would be the only person who commands the confidence in the House.

Mahinda Rajapaksa:

Former Sri Lankan president and pro-China leader Rajapaksa was brought in all of a sudden by President Sirisena after sharp personal differences with Wickremesinghe, but he has so far failed to prove majority in parliament.

Sirisena even sacked parliament when it appeared that Rajapaksa would not be able to muster the support of 113 MPs to gain a simple majority in the 225-member House.

He has so far continued in office with Sirisena's backing despite petitions being filed by mawmakers, asking the court to order him and his ministers to stop functioning.

But with the Supreme Court giving a major blow to Sirisena, his chances of continuing in office appears to be untenable.

After the Supreme Court verdict on Thursday, his son and Member of Parliament in Sri Lanka, Namal Rajapaksa, said on Twitter, "We respect the decision of #lka's Supreme Court, despite the fact that we have reservations regarding its interpretation...We will continue to stand alongside those calling for a parliamentary election, without which there is no real justice for the people of #lka".

In a landmark judgement, Sri Lanka's Supreme Court on Thursday ruled that President Maithripala Sirisena's sacking of parliament last month was illegal. Delivering the judgement to a packed courtroom, Chief Justice Nalin Perera said the judges agreed that Sirisena violated the constitution when he dissolved the legislature prematurely.

In a landmark judgement, Sri Lanka's Supreme Court on Thursday ruled that President Maithripala Sirisena's sacking of parliament last month was illegal. Delivering the judgement to a packed courtroom, Chief Justice Nalin Perera said the judges agreed that Sirisena violated the constitution when he dissolved the legislature prematurely. Here's a look at what the Supreme Court's ruling means for the key players in Sri Lanka's political crisis. Maithripala Sirisena: The Sri Lankan President triggered the unprecedented political crisis on October 26 when he fired Wickremesinghe and appointed the contentious former strongman Mahinda Rajapakse in his place. Sirisena then dissolved parliament on November 9 despite provisions that he could not dissolve the legislature until it completes four and a half years out of its five-year term which ends in August 2020. Now that the country's Supreme Court has termed his move unconstitutional, Sirisena faces the prospect of impeachment proceedings starting against him. Sacked PM Ranil Wickremesinghe's United National Party (UNP) could move to impeach the President - he has the backing of 106 parliamentarians in the 225-member parliament as against 95 for Sirisena and Mahinda Rajapaksa combine. An impeachment motion, however, requires two-third votes in Parliament, and Wickremesinghe commands only a simple majority. So, the scenario looks highly unlikely for now. Today's verdict also means that no snap parliamentary election could be called by Sirisena at least until February 2020. Ranil Wickremesinghe: Wickremesinghe was unceremoniously ousted from the post of Sri Lanka's prime minister after President Sirisena sacked him in October and installed former president Mahinda Rajapaksa in his place. Wickremesinghe held his ground without leaving his official residence as he claimed his dismissal was illegal. He said the 19th amendment to the Constitution had made Sirisena powerless to remove a sitting prime minister. He has won three trust votes in parliament so far. Rajapaksa has so far failed to prove his majority on the floor of the House. Though Wickremesinghe's UNP had the backing of 106 parliamentarians, 117 out of 225 lawmakers in parliament voted to pass a confidence motion in his leadership in the latest trust vote on Wednesday. And with the Supreme Court also giving a major setback to the President, UNP claims that Sirisena will be left with no choice but to reappoint Wickremesinghe as PM because he would be the only person who commands the confidence in the House. Mahinda Rajapaksa: Former Sri Lankan president and pro-China leader Rajapaksa was brought in all of a sudden by President Sirisena after sharp personal differences with Wickremesinghe, but he has so far failed to prove majority in parliament. Sirisena even sacked parliament when it appeared that Rajapaksa would not be able to muster the support of 113 MPs to gain a simple majority in the 225-member House. He has so far continued in office with Sirisena's backing despite petitions being filed by mawmakers, asking the court to order him and his ministers to stop functioning. But with the Supreme Court giving a major blow to Sirisena, his chances of continuing in office appears to be untenable. After the Supreme Court verdict on Thursday, his son and Member of Parliament in Sri Lanka, Namal Rajapaksa, said on Twitter, "We respect the decision of #lka's Supreme Court, despite the fact that we have reservations regarding its interpretation...We will continue to stand alongside those calling for a parliamentary election, without which there is no real justice for the people of #lka".

Sri Lanka verdict: What happens now to Sirisena, Rajapaksa and Wickremesinghe?

Sri Lanka's top court is expected to deliver on Thursday its crucial verdict on whether <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-president-sirisena-fails-to-meet-deadline-to-end-political-crisis-183274">President Maithripala Sirisena</a> broke the law by dissolving Parliament that plunged the country into unprecedented political turmoil.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka's parliament on Wednesday passed a vote of confidence in its <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-parliament-passes-confidence-vote-backing-ousted-pm-183514">ousted prime minister</a>&nbsp;Ranil Wickremesinghe, as it sought his reinstatement by the president to defuse a political crisis and avoid a government shutdown.

The political crisis in the island nation started in late October when Sirisena sacked Wickremesinghe from the post of Prime Minister and replaced him with former President Mahinda Rajapaksa.

Parliament has twice in the past few weeks voted to sack Rajapaksa but he has refused to resign.

Last week, Sirisena claimed that Rajapaksa had tried to bribe politicians in order to show a majority in the country's Parliament.

Sri Lanka's top court is expected to deliver on Thursday its crucial verdict on whether President Maithripala Sirisena broke the law by dissolving Parliament that plunged the country into unprecedented political turmoil.

Sri Lanka's top court is expected to deliver on Thursday its crucial verdict on whether President Maithripala Sirisena broke the law by dissolving Parliament that plunged the country into unprecedented political turmoil. Sri Lanka's parliament on Wednesday passed a vote of confidence in its ousted prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, as it sought his reinstatement by the president to defuse a political crisis and avoid a government shutdown. The political crisis in the island nation started in late October when Sirisena sacked Wickremesinghe from the post of Prime Minister and replaced him with former President Mahinda Rajapaksa. Parliament has twice in the past few weeks voted to sack Rajapaksa but he has refused to resign. Last week, Sirisena claimed that Rajapaksa had tried to bribe politicians in order to show a majority in the country's Parliament.

Sri Lanka's top court expected to deliver verdict on Sirisena dissolving Parliament

Sri Lanka's ousted prime minister promised Monday to bring tens of thousands of supporters to the capital next week for a massive demonstration unless President <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Maithripala+Sirisena">Maithripala Sirisena</a> reinstated him imminently.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Ranil+Wickremesinghe">Ranil Wickremesinghe</a>, whose dismissal in October plunged Sri Lanka into crisis, said he still commanded the support of parliament and Sirisena had until Friday to recognise that.

Sri Lanka has been trapped in a bitter power feud since Sirisena replaced Wickremesinghe with Mahinda Rajapakse, a controversial former strongman leader.

Parliament has twice voted against Rajapakse but Sirisena has refused to reinstate his former ally Wickremesinghe -- even if he has the numbers on the floor.

The country's Supreme Court is ruling this week on whether Sirisena's sacking of parliament in November was unconstitutional.

Wickremesinghe -- who is confident of a ruling against Sirisena -- said tens of thousands of the party faithful would rally in Colombo if the president did not heed the court.

"After the court ruling, we will launch our "People Power' campaign to force the president to end the crisis," he said in a statement.

Wickremesinghe has cobbled together a majority in parliament, which has twice voted against Rajapakse.

A court of appeal last week also stripped Rajapakse and his cabinet of their authority until he could prove his right to hold office.

The war-era strongman, backed by the president, has ignored parliament, and has named a cabinet and assumed the duties of prime minister.

But the 225-member legislature has blocked his office from spending any funds, worsening the acrimony between the factions.&nbsp;

The chamber has witnessed violence in recent weeks as the power struggle dragged on, with brawls between warring sides.

Last week, Wickremesinghe likened Sirisena to Hitler, his strongest comment yet directed at his former ally.

Sri Lanka's ousted prime minister promised Monday to bring tens of thousands of supporters to the capital next week for a massive demonstration unless President Maithripala Sirisena reinstated him imminently.

Sri Lanka's ousted prime minister promised Monday to bring tens of thousands of supporters to the capital next week for a massive demonstration unless President Maithripala Sirisena reinstated him imminently. Ranil Wickremesinghe, whose dismissal in October plunged Sri Lanka into crisis, said he still commanded the support of parliament and Sirisena had until Friday to recognise that. Sri Lanka has been trapped in a bitter power feud since Sirisena replaced Wickremesinghe with Mahinda Rajapakse, a controversial former strongman leader. Parliament has twice voted against Rajapakse but Sirisena has refused to reinstate his former ally Wickremesinghe -- even if he has the numbers on the floor. The country's Supreme Court is ruling this week on whether Sirisena's sacking of parliament in November was unconstitutional. Wickremesinghe -- who is confident of a ruling against Sirisena -- said tens of thousands of the party faithful would rally in Colombo if the president did not heed the court. "After the court ruling, we will launch our "People Power' campaign to force the president to end the crisis," he said in a statement. Wickremesinghe has cobbled together a majority in parliament, which has twice voted against Rajapakse. A court of appeal last week also stripped Rajapakse and his cabinet of their authority until he could prove his right to hold office. The war-era strongman, backed by the president, has ignored parliament, and has named a cabinet and assumed the duties of prime minister. But the 225-member legislature has blocked his office from spending any funds, worsening the acrimony between the factions. The chamber has witnessed violence in recent weeks as the power struggle dragged on, with brawls between warring sides. Last week, Wickremesinghe likened Sirisena to Hitler, his strongest comment yet directed at his former ally.

Ousted Sri Lanka PM Ranil Wickremesinghe sets deadline to end crisis

Sri Lanka President Maithripala Sirirsena's deadline to find a solution to the ongoing political crisis in the island nation has ended on Tuesday.

Sirisena on December 4 took to Twitter saying, "The current political crisis will not drag on beyond seven days. I have always taken decisions in the best interest of the country and the people".&nbsp;

However, as the deadline ends today, there seems no solution to the crisis anytime soon in the future.

The political crisis in the island nation started in late October when Sirisena sacked Ranil Wickremesinghe from the post of Prime Minister and replaced him with former President Mahinda Rajapaksa.

Subsequently, Rajapaksa was also ousted after No-Confidence motion was passed against him in Parliament twice.

Sri Lanka court had also passed an interim order against Rajapaksa which barred him from holding the Prime Minister office.

Last week, Sirisena also claimed that Rajapaksa had tried to bribe politicians in order to show a majority in the country's Parliament.

Sri Lanka President Maithripala Sirirsena's deadline to find a solution to the ongoing political crisis in the island nation has ended on Tuesday. Sirisena on December 4 took to Twitter saying, "The current political crisis will not drag on beyond seven days.

Sri Lanka President Maithripala Sirirsena's deadline to find a solution to the ongoing political crisis in the island nation has ended on Tuesday. Sirisena on December 4 took to Twitter saying, "The current political crisis will not drag on beyond seven days. I have always taken decisions in the best interest of the country and the people". However, as the deadline ends today, there seems no solution to the crisis anytime soon in the future. The political crisis in the island nation started in late October when Sirisena sacked Ranil Wickremesinghe from the post of Prime Minister and replaced him with former President Mahinda Rajapaksa. Subsequently, Rajapaksa was also ousted after No-Confidence motion was passed against him in Parliament twice. Sri Lanka court had also passed an interim order against Rajapaksa which barred him from holding the Prime Minister office. Last week, Sirisena also claimed that Rajapaksa had tried to bribe politicians in order to show a majority in the country's Parliament.

Sri Lanka President Sirisena fails to meet deadline to end political crisis

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/rajapaksa-bribed-parliamentarians-to-prove-majority-president-sirisena-182684">Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena</a> has described the ongoing political crisis in the country as one between foreign and local values.

"This is an issue between those who believe in foreign thinking and those who respect local values", Sirisena said Sunday, addressing a gathering in his home base Polonnaruwa.

The comment was seen as an indirect reference to the United National Party, with whom Sirisena was running the national unity government since 2015.

The partnership ended on October 26 when Sirisena fired his Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, who is the leader of UNP, paving the way for a never-before-seen political stand-off in the island nation.

Since firing Wickremesinghe, Sirisena has highlighted the personal "shortcomings" of the former PM in a bid to justify the sacking and dissuade the reinstatement of the Wickremesinghe.

However, Wickremesinghe holds on to the official residence of the prime minister, claiming his sacking was unconstitutional.

Sirisena later dissolved parliament to call snap elections. Mahinda Rajapaksa, who was appointed by Sirisena to replace Wickremesinghe, has failed to prove his parliamentary majority.

The issue is now in the courts, with both the Supreme Court and the Court of Appeal set to deliver judgments on the legality of Sirisena's action.

Sirisena said he would decide his next political move depending on the court rulings. He was somewhat critical of the courts' interim rulings which allowed the cases to proceed.

Wickremesinghe's allies say his parliamentary majority has been proved several times and Sirisena must restore him in office. The president refuses to do so.&nbsp;

Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena has described the ongoing political crisis in the country as one between foreign and local values. "This is an issue between those who believe in foreign thinking and those who respect local values", Sirisena said Sunday, addressing a gathering in his home base Polonnaruwa.

Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena has described the ongoing political crisis in the country as one between foreign and local values. "This is an issue between those who believe in foreign thinking and those who respect local values", Sirisena said Sunday, addressing a gathering in his home base Polonnaruwa. The comment was seen as an indirect reference to the United National Party, with whom Sirisena was running the national unity government since 2015. The partnership ended on October 26 when Sirisena fired his Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, who is the leader of UNP, paving the way for a never-before-seen political stand-off in the island nation. Since firing Wickremesinghe, Sirisena has highlighted the personal "shortcomings" of the former PM in a bid to justify the sacking and dissuade the reinstatement of the Wickremesinghe. However, Wickremesinghe holds on to the official residence of the prime minister, claiming his sacking was unconstitutional. Sirisena later dissolved parliament to call snap elections. Mahinda Rajapaksa, who was appointed by Sirisena to replace Wickremesinghe, has failed to prove his parliamentary majority. The issue is now in the courts, with both the Supreme Court and the Court of Appeal set to deliver judgments on the legality of Sirisena's action. Sirisena said he would decide his next political move depending on the court rulings. He was somewhat critical of the courts' interim rulings which allowed the cases to proceed. Wickremesinghe's allies say his parliamentary majority has been proved several times and Sirisena must restore him in office. The president refuses to do so.

Sirisena describes ongoing Sri Lanka crisis as one between foreign and indigenous thinking

Sri Lanka's highest court Friday banned President Maithripala Sirisena from sacking the legislature until it decides on the legality of his move last month to call snap elections.

The Supreme Court concluded hearing 10 petitions against Sirisena's move as part of a bitter power struggle with his erstwhile prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, but reserved judgement for an unspecified date.

The courts reopen on Monday.

Sirisena plunged the country into crisis on October 26 when he fired Wickremesinghe and appointed the contentious Mahinda Rajapakse in his place.

He then dissolved parliament on November 9 and called elections nearly two years ahead of schedule on January 5.

Four days after he sacked parliament through a special decree, the Supreme Court issued an interim ruling suspending Sirisena's action and restoring parliament, which almost immediately passed a no-confidence motion against Rajapakse.

"The court issued a fresh order extending the ban on the president until the case is concluded," a court official told reporters after the unusually long hearing on Friday marking four days of legal arguments.

Security was stepped up outside the Supreme Court amid expectations of a final ruling on Friday evening.

The court's seven-judge bench is expected to deliver a ruling on the constitutionality of Sirisena's move as early as Monday.

Sacked premier Wickremesinghe's party and their allies, who command a majority in the 225-member assembly, have suggested they could begin impeachment proceedings against Sirisena depending on the ruling.

Wickremesinghe's party loyalists believe 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's highest court Friday banned President Maithripala Sirisena from sacking the legislature until it decides on the legality of his move last month to call snap elections.

Sri Lanka's highest court Friday banned President Maithripala Sirisena from sacking the legislature until it decides on the legality of his move last month to call snap elections. The Supreme Court concluded hearing 10 petitions against Sirisena's move as part of a bitter power struggle with his erstwhile prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, but reserved judgement for an unspecified date. The courts reopen on Monday. Sirisena plunged the country into crisis on October 26 when he fired Wickremesinghe and appointed the contentious Mahinda Rajapakse in his place. He then dissolved parliament on November 9 and called elections nearly two years ahead of schedule on January 5. Four days after he sacked parliament through a special decree, the Supreme Court issued an interim ruling suspending Sirisena's action and restoring parliament, which almost immediately passed a no-confidence motion against Rajapakse. "The court issued a fresh order extending the ban on the president until the case is concluded," a court official told reporters after the unusually long hearing on Friday marking four days of legal arguments. Security was stepped up outside the Supreme Court amid expectations of a final ruling on Friday evening. The court's seven-judge bench is expected to deliver a ruling on the constitutionality of Sirisena's move as early as Monday. Sacked premier Wickremesinghe's party and their allies, who command a majority in the 225-member assembly, have suggested they could begin impeachment proceedings against Sirisena depending on the ruling. Wickremesinghe's party loyalists believe 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 extends ban on president sacking parliament

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 Parliament will take up a motion to express confidence in ousted prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe next week, officials said on Thursday.

The motion has been listed for which no dates have been fixed, parliamentary officials said.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/president-maithripala-sirisena-says-lankan-political-crisis-to-end-in-7-days-181778">Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena</a> on Thursday said that the political crisis in island nation will not drag on beyond a week even as a war of words intensified between him and ousted prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe.

"The current political crisis will not drag on beyond seven days," he said on Twitter.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
The current political crisis will not drag on beyond seven days. I have always taken decisions in the best interest of the country and the people. <a href="https://t.co/zHaDYdlQAF">pic.twitter.com/zHaDYdlQAF</a>
— Maithripala Sirisena (@MaithripalaS) <a href="https://twitter.com/MaithripalaS/status/1069926151961894912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Sirisena's statement came days after a lower court temporarily barred Sirisena-appointed prime minister Mahinda Rajapaksa from performing his duties.

Lanka is going through a major political crisis after President Sirisena, in a controversial move, removed Wickremesinghe and installed ex-strongman Rajapaksa in his place on October 26.

Sri Lankan Parliament will take up a motion to express confidence in ousted prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe next week, officials said on Thursday. The motion has been listed for which no dates have been fixed, parliamentary officials said.

Sri Lankan Parliament will take up a motion to express confidence in ousted prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe next week, officials said on Thursday. The motion has been listed for which no dates have been fixed, parliamentary officials said. Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena on Thursday said that the political crisis in island nation will not drag on beyond a week even as a war of words intensified between him and ousted prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe. "The current political crisis will not drag on beyond seven days," he said on Twitter. The current political crisis will not drag on beyond seven days. I have always taken decisions in the best interest of the country and the people. pic.twitter.com/zHaDYdlQAF — Maithripala Sirisena (@MaithripalaS) December 4, 2018 × Sirisena's statement came days after a lower court temporarily barred Sirisena-appointed prime minister Mahinda Rajapaksa from performing his duties. Lanka is going through a major political crisis after President Sirisena, in a controversial move, removed Wickremesinghe and installed ex-strongman Rajapaksa in his place on October 26.

Sri Lanka Parliament to take up motion to express confidence in ousted PM Wickremesinghe

Sri Lanka's toppled premier likened the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-president-sirisena-vows-never-to-reappoint-ousted-pm-wickremesinghe-179320"> president </a>to Hitler on Tuesday as he demanded to be reinstated, almost six weeks into a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/insight-behind-sri-lankas-turmoil-a-china-india-struggle-for-investments-and-influence-176175">paralysing political crisis</a> in the Indian Ocean nation.

Ranil Wickremesinghe made the comments -- his strongest yet directed at the head of state -- at the prime minister's official residence, which he has refused to vacate since his dismissal in October.

"The president has to appoint me<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-crisis-rajapaksa-calls-for-fresh-elections-181009"> prime minister</a> as I command a majority in parliament," he said.&nbsp;

"I am telling the president not to act like Hitler who bypassed the constitution... We are not going to allow him to do that."

President Maithripala Sirisena sacked Wickremesinghe and replaced him with <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-crisis-rajapaksa-files-appeal-in-supreme-court-against-interim-courts-order-181435">Mahinda Rajapakse</a>, the larger-than-life former president credited with ending Sri Lanka's bloody civil war with Tamil separatists in 2009.

However, with Wickremesinghe's supporters still controlling a majority in parliament -- which has witnessed brawls between MPs in recent weeks -- Rajapakse has lost two votes of confidence.

On Monday the Court of Appeal denied Rajapakse the authority to act as prime minister and stripped his cabinet of their powers, giving Rajapakse until December 12 to prove his legitimacy and that of his government.

Sirisena, a former opponent of Rajapakse, told a group of legislators on Monday that he would not reinstate Wickremesinghe even if the latter had the support of all 225 members of the legislature. 
Rajapakse's lawyers on Tuesday filed an appeal with the Court of Appeal, but it was not immediately taken up for hearing.

Rajapakse urged his supporters on Monday night to remain calm and join his struggle to press for a general election nearly two years ahead of schedule.

Sirisena meanwhile told minority Tamil legislators who held talks with him on Monday evening that he would resolve the political vacuum "within 24 hours". However, there were no signs of a settlement by Tuesday afternoon.

The Supreme Court this week is also expected to rule on whether Sirisena's decision to dissolve parliament in November -- a move already suspended by the court -- was constitutional.

Sri Lanka's toppled premier likened the president to Hitler on Tuesday as he demanded to be reinstated, almost six weeks into a paralysing political crisis in the Indian Ocean nation.

Sri Lanka's toppled premier likened the president to Hitler on Tuesday as he demanded to be reinstated, almost six weeks into a paralysing political crisis in the Indian Ocean nation. Ranil Wickremesinghe made the comments -- his strongest yet directed at the head of state -- at the prime minister's official residence, which he has refused to vacate since his dismissal in October. "The president has to appoint me prime minister as I command a majority in parliament," he said. "I am telling the president not to act like Hitler who bypassed the constitution... We are not going to allow him to do that." President Maithripala Sirisena sacked Wickremesinghe and replaced him with Mahinda Rajapakse, the larger-than-life former president credited with ending Sri Lanka's bloody civil war with Tamil separatists in 2009. However, with Wickremesinghe's supporters still controlling a majority in parliament -- which has witnessed brawls between MPs in recent weeks -- Rajapakse has lost two votes of confidence. On Monday the Court of Appeal denied Rajapakse the authority to act as prime minister and stripped his cabinet of their powers, giving Rajapakse until December 12 to prove his legitimacy and that of his government. Sirisena, a former opponent of Rajapakse, told a group of legislators on Monday that he would not reinstate Wickremesinghe even if the latter had the support of all 225 members of the legislature. Rajapakse's lawyers on Tuesday filed an appeal with the Court of Appeal, but it was not immediately taken up for hearing. Rajapakse urged his supporters on Monday night to remain calm and join his struggle to press for a general election nearly two years ahead of schedule. Sirisena meanwhile told minority Tamil legislators who held talks with him on Monday evening that he would resolve the political vacuum "within 24 hours". However, there were no signs of a settlement by Tuesday afternoon. The Supreme Court this week is also expected to rule on whether Sirisena's decision to dissolve parliament in November -- a move already suspended by the court -- was constitutional.

Sri Lanka's ousted PM likens president to Hitler

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