Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena is considering dropping an attempt to dissolve parliament, sources close to the president said, possibly easing weeks of political deadlock.

The country has been in a crisis since Sirisena <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-crisis-rajapaksa-calls-for-fresh-elections-181009">replaced Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe with Mahinda Rajapaksa last month</a>, and then issued an order dissolving parliament and called for a general election.

The sources said the president may now rescind the order, effectively pre-empting a court ruling that they expect to overturn his decision anyway.

Sri Lanka's top court stayed the dissolution order pending a hearing on its constitutionality that starts on Tuesday, allowing parliament to resume meeting.

Rajapaksa, a former president, has lost two confidence votes in parliament but has refused to resign.

"There is a possibility of withdrawing the gazette," said a source in regular discussion with Sirisena, referring to the official announcement by which the president dissolved parliament. "I have no doubt that the Supreme Court would say that dissolution was wrong."

A spokesman for Sirisena, Dharmasri Ekanayake, said he was unaware of any such plans.

'DIGNIFIED EXIT'

A second source in Sirisena's party said the president was looking for a "dignified exit" by withdrawing the dissolution order as the court was unlikely to rule in his favour.

The Supreme Court is expected to announce its decision as early as Dec 7.

Foreign countries have yet to recognise the new government. The impasse has also pushed the island's currency to record lows, caused turmoil on its stock and bond markets, and raised fears it may not be able to service debts to finance reconstruction following a 26-year civil war that ended in 2009.

Rajapaksa is seen as a hero by many among Sri Lanka’s Buddhist majority for ending a bloody war with Tamil rebels in 2009, but has been accused by diplomats and international rights groups of human rights abuses, which he denies.

Sirisena came to power in 2015 on a pledge to uphold democracy and stamp out corruption, but his popularity has been hit by a crisis many say he triggered because of personal differences with former Prime Minister Wickremesinghe.

The crisis deepened on Friday when parliament voted to halt payment of ministers' salaries - a move to pressure the disputed government of Rajapaksa. Rajapaksa loyalists boycotted the vote saying it was illegal.

Separately on Friday, the country's Appeal Court began a hearing on a petition signed by 122 legislators that challenged Rajapaksa's authority to hold office after he lost the no-confidence votes earlier this month.

Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena is considering dropping an attempt to dissolve parliament, sources close to the president said, possibly easing weeks of political deadlock.

Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena is considering dropping an attempt to dissolve parliament, sources close to the president said, possibly easing weeks of political deadlock. The country has been in a crisis since Sirisena replaced Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe with Mahinda Rajapaksa last month, and then issued an order dissolving parliament and called for a general election. The sources said the president may now rescind the order, effectively pre-empting a court ruling that they expect to overturn his decision anyway. Sri Lanka's top court stayed the dissolution order pending a hearing on its constitutionality that starts on Tuesday, allowing parliament to resume meeting. Rajapaksa, a former president, has lost two confidence votes in parliament but has refused to resign. "There is a possibility of withdrawing the gazette," said a source in regular discussion with Sirisena, referring to the official announcement by which the president dissolved parliament. "I have no doubt that the Supreme Court would say that dissolution was wrong." A spokesman for Sirisena, Dharmasri Ekanayake, said he was unaware of any such plans. 'DIGNIFIED EXIT' A second source in Sirisena's party said the president was looking for a "dignified exit" by withdrawing the dissolution order as the court was unlikely to rule in his favour. The Supreme Court is expected to announce its decision as early as Dec 7. Foreign countries have yet to recognise the new government. The impasse has also pushed the island's currency to record lows, caused turmoil on its stock and bond markets, and raised fears it may not be able to service debts to finance reconstruction following a 26-year civil war that ended in 2009. Rajapaksa is seen as a hero by many among Sri Lanka’s Buddhist majority for ending a bloody war with Tamil rebels in 2009, but has been accused by diplomats and international rights groups of human rights abuses, which he denies. Sirisena came to power in 2015 on a pledge to uphold democracy and stamp out corruption, but his popularity has been hit by a crisis many say he triggered because of personal differences with former Prime Minister Wickremesinghe. The crisis deepened on Friday when parliament voted to halt payment of ministers' salaries - a move to pressure the disputed government of Rajapaksa. Rajapaksa loyalists boycotted the vote saying it was illegal. Separately on Friday, the country's Appeal Court began a hearing on a petition signed by 122 legislators that challenged Rajapaksa's authority to hold office after he lost the no-confidence votes earlier this month.

Sri Lanka Supreme court to announce key decision on dissolution order

Sri Lanka Saturday slashed a tax on sugary drinks in a controversial reversal of an anti-diabetes policy that attracted immediate criticism.

The finance ministry ordered an immediate 40 per cent reduction in the levy as part of a package of tax cuts launched by the disputed government to win over public opinion as a bitter power struggle intensifies.

But health campaigners and a former minister condemned the move as damaging the fight against obesity and diabetes among young people.

Sri Lanka has been gripped by a constitutional showdown between President Maithripala Sirisena and his sacked prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, who refuses to step down.

Sirisena's nominee for prime minister, Mahinda Rajapakse has been making populists moves to win support for his government which has been recognised only by China and Burundi.

The lower sugar tax came on top of reductions in fuel prices and income taxes this week.

Wickremesinghe's administration, which was toppled on October 26, had introduced the sweet tax -- 50 cents on every gram of sugar in fizzy and fruit drinks -- but the rate was slashed to 30 cents from Saturday.

The health ministry has said that 10 per cent of the country's 21 million population is affected by diabetes and another 20 per cent were at risk of developing the condition.

Health lobbyist Dhanya Wijesuriya took to Twitter to slam the authorities for making sugary drinks cheaper.

"This is insane," Wijesuriya said of the decision. "How self-serving. No vision," he added.

Former health minister Rajitha Senaratne described the tax cut as "irresponsible".&nbsp;

There was no immediate comment from Sirisena who last year warned international beverage makers that he would increase taxes unless they reduced sugar in their products.

Sri Lanka Saturday slashed a tax on sugary drinks in a controversial reversal of an anti-diabetes policy that attracted immediate criticism. The finance ministry ordered an immediate 40 per cent reduction in the levy as part of a package of tax cuts launched by the disputed government to win over public opinion as a bitter power struggle intensifies.

Sri Lanka Saturday slashed a tax on sugary drinks in a controversial reversal of an anti-diabetes policy that attracted immediate criticism. The finance ministry ordered an immediate 40 per cent reduction in the levy as part of a package of tax cuts launched by the disputed government to win over public opinion as a bitter power struggle intensifies. But health campaigners and a former minister condemned the move as damaging the fight against obesity and diabetes among young people. Sri Lanka has been gripped by a constitutional showdown between President Maithripala Sirisena and his sacked prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, who refuses to step down. Sirisena's nominee for prime minister, Mahinda Rajapakse has been making populists moves to win support for his government which has been recognised only by China and Burundi. The lower sugar tax came on top of reductions in fuel prices and income taxes this week. Wickremesinghe's administration, which was toppled on October 26, had introduced the sweet tax -- 50 cents on every gram of sugar in fizzy and fruit drinks -- but the rate was slashed to 30 cents from Saturday. The health ministry has said that 10 per cent of the country's 21 million population is affected by diabetes and another 20 per cent were at risk of developing the condition. Health lobbyist Dhanya Wijesuriya took to Twitter to slam the authorities for making sugary drinks cheaper. "This is insane," Wijesuriya said of the decision. "How self-serving. No vision," he added. Former health minister Rajitha Senaratne described the tax cut as "irresponsible". There was no immediate comment from Sirisena who last year warned international beverage makers that he would increase taxes unless they reduced sugar in their products.

Protests as Sri Lanka cuts tax on sugary drinks

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ousted Sri Lankan premier Ranil Wickremesinghe's party on Monday welcomed <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-president-sirisena-vows-never-to-reappoint-ousted-pm-wickremesinghe-179320">President Maithripala Sirisena</a>'s decision to set up a commission to investigate alleged cases of corruption that took place under the UNP-led government, insisting that he should also waive off his presidential immunity and subject himself to the probe.&nbsp;

Addressing the Foreign Correspondents Association on Sunday, Sirisena claimed corruption by the Wickremesinghe government was a trigger to oust him as prime minister and replacing him with strongman <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/fresh-parliamentary-polls-need-of-hour-in-sri-lanka-mahinda-rajapaksa-179376">Mahinda Rajapaksa</a>.

He also said a committee would be formed to probe corruption and fraud committed from the time the Wickremesinghe government was appointed in January 2015 to October 2018.&nbsp;

"The government that operated during this period (Jan 2015-Oct 2018) was in no way a 'Ranil Wickremesinghe' government. President Sirisena who headed the National Unity government was not only the Head of state but also the head of government," the United National Party (UNP) said in a statement.&nbsp;

cHe also took exception to Sirisena's remark that he would never reappoint Wickremesinghe as prime minister.

"This is yet another blatant violation of the fundamentals of parliamentary democracy. The president has no choice but to act within the framework of constitutional provisions," Hashim said.

Sirisena on October 26 abruptly sacked Wickeremesinghe and replaced him with former president Rajapaksa in a controversial move termed by many as unconstitutional.

The action led to a political crisis in the country with both Wickremesinghe and Rajapaksa claiming to be the legitimate prime minister.

Speaker Karu Jayasuriya refused to recognise Rajapaksa as prime minister and ordered a floor test in the 225-member assembly to end the political stalemate.

Sirisena later dissolved Parliament, almost 20 months before its term was to end, and ordered snap election. The Supreme Court overturned the move and halted the preparations for snap polls.

Meanwhile, the Court of Appeal on Monday set November 30 and December 3 as the next date of hearings on applications filed by 122 parliamentarians, seeking Rajapaksa's removal.&nbsp;

The United National Front led by Wickremesinghe has moved three motions of no trust against Rajapaksa. However, he refused to step down.&nbsp;

The parliamentarians comprising members of the UNF, JVP and TNA filed a petition in the Supreme Court against the former president, challenging him to prove on what authority he is holding office as the prime minister after the Parliament voted twice to defeat him on November 14 and November 16.

Ousted Sri Lankan premier Ranil Wickremesinghe's party on Monday welcomed President Maithripala Sirisena's decision to set up a commission to investigate alleged cases of corruption that took place under the UNP-led government, insisting that he should also waive off his presidential immunity and subject himself to the probe.

Ousted Sri Lankan premier Ranil Wickremesinghe's party on Monday welcomed President Maithripala Sirisena's decision to set up a commission to investigate alleged cases of corruption that took place under the UNP-led government, insisting that he should also waive off his presidential immunity and subject himself to the probe. Addressing the Foreign Correspondents Association on Sunday, Sirisena claimed corruption by the Wickremesinghe government was a trigger to oust him as prime minister and replacing him with strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa. He also said a committee would be formed to probe corruption and fraud committed from the time the Wickremesinghe government was appointed in January 2015 to October 2018. "The government that operated during this period (Jan 2015-Oct 2018) was in no way a 'Ranil Wickremesinghe' government. President Sirisena who headed the National Unity government was not only the Head of state but also the head of government," the United National Party (UNP) said in a statement. cHe also took exception to Sirisena's remark that he would never reappoint Wickremesinghe as prime minister. "This is yet another blatant violation of the fundamentals of parliamentary democracy. The president has no choice but to act within the framework of constitutional provisions," Hashim said. Sirisena on October 26 abruptly sacked Wickeremesinghe and replaced him with former president Rajapaksa in a controversial move termed by many as unconstitutional. The action led to a political crisis in the country with both Wickremesinghe and Rajapaksa claiming to be the legitimate prime minister. Speaker Karu Jayasuriya refused to recognise Rajapaksa as prime minister and ordered a floor test in the 225-member assembly to end the political stalemate. Sirisena later dissolved Parliament, almost 20 months before its term was to end, and ordered snap election. The Supreme Court overturned the move and halted the preparations for snap polls. Meanwhile, the Court of Appeal on Monday set November 30 and December 3 as the next date of hearings on applications filed by 122 parliamentarians, seeking Rajapaksa's removal. The United National Front led by Wickremesinghe has moved three motions of no trust against Rajapaksa. However, he refused to step down. The parliamentarians comprising members of the UNF, JVP and TNA filed a petition in the Supreme Court against the former president, challenging him to prove on what authority he is holding office as the prime minister after the Parliament voted twice to defeat him on November 14 and November 16.

Sri Lanka: Wickremesinghe's party says Sirisena should also be investigated in graft cases

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sri Lanka president Sirisena vows never to reappoint ousted PM Wickremesinghe

Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena, who last month abruptly sacked prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and replaced him with former strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa, will write a book on his "unsuccessful political marriage" with the ousted premier.

Sirisena's controversial action on October 26 led to a political crisis in the country with both Wickremesinghe and Rajapaksa claiming to be the legitimate prime minister.

Wickremesinghe termed his dismissal as invalid and said he still holds a majority in the 225-member Parliament.

Sirisena, addressing a public gathering on Friday, said the book will be titled 'My unsuccessful political marriage with Ranil'.

"I know that people are criticising me right now. I will tell them to wait until I release my book," the President said.

Sirisena claimed that despite his action, he had not been isolated.

"I know that right thinking people are with me on this battle against the corrupt and the traitors," he added.

Sirisena's announcement came hours after Wickremesinghe's alliance won control of a powerful panel in Parliament, dealing a major blow to him and his prime ministerial appointee Rajapaksa.

Former president Rajapaksa, who ruled Sri Lanka for almost a decade, was unexpectedly defeated by his deputy, Sirisena, in the presidential election in January, 2015 with the support from Wickremesinghe's United National Party.

However, the power-sharing arrangement between Sirisena and Wickremesinghe became increasingly tenuous on several policy matters, mainly on economy and security.

The country is witnessing a political stalemate since Sirisena sacked Wickremesinghe on October 26.

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.

Speaker Karu Jayasuriya then ordered a floor test in the 225-member assembly to end the ongoing political crisis, a move which invited the wrath of the government of Rajapaksa.

The United National Front led by Wickremesinghe has already moved three motions of no trust against Rajapaksa. Rajapaksa, however, has refused to step down.&nbsp;

Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena, who last month abruptly sacked prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and replaced him with former strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa, will write a book on his "unsuccessful political marriage" with the ousted premier.

Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena, who last month abruptly sacked prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and replaced him with former strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa, will write a book on his "unsuccessful political marriage" with the ousted premier. Sirisena's controversial action on October 26 led to a political crisis in the country with both Wickremesinghe and Rajapaksa claiming to be the legitimate prime minister. Wickremesinghe termed his dismissal as invalid and said he still holds a majority in the 225-member Parliament. Sirisena, addressing a public gathering on Friday, said the book will be titled 'My unsuccessful political marriage with Ranil'. "I know that people are criticising me right now. I will tell them to wait until I release my book," the President said. Sirisena claimed that despite his action, he had not been isolated. "I know that right thinking people are with me on this battle against the corrupt and the traitors," he added. Sirisena's announcement came hours after Wickremesinghe's alliance won control of a powerful panel in Parliament, dealing a major blow to him and his prime ministerial appointee Rajapaksa. Former president Rajapaksa, who ruled Sri Lanka for almost a decade, was unexpectedly defeated by his deputy, Sirisena, in the presidential election in January, 2015 with the support from Wickremesinghe's United National Party. However, the power-sharing arrangement between Sirisena and Wickremesinghe became increasingly tenuous on several policy matters, mainly on economy and security. The country is witnessing a political stalemate since Sirisena sacked Wickremesinghe on October 26. 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. Speaker Karu Jayasuriya then ordered a floor test in the 225-member assembly to end the ongoing political crisis, a move which invited the wrath of the government of Rajapaksa. The United National Front led by Wickremesinghe has already moved three motions of no trust against Rajapaksa. Rajapaksa, however, has refused to step down.

Lankan President Sirisena to pen book on current political crisis

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

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

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

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

An all-party meet called by Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena is underway at the Capital in a bid to end the political turmoil after Sirisena ousted Ranil Wickremesinghe and appointed former president Mahinda Rajapaksa as prime minister.

According to a report, Parliament Speaker Karu Jayasuriya and the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna party are not attending the meeting.&nbsp;

“The president has called the&nbsp;meeting in order to end the current political unrest and conflict situation and to allow the normal functioning of Parliament,” a statement from the president's office said.&nbsp;

The meeting began at 5 pm at the presidential secretariat in Colombo.

Earlier Sirisena suspended Parliament till November 16 in order to prevent a vote from being taking place. He lifted the suspension later and said the Parliament would reconvene on November 14. However, he dissolved it again and called snap elections on January 5, a decision which was stayed by the country's Supreme Court.&nbsp;

On November 14, Jayasuriya said a no-confidence motion had been passed against Rajapaksa and his government. The next day, Parliament was supposed to repeat the floor test but the proceedings were disrupted after parliamentarians broke furniture a few ministers loyal to Rajapaksa reportedly threw chilli powder at the rival leaders and the police.

An all-party meet called by Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena is underway at the Capital in a bid to end the political turmoil after Sirisena ousted Ranil Wickremesinghe and appointed former president Mahinda Rajapaksa as prime minister.

An all-party meet called by Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena is underway at the Capital in a bid to end the political turmoil after Sirisena ousted Ranil Wickremesinghe and appointed former president Mahinda Rajapaksa as prime minister. According to a report, Parliament Speaker Karu Jayasuriya and the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna party are not attending the meeting. “The president has called the meeting in order to end the current political unrest and conflict situation and to allow the normal functioning of Parliament,” a statement from the president's office said. The meeting began at 5 pm at the presidential secretariat in Colombo. Earlier Sirisena suspended Parliament till November 16 in order to prevent a vote from being taking place. He lifted the suspension later and said the Parliament would reconvene on November 14. However, he dissolved it again and called snap elections on January 5, a decision which was stayed by the country's Supreme Court. On November 14, Jayasuriya said a no-confidence motion had been passed against Rajapaksa and his government. The next day, Parliament was supposed to repeat the floor test but the proceedings were disrupted after parliamentarians broke furniture a few ministers loyal to Rajapaksa reportedly threw chilli powder at the rival leaders and the police.

Sri Lanka: All-party meet underway to resolve political crisis

Sri Lanka's President Maithripala Sirisena on Sunday called crucial talks with political leaders in a bid to end a power struggle with the prime minister he sacked last month.

The Indian Ocean nation has been paralysed since October 26 when Sirisena deposed Ranil Wickremesinghe as premier and replaced him with a former rival Mahinda Rajapakse.

Wickremesinghe insists he is still prime minister while parliament voted twice last week to reject Rajapakse.

"President Sirisena will chair a meeting of representatives of political parties in parliament today," his office said in a statement.

"The president has called this meeting in order to end the current political unrest and conflict situation and to allow the normal functioning of the parliament."

Brawling erupted in parliament with Rajapakse loyalists smashing furniture, throwing chilli powder and projectiles at rivals in a bid to disrupt a no-confidence motion against the disputed prime minister.

After the second vote against Rajapakse on Friday, Wickremesinghe demanded that his government be restored, but there has been no response from Sirisena yet.

Wickremesinghe has said Sri Lanka needs "stability" and that he was ready to work with Sirisena despite the personality clash that triggered the constitutional crisis.

After sacking Wickremesinghe on October 26, Sirisena dissolved parliament on November 9, but the Supreme Court suspended his action and restored parliament pending a full hearing into the legality of his actions.

For 19 days, Sri Lanka had two claimants to the prime minister's post, but on Thursday parliament speaker Karu Jayasuriya held that he would recognise neither as premier. Officially, Sri Lanka no longer has a government.

Legislators say that with the administration at a stand still key sectors such as tourism are taking a serious battering.

Both sides have also warned that a prolonged power vacuum could lead to unrest.

Sri Lanka's President Maithripala Sirisena on Sunday called crucial talks with political leaders in a bid to end a power struggle with the prime minister he sacked last month.

Sri Lanka's President Maithripala Sirisena on Sunday called crucial talks with political leaders in a bid to end a power struggle with the prime minister he sacked last month. The Indian Ocean nation has been paralysed since October 26 when Sirisena deposed Ranil Wickremesinghe as premier and replaced him with a former rival Mahinda Rajapakse. Wickremesinghe insists he is still prime minister while parliament voted twice last week to reject Rajapakse. "President Sirisena will chair a meeting of representatives of political parties in parliament today," his office said in a statement. "The president has called this meeting in order to end the current political unrest and conflict situation and to allow the normal functioning of the parliament." Brawling erupted in parliament with Rajapakse loyalists smashing furniture, throwing chilli powder and projectiles at rivals in a bid to disrupt a no-confidence motion against the disputed prime minister. After the second vote against Rajapakse on Friday, Wickremesinghe demanded that his government be restored, but there has been no response from Sirisena yet. Wickremesinghe has said Sri Lanka needs "stability" and that he was ready to work with Sirisena despite the personality clash that triggered the constitutional crisis. After sacking Wickremesinghe on October 26, Sirisena dissolved parliament on November 9, but the Supreme Court suspended his action and restored parliament pending a full hearing into the legality of his actions. For 19 days, Sri Lanka had two claimants to the prime minister's post, but on Thursday parliament speaker Karu Jayasuriya held that he would recognise neither as premier. Officially, Sri Lanka no longer has a government. Legislators say that with the administration at a stand still key sectors such as tourism are taking a serious battering. Both sides have also warned that a prolonged power vacuum could lead to unrest.

Sri Lanka political crisis: President Maithripala Sirisena seeks talks to end power struggle

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

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

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

Explainer: Sri Lanka's escalating political turmoil

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sri Lanka central bank raises key rates in surprise move

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

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

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

The Sri Lankan constitutional crisis explained

Here are the main players in the volatile political scene of back-stabbing and shifting sands in the strategically important Indian Ocean island of 21 million people.

Maithripala Sirisena

Mild-mannered but steely-nerved President Maithripala Sirisena, 67, was a relative unknown until his shock defeat of Mahinda Rajapakse in presidential elections in 2015.

Sirisena had walked out of Rajapakse's government a day after the two men had dinner together, and accused his former ally of plotting to assassinate him if he lost the election.

"If I had not won the presidency, I would be six feet under by now," he told a public rally after his win.

Usually dressed in spotless white, Sirisena vowed to do all in his power to stop the highly divisive Rajapakse becoming prime minister and appointed Ranil Wickremesinghe instead.&nbsp;

Two weeks ago -- almost four years after he first turned his back on Rajapakse -- Sirisena dismissed Wickremesinghe and appointed Rajapakse in his place. Late Friday he called elections and dissolved parliament.

Mahinda Rajapakse

Having loaned his government billions, China swiftly congratulated Rajapakse, 72, on his new appointment but India and the West were less pleased -- to say little of the Tamil minority.

As president from 2005 until 2015, Rajapakse ended&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lanka's four-decade civil war in 2009 by crushing the Tamil Tigers. But 40,000 ethnic Tamils were allegedly massacred in the process.

Sri&nbsp;Lanka's media, remembering the 17 journalists and media workers killed under Rajapakse, are also fearful about his comeback. He and his family are also accused of corruption.&nbsp;

But with his trademark macho moustache, traditional national dress and outsize personality, Rajapakse remains a hero for many Sinhalese, deftly portraying himself as a man of the people.

"A general election will truly establish the will of the people and make way for a stable country," he tweeted in the early hours of Saturday.

Ranil&nbsp;Wickremesinghe

But Wickremesinghe, 69, calls his sacking, the snap elections and the suspension of parliament illegal, and is refusing to vacate the prime minister's official residence, where he has been holed up since October 26.

Silver-haired and often in Western-style suits, Wickremesinghe has been prime minister four times, the first time after the Tamil Tigers assassinated the then-president in 1993.

During his 2001-4 time in office, Wickremesinghe is credited with pulling&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lanka&nbsp;out of its first ever recession, in part with reforms that have endeared him to the West.

"You have not let this country be plunged into the darkness of dictatorship," Wickremesinghe said in a video message on Thursday thanking his supporters.

Supreme Court&nbsp;

Sri&nbsp;Lanka's Supreme Court on Tuesday overruled&nbsp;Sirisena's dissolution of parliament and ordered a halt to preparations for snap elections next year.

Wickremesinghe's party led the petitions against the dissolution and the three-judge bench, headed by the Chief Justice Nalin Perera, read out the decision to a packed court guarded by hundreds of heavily armed police and commandos.

The court suspended a proclamation issued by Sirisena on Friday sacking the legislature and calling for elections on January 5.

The ruling means parliament could go ahead with a vote to test if Sirisena's controversial nominee is able to summon a majority in the 225-member assembly and force Wickremesinghe from office.

The court also ordered the independent Elections Commission to halt preparations for the January 5 vote.

Here are the main players in the volatile political scene of back-stabbing and shifting sands in the strategically important Indian Ocean island of 21 million people.

Here are the main players in the volatile political scene of back-stabbing and shifting sands in the strategically important Indian Ocean island of 21 million people. Maithripala Sirisena Mild-mannered but steely-nerved President Maithripala Sirisena, 67, was a relative unknown until his shock defeat of Mahinda Rajapakse in presidential elections in 2015. Sirisena had walked out of Rajapakse's government a day after the two men had dinner together, and accused his former ally of plotting to assassinate him if he lost the election. "If I had not won the presidency, I would be six feet under by now," he told a public rally after his win. Usually dressed in spotless white, Sirisena vowed to do all in his power to stop the highly divisive Rajapakse becoming prime minister and appointed Ranil Wickremesinghe instead. Two weeks ago -- almost four years after he first turned his back on Rajapakse -- Sirisena dismissed Wickremesinghe and appointed Rajapakse in his place. Late Friday he called elections and dissolved parliament. Mahinda Rajapakse Having loaned his government billions, China swiftly congratulated Rajapakse, 72, on his new appointment but India and the West were less pleased -- to say little of the Tamil minority. As president from 2005 until 2015, Rajapakse ended Sri Lanka's four-decade civil war in 2009 by crushing the Tamil Tigers. But 40,000 ethnic Tamils were allegedly massacred in the process. Sri Lanka's media, remembering the 17 journalists and media workers killed under Rajapakse, are also fearful about his comeback. He and his family are also accused of corruption. But with his trademark macho moustache, traditional national dress and outsize personality, Rajapakse remains a hero for many Sinhalese, deftly portraying himself as a man of the people. "A general election will truly establish the will of the people and make way for a stable country," he tweeted in the early hours of Saturday. Ranil Wickremesinghe But Wickremesinghe, 69, calls his sacking, the snap elections and the suspension of parliament illegal, and is refusing to vacate the prime minister's official residence, where he has been holed up since October 26. Silver-haired and often in Western-style suits, Wickremesinghe has been prime minister four times, the first time after the Tamil Tigers assassinated the then-president in 1993. During his 2001-4 time in office, Wickremesinghe is credited with pulling Sri Lanka out of its first ever recession, in part with reforms that have endeared him to the West. "You have not let this country be plunged into the darkness of dictatorship," Wickremesinghe said in a video message on Thursday thanking his supporters. Supreme Court Sri Lanka's Supreme Court on Tuesday overruled Sirisena's dissolution of parliament and ordered a halt to preparations for snap elections next year. Wickremesinghe's party led the petitions against the dissolution and the three-judge bench, headed by the Chief Justice Nalin Perera, read out the decision to a packed court guarded by hundreds of heavily armed police and commandos. The court suspended a proclamation issued by Sirisena on Friday sacking the legislature and calling for elections on January 5. The ruling means parliament could go ahead with a vote to test if Sirisena's controversial nominee is able to summon a majority in the 225-member assembly and force Wickremesinghe from office. The court also ordered the independent Elections Commission to halt preparations for the January 5 vote.

The key players in Sri Lanka's crisis

Sri Lanka's main political parties on Monday filed petitions challenging President Maithripala Sirisena's <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-president-sirisena-sacks-parliament-after-power-struggle-minister-176486">sacking of parliament</a> and asked the Supreme Court to restore the legislature.

Three parties, which together enjoy an absolute majority in the assembly, asked the highest court to also declare Sirisena's October 26 sacking of Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe illegal.

Sacked premier Ranil Wickremesinghe's United National Party (UNP), the main opposition Tamil National Alliance (TNA) and the leftist JVP, or People's Liberation Front, were among 10 groups that filed the action, news agency AFP reported.

According to the report, several civil society groups and individuals too had submitted separate petitions, all seeking a declaration against the presidential action against the legislature.

On Friday, Sirisena announced&nbsp;that he was dissolving parliament and called fresh elections on January 5.

He also defended his controversial move saying that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-parliament-sacked-to-avert-civil-unrest-176694">violent clashes among rival MPs could have led to "civil unrest</a>" across the country if the legislature had met.

&nbsp;"If I allowed the parliament to meet on November 14, there would have been violence in the House and it could have spread to our villagers and towns," Sirisena has said in a televised address to the nation. "I acted to prevent civil unrest."

Also read:<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-has-suffered-a-coup-without-guns-parliament-speaker-175934"> Sri Lanka has suffered a 'coup without guns', says Parliament speaker</a>

Sirisena triggered an unprecedented constitutional crisis after on October 26 he sacked Wickremesinghe and replaced him with former leader Mahinda Rajapakse.

Meanwhile, Wickremesinghe&nbsp;has insisted that his dismissal was illegal and unconstitutional and refused to vacate the official residence of the premier.

Sirisena agreed thrice to reconvene parliament which he had suspended shortly after sacking Wickremesinghe to prevent him proving his majority on the floor of the House.

Just five days before parliament was due to reconvene, Sirisena dissolved it and called snap elections for January 5.

Shortly before sacking the legislature, Sirisena also took over the police department by attaching it to his defence ministry. He also took control of the state printer, a crucial institution that publishes decrees and proclamations.

He had already taken control of all state media outlets soon after dismissing Wickremesinghe.

(With inputs from news agencies)

Sri Lanka's main political parties on Monday filed petitions challenging President Maithripala Sirisena's sacking of parliament and asked the Supreme Court to restore the legislature.

Sri Lanka's main political parties on Monday filed petitions challenging President Maithripala Sirisena's sacking of parliament and asked the Supreme Court to restore the legislature. Three parties, which together enjoy an absolute majority in the assembly, asked the highest court to also declare Sirisena's October 26 sacking of Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe illegal. Sacked premier Ranil Wickremesinghe's United National Party (UNP), the main opposition Tamil National Alliance (TNA) and the leftist JVP, or People's Liberation Front, were among 10 groups that filed the action, news agency AFP reported. According to the report, several civil society groups and individuals too had submitted separate petitions, all seeking a declaration against the presidential action against the legislature. On Friday, Sirisena announced that he was dissolving parliament and called fresh elections on January 5. He also defended his controversial move saying that violent clashes among rival MPs could have led to "civil unrest" across the country if the legislature had met. "If I allowed the parliament to meet on November 14, there would have been violence in the House and it could have spread to our villagers and towns," Sirisena has said in a televised address to the nation. "I acted to prevent civil unrest." Also read: Sri Lanka has suffered a 'coup without guns', says Parliament speaker Sirisena triggered an unprecedented constitutional crisis after on October 26 he sacked Wickremesinghe and replaced him with former leader Mahinda Rajapakse. Meanwhile, Wickremesinghe has insisted that his dismissal was illegal and unconstitutional and refused to vacate the official residence of the premier. Sirisena agreed thrice to reconvene parliament which he had suspended shortly after sacking Wickremesinghe to prevent him proving his majority on the floor of the House. Just five days before parliament was due to reconvene, Sirisena dissolved it and called snap elections for January 5. Shortly before sacking the legislature, Sirisena also took over the police department by attaching it to his defence ministry. He also took control of the state printer, a crucial institution that publishes decrees and proclamations. He had already taken control of all state media outlets soon after dismissing Wickremesinghe. (With inputs from news agencies)

Sri Lanka crisis: Parties file petitions challenging President Sirisena's sacking

Sri Lanka's president on Sunday defended his controversial sacking of parliament, saying violent clashes among rival MPs could have led to "civil unrest" across the country if the legislature had met.

Maithripala Sirisena said there were media reports that politicians would clash during a vote to decide between two men claiming the premiership after he controversially sacked Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe last month.

"If I allowed the parliament to meet on November 14, there would have been violence in the House and it could have spread to our villagers and towns," Sirisena said in a televised address to the nation. "I acted to prevent civil unrest."

Sri Lanka's parliamentary <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-president-sirisena-usurped-powers-of-mps-speaker-176676">Speaker Sunday accused President Maithripala Sirisena of "usurping" the rights of legislators</a> and asked public servants not to carry out his "illegal orders".

Karu Jayasuriya in a hard-hitting statement said Sirisena's actions since October 26 to sack Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and dissolve parliament undermined the freedoms of the people.

"I have watched over the last two weeks as the executive branch has seized the rights and usurped the powers of members of parliament who were elected to represent the people.

"I call upon all public servants to refuse to execute any illegal orders they may receive, no matter from whom."

Sirisena triggered an unprecedented constitutional crisis on October 26 when he sacked Wickremesinghe and replaced him with former leader Mahinda Rajapakse.

Wickremesinghe insisted his dismissal was illegal and unconstitutional and refused to vacate the official residence of the premier.

Sirisena agreed thrice to reconvene parliament which he had suspended shortly after sacking Wickremesinghe to prevent him proving his majority on the floor of the House.

Just five days before parliament was due to reconvene, Sirisena dissolved it and called snap elections for January 5.

"Since the president has prevented parliament from ruling on the legitimacy of the president's actions, it will be up to the Supreme Court to determine the legality of these actions," Jayasuriya said.

Sri Lanka's president on Sunday defended his controversial sacking of parliament, saying violent clashes among rival MPs could have led to "civil unrest" across the country if the legislature had met.

Sri Lanka's president on Sunday defended his controversial sacking of parliament, saying violent clashes among rival MPs could have led to "civil unrest" across the country if the legislature had met. Maithripala Sirisena said there were media reports that politicians would clash during a vote to decide between two men claiming the premiership after he controversially sacked Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe last month. "If I allowed the parliament to meet on November 14, there would have been violence in the House and it could have spread to our villagers and towns," Sirisena said in a televised address to the nation. "I acted to prevent civil unrest." Sri Lanka's parliamentary Speaker Sunday accused President Maithripala Sirisena of "usurping" the rights of legislators and asked public servants not to carry out his "illegal orders". Karu Jayasuriya in a hard-hitting statement said Sirisena's actions since October 26 to sack Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and dissolve parliament undermined the freedoms of the people. "I have watched over the last two weeks as the executive branch has seized the rights and usurped the powers of members of parliament who were elected to represent the people. "I call upon all public servants to refuse to execute any illegal orders they may receive, no matter from whom." Sirisena triggered an unprecedented constitutional crisis on October 26 when he sacked Wickremesinghe and replaced him with former leader Mahinda Rajapakse. Wickremesinghe insisted his dismissal was illegal and unconstitutional and refused to vacate the official residence of the premier. Sirisena agreed thrice to reconvene parliament which he had suspended shortly after sacking Wickremesinghe to prevent him proving his majority on the floor of the House. Just five days before parliament was due to reconvene, Sirisena dissolved it and called snap elections for January 5. "Since the president has prevented parliament from ruling on the legitimacy of the president's actions, it will be up to the Supreme Court to determine the legality of these actions," Jayasuriya said.

I acted to prevent civil unrest: Sri Lankan President Sirisena defends parliament sacking

Sri Lanka's parliamentary Speaker Sunday accused President Maithripala Sirisena of "usurping" the rights of legislators and asked public servants not to carry out his "illegal orders".

Karu Jayasuriya in a hard-hitting statement said Sirisena's actions since October 26 to sack Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and dissolve parliament undermined the freedoms of the people.

"I have watched over the last two weeks as the executive branch has seized the rights and usurped the powers of members of parliament who were elected to represent the people.

"I call upon all public servants to refuse to execute any illegal orders they may receive, no matter from whom."

Sirisena triggered an unprecedented constitutional crisis on October 26 when he sacked Wickremesinghe and replaced him with former leader Mahinda Rajapakse.

Wickremesinghe insisted his dismissal was illegal and unconstitutional and refused to vacate the official residence of the premier.

Sirisena agreed thrice to reconvene parliament which he had suspended shortly after sacking Wickremesinghe to prevent him proving his majority on the floor of the House.

Just five days before parliament was due to reconvene, Sirisena dissolved it and called snap elections for January 5.

"Since the president has prevented parliament from ruling on the legitimacy of the president's actions, it will be up to the Supreme Court to determine the legality of these actions," Jayasuriya said.

He was concerned about claims by the "purported foreign minister" who said parliament was sacked because Jayasuriya was planning to prevent an address by the president when the House reconvened on Wednesday.

"I wish that the purported minister (Sarath Amunugama) had proposed a more honest and plausible excuse for the actions of his colleagues, that would have drawn less ridicule to our country on the world stage.

"Based on this fiction, several of his cohorts have openly threatened to send me to jail," Jayasuriya said, adding that he would gladly face any consequence for his actions to defend the rights of MPs.

Sri Lanka's parliamentary Speaker Sunday accused President Maithripala Sirisena of "usurping" the rights of legislators and asked public servants not to carry out his "illegal orders".

Sri Lanka's parliamentary Speaker Sunday accused President Maithripala Sirisena of "usurping" the rights of legislators and asked public servants not to carry out his "illegal orders". Karu Jayasuriya in a hard-hitting statement said Sirisena's actions since October 26 to sack Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and dissolve parliament undermined the freedoms of the people. "I have watched over the last two weeks as the executive branch has seized the rights and usurped the powers of members of parliament who were elected to represent the people. "I call upon all public servants to refuse to execute any illegal orders they may receive, no matter from whom." Sirisena triggered an unprecedented constitutional crisis on October 26 when he sacked Wickremesinghe and replaced him with former leader Mahinda Rajapakse. Wickremesinghe insisted his dismissal was illegal and unconstitutional and refused to vacate the official residence of the premier. Sirisena agreed thrice to reconvene parliament which he had suspended shortly after sacking Wickremesinghe to prevent him proving his majority on the floor of the House. Just five days before parliament was due to reconvene, Sirisena dissolved it and called snap elections for January 5. "Since the president has prevented parliament from ruling on the legitimacy of the president's actions, it will be up to the Supreme Court to determine the legality of these actions," Jayasuriya said. He was concerned about claims by the "purported foreign minister" who said parliament was sacked because Jayasuriya was planning to prevent an address by the president when the House reconvened on Wednesday. "I wish that the purported minister (Sarath Amunugama) had proposed a more honest and plausible excuse for the actions of his colleagues, that would have drawn less ridicule to our country on the world stage. "Based on this fiction, several of his cohorts have openly threatened to send me to jail," Jayasuriya said, adding that he would gladly face any consequence for his actions to defend the rights of MPs.

Sri Lanka president Sirisena usurped powers of MPs: Speaker

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

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

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

International concerns on Sri Lanka elections unfounded: Minister

Sri Lanka President Maithripala Sirisena's decision to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/legal-challenge-looms-as-sri-lankan-main-party-readies-to-challenge-parliament-sacking-176562">dissolve parliament</a>, worsening an already major political crisis, has drawn criticism from Western powers, including the United States and the European Union.

Sirisena dissolved parliament on Friday night, only five days before it was due to reconvene. A new cabinet he installed was in danger of losing a vote of no confidence.

He also called a general election for January 5.

The president triggered a power struggle when he sacked prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe late last month and appointed the island's former leader, Mahinda Rajapaksa, a pro-China strongman defeated by Sirisena in an election in 2015, in his place.

Sirisena's rivals are set to challenge his decision, which they describe as illegal and unconstitutional, in the Supreme Court on Monday.

The US&nbsp;Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs said in a tweet that the United States was "deeply concerned by news the Sri Lanka Parliament will be dissolved, further deepening the political crisis". It said democracy needed to be respected to ensure stability and prosperity.

A spokeswoman for the European Union's foreign affairs chief Federica Mogherini said in a statement that the move "risks undermining public confidence in the country’s democratic institutions and processes and further deepens the political and economic crisis in the country."

Last week, the EU's ambassador warned it could consider stripping Sri Lanka of its duty-free access if it backs off commitments on rights. The EU is worried the return of Rajapaksa could derail halting progress made toward national reconciliation following a war with ethnic minority Tamil separatists that killed tens of thousands, many during the final stages under his watch as president.

Mark Field, the British minister of State for Asia and the Pacific, tweeted his concern about the dissolution of parliament days before it was due to be reconvened.

"As a friend of Sri Lanka, the UK calls on all parties to uphold the constitution and respect democratic institutions and processes," Field said.

Canada's Foreign Policy twitter feed said that it was "deeply concerned" about the decision and referred to the risks to reconciliation work after the nation's civil war.

Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs Marise Payne expressed both concern and disappointment in a statement, saying the move "undermines Sri Lanka's long democratic tradition and poses a risk to its stability and prosperity".

Sirisena has said he fired Wickremesinghe because the prime minister was trying to implement "a new, extreme liberal political concept by giving more priority for foreign policies and neglecting the local people's sentiment".

Parliament test

Mangala Samaraweera, an ally of Wickremesinghe, said their party expects the court to rule that the dissolution of parliament was illegal and that eventually a vote in parliament will be held to test whether there is a majority.

"We will show that we have the parliament majority and we will show that the dictator president has dissolved a government which had a majority in the parliament," he told reporters.

They were supported by the Tamil National Alliance, the main party representing ethnic Tamil groups in parliament, who said it too will petition the Supreme Court against the dissolution of the house.

"This is a clear violation of the constitution. The president can't do this," said MA&nbsp;Sumanthiran, a spokesman for the alliance.

India and the West have raised concerns over Rajapaksa's close ties with China. Beijing loaned Sri Lanka billions of dollars for infrastructure projects when Rajapaksa was president between 2005-2015, putting the country deep into debt.

Wickremesinghe has refused to vacate the official prime minister's residence saying he was the prime minister and had a parliamentary majority.

Before he signed the papers dissolving parliament and calling the election, Sirisena appointed allies of his and of Rajapaksa to cabinet positions.

One of them said Sirisena was right to order an election to end the political crisis. Dinesh Gunawardena, a newly appointed urban development minister, said the president had handed the country back to the people.

"It is the people's right to vote. We have gone before the people. No force can interfere. The people's mandate is supreme," he said.

Independent legal experts have told Reuters that parliament could be dissolved only in early 2020, which would be four-and-half-years from the first sitting of the current parliament. The only other legal way would be through a referendum, or with the consent of two-thirds of lawmakers.

Given those views, it was not immediately clear how Sirisena is on legal safe ground by dissolving parliament, though his legal experts have said there are provisions for him to do so.

Sri Lanka President Maithripala Sirisena's decision to dissolve parliament, worsening an already major political crisis, has drawn criticism from Western powers, including the United States and the European Union.

Sri Lanka President Maithripala Sirisena's decision to dissolve parliament, worsening an already major political crisis, has drawn criticism from Western powers, including the United States and the European Union. Sirisena dissolved parliament on Friday night, only five days before it was due to reconvene. A new cabinet he installed was in danger of losing a vote of no confidence. He also called a general election for January 5. The president triggered a power struggle when he sacked prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe late last month and appointed the island's former leader, Mahinda Rajapaksa, a pro-China strongman defeated by Sirisena in an election in 2015, in his place. Sirisena's rivals are set to challenge his decision, which they describe as illegal and unconstitutional, in the Supreme Court on Monday. The US Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs said in a tweet that the United States was "deeply concerned by news the Sri Lanka Parliament will be dissolved, further deepening the political crisis". It said democracy needed to be respected to ensure stability and prosperity. A spokeswoman for the European Union's foreign affairs chief Federica Mogherini said in a statement that the move "risks undermining public confidence in the country’s democratic institutions and processes and further deepens the political and economic crisis in the country." Last week, the EU's ambassador warned it could consider stripping Sri Lanka of its duty-free access if it backs off commitments on rights. The EU is worried the return of Rajapaksa could derail halting progress made toward national reconciliation following a war with ethnic minority Tamil separatists that killed tens of thousands, many during the final stages under his watch as president. Mark Field, the British minister of State for Asia and the Pacific, tweeted his concern about the dissolution of parliament days before it was due to be reconvened. "As a friend of Sri Lanka, the UK calls on all parties to uphold the constitution and respect democratic institutions and processes," Field said. Canada's Foreign Policy twitter feed said that it was "deeply concerned" about the decision and referred to the risks to reconciliation work after the nation's civil war. Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs Marise Payne expressed both concern and disappointment in a statement, saying the move "undermines Sri Lanka's long democratic tradition and poses a risk to its stability and prosperity". Sirisena has said he fired Wickremesinghe because the prime minister was trying to implement "a new, extreme liberal political concept by giving more priority for foreign policies and neglecting the local people's sentiment". Parliament test Mangala Samaraweera, an ally of Wickremesinghe, said their party expects the court to rule that the dissolution of parliament was illegal and that eventually a vote in parliament will be held to test whether there is a majority. "We will show that we have the parliament majority and we will show that the dictator president has dissolved a government which had a majority in the parliament," he told reporters. They were supported by the Tamil National Alliance, the main party representing ethnic Tamil groups in parliament, who said it too will petition the Supreme Court against the dissolution of the house. "This is a clear violation of the constitution. The president can't do this," said MA Sumanthiran, a spokesman for the alliance. India and the West have raised concerns over Rajapaksa's close ties with China. Beijing loaned Sri Lanka billions of dollars for infrastructure projects when Rajapaksa was president between 2005-2015, putting the country deep into debt. Wickremesinghe has refused to vacate the official prime minister's residence saying he was the prime minister and had a parliamentary majority. Before he signed the papers dissolving parliament and calling the election, Sirisena appointed allies of his and of Rajapaksa to cabinet positions. One of them said Sirisena was right to order an election to end the political crisis. Dinesh Gunawardena, a newly appointed urban development minister, said the president had handed the country back to the people. "It is the people's right to vote. We have gone before the people. No force can interfere. The people's mandate is supreme," he said. Independent legal experts have told Reuters that parliament could be dissolved only in early 2020, which would be four-and-half-years from the first sitting of the current parliament. The only other legal way would be through a referendum, or with the consent of two-thirds of lawmakers. Given those views, it was not immediately clear how Sirisena is on legal safe ground by dissolving parliament, though his legal experts have said there are provisions for him to do so.

United States, European Union denounce dissolution of Sri Lanka parliament