A day after Mahinda Rajapaksa officially resigned amid the fear of government shutdown, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe will return to his post today; news agency Reuters reported.

"He (Wickremesinghe) will take oath at an auspicious time today morning," Reuters quoted Rajitha Senaratne, a cabinet spokesman under Wickremesinghe's former government as saying.

The report also cited an official at the president's office confirming Wickremesinghe's oath-taking. 
&nbsp; 
The South Asian island country plunged into instability in October after President Maithripala Sirisena replaced Wickremesinghe with Rajapaksa, who was then twice sacked by parliament.&nbsp;

But as a government shutdown loomed, Rajapaksa put in his papers and said in a statement on Saturday that a change of government that "the people expected" has now been put off.

"I have no intention of remaining as Prime Minister without a general election being held, and in order to not hamper the President in any way, I will resign from the position of Prime Minister and make way for the President to form a new government," Rajapaksa said in the statement.

Wickremesinghe's office on Friday said that Sirisena had called the former prime minister by telephone to invite him to be sworn back into office on Sunday.

Sirisena had previously said he would not appoint Wickremesinghe "even if he has the backing of all 225 lawmakers in parliament".

The country's parliament had voted to cut the budget for Rajapaksa and his ministers after Sirisena had refused to accept no-confidence votes against Rajapaksa saying that due procedure was not followed.

The country's Supreme Court on Friday rejected Rajapaksa's bid for an injunction on a lower court's order that barred him and his cabinet from carrying out their roles in government.

Many foreign countries have refused to recognise Rajapaksa's government. Credit rating agencies Fitch and Standard &amp; Poor's have downgraded Sri Lanka, citing refinancing risks and an uncertain policy outlook.

Earlier this week, the island nation's parliament passed a vote of confidence in favour of Wickremesinghe, as it sought his reinstatement as prime minister by the president to defuse the political crisis.

(With inputs from news agencies)

A day after Mahinda Rajapaksa officially resigned amid the fear of government shutdown, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe will return to his post today; news agency Reuters reported.

A day after Mahinda Rajapaksa officially resigned amid the fear of government shutdown, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe will return to his post today; news agency Reuters reported. "He (Wickremesinghe) will take oath at an auspicious time today morning," Reuters quoted Rajitha Senaratne, a cabinet spokesman under Wickremesinghe's former government as saying. The report also cited an official at the president's office confirming Wickremesinghe's oath-taking. The South Asian island country plunged into instability in October after President Maithripala Sirisena replaced Wickremesinghe with Rajapaksa, who was then twice sacked by parliament. But as a government shutdown loomed, Rajapaksa put in his papers and said in a statement on Saturday that a change of government that "the people expected" has now been put off. "I have no intention of remaining as Prime Minister without a general election being held, and in order to not hamper the President in any way, I will resign from the position of Prime Minister and make way for the President to form a new government," Rajapaksa said in the statement. Wickremesinghe's office on Friday said that Sirisena had called the former prime minister by telephone to invite him to be sworn back into office on Sunday. Sirisena had previously said he would not appoint Wickremesinghe "even if he has the backing of all 225 lawmakers in parliament". The country's parliament had voted to cut the budget for Rajapaksa and his ministers after Sirisena had refused to accept no-confidence votes against Rajapaksa saying that due procedure was not followed. The country's Supreme Court on Friday rejected Rajapaksa's bid for an injunction on a lower court's order that barred him and his cabinet from carrying out their roles in government. Many foreign countries have refused to recognise Rajapaksa's government. Credit rating agencies Fitch and Standard & Poor's have downgraded Sri Lanka, citing refinancing risks and an uncertain policy outlook. Earlier this week, the island nation's parliament passed a vote of confidence in favour of Wickremesinghe, as it sought his reinstatement as prime minister by the president to defuse the political crisis. (With inputs from news agencies)

Sri Lanka's former PM Wickremesinghe to return to post today

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

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

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

India welcomes resolution of political unrest in Sri Lanka

Ranil Wickremesinghe to be sworn in as PM of Sri Lanka today

Mahinda Rajapaksa tendered his resignation today seven weeks after he was appointed as Prime Minister of Sri Lanka replacing Ranil Wickremesinghe. The unconstitutional act of President Maithripala Sirisena was&nbsp;struck down by court and&nbsp;drew huge criticism from Sri Lanka and around the world.&nbsp;Rajapaksa, Sri Lanka's former president, signed his resignation letter at a ceremony in his house. The resignation brought the curtain down on the two-month impasse and the power struggle between the two biggest Political Parties in the country. &nbsp;Wickremesinghe is expected to return to office on Sunday.&nbsp;

In an exclusive conversation with WION, Namal Rajapaksa, son of Mahinda Rajapaksa, spoke about his next course of action, China’s role in the island nation and importance of India-Sri Lanka relationship. Edited excerpts&nbsp;

 
WION: What will be your next move now that former president Mahinda Rajapaksa has resigned?

Namal: Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa on Saturday tendered his resignation after the Supreme Court delivered a judgement against the holding of the General Election which was declared by President Maithripala Sirisena.&nbsp;

In a special statement released on Saturday, following his resignation, Rajapaksa said he was resigning so that a new government could be formed under President Sirisena.

Also, Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna along with President Sirisena and his United People's Freedom Alliance will work to form a broad coalition. The United National Party has been stripped to a minor government now with only 103 seats, so we will now establish a strong opposition and work for the betterment of Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

WION: What does the SLPP think is the best for the people of Sri Lanka? Fresh elections or letting Ranil complete his term?

Namal: In any country, when the government holds only 103 seats in a 225 member Parliament, how can it get anything done? On Dec 12, when a resolution was passed expressing confidence in Ranil Wickremasinghe, the country was able to see the real state of things. A total of 117 MPs voted for Ranil Wickremasinghe. 14 of those votes belonged to the TNA. Even though the TNA requested that Ranil Wickremasinghe be appointed as Prime Minister, on the same day, TNA Parliamentarian Mavei Senathirajah made a special statement in Parliament on behalf of the TNA saying that though they voted for Wickremesinghe, they would not join the government and would remain in the opposition. So this itself clearly shows that the UNP will now function as a minority government with 103 seats.

Therefore, we will continue to call for a Parliamentary Election as it is the only way through which a strong, stable, government can come into place. It will be difficult for Wickremesinghe to continue with a minority government.

WION: There has been no word from President Sirisena on your father's resignation. Did you or your party speak to him? What is his take on this?

Namal: Durin the Parliamentary group meeting on Friday evening we had conveyed to President Sirisena that we will resign because that was the understanding from the very beginning. We had only come in as a caretaker government for about two months, with the final goal of holding a Parliamentary Election. So when the Supreme Court ruled otherwise, there was no point in us in trying to persuade MPs to join our side when we never wanted to form a government without holding an election.&nbsp;

WION: Will you be supporting the impeachment process if brought against President Sirisena?

Namal: The impeachment motion is purely the idea of the UNP and it is they who are initiating this. We believe that President Sirisena acted in the best interest of the nation when he sacked Wickremesinghe and appointed Rajapaksa as the new Prime Minister. Even now, although we respect the Supreme Court decision, we believe that it is the people's mandate which should be taken into account. So, we are not willing to support the UNP in this impeachment motion as it has been brought in only for the UNPs interest. Already the government is very unstable, so there is no point in making the presidency unstable too.

WION: How do you look at India, Sri Lanka ties.

Namal: Rajapaksa, I and the party, have always maintained that India has been one of our strongest friends and development partners. That has not changed in any way. Rajapaksa has always maintained strong ties with the successive Indian leaders. In fact, during his tenure as President, Rajapaksa worked closely with Indian leaders to strengthen several sectors in both countries. But of course, all our foreign relations have been based on a non-aligned policy. So we will continue our relations with India in this manner.

&nbsp;WION: Do you think there is any Chinese role in the current turmoil in your country?

Namal: Not at all. These are all baseless allegations. China, just like India, has been a strong friend and partner of Sri Lanka. We praise their policy of not interfering in the internal affairs of Sri Lanka or any other country. It is not right to falsely discredit any country.

Mahinda Rajapaksa tendered his resignation today seven weeks after he was appointed as Prime Minister of Sri Lanka replacing Ranil Wickremesinghe. The unconstitutional act of President Maithripala Sirisena was struck down by court and drew huge criticism from Sri Lanka and around the world.

Mahinda Rajapaksa tendered his resignation today seven weeks after he was appointed as Prime Minister of Sri Lanka replacing Ranil Wickremesinghe. The unconstitutional act of President Maithripala Sirisena was struck down by court and drew huge criticism from Sri Lanka and around the world. Rajapaksa, Sri Lanka's former president, signed his resignation letter at a ceremony in his house. The resignation brought the curtain down on the two-month impasse and the power struggle between the two biggest Political Parties in the country. Wickremesinghe is expected to return to office on Sunday. In an exclusive conversation with WION, Namal Rajapaksa, son of Mahinda Rajapaksa, spoke about his next course of action, China’s role in the island nation and importance of India-Sri Lanka relationship. Edited excerpts WION: What will be your next move now that former president Mahinda Rajapaksa has resigned? Namal: Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa on Saturday tendered his resignation after the Supreme Court delivered a judgement against the holding of the General Election which was declared by President Maithripala Sirisena. In a special statement released on Saturday, following his resignation, Rajapaksa said he was resigning so that a new government could be formed under President Sirisena. Also, Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna along with President Sirisena and his United People's Freedom Alliance will work to form a broad coalition. The United National Party has been stripped to a minor government now with only 103 seats, so we will now establish a strong opposition and work for the betterment of Sri Lanka. WION: What does the SLPP think is the best for the people of Sri Lanka? Fresh elections or letting Ranil complete his term? Namal: In any country, when the government holds only 103 seats in a 225 member Parliament, how can it get anything done? On Dec 12, when a resolution was passed expressing confidence in Ranil Wickremasinghe, the country was able to see the real state of things. A total of 117 MPs voted for Ranil Wickremasinghe. 14 of those votes belonged to the TNA. Even though the TNA requested that Ranil Wickremasinghe be appointed as Prime Minister, on the same day, TNA Parliamentarian Mavei Senathirajah made a special statement in Parliament on behalf of the TNA saying that though they voted for Wickremesinghe, they would not join the government and would remain in the opposition. So this itself clearly shows that the UNP will now function as a minority government with 103 seats. Therefore, we will continue to call for a Parliamentary Election as it is the only way through which a strong, stable, government can come into place. It will be difficult for Wickremesinghe to continue with a minority government. WION: There has been no word from President Sirisena on your father's resignation. Did you or your party speak to him? What is his take on this? Namal: Durin the Parliamentary group meeting on Friday evening we had conveyed to President Sirisena that we will resign because that was the understanding from the very beginning. We had only come in as a caretaker government for about two months, with the final goal of holding a Parliamentary Election. So when the Supreme Court ruled otherwise, there was no point in us in trying to persuade MPs to join our side when we never wanted to form a government without holding an election. WION: Will you be supporting the impeachment process if brought against President Sirisena? Namal: The impeachment motion is purely the idea of the UNP and it is they who are initiating this. We believe that President Sirisena acted in the best interest of the nation when he sacked Wickremesinghe and appointed Rajapaksa as the new Prime Minister. Even now, although we respect the Supreme Court decision, we believe that it is the people's mandate which should be taken into account. So, we are not willing to support the UNP in this impeachment motion as it has been brought in only for the UNPs interest. Already the government is very unstable, so there is no point in making the presidency unstable too. WION: How do you look at India, Sri Lanka ties. Namal: Rajapaksa, I and the party, have always maintained that India has been one of our strongest friends and development partners. That has not changed in any way. Rajapaksa has always maintained strong ties with the successive Indian leaders. In fact, during his tenure as President, Rajapaksa worked closely with Indian leaders to strengthen several sectors in both countries. But of course, all our foreign relations have been based on a non-aligned policy. So we will continue our relations with India in this manner. WION: Do you think there is any Chinese role in the current turmoil in your country? Namal: Not at all. These are all baseless allegations. China, just like India, has been a strong friend and partner of Sri Lanka. We praise their policy of not interfering in the internal affairs of Sri Lanka or any other country. It is not right to falsely discredit any country.

Rajapaksa maintained strong ties with successive Indian leaders: Son Namal 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ousted Sri Lanka PM Ranil Wickremesinghe sets deadline to end crisis

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

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

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

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

Sri Lanka's current political crisis is a result of a clash between external and local values, defiant <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sirisena-describes-ongoing-sri-lanka-crisis-as-one-between-foreign-and-indigenous-thinking-182754">President Maithripala Sirisena</a> has said as he accused "foreign forces" of intimidating him.

Sirisena has described the ongoing political crisis in the country as one between foreign and local values.

"This is an issue between those who believe in foreign thinking and those who respect local values", Sirisena said Sunday, addressing a gathering in his home base Polonnaruwa.

Since firing Ranil Wickremesinghe, Sirisena has highlighted the personal "shortcomings" of the former PM in a bid to justify the sacking and dissuade the reinstatement of the Wickremesinghe.

However, Wickremesinghe holds on to the official residence of the prime minister, claiming his sacking was unconstitutional.

Sirisena later dissolved parliament to call snap elections. Mahinda Rajapaksa, who was appointed by Sirisena to replace Wickremesinghe, has failed to prove his parliamentary majority.

Sri Lanka's current political crisis is a result of a clash between external and local values, defiant President Maithripala Sirisena has said as he accused "foreign forces" of intimidating him.

Sri Lanka's current political crisis is a result of a clash between external and local values, defiant President Maithripala Sirisena has said as he accused "foreign forces" of intimidating him. Sirisena has described the ongoing political crisis in the country as one between foreign and local values. "This is an issue between those who believe in foreign thinking and those who respect local values", Sirisena said Sunday, addressing a gathering in his home base Polonnaruwa. Since firing Ranil Wickremesinghe, Sirisena has highlighted the personal "shortcomings" of the former PM in a bid to justify the sacking and dissuade the reinstatement of the Wickremesinghe. However, Wickremesinghe holds on to the official residence of the prime minister, claiming his sacking was unconstitutional. Sirisena later dissolved parliament to call snap elections. Mahinda Rajapaksa, who was appointed by Sirisena to replace Wickremesinghe, has failed to prove his parliamentary majority.

Sri Lanka president Sirisena accuses foreign forces of intimidating him

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sri Lanka's ousted PM likens president to Hitler

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BY Ashwin Hemmathgamma &amp; Karan Singh&nbsp;

WION spoke to Sajith Premadasa, a working committee member and deputy leader of the United National Party (UNP) on the Sri Lanka state of affairs. He is tipped to be the "compromise" candidate to replace Ranil Wickremesinghe.

Post the massive rally by the Wickremesinghe led UNP on Thursday afternoon, Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena had a marathon closed-door meeting with UNP leaders and other independent parties who can tilt scales including&nbsp;Tamil National Alliance (TNS) which has 14 MPs and Janatha Vimukti Perumana (JVP) which has 6 MPs. Sirisena is understood to have agreed to a fresh no-confidence motion subject to Wickremesinghe being replaced.

It may be recalled that in the "Jana Mahimaya" rally where the Lankan president shared the dais with Mahinda Rajapaksa and his supporters on November 5, he had revealed that he had actually approached Premadasa with prime ministership offer after speaker Jayasuriya declined. And that Rajapaksa was his third option.&nbsp;

WION: What is your take on the current constitutional crisis caused by the removal of the Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe?

Sajith Premadasa: I think several consecutive irregular steps and actions have resulted in this constitutional crisis, which I consider to be a grave crisis. This has created political deadlock or governmental gridlock in our country. It is my opinion that all sane-minded political leaders of our country will strive to ensure that the constitution is protected and procedures and declarations stated in the constitution are followed in resolving this extreme crisis.&nbsp;

WION: What are your thoughts on your meeting with Sirisena?

Sajith Premadasa: I don't foresee any problem. I think it is important that the priority issue is given proper credence and due attention.

WION: Your name was proposed many times to take over the party in the past two decades. Are you willing to take over the prime ministership if necessary today?

Sajith Premadasa: I have always mentioned that I am ready to take any task or responsibility that I am bestowed with, but these tasks and responsibilities have to be allocated to me in the proper manner following credible political guidelines and democracy. Just because people ask me to take positions I will not do so.

BY Ashwin Hemmathgamma & Karan Singh WION spoke to Sajith Premadasa, a working committee member and deputy leader of the United National Party (UNP) on the Sri Lanka state of affairs.

BY Ashwin Hemmathgamma & Karan Singh WION spoke to Sajith Premadasa, a working committee member and deputy leader of the United National Party (UNP) on the Sri Lanka state of affairs. He is tipped to be the "compromise" candidate to replace Ranil Wickremesinghe. Post the massive rally by the Wickremesinghe led UNP on Thursday afternoon, Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena had a marathon closed-door meeting with UNP leaders and other independent parties who can tilt scales including Tamil National Alliance (TNS) which has 14 MPs and Janatha Vimukti Perumana (JVP) which has 6 MPs. Sirisena is understood to have agreed to a fresh no-confidence motion subject to Wickremesinghe being replaced. It may be recalled that in the "Jana Mahimaya" rally where the Lankan president shared the dais with Mahinda Rajapaksa and his supporters on November 5, he had revealed that he had actually approached Premadasa with prime ministership offer after speaker Jayasuriya declined. And that Rajapaksa was his third option. WION: What is your take on the current constitutional crisis caused by the removal of the Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe? Sajith Premadasa: I think several consecutive irregular steps and actions have resulted in this constitutional crisis, which I consider to be a grave crisis. This has created political deadlock or governmental gridlock in our country. It is my opinion that all sane-minded political leaders of our country will strive to ensure that the constitution is protected and procedures and declarations stated in the constitution are followed in resolving this extreme crisis. WION: What are your thoughts on your meeting with Sirisena? Sajith Premadasa: I don't foresee any problem. I think it is important that the priority issue is given proper credence and due attention. WION: Your name was proposed many times to take over the party in the past two decades. Are you willing to take over the prime ministership if necessary today? Sajith Premadasa: I have always mentioned that I am ready to take any task or responsibility that I am bestowed with, but these tasks and responsibilities have to be allocated to me in the proper manner following credible political guidelines and democracy. Just because people ask me to take positions I will not do so.

Ready to lead the party, says Sajith Premadasa who is tipped to replace Wickremesinghe

Sri Lankan parliament descends into farce amid political turmoil

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's largest political party Saturday asked Facebook to protect the identity of its supporters, fearing a crackdown by what it called the "illegal" government.

The Indian Ocean nation has been in crisis since last month with two men claiming to be prime minister, MPs brawling in parliament and the administration paralysed.

It began on October 26 when President Maithripala Sirisena sacked Ranil Wickremesinghe as premier and replaced him with former strongman Mahinda Rajapakse.

In chaotic scenes in parliament this week, Rajapakse lost two votes of no confidence but he is refusing to go and Sirisena has yet to acknowledge the motions.

On Saturday Wickremesinghe's United National Party (UNP) wrote to Facebook chief Mark Zuckerberg asking the US firm not to cooperate with Rajapakse's administration.

"We urge Facebook to refrain from disclosing information about... users of the platform to any officials of the illegal government unless it is properly sanctioned by a court of law," the UNP said.

The UNP had also complained that its official page was blocked by Facebook on Thursday ahead of a mass rally it organised to express solidarity with Wickremesinghe, who insists he is still prime minister.

Sirisena ordered a ban on Facebook across Sri Lanka in March after blaming it for spreading hate speech and fuelling intercommunal violence that led to the deaths of three people and destruction of property.

Since then, Facebook had said it was deploying more staff to identify and remove inflammatory material from Sri Lankan users.

This week Sri Lankans had to rely on social media to watch their lawmakers fighting and throwing chilli powder after the main telecommunications company stopped its live broadcast.

Sri Lanka's largest political party Saturday asked Facebook to protect the identity of its supporters, fearing a crackdown by what it called the "illegal" government.

Sri Lanka's largest political party Saturday asked Facebook to protect the identity of its supporters, fearing a crackdown by what it called the "illegal" government. The Indian Ocean nation has been in crisis since last month with two men claiming to be prime minister, MPs brawling in parliament and the administration paralysed. It began on October 26 when President Maithripala Sirisena sacked Ranil Wickremesinghe as premier and replaced him with former strongman Mahinda Rajapakse. In chaotic scenes in parliament this week, Rajapakse lost two votes of no confidence but he is refusing to go and Sirisena has yet to acknowledge the motions. On Saturday Wickremesinghe's United National Party (UNP) wrote to Facebook chief Mark Zuckerberg asking the US firm not to cooperate with Rajapakse's administration. "We urge Facebook to refrain from disclosing information about... users of the platform to any officials of the illegal government unless it is properly sanctioned by a court of law," the UNP said. The UNP had also complained that its official page was blocked by Facebook on Thursday ahead of a mass rally it organised to express solidarity with Wickremesinghe, who insists he is still prime minister. Sirisena ordered a ban on Facebook across Sri Lanka in March after blaming it for spreading hate speech and fuelling intercommunal violence that led to the deaths of three people and destruction of property. Since then, Facebook had said it was deploying more staff to identify and remove inflammatory material from Sri Lankan users. This week Sri Lankans had to rely on social media to watch their lawmakers fighting and throwing chilli powder after the main telecommunications company stopped its live broadcast.

Facebook asked to protect users in simmering Sri Lanka

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

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

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

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

Lankan Parliament&nbsp;reconvened <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ri-lanka-does-not-have-a-pm-or-cabinet-after-no-confidence-vote-says-speaker-karu-jayasuriya-177452">amid chaotic scenes on Thursday</a> after the no-confidence vote against Rajapaksa who was controversially elected by President Sirisena.

Rajapaksa accused Ranil Wikramsinghe of ruining the country as he sat on the prime minister's chair. The Lankan strongman&nbsp;alleged that Ranil Wickremesinghe had borrowed money from abroad. Rajapaksa&nbsp;said his name was tarnished as a result of the political chaos.

Rajapaksa announced that would continue as prime minister asserting that President Sirisena had invited him to the post. Rajapaksa also attacked Speaker Karun Jayasuriya asking him to step down.

Amid the chaos, the UNP lawmakers sought to move a motion against Rajapaksa's speech.

The Lankan House witnessed scenes of unruly behaviour by legislators as the political crisis&nbsp;played out openly between supporters of Rajapaksa and Wickremesinghe. Some lawmakers threatened the Speaker with bottles being thrown in the air.

Rajapaksa supporters rushed to the Well of the House as the turmoil continued unabated.&nbsp;

One lawmaker was injured in the clashes which followed and was taken to the&nbsp;hospital. As chaos reigned, Ranil Wickramasinghe and Rajapaksa were seen leaving the house. 
&nbsp; 
As the House opened,&nbsp; Speaker of Sri Lanka's parliament, Karu Jayasuriya, said that in his view the country did not have a prime minister or cabinet after Wednesday's no-confidence vote.

President Sirisena had said earlier that the Parliament "tried to override the Constitutional powers of the president and the judiciary."

The Lankan president said Speaker Karu Jayasuriya ignored and violated the "Constitutional provisions, standing orders and the Parliamentary traditions"&nbsp;by passing the no-confidence motion.

The Supreme Court had on Tuesday overturned President Sirisena's decision to dissolve Parliament and halted the preparations for snap polls on January 5.

After the court verdict, Speaker Jayasuriya had summoned Parliament's session for Thursday morning.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Q2kIxD2iaRA" width="560"></iframe>

Lankan Parliament reconvened amid chaotic scenes on Thursday after the no-confidence vote against Rajapaksa who was controversially elected by President Sirisena.

Lankan Parliament reconvened amid chaotic scenes on Thursday after the no-confidence vote against Rajapaksa who was controversially elected by President Sirisena. Rajapaksa accused Ranil Wikramsinghe of ruining the country as he sat on the prime minister's chair. The Lankan strongman alleged that Ranil Wickremesinghe had borrowed money from abroad. Rajapaksa said his name was tarnished as a result of the political chaos. Rajapaksa announced that would continue as prime minister asserting that President Sirisena had invited him to the post. Rajapaksa also attacked Speaker Karun Jayasuriya asking him to step down. Amid the chaos, the UNP lawmakers sought to move a motion against Rajapaksa's speech. The Lankan House witnessed scenes of unruly behaviour by legislators as the political crisis played out openly between supporters of Rajapaksa and Wickremesinghe. Some lawmakers threatened the Speaker with bottles being thrown in the air. Rajapaksa supporters rushed to the Well of the House as the turmoil continued unabated. One lawmaker was injured in the clashes which followed and was taken to the hospital. As chaos reigned, Ranil Wickramasinghe and Rajapaksa were seen leaving the house. As the House opened, Speaker of Sri Lanka's parliament, Karu Jayasuriya, said that in his view the country did not have a prime minister or cabinet after Wednesday's no-confidence vote. President Sirisena had said earlier that the Parliament "tried to override the Constitutional powers of the president and the judiciary." The Lankan president said Speaker Karu Jayasuriya ignored and violated the "Constitutional provisions, standing orders and the Parliamentary traditions" by passing the no-confidence motion. The Supreme Court had on Tuesday overturned President Sirisena's decision to dissolve Parliament and halted the preparations for snap polls on January 5. After the court verdict, Speaker Jayasuriya had summoned Parliament's session for Thursday morning.

Rajapaksa defiant as clashes erupt in Sri Lanka Parliament; 1 lawmaker injured

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ousted-sri-lanka-pm-wickramasinghe-calls-for-alliance-to-save-the-country-177105">Sri Lanka's parliament</a> will meet under tight security Wednesday after the top court ruled its dissolution illegal and opened the door to a vote on which of two rival prime ministers has the support to rule.

Sri Lanka has been locked in a power struggle since the president sacked prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on October 26 and replaced him with former strongman president Mahinda Rajapakse.&nbsp;

On Tuesday the Supreme Court overruled President Maithripala Sirisena's dissolution of parliament, and halted preparations for a snap election, in a major boost for the ousted prime minister.&nbsp;

Wickremesinghe is confident he can command a majority and wants a vote on the floor of the 225-member assembly to determine the legitimacy of the government installed by presidential diktat.

"Speaker Karu Jayasuriya ordered the police to ensure that MPs have free access to parliament," a spokesman for the Speaker told AFP. "There will be tight security."

Thousands of armed police have been deployed along the key approach roads to parliament, which is located on a man-made lake island, with several anti-riot units on standby.

Parliament officials fear that supporters of Rajapakse's party may try to stop legislators from getting to parliament.

However, by early Wednesday there were no large crowds and only small pockets of Wickremesinghe supporters gathered near the parliament complex.

Rajapakse's party was divided Tuesday on facing a test in parliament. His legislator son Namal Rajapakse said they will attend the legislature, but other party seniors said they would not.

Sirisena sacked the legislature after his party admitted that they did not have an absolute majority despite engineering the defections of eight legislators from Wickremesinghe's party.

Since then, at least two legislators have ditched Rajapakse and joined Wickremesinghe's UNP party which insists it has a comfortable majority in the House.&nbsp;

Wickremesinghe, who insists he is still the prime minister, has refused to vacate the official Temple Trees residence which is a symbol of state power in the island.

The power struggle has crippled the work of the administration, according to lawmakers on both sides.

Sri Lanka's parliament will meet under tight security Wednesday after the top court ruled its dissolution illegal and opened the door to a vote on which of two rival prime ministers has the support to rule.

Sri Lanka's parliament will meet under tight security Wednesday after the top court ruled its dissolution illegal and opened the door to a vote on which of two rival prime ministers has the support to rule. Sri Lanka has been locked in a power struggle since the president sacked prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on October 26 and replaced him with former strongman president Mahinda Rajapakse. On Tuesday the Supreme Court overruled President Maithripala Sirisena's dissolution of parliament, and halted preparations for a snap election, in a major boost for the ousted prime minister. Wickremesinghe is confident he can command a majority and wants a vote on the floor of the 225-member assembly to determine the legitimacy of the government installed by presidential diktat. "Speaker Karu Jayasuriya ordered the police to ensure that MPs have free access to parliament," a spokesman for the Speaker told AFP. "There will be tight security." Thousands of armed police have been deployed along the key approach roads to parliament, which is located on a man-made lake island, with several anti-riot units on standby. Parliament officials fear that supporters of Rajapakse's party may try to stop legislators from getting to parliament. However, by early Wednesday there were no large crowds and only small pockets of Wickremesinghe supporters gathered near the parliament complex. Rajapakse's party was divided Tuesday on facing a test in parliament. His legislator son Namal Rajapakse said they will attend the legislature, but other party seniors said they would not. Sirisena sacked the legislature after his party admitted that they did not have an absolute majority despite engineering the defections of eight legislators from Wickremesinghe's party. Since then, at least two legislators have ditched Rajapakse and joined Wickremesinghe's UNP party which insists it has a comfortable majority in the House. Wickremesinghe, who insists he is still the prime minister, has refused to vacate the official Temple Trees residence which is a symbol of state power in the island. The power struggle has crippled the work of the administration, according to lawmakers on both sides.

Sri Lanka Parliament to meet today amid 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.&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

The Sri Lankan Supreme Court on Tuesday overturned President Maithripala Sirisena's decision to dissolve the island nation's parliament. The court has stayed President's decision till December 19 and also ordered a halt to preparations for snap elections next year.

Sirisena dissolved Parliament on November 9 and announced snap polls to be held on January 5 next year after it became clear that he did not have enough support in the House to prove the premiership of former president Mahinda Rajapaksa, whom he appointed prime minister after abruptly sacking <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/wickremesinghe-vows-new-alliance-to-face-impending-elections-176935">Ranil Wickremesinghe</a> on October 26.

The three-judge bench headed by the Chief Justice Nalin Perera read out the landmark decision to a packed court that was guarded by hundreds of heavily armed police and commandos.

Rajapaksa needed the support of at least 113 parliamentarians in the 225-member House to prove his majority.

Major political parties and an election commission member on Monday dragged Sirisena to the Supreme Court, challenging his move of dissolving Parliament, almost 20 months before its term was to end.

On Monday, dozens of people booed a legislator loyal to Sirisena as he arrived at the court complex, prompting police to declare the site out of bounds on Tuesday.

Wickremesinghe said his United National Party is currently discussing about building a broader people's organization in what he said to save the country from the current political crisis.

The statement comes amid calls by pro-democracy forces for greater efforts to restore democracy and fears that the country may be sliding back to the pre-2015 situation.&nbsp;

The petitioners had called the president's decision as unconstitutional.

The attorney general of Sri Lanka had backed president Sirisena saying that he invoked his plenary executive power to dissolve the parliament.

The attorney general had also added that the top court has no jurisdiction to hear and determine filed petitions.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Sri Lankan freedom party led by president Maithripala Sirisena called a special meeting at the presidential secretariat.

The move comes after Sri Lanka's new prime minister Rajapaksa and 44 former lawmakers have defected from the party led by president Mithripala Sirisena.

The split with the president's party comes barely two weeks after he installed Rajapaksa in office.

An intense power struggle has erupted in Sri Lanka in the past two weeks following president Sirisena’s sudden sacking of prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and the appointment of former leader Mahinda Rajapaksa.

The Sri Lankan Supreme Court on Tuesday overturned President Maithripala Sirisena's decision to dissolve the island nation's parliament. The court has stayed President's decision till December 19 and also ordered a halt to preparations for snap elections next year.

The Sri Lankan Supreme Court on Tuesday overturned President Maithripala Sirisena's decision to dissolve the island nation's parliament. The court has stayed President's decision till December 19 and also ordered a halt to preparations for snap elections next year. Sirisena dissolved Parliament on November 9 and announced snap polls to be held on January 5 next year after it became clear that he did not have enough support in the House to prove the premiership of former president Mahinda Rajapaksa, whom he appointed prime minister after abruptly sacking Ranil Wickremesinghe on October 26. The three-judge bench headed by the Chief Justice Nalin Perera read out the landmark decision to a packed court that was guarded by hundreds of heavily armed police and commandos. Rajapaksa needed the support of at least 113 parliamentarians in the 225-member House to prove his majority. Major political parties and an election commission member on Monday dragged Sirisena to the Supreme Court, challenging his move of dissolving Parliament, almost 20 months before its term was to end. On Monday, dozens of people booed a legislator loyal to Sirisena as he arrived at the court complex, prompting police to declare the site out of bounds on Tuesday. Wickremesinghe said his United National Party is currently discussing about building a broader people's organization in what he said to save the country from the current political crisis. The statement comes amid calls by pro-democracy forces for greater efforts to restore democracy and fears that the country may be sliding back to the pre-2015 situation. The petitioners had called the president's decision as unconstitutional. The attorney general of Sri Lanka had backed president Sirisena saying that he invoked his plenary executive power to dissolve the parliament. The attorney general had also added that the top court has no jurisdiction to hear and determine filed petitions. Meanwhile, the Sri Lankan freedom party led by president Maithripala Sirisena called a special meeting at the presidential secretariat. The move comes after Sri Lanka's new prime minister Rajapaksa and 44 former lawmakers have defected from the party led by president Mithripala Sirisena. The split with the president's party comes barely two weeks after he installed Rajapaksa in office. An intense power struggle has erupted in Sri Lanka in the past two weeks following president Sirisena’s sudden sacking of prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and the appointment of former leader Mahinda Rajapaksa.

Sri Lanka Supreme Court overturns President Sirisena's decision to dissolve parliament

Sri Lanka crisis: Court hearing ends; interim order expected after 5pm

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