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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sri Lanka's former strongman leader Mahinda Rajapaksa&nbsp;Sunday vowed snap elections would go ahead to "seek a mandate from the people" after the president's sacking of parliament plunged the country deeper into political turmoil.

President Maithripala Sirisena triggered the crisis two weeks ago by sacking prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and replacing him with Rajapaksa&nbsp;in a power swap his rivals say is illegal.

Sirisena dismissed parliament on Friday and called new polls for January 5, throwing the island into fresh chaos as the United States urged Sri Lanka to respect democratic processes.

Wickremesinghe's party had wanted parliament reconvened to prove he commanded a majority, but Sirisena refused and sacked the legislature instead, escalating a standoff between the rival factions.

Rajapaksa, a former president who led Sri Lanka with an iron fist for a decade, said "no one" could stop the polls going ahead.

"The election will go ahead and I am confident we will sweep the election," he told reporters Sunday in his first remarks since the polls were called.

"The international community must realise that this is democracy. They must understand our position. We are seeking a mandate from the people."

Rajapaksa&nbsp;said he was meeting with lawyers ahead of a slew of legal challenges in the Supreme Court to his appointment and the polls.

His rival Wickremesinghe insists he still heads the government and has refused to vacate the prime minister's official residence in Colombo.

Sirisena dissolved parliament less than a week before the legislature was expected to vote on either Rajapaksa&nbsp;and Wickremesinghe.

Sirisena's party had acknowledged that it did not have a majority in the 225-member assembly, despite arranging eight defections from Wickremesinghe's party.

Only China has recognised Rajapaksa's appointment as prime minister.

The United States has led a chorus of international voices expressing concern over threats to democracy in the island of 21 million people strategically located in the Indian Ocean.

Election monitors have questioned the legality of the election, which comes nearly two years ahead of schedule.&nbsp;

The People's Action for Free and Fair Elections, one of two officially sanctioned election monitoring groups, said it believed Sirisena's actions were unconstitutional.

"As an election monitoring group we can't oppose a poll, but there are serious questions about the validity of the president's action in calling this election," its chief Rohana Hettiarachchi told AFP.

He said he had already asked the independent Elections Commission to seek an opinion from the attorney general and an order from the Supreme Court. 
&nbsp;

Sri Lanka's former strongman leader Mahinda Rajapaksa Sunday vowed snap elections would go ahead to "seek a mandate from the people" after the president's sacking of parliament plunged the country deeper into political turmoil.

Sri Lanka's former strongman leader Mahinda Rajapaksa Sunday vowed snap elections would go ahead to "seek a mandate from the people" after the president's sacking of parliament plunged the country deeper into political turmoil. President Maithripala Sirisena triggered the crisis two weeks ago by sacking prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and replacing him with Rajapaksa in a power swap his rivals say is illegal. Sirisena dismissed parliament on Friday and called new polls for January 5, throwing the island into fresh chaos as the United States urged Sri Lanka to respect democratic processes. Wickremesinghe's party had wanted parliament reconvened to prove he commanded a majority, but Sirisena refused and sacked the legislature instead, escalating a standoff between the rival factions. Rajapaksa, a former president who led Sri Lanka with an iron fist for a decade, said "no one" could stop the polls going ahead. "The election will go ahead and I am confident we will sweep the election," he told reporters Sunday in his first remarks since the polls were called. "The international community must realise that this is democracy. They must understand our position. We are seeking a mandate from the people." Rajapaksa said he was meeting with lawyers ahead of a slew of legal challenges in the Supreme Court to his appointment and the polls. His rival Wickremesinghe insists he still heads the government and has refused to vacate the prime minister's official residence in Colombo. Sirisena dissolved parliament less than a week before the legislature was expected to vote on either Rajapaksa and Wickremesinghe. Sirisena's party had acknowledged that it did not have a majority in the 225-member assembly, despite arranging eight defections from Wickremesinghe's party. Only China has recognised Rajapaksa's appointment as prime minister. The United States has led a chorus of international voices expressing concern over threats to democracy in the island of 21 million people strategically located in the Indian Ocean. Election monitors have questioned the legality of the election, which comes nearly two years ahead of schedule. The People's Action for Free and Fair Elections, one of two officially sanctioned election monitoring groups, said it believed Sirisena's actions were unconstitutional. "As an election monitoring group we can't oppose a poll, but there are serious questions about the validity of the president's action in calling this election," its chief Rohana Hettiarachchi told AFP. He said he had already asked the independent Elections Commission to seek an opinion from the attorney general and an order from the Supreme Court.

Election will go ahead, I am confident we will sweep the polls: Rajapaksa

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

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

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

Sri Lanka president Sirisena usurped powers of MPs: Speaker

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

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

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

United States, European Union denounce dissolution of Sri Lanka parliament

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

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

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

Sri Lanka crisis deepens as president calls snap election

WION Gravitas: Exclusive conversation with Ranil Wickremesinghe, Former PM, Sri Lanka

Two weeks into a showdown between rival prime ministers, the Sri Lankan president's party admitted for the first time Friday that it does not have a majority to get its candidate through a parliamentary vote of confidence.

President Maithripala Sirisena named authoritarian former president Mahinda Rajapakse as prime minister after sacking Ranil Wickremesinghe on October 26.

Wickremesinghe has since refused to leave the premier's official residence amid a deepening power struggle. The president also suspended parliament meaning neither of the rivals has been able to pass a vote of confidence.

United People's Freedom Alliance (UPFA) spokesman Keheliya Rambukwella said Rajapakse needs at least eight more votes in the 225 member assembly to reach the required 113 to win a vote.

"At the moment we have 104 or 105 MPs," Rambukwella told reporters. He said the Sirisena-Rajapakse group needed "crossover" legislators and expressed hope enough would be secured by the time the assembly meets next week.

Rambukwella's comments contradicted Sirisena's announcement on Monday that he had the support of 113 legislators when he sacked Wickremesinghe and his government.

"Do not doubt the 113 MPs. We have completed getting 113 MPs," Sirisena told a public rally. The Sirisena-Rajapakse camp has insisted since the start of the dispute that it has enough parliament votes.

Wickremesinghe, who maintains that the action against him was unconstitutional and illegal, insists his group can muster a majority.

According to an AFP count, Wickremesinghe and his allies have 120 MPs while Rajapakse and Sirisena have 104. The speaker, the 225th member, is neutral.

Wickremesinghe remains holed up in his official residence, saying his removal would be illegal, while Rajapakse is running a parallel administration from the prime minister's office.

Sirisena suspended parliament to give himself more time to engineer defections, according to the opposition. Several legislators have said they were offered millions of dollars to defect and at least eight have jumped to Sirisena's side.

Under pressure from the United Nations, the United States and European Union states to allow a parliament vote, Sirisena agreed twice to lift the suspension but changed his mind. &nbsp;His latest order calls for parliament to meet on November 14.

The EU said Friday that the crisis had scarred the Indian Ocean island's international reputation.

Image damaged&nbsp;

Amid rumours that Sirisena may seek to delay matters further, the EU, in a joint statement with Norway and Switzerland, said parliament should vote "immediately when reconvened".

"Any further delay could damage Sri Lanka's international reputation and deter investors," the statement said.

Wickremesinghe late Thursday thanked his supporters and urged them not to give up in the showdown.

"In extraordinary numbers and with extraordinary courage you came out on to the streets, you spoke out," Wickremesinghe said in a video message posted on Facebook.

"You have not let this country be plunged into the darkness of dictatorship. For this inspiring effort, I want to thank everyone who has risen to fight for democracy and justice," he said.

His supporters staged a noisy cavalcade of motorcycles, auto-rickshaws, cars and vans in the capital Colombo on Thursday.

The power struggle on the island of 21 million people has paralysed much of the administration, according to legislators on both sides of the dispute.

Sirisena has filled only 22 of 30 cabinet positions -- purposefully keeping some jobs vacant to tempt legislators of Wickremesinghe's party to defect.

Two weeks into a showdown between rival prime ministers, the Sri Lankan president's party admitted for the first time Friday that it does not have a majority to get its candidate through a parliamentary vote of confidence.

Two weeks into a showdown between rival prime ministers, the Sri Lankan president's party admitted for the first time Friday that it does not have a majority to get its candidate through a parliamentary vote of confidence. President Maithripala Sirisena named authoritarian former president Mahinda Rajapakse as prime minister after sacking Ranil Wickremesinghe on October 26. Wickremesinghe has since refused to leave the premier's official residence amid a deepening power struggle. The president also suspended parliament meaning neither of the rivals has been able to pass a vote of confidence. United People's Freedom Alliance (UPFA) spokesman Keheliya Rambukwella said Rajapakse needs at least eight more votes in the 225 member assembly to reach the required 113 to win a vote. "At the moment we have 104 or 105 MPs," Rambukwella told reporters. He said the Sirisena-Rajapakse group needed "crossover" legislators and expressed hope enough would be secured by the time the assembly meets next week. Rambukwella's comments contradicted Sirisena's announcement on Monday that he had the support of 113 legislators when he sacked Wickremesinghe and his government. "Do not doubt the 113 MPs. We have completed getting 113 MPs," Sirisena told a public rally. The Sirisena-Rajapakse camp has insisted since the start of the dispute that it has enough parliament votes. Wickremesinghe, who maintains that the action against him was unconstitutional and illegal, insists his group can muster a majority. According to an AFP count, Wickremesinghe and his allies have 120 MPs while Rajapakse and Sirisena have 104. The speaker, the 225th member, is neutral. Wickremesinghe remains holed up in his official residence, saying his removal would be illegal, while Rajapakse is running a parallel administration from the prime minister's office. Sirisena suspended parliament to give himself more time to engineer defections, according to the opposition. Several legislators have said they were offered millions of dollars to defect and at least eight have jumped to Sirisena's side. Under pressure from the United Nations, the United States and European Union states to allow a parliament vote, Sirisena agreed twice to lift the suspension but changed his mind. His latest order calls for parliament to meet on November 14. The EU said Friday that the crisis had scarred the Indian Ocean island's international reputation. Image damaged Amid rumours that Sirisena may seek to delay matters further, the EU, in a joint statement with Norway and Switzerland, said parliament should vote "immediately when reconvened". "Any further delay could damage Sri Lanka's international reputation and deter investors," the statement said. Wickremesinghe late Thursday thanked his supporters and urged them not to give up in the showdown. "In extraordinary numbers and with extraordinary courage you came out on to the streets, you spoke out," Wickremesinghe said in a video message posted on Facebook. "You have not let this country be plunged into the darkness of dictatorship. For this inspiring effort, I want to thank everyone who has risen to fight for democracy and justice," he said. His supporters staged a noisy cavalcade of motorcycles, auto-rickshaws, cars and vans in the capital Colombo on Thursday. The power struggle on the island of 21 million people has paralysed much of the administration, according to legislators on both sides of the dispute. Sirisena has filled only 22 of 30 cabinet positions -- purposefully keeping some jobs vacant to tempt legislators of Wickremesinghe's party to defect.

Sri Lanka president Sirisena short of votes in crisis campaign

Two weeks into a showdown between rival prime ministers, the Sri Lankan president's party admitted for the first time Friday that it does not have a majority to get its candidate through a parliamentary vote of confidence.

President Maithripala Sirisena named authoritarian former president Mahinda Rajapakse as prime minister after sacking Ranil Wickremesinghe on October 26.&nbsp;

Wickremesinghe has since refused to leave the premier's official residence however amid a simmering constitutional struggle.

The United People's Freedom Alliance (UPFA) spokesman Keheliya Rambukwella said Rajapakse still needed at least eight more votes in the 225 member assembly to reach the required 113 to win a vote.

"At the moment we have 104 or 105 MPs," Rambukwella told reporters. He said the Sirisena-Rajapakse group needed "crossover" legislators.

Sirisena's party has never previously acknowledged opposition claims it does not have the necessary votes to back the sacking of Wickremesinghe.

Sirisena has suspended parliament to give himself more time to engineer defections. Several legislators have said they were offered millions of dollars to defect and at least eight have jumped to Sirisena's side.

Under international pressure to allow a vote on the rival premiers, Sirisena agreed twice to lift the suspension. His latest order calls for parliament to meet on November 14.

Two weeks into a showdown between rival prime ministers, the Sri Lankan president's party admitted for the first time Friday that it does not have a majority to get its candidate through a parliamentary vote of confidence. President Maithripala Sirisena named authoritarian former president Mahinda Rajapakse as prime minister after sacking Ranil Wickremesinghe on October 26. Wickremesinghe has since refused to leave the premier's official residence however amid a simmering constitutional struggle. The United People's Freedom Alliance (UPFA) spokesman Keheliya Rambukwella said Rajapakse still needed at least eight more votes in the 225 member assembly to reach the required 113 to win a vote. "At the moment we have 104 or 105 MPs," Rambukwella told reporters. He said the Sirisena-Rajapakse group needed "crossover" legislators. Sirisena's party has never previously acknowledged opposition claims it does not have the necessary votes to back the sacking of Wickremesinghe. Sirisena has suspended parliament to give himself more time to engineer defections. Several legislators have said they were offered millions of dollars to defect and at least eight have jumped to Sirisena's side. Under international pressure to allow a vote on the rival premiers, Sirisena agreed twice to lift the suspension. His latest order calls for parliament to meet on November 14.

Sri Lanka's disputed government admits it lacks majority

Watch: WION Gravitas, 8th November, 2018

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe is attempting to guarantee authenticity as the nation's chief, after President Maithripala Sirisena selected former President Mahinda Rajapaksa in his place and therefore prorogued Parliament until November 16.

Sri Lankan Speaker Karu Jayasuriya has said yesterday that he wanted a floor test in parliament to resolve the issue of two prime ministers in the country which arose following the sacking of Ranil Wickremesinghe and replacing him with Mahinda Rajapaksa.

As two prime ministers struggle to cobble up a majority, WION speaks to sacked Prime Minister- Ranil Wickremesinghe on who is to blame.

Blaming President Maithripala Sirisena for the political crisis in Sri Lanka Wickremesinghe said: Sirisena eyeing a second term and his decision led to this crisis.

"Insulting remarks made by Sirisena is a sign of desperation. I never insulted him. It shows how desperate he is," he said.

'This political crisis hurts people's right to franchise. Sri Lankans did not want Rajapaksa in power. People wanted parliamentary democracy," he added.

"I am confident of gaining a majority in parliament, I have enough support. I have the support of more than 113 lawmakers," said Ranil.

On the question of expectations from India he said that the international community wants the constitution to be followed and want parliament to convene as soon as possible.

"We can always put our economy on the right path. But it has cost us a lot. We have to tackle economic issues," said Ranil Wickremesinghe.

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe is attempting to guarantee authenticity as the nation's chief, after President Maithripala Sirisena selected former President Mahinda Rajapaksa in his place and therefore prorogued Parliament until November 16.

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe is attempting to guarantee authenticity as the nation's chief, after President Maithripala Sirisena selected former President Mahinda Rajapaksa in his place and therefore prorogued Parliament until November 16. Sri Lankan Speaker Karu Jayasuriya has said yesterday that he wanted a floor test in parliament to resolve the issue of two prime ministers in the country which arose following the sacking of Ranil Wickremesinghe and replacing him with Mahinda Rajapaksa. As two prime ministers struggle to cobble up a majority, WION speaks to sacked Prime Minister- Ranil Wickremesinghe on who is to blame. Blaming President Maithripala Sirisena for the political crisis in Sri Lanka Wickremesinghe said: Sirisena eyeing a second term and his decision led to this crisis. "Insulting remarks made by Sirisena is a sign of desperation. I never insulted him. It shows how desperate he is," he said. 'This political crisis hurts people's right to franchise. Sri Lankans did not want Rajapaksa in power. People wanted parliamentary democracy," he added. "I am confident of gaining a majority in parliament, I have enough support. I have the support of more than 113 lawmakers," said Ranil. On the question of expectations from India he said that the international community wants the constitution to be followed and want parliament to convene as soon as possible. "We can always put our economy on the right path. But it has cost us a lot. We have to tackle economic issues," said Ranil Wickremesinghe.

Sirisena's decision led to the political crisis in Sri Lanka: Ranil Wickremesinghe to WION

The Interview: Exclusive conversation with Ranil Wickremesinghe, Former PM, Sri Lanka

A rally of hundreds of cars carrying supporters of Sri Lanka's deposed prime minister brought chaos to Colombo streets on Thursday as they demanded that parliament be reopened.

A noisy cavalcade of motorcycles, auto-rickshaws, cars and vans took loyalists of ousted prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe to a rally to hear speeches slamming the president for sacking the head of government last month.

President Maithripala Sirisena named former president Mahinda Rajapakse as the new prime minister in a shock move on October 26, and suspended parliament so neither has won a vote of confidence.

The rival prime ministers have now spent nearly two weeks at loggerheads, and the move -- which has been described as illegal by opponents -- has triggered a constitutional crisis.

Protestors had initially planned to drive to the residence of parliament speaker Karu Jayasuriya to urge him to defy the president and lift the assembly suspension.

But amid traffic chaos, the route was shortened and the rally was staged at Independence Square.&nbsp;

The motorists displayed posters of Wickremesinghe and carried banners which read "People Power".

The US embassy in Colombo issued a security alert warning of traffic hold ups.

"The embassy reminds citizens that even events intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence," it said.

One man was killed and two others wounded in a shooting linked to the constitutional crisis last month.

The power struggle has paralysed much of the administration, according to legislators on both sides of the dispute.

Rajapakse is reportedly trying to engineer defections to ensure he has a majority in the 225 member assembly which Sirisena has said can only reopen on November 14.

Sirisena has filled only 22 of 30 cabinet positions -- purposefully keeping some jobs vacant to tempt legislators of Wickremesinghe's party to defect to Rajapakse's side.

According to the latest counts, Wickremesinghe has 103 MPs after gaining a defector on Tuesday, while Rajapakse and Sirisena have 101.

Most of the remaining 21 MPs are set to oppose Rajapakse, observers say.

A rally of hundreds of cars carrying supporters of Sri Lanka's deposed prime minister brought chaos to Colombo streets on Thursday as they demanded that parliament be reopened.

A rally of hundreds of cars carrying supporters of Sri Lanka's deposed prime minister brought chaos to Colombo streets on Thursday as they demanded that parliament be reopened. A noisy cavalcade of motorcycles, auto-rickshaws, cars and vans took loyalists of ousted prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe to a rally to hear speeches slamming the president for sacking the head of government last month. President Maithripala Sirisena named former president Mahinda Rajapakse as the new prime minister in a shock move on October 26, and suspended parliament so neither has won a vote of confidence. The rival prime ministers have now spent nearly two weeks at loggerheads, and the move -- which has been described as illegal by opponents -- has triggered a constitutional crisis. Protestors had initially planned to drive to the residence of parliament speaker Karu Jayasuriya to urge him to defy the president and lift the assembly suspension. But amid traffic chaos, the route was shortened and the rally was staged at Independence Square. The motorists displayed posters of Wickremesinghe and carried banners which read "People Power". The US embassy in Colombo issued a security alert warning of traffic hold ups. "The embassy reminds citizens that even events intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence," it said. One man was killed and two others wounded in a shooting linked to the constitutional crisis last month. The power struggle has paralysed much of the administration, according to legislators on both sides of the dispute. Rajapakse is reportedly trying to engineer defections to ensure he has a majority in the 225 member assembly which Sirisena has said can only reopen on November 14. Sirisena has filled only 22 of 30 cabinet positions -- purposefully keeping some jobs vacant to tempt legislators of Wickremesinghe's party to defect to Rajapakse's side. According to the latest counts, Wickremesinghe has 103 MPs after gaining a defector on Tuesday, while Rajapakse and Sirisena have 101. Most of the remaining 21 MPs are set to oppose Rajapakse, observers say.

Sri Lanka political rally brings chaos to Colombo streets

Sri Lanka's parliamentary speaker has called the president's sacking of the prime minister to bring a former leader back to power a non-violent coup d'etat.

Speaker Karu Jayasuriya is a key figure in the political standoff that started on October&nbsp;26, when President Maithripala Sirisena fired Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and replaced him with former president Mahinda Rajapaksa.

Wickremesinghe is refusing to vacate his prime ministerial residence and insists he remains in office until voted out by parliament. The president had suspended parliament, a move Rajapaksa's opponents say is aimed at preventing it from rejecting his return to power.

"The entire series of events can only be described as a coup, albeit one without the use of tanks and guns," Speaker Jayasuriya said in a letter dated Nov. 5 to diplomats and foreign missions, adding the "entire matter was pre-planned".

Jayasuriya says the majority of parliamentarians view the change in prime minister as unconstitutional. In the letter he said some of them were offered bribes and ministerial jobs to support the new government.

He accused Sirisena of acting "contrary to all norms of transparency, decency, democracy and good governance, and contrary to the constitution which he has sworn to uphold and defend."

Sirisena says he fired Wickremesinghe because he was trying to implement "a new, extreme liberal political concept by giving more priority for foreign policies and neglecting the local people's sentiment," and denies acting unconstitutionally.

Rajapaksa, under whose rule Sri Lanka achieved its 2009 victory in a decades-long conflict against rebels from the Tamil minority, is seen as a hero by many among Sri Lanka’s Buddhist majority. He has been accused by diplomats of human rights abuses during the war, which he denies.

India and Western countries also worry about his close ties to China, which loaned Sri Lanka billions of dollars for infrastructure projects during his rule.

A foreign ministry official told Reuters that some foreign envoys have said they will only recognise Rajapaksa as prime minister after he can prove he has support of a majority in parliament.

Sirisena has recalled the parliament on Nov. 14. Independent political analysts told Reuters a majority in the 225-member legislature is against the sudden sacking of Wickremesinghe.

At least eight lawmakers have deserted Wickremesinghe and accepted ministerial posts under Rajapaksa, while one deputy minister resigned and joined Wickremesinghe.

Sri Lanka's parliamentary speaker has called the president's sacking of the prime minister to bring a former leader back to power a non-violent coup d'etat. Speaker Karu Jayasuriya is a key figure in the political standoff that started on October 26, when President Maithripala Sirisena fired Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and replaced him with former president Mahinda Rajapaksa.

Sri Lanka's parliamentary speaker has called the president's sacking of the prime minister to bring a former leader back to power a non-violent coup d'etat. Speaker Karu Jayasuriya is a key figure in the political standoff that started on October 26, when President Maithripala Sirisena fired Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and replaced him with former president Mahinda Rajapaksa. Wickremesinghe is refusing to vacate his prime ministerial residence and insists he remains in office until voted out by parliament. The president had suspended parliament, a move Rajapaksa's opponents say is aimed at preventing it from rejecting his return to power. "The entire series of events can only be described as a coup, albeit one without the use of tanks and guns," Speaker Jayasuriya said in a letter dated Nov. 5 to diplomats and foreign missions, adding the "entire matter was pre-planned". Jayasuriya says the majority of parliamentarians view the change in prime minister as unconstitutional. In the letter he said some of them were offered bribes and ministerial jobs to support the new government. He accused Sirisena of acting "contrary to all norms of transparency, decency, democracy and good governance, and contrary to the constitution which he has sworn to uphold and defend." Sirisena says he fired Wickremesinghe because he was trying to implement "a new, extreme liberal political concept by giving more priority for foreign policies and neglecting the local people's sentiment," and denies acting unconstitutionally. Rajapaksa, under whose rule Sri Lanka achieved its 2009 victory in a decades-long conflict against rebels from the Tamil minority, is seen as a hero by many among Sri Lanka’s Buddhist majority. He has been accused by diplomats of human rights abuses during the war, which he denies. India and Western countries also worry about his close ties to China, which loaned Sri Lanka billions of dollars for infrastructure projects during his rule. A foreign ministry official told Reuters that some foreign envoys have said they will only recognise Rajapaksa as prime minister after he can prove he has support of a majority in parliament. Sirisena has recalled the parliament on Nov. 14. Independent political analysts told Reuters a majority in the 225-member legislature is against the sudden sacking of Wickremesinghe. At least eight lawmakers have deserted Wickremesinghe and accepted ministerial posts under Rajapaksa, while one deputy minister resigned and joined Wickremesinghe.

Sri Lanka has suffered a 'coup without guns': Parliament speaker

In a setback to Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena, a deputy minister of his United People's Freedom Alliance (UPFA) government resigned Tuesday and backed ousted prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe in the ongoing political crisis.

President Sirisena sacked Prime Minister Wickremesinghe on October 26 and replaced him with Mahinda Rajapaksa, a controversial former president, and suspended parliamentary proceedings until November 16.

Manusha Nanayakkara, who was in Sirisena/Rajapaksa original list of 96 MPs, said in a letter to Sirisena Tuesday that in his opinion Wickremesinghe was still the legitimate prime minister as accepted by the parliamentary speaker Karu Jayasuriya.

He resigned as the deputy minister of Labour and Foreign Employment to leave the Sirisena camp and join Wickremesinghe. He was sworn in as the deputy minister only on November 1.

In a video message, Nanayakkara said that he does not approve of the arbitrary political appointments that have taken place and will support the struggle to protect and uphold democracy.&nbsp;

Nanayakkara's defection came hours after Sirisena announced publicly that people should not doubt his majority - 113 in the 225-member legislature.

Legislators have been switching sides ever since the island nation was plunged into a political and constitutional crisis with Sirisena's move to sack Wickremesinghe last month.

Rajapaksa had been bolstered by at least 9 defections from Wickremesinghe's United National Party and Tamil National Alliance.

Since the crisis broke out there have been media reports that MPs were offered up to 500 million rupees to switch sides.

Speaker Karu Jayasuriya on Monday slammed Sirisena's "unconstitutional and undemocratic" actions to sack Prime Minister Wickremesinghe and suspend Parliament, saying he will not recognise Rajapaksa as the new premier unless he wins a floor test.

He asked the president to reconvene the parliament for a floor test and end the ongoing political crisis.

Sirisena's side charged that Jayasuriya, a UNP senior, was backing his party leader Wickremesinghe by compromising the neutral position of speaker of parliament.&nbsp;

In a setback to Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena, a deputy minister of his United People's Freedom Alliance (UPFA) government resigned Tuesday and backed ousted prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe in the ongoing political crisis.

In a setback to Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena, a deputy minister of his United People's Freedom Alliance (UPFA) government resigned Tuesday and backed ousted prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe in the ongoing political crisis. President Sirisena sacked Prime Minister Wickremesinghe on October 26 and replaced him with Mahinda Rajapaksa, a controversial former president, and suspended parliamentary proceedings until November 16. Manusha Nanayakkara, who was in Sirisena/Rajapaksa original list of 96 MPs, said in a letter to Sirisena Tuesday that in his opinion Wickremesinghe was still the legitimate prime minister as accepted by the parliamentary speaker Karu Jayasuriya. He resigned as the deputy minister of Labour and Foreign Employment to leave the Sirisena camp and join Wickremesinghe. He was sworn in as the deputy minister only on November 1. In a video message, Nanayakkara said that he does not approve of the arbitrary political appointments that have taken place and will support the struggle to protect and uphold democracy. Nanayakkara's defection came hours after Sirisena announced publicly that people should not doubt his majority - 113 in the 225-member legislature. Legislators have been switching sides ever since the island nation was plunged into a political and constitutional crisis with Sirisena's move to sack Wickremesinghe last month. Rajapaksa had been bolstered by at least 9 defections from Wickremesinghe's United National Party and Tamil National Alliance. Since the crisis broke out there have been media reports that MPs were offered up to 500 million rupees to switch sides. Speaker Karu Jayasuriya on Monday slammed Sirisena's "unconstitutional and undemocratic" actions to sack Prime Minister Wickremesinghe and suspend Parliament, saying he will not recognise Rajapaksa as the new premier unless he wins a floor test. He asked the president to reconvene the parliament for a floor test and end the ongoing political crisis. Sirisena's side charged that Jayasuriya, a UNP senior, was backing his party leader Wickremesinghe by compromising the neutral position of speaker of parliament.

Lanka political crisis: Deputy minister Nanayakkara resigns Sirisena govt, joins Ranil Wickremsinghe

Sri Lankan police chief Pujith Jayasundera said on Wednesday that he was taking orders from President Maithripala Sirisena and he was not in a position to take orders from the law and order minister of ousted prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe.

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Jayasundera was responding to a letter sent to him by Ranjith Madduma Bandara, the Wickremesinghe government's law and order minister, who had directed that all ministers who were in office before October 26 be provided police security.

Jayasundera said that the Ministerial Security could only be provided on the recommendations of President Sirisena. He added that it could not be provided based on requests made by Ministers or other officials.

President Sirisena on October 26 sacked Wickremesinghe as the prime minister and replaced him with Mahinda Rajapaksa, triggering a constitutional crisis in the island.

Parliament Speaker Karu Jayasuriya on Monday slammed Sirisena's "unconstitutional and undemocratic" actions to sack Prime Minister Wickremesinghe and suspend Parliament, saying he will not recognise Rajapaksa as the new premier unless he wins a floor test.

Madduma Bandara had written to Jayasundera following Jayasuriya's recognition of the Wickremesinghe government.

Several MPs of Wickremesinghe's camp have also requested the police chief to provide them with Ministerial Security, saying they were still ministers of the government. 
Rajapaksa needs 113 seats in the 225-member assembly to prove simple majority.

In a setback to President Sirisena, deputy minister Manusha Nanayakkara of his United People's Freedom Alliance (UPFA) government resigned Tuesday and backed ousted prime minister Wickremesinghe in the ongoing political crisis.

Nanayakkara's defection came hours after Sirisena announced publicly that people should not doubt his majority - 113 in the 225-member legislature.

Meanwhile, the main Tamil party - Tamil National Alliance - said Sirisena met the party leaders this morning to urge them to change their stance of opposing the Rajapaksa appointment.

The TNA leader MA Sumanthiran said they told Sirisena that their stance stood and there will be no reversal.

The party also urged Sirisena to reconvene parliament at an earlier date than the scheduled November 14. Sirisena said their request would be considered.&nbsp;

Sri Lankan police chief Pujith Jayasundera said on Wednesday that he was taking orders from President Maithripala Sirisena and he was not in a position to take orders from the law and order minister of ousted prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe.

Sri Lankan police chief Pujith Jayasundera said on Wednesday that he was taking orders from President Maithripala Sirisena and he was not in a position to take orders from the law and order minister of ousted prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe. Inspector General of Police (IGP) Jayasundera was responding to a letter sent to him by Ranjith Madduma Bandara, the Wickremesinghe government's law and order minister, who had directed that all ministers who were in office before October 26 be provided police security. Jayasundera said that the Ministerial Security could only be provided on the recommendations of President Sirisena. He added that it could not be provided based on requests made by Ministers or other officials. President Sirisena on October 26 sacked Wickremesinghe as the prime minister and replaced him with Mahinda Rajapaksa, triggering a constitutional crisis in the island. Parliament Speaker Karu Jayasuriya on Monday slammed Sirisena's "unconstitutional and undemocratic" actions to sack Prime Minister Wickremesinghe and suspend Parliament, saying he will not recognise Rajapaksa as the new premier unless he wins a floor test. Madduma Bandara had written to Jayasundera following Jayasuriya's recognition of the Wickremesinghe government. Several MPs of Wickremesinghe's camp have also requested the police chief to provide them with Ministerial Security, saying they were still ministers of the government. Rajapaksa needs 113 seats in the 225-member assembly to prove simple majority. In a setback to President Sirisena, deputy minister Manusha Nanayakkara of his United People's Freedom Alliance (UPFA) government resigned Tuesday and backed ousted prime minister Wickremesinghe in the ongoing political crisis. Nanayakkara's defection came hours after Sirisena announced publicly that people should not doubt his majority - 113 in the 225-member legislature. Meanwhile, the main Tamil party - Tamil National Alliance - said Sirisena met the party leaders this morning to urge them to change their stance of opposing the Rajapaksa appointment. The TNA leader MA Sumanthiran said they told Sirisena that their stance stood and there will be no reversal. The party also urged Sirisena to reconvene parliament at an earlier date than the scheduled November 14. Sirisena said their request would be considered.

Sri Lanka police chief says he's taking orders from President

Thousands of Sri Lankans marched Monday in support of a new government led by the country's former strongman, highlighting the political polarization in the Indian Ocean island nation.

The rally near Parliament came amid a constitutional crisis sparked by President Maithripala Sirisena's move to oust Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, replace him with ex-leader Mahinda Rajapaksa and suspend Parliament.

Wickremesinghe has refused to vacate his official residence, insisting he is the lawful prime minister and that the president had no constitutional right to replace him. Thousands of his supporters have been keeping vigil.

Supporters of Rajapaksa at the rally chanted "Whose power is this? Mahinda's power!"&nbsp;

As patriotic songs blared over loudspeakers, thousands shuffled through heavy rain toward a makeshift stage. Police and Sri Lankan special forces with semi-automatic rifles stood guard.

Pradeep Kariyawasam, the head of Rajapaksa's party in Colombo, said that although Wickremesinghe continues to maintain he is the country's legitimate leader, "the people are with us."&nbsp;

"Give people a chance to choose their government and not hide behind constitutional interpretations," he said.

Sirisena and Rajapaksa arrived at the rally amid loud cheers.

Sirisena told the crowd that the change he initiated was more than a personnel shift.

"I ousted a vision that is incompatible with our local culture and values, and that works according to foreign agendas," Sirisena said.

"For the past 3 ? years, poor people were suppressed by Ranil Wickremesinghe's economic and political vision. Local thoughts were rejected and an extreme neo-liberal form of governance was carried out."&nbsp;

He was referring to Wickremesinghe's free-market economic policies and public-private partnerships with companies from China and India to operate strategic centers such as ports and airports.

Rajapaksa supporters have accused Wickremesinghe of selling Sri Lanka's assets, citing a 99-year lease agreement his government struck with Hong Kong conglomerate China Merchants Port Holdings Co Ltd last year to operate a failing port developed with Chinese debt during Rajapaksa's decadelong presidency.

Critics of Sirisena's actions say Parliament was suspended to give Rajapaksa time to gather enough support to survive a no-confidence vote when lawmakers reconvene November 14.

Parliament Speaker Karu Jayasuriya said on Monday that he won't recognize the new appointments until either side is able to prove it has a majority. It means that the speaker still recognizes a Wickremesinghe-led Parliament.

"I wish to emphasize that I am compelled to accept the status that existed previously until such time that they (the pro-Wickremesinghe lawmakers) and the new political alliance prove their majority in Parliament," he said.

The statement was fuel at Rajapaksa's five-hour rally. Lawmaker Susil Premjayantha told the crowd that electing a new speaker could be the first order of business when Parliament reopens, suggesting the party will bring a no-confidence motion against Jayasuriya.

Wickremesinghe said in an interview with The Associated Press last week that there is credible evidence that Rajapaksa's party is attempting to buy support in Parliament. Palitha Range Bandara, a United National Party lawmaker, has said that he was offered millions of dollars and a minister portfolio if he crossed over.

Lawmakers from Rajapaksa's party have denied the allegations. Seven members of Wickremesinghe's United National Front have defected to Rajapaksa's government.

On Saturday, the Tamil National Alliance ? an ethnic minority Tamil party ? said it will support a no-confidence motion to be brought against Rajapaksa, after one lawmaker from their party joined Rajapaksa's government.

The Tamil party's 15 votes could give Wickremesinghe's camp a decisive edge over Rajapaksa.

Both Sirisena and Rajapaksa attempted to woo Tamil lawmakers in their speeches at the rally.

Speaking in the Tamil language, Rajapaksa promised to fulfill the Tamil people's needs.

"What I ask from all Tamil and (Tamil-speaking) Muslim people and their political parties is to help to build up our country. I trust you and you can always trust me," Rajapaksa said.

Ethnic minority Tamils in the country's north and east are still reeling from the effects of a 26-year civil war between Tamil Tiger separatists and government troops.

Rajapaksa is seen as a hero by the ethnic Sinhalese majority for winning the conflict.

Tens of thousands of civilians were reportedly killed in the final months of the war in 2009, when government troops brutally crushed the rebels. Thousands more are still missing.

Sirisena came into power in 2015 promising to address the issues affecting the Tamils and investigate allegations of war crimes against both sides of the conflict, but has done little in either area. He was also critical of investigations into military personnel accused of human rights violations during the civil war.

Tensions had been building between Sirisena and Wickremesinghe for some time, as the president did not approve of economic reforms introduced by the prime minister.

Sirisena said at the rally that he would not be discouraged by resistance in Parliament, civil society and the international community to his actions.

"Even if there are threats, pressure and forces, I will only move forward and will not take a step back," he said.

Thousands of Sri Lankans marched Monday in support of a new government led by the country's former strongman, highlighting the political polarization in the Indian Ocean island nation.

Thousands of Sri Lankans marched Monday in support of a new government led by the country's former strongman, highlighting the political polarization in the Indian Ocean island nation. The rally near Parliament came amid a constitutional crisis sparked by President Maithripala Sirisena's move to oust Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, replace him with ex-leader Mahinda Rajapaksa and suspend Parliament. Wickremesinghe has refused to vacate his official residence, insisting he is the lawful prime minister and that the president had no constitutional right to replace him. Thousands of his supporters have been keeping vigil. Supporters of Rajapaksa at the rally chanted "Whose power is this? Mahinda's power!" As patriotic songs blared over loudspeakers, thousands shuffled through heavy rain toward a makeshift stage. Police and Sri Lankan special forces with semi-automatic rifles stood guard. Pradeep Kariyawasam, the head of Rajapaksa's party in Colombo, said that although Wickremesinghe continues to maintain he is the country's legitimate leader, "the people are with us." "Give people a chance to choose their government and not hide behind constitutional interpretations," he said. Sirisena and Rajapaksa arrived at the rally amid loud cheers. Sirisena told the crowd that the change he initiated was more than a personnel shift. "I ousted a vision that is incompatible with our local culture and values, and that works according to foreign agendas," Sirisena said. "For the past 3 ? years, poor people were suppressed by Ranil Wickremesinghe's economic and political vision. Local thoughts were rejected and an extreme neo-liberal form of governance was carried out." He was referring to Wickremesinghe's free-market economic policies and public-private partnerships with companies from China and India to operate strategic centers such as ports and airports. Rajapaksa supporters have accused Wickremesinghe of selling Sri Lanka's assets, citing a 99-year lease agreement his government struck with Hong Kong conglomerate China Merchants Port Holdings Co Ltd last year to operate a failing port developed with Chinese debt during Rajapaksa's decadelong presidency. Critics of Sirisena's actions say Parliament was suspended to give Rajapaksa time to gather enough support to survive a no-confidence vote when lawmakers reconvene November 14. Parliament Speaker Karu Jayasuriya said on Monday that he won't recognize the new appointments until either side is able to prove it has a majority. It means that the speaker still recognizes a Wickremesinghe-led Parliament. "I wish to emphasize that I am compelled to accept the status that existed previously until such time that they (the pro-Wickremesinghe lawmakers) and the new political alliance prove their majority in Parliament," he said. The statement was fuel at Rajapaksa's five-hour rally. Lawmaker Susil Premjayantha told the crowd that electing a new speaker could be the first order of business when Parliament reopens, suggesting the party will bring a no-confidence motion against Jayasuriya. Wickremesinghe said in an interview with The Associated Press last week that there is credible evidence that Rajapaksa's party is attempting to buy support in Parliament. Palitha Range Bandara, a United National Party lawmaker, has said that he was offered millions of dollars and a minister portfolio if he crossed over. Lawmakers from Rajapaksa's party have denied the allegations. Seven members of Wickremesinghe's United National Front have defected to Rajapaksa's government. On Saturday, the Tamil National Alliance ? an ethnic minority Tamil party ? said it will support a no-confidence motion to be brought against Rajapaksa, after one lawmaker from their party joined Rajapaksa's government. The Tamil party's 15 votes could give Wickremesinghe's camp a decisive edge over Rajapaksa. Both Sirisena and Rajapaksa attempted to woo Tamil lawmakers in their speeches at the rally. Speaking in the Tamil language, Rajapaksa promised to fulfill the Tamil people's needs. "What I ask from all Tamil and (Tamil-speaking) Muslim people and their political parties is to help to build up our country. I trust you and you can always trust me," Rajapaksa said. Ethnic minority Tamils in the country's north and east are still reeling from the effects of a 26-year civil war between Tamil Tiger separatists and government troops. Rajapaksa is seen as a hero by the ethnic Sinhalese majority for winning the conflict. Tens of thousands of civilians were reportedly killed in the final months of the war in 2009, when government troops brutally crushed the rebels. Thousands more are still missing. Sirisena came into power in 2015 promising to address the issues affecting the Tamils and investigate allegations of war crimes against both sides of the conflict, but has done little in either area. He was also critical of investigations into military personnel accused of human rights violations during the civil war. Tensions had been building between Sirisena and Wickremesinghe for some time, as the president did not approve of economic reforms introduced by the prime minister. Sirisena said at the rally that he would not be discouraged by resistance in Parliament, civil society and the international community to his actions. "Even if there are threats, pressure and forces, I will only move forward and will not take a step back," he said.

Thousands march in support of Sri Lanka's new government

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

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

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

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

Sri Lanka's speaker of parliament said on Monday he would not accept a former president Mahinda Rajapaksa as the new prime minister until he proves he commands a majority in parliament.

President Maithripala Sirisena fired the sitting prime minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sacked-sri-lankan-pms-residence-becomes-symbol-of-power-struggle-175415">Ranil Wickremesinghe</a> on October&nbsp;26 and appointed Rajapaksa in his place, drawing criticism from political parties and the international community.

"The majority of the members are of the view that the changes done in the parliament are unconstitutional and against the traditions," the speaker of parliament, Karu Jayasuriya, said in a statement.

"Therefore, I am requested by the majority of the parliament to accept the position which was prior to these changes. Until the new group shows the majority, I will have to accept the status quo prior to the changes."

<img alt="Lanka Speaker statement" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="135f3d4b-a676-4532-a2fc-38ecb77f2036" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Lanka-Speaker.jpg" />

(Speaker Karu Jayasuriya's statement in Tamil)

President Sirisena, who also suspended the country's parliament, has meanwhile <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/as-pressure-grows-sri-lanka-president-sirisena-summons-parliament-on-november-14-175551">ordered it to be reconvened</a> on November 14, clearing the way for a vote on his October 26 decision.

Wickremesinghe has called his dismissal "unconstitutional". His United National Party submitted a motion to that effect to parliament but Sirisena suspended its session until November 16, citing a need for Rajapaksa to make arrangements for the new government prevented the vote.

It was not clear if and when the 225-member parliament would vote on the UNP's motion that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-tamils-push-parliament-to-end-crisis-175433">Wickremesinghe's dismissal was illegal</a>.

Rajapaksa led Sri Lanka to a military defeat of Tamil separatist guerrillas in 2009 but has since faced widespread allegations of human rights abuse and targeting of Tamil civilians.

Wickremesinghe said earlier on Sunday that the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lankas-ousted-pm-says-us-japan-freeze-aid-over-political-crisis-175408">United States and Japan</a> had frozen more than a billion dollars of development aid after his abrupt dismissal raised doubts about the future of democracy in the island.

Sirisena's summons came after Wickremesinghe's UNP said on Friday that 118 lawmakers had met the Speaker to demand parliament be allowed to convene.

Before Wickremesinghe's dismissal, the UNP held 107 seats. Of those, eight have defected to support Rajapaksa. One out of 16 Tamil MPs also joined Rajapaksa.

Among the causes for the animosity between Wickremesinghe and Sirisena is Wickremesinghe's refusal to back the president's bid to stand in the next election in late 2019. Sirisena has also accused Wickremesinghe's government of not taking seriously an alleged assassination plot against him.

Sri Lanka's speaker of parliament said on Monday he would not accept a former president Mahinda Rajapaksa as the new prime minister until he proves he commands a majority in parliament.

Sri Lanka's speaker of parliament said on Monday he would not accept a former president Mahinda Rajapaksa as the new prime minister until he proves he commands a majority in parliament. President Maithripala Sirisena fired the sitting prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on October 26 and appointed Rajapaksa in his place, drawing criticism from political parties and the international community. "The majority of the members are of the view that the changes done in the parliament are unconstitutional and against the traditions," the speaker of parliament, Karu Jayasuriya, said in a statement. "Therefore, I am requested by the majority of the parliament to accept the position which was prior to these changes. Until the new group shows the majority, I will have to accept the status quo prior to the changes." (Speaker Karu Jayasuriya's statement in Tamil) President Sirisena, who also suspended the country's parliament, has meanwhile ordered it to be reconvened on November 14, clearing the way for a vote on his October 26 decision. Wickremesinghe has called his dismissal "unconstitutional". His United National Party submitted a motion to that effect to parliament but Sirisena suspended its session until November 16, citing a need for Rajapaksa to make arrangements for the new government prevented the vote. It was not clear if and when the 225-member parliament would vote on the UNP's motion that Wickremesinghe's dismissal was illegal. Rajapaksa led Sri Lanka to a military defeat of Tamil separatist guerrillas in 2009 but has since faced widespread allegations of human rights abuse and targeting of Tamil civilians. Wickremesinghe said earlier on Sunday that the United States and Japan had frozen more than a billion dollars of development aid after his abrupt dismissal raised doubts about the future of democracy in the island. Sirisena's summons came after Wickremesinghe's UNP said on Friday that 118 lawmakers had met the Speaker to demand parliament be allowed to convene. Before Wickremesinghe's dismissal, the UNP held 107 seats. Of those, eight have defected to support Rajapaksa. One out of 16 Tamil MPs also joined Rajapaksa. Among the causes for the animosity between Wickremesinghe and Sirisena is Wickremesinghe's refusal to back the president's bid to stand in the next election in late 2019. Sirisena has also accused Wickremesinghe's government of not taking seriously an alleged assassination plot against him.

Sri Lanka Speaker recognises Ranil Wickremesinghe as Prime Minister

The Tamil National Alliance (TNA), a political alliance in Sri Lanka that represents the country`s Tamil minority, has decided to back the no-confidence motion brought by the United National Party against newly sworn-in Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa.

In a statement, the TNA on Saturday refused to recognise Rajapaksa as Sri Lanka`s new prime minister and denounced the sacking of former prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe as "unconstitutional and illegal".

The alliance added that the country`s President Maithripala Sirisena did not have the absolute power to remove a sitting premier from office, Colombo Page reported.

The TNA also condemned Sirisena`s move to suspend the Sri Lankan Parliament, amid the political turmoil in the island nation, terming it as "undemocratic" and violation of parliamentary supremacy.

Political turmoil erupted in Sri Lanka after Sirisena sacked Wickremesinghe on October 26 and replaced him with Rajapaksa following the collapse of the governing coalition between the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) and UNP.

The island nation also witnessed massive protests when hundreds of protesters took to the streets of Colombo against the sacking of Wickremesinghe and demanded reconvening of Parliament to end the constitutional crisis.&nbsp;

The Tamil National Alliance (TNA), a political alliance in Sri Lanka that represents the country`s Tamil minority, has decided to back the no-confidence motion brought by the United National Party against newly sworn-in Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa.

The Tamil National Alliance (TNA), a political alliance in Sri Lanka that represents the country`s Tamil minority, has decided to back the no-confidence motion brought by the United National Party against newly sworn-in Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa. In a statement, the TNA on Saturday refused to recognise Rajapaksa as Sri Lanka`s new prime minister and denounced the sacking of former prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe as "unconstitutional and illegal". The alliance added that the country`s President Maithripala Sirisena did not have the absolute power to remove a sitting premier from office, Colombo Page reported. The TNA also condemned Sirisena`s move to suspend the Sri Lankan Parliament, amid the political turmoil in the island nation, terming it as "undemocratic" and violation of parliamentary supremacy. Political turmoil erupted in Sri Lanka after Sirisena sacked Wickremesinghe on October 26 and replaced him with Rajapaksa following the collapse of the governing coalition between the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) and UNP. The island nation also witnessed massive protests when hundreds of protesters took to the streets of Colombo against the sacking of Wickremesinghe and demanded reconvening of Parliament to end the constitutional crisis.

Sri Lanka: Tamil National Alliance to support no-trust motion against Rajapaksa

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-south-korea-set-delayed-military-drills-north-korea-urges-end-to-pressure-175443">US, South Korea set delayed military drills; North Korea urges </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-south-korea-set-delayed-military-drills-north-korea-urges-end-to-pressure-175443">end</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-south-korea-set-delayed-military-drills-north-korea-urges-end-to-pressure-175443"> to pressure</a>

The United States and South Korea will begin small-scale military drills on Monday that were delayed during talks with North Korea, days after Pyongyang threatened to restart work on its nuclear programme if international pressure does not ease.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lankas-ousted-pm-says-us-japan-freeze-aid-over-political-crisis-175408">Sri Lanka's ousted PM Wickremesinghe says US, Japan freeze aid over </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lankas-ousted-pm-says-us-japan-freeze-aid-over-political-crisis-175408">political</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lankas-ousted-pm-says-us-japan-freeze-aid-over-political-crisis-175408"> crisis</a>

Sri Lanka's deposed Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said the United States and Japan had frozen more than a billion dollars of development aid after his abrupt dismissal raised doubts about the future of democracy in the island.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-backs-pakistans-quest-for-peace-through-dialogue-with-india-175430">China backs Pakistan's 'quest for peace through dialogue' with India</a>

China on Sunday said it supported Pakistan's "quest for peace through dialogue" to settle the outstanding disputes with India and backed Islamabad's engagement with the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG).

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-readies-to-boost-supplies-over-iran-oil-sanctions-175412">Saudi Arabia readies to boost supplies over Iran oil sanctions</a>

With Washington poised to curtail Iran's oil exports, OPEC heavyweight Saudi Arabia and its partners stand ready to ramp up supplies even as market conditions remain uncertain, analysts say.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/19-militants-killed-in-security-operation-after-attack-on-christians-egypt-175420">19 militants killed in security operation after </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/19-militants-killed-in-security-operation-after-attack-on-christians-egypt-175420">attack</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/19-militants-killed-in-security-operation-after-attack-on-christians-egypt-175420"> on Christians: Egypt</a>

Egyptian security forces killed 19 Islamist militants from a cell believed to be responsible for an attack on Christians in Minya province in central Egypt which left seven people dead, the interior ministry said on Sunday.

US, South Korea set delayed military drills; North Korea urges end to pressure The United States and South Korea will begin small-scale military drills on Monday that were delayed during talks with North Korea, days after Pyongyang threatened to restart work on its nuclear programme if international pressure does not ease.

US, South Korea set delayed military drills; North Korea urges end to pressure The United States and South Korea will begin small-scale military drills on Monday that were delayed during talks with North Korea, days after Pyongyang threatened to restart work on its nuclear programme if international pressure does not ease. Sri Lanka's ousted PM Wickremesinghe says US, Japan freeze aid over political crisis Sri Lanka's deposed Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said the United States and Japan had frozen more than a billion dollars of development aid after his abrupt dismissal raised doubts about the future of democracy in the island. China backs Pakistan's 'quest for peace through dialogue' with India China on Sunday said it supported Pakistan's "quest for peace through dialogue" to settle the outstanding disputes with India and backed Islamabad's engagement with the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG). Saudi Arabia readies to boost supplies over Iran oil sanctions With Washington poised to curtail Iran's oil exports, OPEC heavyweight Saudi Arabia and its partners stand ready to ramp up supplies even as market conditions remain uncertain, analysts say. 19 militants killed in security operation after attack on Christians: Egypt Egyptian security forces killed 19 Islamist militants from a cell believed to be responsible for an attack on Christians in Minya province in central Egypt which left seven people dead, the interior ministry said on Sunday.

News brief: Big stories of the day

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

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

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

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

Sri Lanka's sacked prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe has warned time is running out to avert a "bloodbath" while voicing hope that parliament will resolve a damaging constitutional crisis in the coming days.

Wickremesinghe, who has been holed up at the prime minister's official residence for more than a week as thousands of supporters gather outside, told AFP in an interview that "desperate people" could cause chaos on the Indian Ocean island.

The 69-year-old was sacked out-of-the-blue on October 26 by President Maithripala Sirisena, with domineering former president Mahinda Rajapakse named in his place.

However Wickremesinghe refused to accept his dismissal and has not left the sprawling colonial-era Temple Trees residence -- where Buddhist monks now chant prayers outside -- since.

Sirisena also suspended parliament in an apparent bid to prevent opposition to his move, deepening the turmoil that has seen at least one man killed in a shooting last weekend linked to the power struggle.

"We will be calling on our people not to resort to violence," Wickremesinghe said late Friday. "But you don't know what arises in a situation like this.

"A few desperate people can start off a bloodbath."

His comments echoed the fears of parliament speaker Karu Jayasuriya who warned of bloodshed on the streets if a vote is not held by lawmakers to decide between the two leaders.

Wickremesinghe, head of the United National Party, already the biggest group in parliament, has also called for such a vote and is trying to rally allies to the cause.

But stopping parliament from meeting has given Rajapakse -- still popular despite his strongarm tactics to end the country's Tamil civil war and corruption allegations -- more time to try to win support.

Wickremesinghe said he hoped the showdown could be ended peacefully and expressed optimism that a solution to the crisis would soon be found.

"I feel parliament is going to prevail finally. This can't take too long. I would say in a week to 10 days at the most," he said, adding the priority was to establish parliament's "supremacy".

Wickremesinghe said two smaller parties -- the Marxist Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna and the Tamil National Alliance -- were backing his call for the legislature to meet despite obstacles placed by Sirisena.

The two parties signed a petition to the parliament speaker on Friday demanding the reconvening of the 225-member assembly on November 7.

"A majority of parliament has said all these actions (of the president) are not legitimate and not in accordance with the constitution," said Wickremesinghe.

According to the latest counts, Wickremesinghe has 103 MPs while Rajapakse and Sirisena together have 100. Most of the 22 remaining MPs are expected to back Wickremesinghe, observers said.

Street battles feared&nbsp;

A majority of legislators want Sirisena to end the suspension of parliament by Wednesday and any delay is "against the wishes of all the parties", according to the embattled Wickremesinghe.

Apart from political pressure on Sirisena, civil society groups are also stepping up agitation to ensure the constitution is respected, Wickremesinghe said.&nbsp;

After sacking his prime minister, Sirisena addressed the nation and lambasted Wickremesinghe, saying they could not work together because of serious personal and cultural differences.

A divorce of their coalition was inevitable after just over three years, Sirisena said.&nbsp;Wickremesinghe had expected a confrontation but not the sack.

"We knew there would be problems by somewhere in November, but it came a bit sooner than I thought," he added.

Sirisena accused Wickremesinghe, a trained lawyer who favours a liberal economy, of being dictatorial and ignoring the president in cabinet.

Wickremesinghe hit back saying their personal rivalry was not an excuse for a constitutional war.

"The constitution doesn't make provisions for personality clashes," he said. "In cabinet there are people you like and you may not like."

Wickremesinghe is from an elitist family with an urban upbringing, poles apart from Sirisena who is from a modest rural farming family.

They made common cause to end Rajapakse's decade in power in a 2015 presidential election but have drifted apart since over economic policy and day-to-day decisions.

Sirisena has also accused Wickremesinghe of being an autocratic leader of the UNP.

"He is not a member of the UNP," Wickremesinghe hit back. "He can say whatever he wants."

Sri Lanka's sacked prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe has warned time is running out to avert a "bloodbath" while voicing hope that parliament will resolve a damaging constitutional crisis in the coming days.

Sri Lanka's sacked prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe has warned time is running out to avert a "bloodbath" while voicing hope that parliament will resolve a damaging constitutional crisis in the coming days. Wickremesinghe, who has been holed up at the prime minister's official residence for more than a week as thousands of supporters gather outside, told AFP in an interview that "desperate people" could cause chaos on the Indian Ocean island. The 69-year-old was sacked out-of-the-blue on October 26 by President Maithripala Sirisena, with domineering former president Mahinda Rajapakse named in his place. However Wickremesinghe refused to accept his dismissal and has not left the sprawling colonial-era Temple Trees residence -- where Buddhist monks now chant prayers outside -- since. Sirisena also suspended parliament in an apparent bid to prevent opposition to his move, deepening the turmoil that has seen at least one man killed in a shooting last weekend linked to the power struggle. "We will be calling on our people not to resort to violence," Wickremesinghe said late Friday. "But you don't know what arises in a situation like this. "A few desperate people can start off a bloodbath." His comments echoed the fears of parliament speaker Karu Jayasuriya who warned of bloodshed on the streets if a vote is not held by lawmakers to decide between the two leaders. Wickremesinghe, head of the United National Party, already the biggest group in parliament, has also called for such a vote and is trying to rally allies to the cause. But stopping parliament from meeting has given Rajapakse -- still popular despite his strongarm tactics to end the country's Tamil civil war and corruption allegations -- more time to try to win support. Wickremesinghe said he hoped the showdown could be ended peacefully and expressed optimism that a solution to the crisis would soon be found. "I feel parliament is going to prevail finally. This can't take too long. I would say in a week to 10 days at the most," he said, adding the priority was to establish parliament's "supremacy". Wickremesinghe said two smaller parties -- the Marxist Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna and the Tamil National Alliance -- were backing his call for the legislature to meet despite obstacles placed by Sirisena. The two parties signed a petition to the parliament speaker on Friday demanding the reconvening of the 225-member assembly on November 7. "A majority of parliament has said all these actions (of the president) are not legitimate and not in accordance with the constitution," said Wickremesinghe. According to the latest counts, Wickremesinghe has 103 MPs while Rajapakse and Sirisena together have 100. Most of the 22 remaining MPs are expected to back Wickremesinghe, observers said. Street battles feared A majority of legislators want Sirisena to end the suspension of parliament by Wednesday and any delay is "against the wishes of all the parties", according to the embattled Wickremesinghe. Apart from political pressure on Sirisena, civil society groups are also stepping up agitation to ensure the constitution is respected, Wickremesinghe said. After sacking his prime minister, Sirisena addressed the nation and lambasted Wickremesinghe, saying they could not work together because of serious personal and cultural differences. A divorce of their coalition was inevitable after just over three years, Sirisena said. Wickremesinghe had expected a confrontation but not the sack. "We knew there would be problems by somewhere in November, but it came a bit sooner than I thought," he added. Sirisena accused Wickremesinghe, a trained lawyer who favours a liberal economy, of being dictatorial and ignoring the president in cabinet. Wickremesinghe hit back saying their personal rivalry was not an excuse for a constitutional war. "The constitution doesn't make provisions for personality clashes," he said. "In cabinet there are people you like and you may not like." Wickremesinghe is from an elitist family with an urban upbringing, poles apart from Sirisena who is from a modest rural farming family. They made common cause to end Rajapakse's decade in power in a 2015 presidential election but have drifted apart since over economic policy and day-to-day decisions. Sirisena has also accused Wickremesinghe of being an autocratic leader of the UNP. "He is not a member of the UNP," Wickremesinghe hit back. "He can say whatever he wants."

Sri Lanka's ousted PM  Ranil Wickremesinghe says time running out to avert 'bloodbath'

In a boost for newly-appointed Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, a lawmaker from the main Tamil party defected to the premier's side and was made a minister on Friday even as President Maithripala Sirisena agreed to summon Parliament on November 7 for a floor test to end the political turmoil.

Rajapaksa claims he now has enough numbers to prove his majority and at least five of ousted premier Ranil Wickremasinghe's men have defected to his side.

The current suspension of Parliament is seen as key to Rajapaksa negotiating for enough defections.

Rajapaksa was further bolstered by the defection of TNA MP S Vilenthiriyan from the eastern district of Batticaloa, who was made the deputy minister of eastern development.&nbsp;

Wickremasinghe's United National Party said they have handed over a motion of no confidence against new Prime Minister Rajapaksa.

Senior UNP member Lakshman Kiriella said Secretary General of Parliament was informed of the motion.

The Rajapaksa-Sirisena combine has 96 MPs in the 225-member assembly, which is 17 short of the 113 required working majority.

Meanwhile, Parliament Speaker Karu Jayasuriya said that Sirisena has agreed to summon the legislature on November 7, in a fresh twist to the ongoing political crisis after former strongman Rajapaksa replaced Wickremesinghe as prime minister.

There was confusion since Thursday on the date when the parliamentary deadlock would end as Sirisena had suspended the sittings until November 16.

In a boost for newly-appointed Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, a lawmaker from the main Tamil party defected to the premier's side and was made a minister on Friday even as President Maithripala Sirisena agreed to summon Parliament on November 7 for a floor test to end the political turmoil.

In a boost for newly-appointed Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, a lawmaker from the main Tamil party defected to the premier's side and was made a minister on Friday even as President Maithripala Sirisena agreed to summon Parliament on November 7 for a floor test to end the political turmoil. Rajapaksa claims he now has enough numbers to prove his majority and at least five of ousted premier Ranil Wickremasinghe's men have defected to his side. The current suspension of Parliament is seen as key to Rajapaksa negotiating for enough defections. Rajapaksa was further bolstered by the defection of TNA MP S Vilenthiriyan from the eastern district of Batticaloa, who was made the deputy minister of eastern development. Wickremasinghe's United National Party said they have handed over a motion of no confidence against new Prime Minister Rajapaksa. Senior UNP member Lakshman Kiriella said Secretary General of Parliament was informed of the motion. The Rajapaksa-Sirisena combine has 96 MPs in the 225-member assembly, which is 17 short of the 113 required working majority. Meanwhile, Parliament Speaker Karu Jayasuriya said that Sirisena has agreed to summon the legislature on November 7, in a fresh twist to the ongoing political crisis after former strongman Rajapaksa replaced Wickremesinghe as prime minister. There was confusion since Thursday on the date when the parliamentary deadlock would end as Sirisena had suspended the sittings until November 16.

Rajapaksa poaches Tamil MP ahead of crucial trust vote on November 7 

Attempts to win over MP defectors intensified in Sri Lanka's constitutional crisis Saturday amid growing pressure to let the suspended parliament hold a vote on the two rivals who each claim to be prime minister.

Ousted premier Ranil Wickremesinghe has refused to accept his surprise sacking by President Maithripala Sirisena, who named former strongman president Mahinda Rajapakse in his place.

Rajapakse has eaten into Wickremesinghe's majority amid warnings from pro-democracy and anti-corruption groups about the tactics being used.

A member of Wickremesinghe's United National Party, S.B. Nawinna, defected on Friday night and was rewarded with the cultural affairs portfolio in Rajapakse's government.

A deputy from a Tamil party supporting Wickremesinghe also switched sides and was made a deputy minister.

"We are expecting a few more defections on Saturday," a source close to President Sirisena said.

Wickremesinghe has remained in the official prime minister's residence since his sacking on October 26.

He claims to have majority support in the 225-member parliament but is still seeking to woo MPs from the Sirisena-Rajapakse camp, his aides said.

According to latest counts, Wickremesinghe has 103 MPs while Rajapakse and Sirisena together have 100. Most of the 22 remaining MPs are expected to back Wickremesinghe, observers said.

Huge amounts are reportedly being offered to defectors.

A UNP stalwart, Range Bandara, said this week he was offered US $2.8 million to cross over and support Rajapakse.

A pro-democracy movement urged MPs not to sell their votes and undermine the will of the people.

"We appeal to you not to allow parliament to be put up for sale. You have a responsibility to prevent Sri Lanka from being plunged further into a moral and ethical political abyss," the Movement for Democracy said.

The Transparency International anti-graft watchdog highlighted the country's Bribery Act which made accepting and offering inducements a jailable offence.

The president suspended parliament for 20 days in a move to forestall a parliamentary vote that would have gone against his choice for prime minister.

But parliament speaker Karu Jayasuriya has called a meeting for next Wednesday. The president has ordered parliament closed until November 16.

"We believe that the proroguing of parliament is to gain time to buy over sufficient cross overs," the Movement for Democracy said.

It expressed alarm at ministerial positions being given for&nbsp;changing political loyalties. "We demand a stop to this culture of buying and selling votes," the group said.

The minority Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) party, which has seven lawmakers, said its members had also rejected offers to join the Sirisena-Rajapakse camp.

SLMC leader Rauff Hakeem said the political horse-trading made an early parliament meeting even more important.

Meanwhile, United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres joined&nbsp;international calls for Sirisena to end the suspension of parliament.

The UN chief told Sirisena he was following the crisis in Sri Lanka "with concern," and "urged the president to revert to parliamentary procedures and allow the parliament to vote as soon as possible," a UN statement said.

Attempts to win over MP defectors intensified in Sri Lanka's constitutional crisis Saturday amid growing pressure to let the suspended parliament hold a vote on the two rivals who each claim to be prime minister.

Attempts to win over MP defectors intensified in Sri Lanka's constitutional crisis Saturday amid growing pressure to let the suspended parliament hold a vote on the two rivals who each claim to be prime minister. Ousted premier Ranil Wickremesinghe has refused to accept his surprise sacking by President Maithripala Sirisena, who named former strongman president Mahinda Rajapakse in his place. Rajapakse has eaten into Wickremesinghe's majority amid warnings from pro-democracy and anti-corruption groups about the tactics being used. A member of Wickremesinghe's United National Party, S.B. Nawinna, defected on Friday night and was rewarded with the cultural affairs portfolio in Rajapakse's government. A deputy from a Tamil party supporting Wickremesinghe also switched sides and was made a deputy minister. "We are expecting a few more defections on Saturday," a source close to President Sirisena said. Wickremesinghe has remained in the official prime minister's residence since his sacking on October 26. He claims to have majority support in the 225-member parliament but is still seeking to woo MPs from the Sirisena-Rajapakse camp, his aides said. According to latest counts, Wickremesinghe has 103 MPs while Rajapakse and Sirisena together have 100. Most of the 22 remaining MPs are expected to back Wickremesinghe, observers said. Huge amounts are reportedly being offered to defectors. A UNP stalwart, Range Bandara, said this week he was offered US $2.8 million to cross over and support Rajapakse. A pro-democracy movement urged MPs not to sell their votes and undermine the will of the people. "We appeal to you not to allow parliament to be put up for sale. You have a responsibility to prevent Sri Lanka from being plunged further into a moral and ethical political abyss," the Movement for Democracy said. The Transparency International anti-graft watchdog highlighted the country's Bribery Act which made accepting and offering inducements a jailable offence. The president suspended parliament for 20 days in a move to forestall a parliamentary vote that would have gone against his choice for prime minister. But parliament speaker Karu Jayasuriya has called a meeting for next Wednesday. The president has ordered parliament closed until November 16. "We believe that the proroguing of parliament is to gain time to buy over sufficient cross overs," the Movement for Democracy said. It expressed alarm at ministerial positions being given for changing political loyalties. "We demand a stop to this culture of buying and selling votes," the group said. The minority Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) party, which has seven lawmakers, said its members had also rejected offers to join the Sirisena-Rajapakse camp. SLMC leader Rauff Hakeem said the political horse-trading made an early parliament meeting even more important. Meanwhile, United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres joined international calls for Sirisena to end the suspension of parliament. The UN chief told Sirisena he was following the crisis in Sri Lanka "with concern," and "urged the president to revert to parliamentary procedures and allow the parliament to vote as soon as possible," a UN statement said.

Sri Lanka rivals target defectors to end political crisis

By Andreas Johansson

A constitutional crisis has erupted in Sri Lanka, prompting fears of a “bloodbath”. The crisis was triggered when the country’s president, Maithripala Sirisena, sacked the prime minister, Ranil Wickramasinghe, and appointed the former president, Mahinda Rajapaksa, as his replacement.

Wickramasinghe and his supporters claim that Sirisena’s move is unconstitutional. Indeed, Wickramasinghe still considers himself to be prime minister and refuses to step down, leaving Sri Lanka with two prime ministers.&nbsp;

Wickramasinghe also has prominent supporters, including finance and media minister, Mangala Samaraweera, who wrote on Facebook that Sirisena’s action amounted to a coup.

Sirisena initially claimed that he had the constitutional right to fire Wickramasinghe. But he subsequently admitted that Sri Lanka was in a political crisis and suspended parliament.

On October 28, there were reports of gunshots fired against an angry mob following an attack on another of Wickramasinghe’s supporters, the former petroleum minister, Arjuna Ranatunga. One member of the mob was killed and two were injured.

Sirisena has been strongly criticised over the last few days. The speaker of parliament, Karu Jayasuriya, questioned Sirisena’s action in a statement issued on October 28. He then reportedly told journalists the next day, "We should settle this through parliament, but if we take it out to the streets, there will be a huge bloodbath."

Meanwhile, Rajapaksa, the new prime minister, has called for fresh parliamentary elections, and “a new democratic beginning and the rejection of the politics of hate”.

Chaos reigns

This political chaos has a long backstory. Rajapaksa’s appointment by Sirisena came as a surprise to many as the two former allies had become rivals during the 2015 presidential election. Rajapaksa had been president since 2005, but was narrowly defeated by Sirisena in 2015. Rajapaksa was also accused of corruption and nepotism during his time as president.

Nevertheless, it’s not entirely surprising that Sirisena has chosen Rajapaksa as his prime minister over Wickramasinghe. Even though they were political allies in Sri Lanka’s unity government, the relationship between Sirisena and Wickramasinghe was beset by problems. During the last few years, they had been unable to agree on economic policy or how to run the country in general. In fact, the United People’s Freedom Alliance, recently quit the unity government of Wickramasinghe as a result.

Another reason why Sirisena has turned to Rajapaksa is that the latter has proved that he still has enough power to garner votes. In February 2018, Sri Lanka held local elections – during which Rajapaksa and his newly formed political party, Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna, won a major victory, which shook Sirisena’s presidency.

Local elections in Sri Lanka do not have the same impact as the parliamentary or presidential elections, but Rajapaksa’s win showed that he is still politically attractive to the majority Sinhala community. Even though he was defeated by Sirisena in the 2015 presidential election, Rajapaksa clearly has no intention of giving up his desire to become a key political figure.

The role of China and India

Another consideration is the role of China – or rather the proxy power struggle between India and China over Sri Lanka.

During Rajapaksa’s presidency, China invested heavily in infrastructure projects around the country and Rajapaksa continues to have strong ties with the emerging superpower. Wickramasinghe’s government, on the other hand, had set its sights on India, which promised to invest in the country’s infrastructure. Wickramasinghe’s recent visit to India was a clear indication of where his priorities lay, possibly putting at risk China’s investment in the country.

To complicate matters further, a police officer was recently arrested and charged with planning to assassinate president Sirisena. A newspaper in India also stated that Sirisena had accused the Indian intelligence services of being behind this plot. Sirisena has not confirmed this, but it could explain why he’d favour closer ties with Rajapaksa (and China) over Wickramasinghe (and India).

India made an official statement on October 28 saying that it hoped that “democratic values would be respected”. China’s ambassador in Sri Lanka, meanwhile, congratulated Rajapaksa on his new appointment.

What now?

When Sirisena was elected president in 2015 he promised to look into the war crimes that Sri Lanka was accused of by the international community following the end of the country’s bloody civil war in 2009. This was something that Rajapaksa had avoided doing during his presidency.

A UNHCR report accused both the Sri Lankan government and the Tamil Tigers of war crimes. But three years into Sirisena’s presidency and he has now clearly sided with the Sri Lankan armed forces, claiming that no war crimes were committed by the government. In this sense, Sirisena and Rajapaksa have another thing in common.

But could this spark a whole new wave of violence? Certainly, the political situation is worrying for Sri Lanka’s minority Tamil and Muslim communities. With the government in crisis, there are also now murmurs of a new wave of Sinhala nationalism – and inflammatory exchanges between the two sides will do nothing to stem it. The fire has been laid, it seems; the question now is when it will be lit. 
&nbsp;

(Andreas Johansson is Director of Swedish South Asian Studies Network (SASNET), Lund University)

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/sri-lanka-as-constitutional-crisis-triggers-fears-of-bloodbath-concern-mounts-for-minorities-105990">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

 
&nbsp;

By Andreas Johansson A constitutional crisis has erupted in Sri Lanka, prompting fears of a “bloodbath”. The crisis was triggered when the country’s president, Maithripala Sirisena, sacked the prime minister, Ranil Wickramasinghe, and appointed the former president, Mahinda Rajapaksa, as his replacement.

By Andreas Johansson A constitutional crisis has erupted in Sri Lanka, prompting fears of a “bloodbath”. The crisis was triggered when the country’s president, Maithripala Sirisena, sacked the prime minister, Ranil Wickramasinghe, and appointed the former president, Mahinda Rajapaksa, as his replacement. Wickramasinghe and his supporters claim that Sirisena’s move is unconstitutional. Indeed, Wickramasinghe still considers himself to be prime minister and refuses to step down, leaving Sri Lanka with two prime ministers. Wickramasinghe also has prominent supporters, including finance and media minister, Mangala Samaraweera, who wrote on Facebook that Sirisena’s action amounted to a coup. Sirisena initially claimed that he had the constitutional right to fire Wickramasinghe. But he subsequently admitted that Sri Lanka was in a political crisis and suspended parliament. On October 28, there were reports of gunshots fired against an angry mob following an attack on another of Wickramasinghe’s supporters, the former petroleum minister, Arjuna Ranatunga. One member of the mob was killed and two were injured. Sirisena has been strongly criticised over the last few days. The speaker of parliament, Karu Jayasuriya, questioned Sirisena’s action in a statement issued on October 28. He then reportedly told journalists the next day, "We should settle this through parliament, but if we take it out to the streets, there will be a huge bloodbath." Meanwhile, Rajapaksa, the new prime minister, has called for fresh parliamentary elections, and “a new democratic beginning and the rejection of the politics of hate”. Chaos reigns This political chaos has a long backstory. Rajapaksa’s appointment by Sirisena came as a surprise to many as the two former allies had become rivals during the 2015 presidential election. Rajapaksa had been president since 2005, but was narrowly defeated by Sirisena in 2015. Rajapaksa was also accused of corruption and nepotism during his time as president. Nevertheless, it’s not entirely surprising that Sirisena has chosen Rajapaksa as his prime minister over Wickramasinghe. Even though they were political allies in Sri Lanka’s unity government, the relationship between Sirisena and Wickramasinghe was beset by problems. During the last few years, they had been unable to agree on economic policy or how to run the country in general. In fact, the United People’s Freedom Alliance, recently quit the unity government of Wickramasinghe as a result. Another reason why Sirisena has turned to Rajapaksa is that the latter has proved that he still has enough power to garner votes. In February 2018, Sri Lanka held local elections – during which Rajapaksa and his newly formed political party, Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna, won a major victory, which shook Sirisena’s presidency. Local elections in Sri Lanka do not have the same impact as the parliamentary or presidential elections, but Rajapaksa’s win showed that he is still politically attractive to the majority Sinhala community. Even though he was defeated by Sirisena in the 2015 presidential election, Rajapaksa clearly has no intention of giving up his desire to become a key political figure. The role of China and India Another consideration is the role of China – or rather the proxy power struggle between India and China over Sri Lanka. During Rajapaksa’s presidency, China invested heavily in infrastructure projects around the country and Rajapaksa continues to have strong ties with the emerging superpower. Wickramasinghe’s government, on the other hand, had set its sights on India, which promised to invest in the country’s infrastructure. Wickramasinghe’s recent visit to India was a clear indication of where his priorities lay, possibly putting at risk China’s investment in the country. To complicate matters further, a police officer was recently arrested and charged with planning to assassinate president Sirisena. A newspaper in India also stated that Sirisena had accused the Indian intelligence services of being behind this plot. Sirisena has not confirmed this, but it could explain why he’d favour closer ties with Rajapaksa (and China) over Wickramasinghe (and India). India made an official statement on October 28 saying that it hoped that “democratic values would be respected”. China’s ambassador in Sri Lanka, meanwhile, congratulated Rajapaksa on his new appointment. What now? When Sirisena was elected president in 2015 he promised to look into the war crimes that Sri Lanka was accused of by the international community following the end of the country’s bloody civil war in 2009. This was something that Rajapaksa had avoided doing during his presidency. A UNHCR report accused both the Sri Lankan government and the Tamil Tigers of war crimes. But three years into Sirisena’s presidency and he has now clearly sided with the Sri Lankan armed forces, claiming that no war crimes were committed by the government. In this sense, Sirisena and Rajapaksa have another thing in common. But could this spark a whole new wave of violence? Certainly, the political situation is worrying for Sri Lanka’s minority Tamil and Muslim communities. With the government in crisis, there are also now murmurs of a new wave of Sinhala nationalism – and inflammatory exchanges between the two sides will do nothing to stem it. The fire has been laid, it seems; the question now is when it will be lit. (Andreas Johansson is Director of Swedish South Asian Studies Network (SASNET), Lund University) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Political chaos in Sri Lanka has a long backstory

A Sri Lankan legislator on Friday said he had been offered $2.8 million and a ministerial post by a telephone caller from the opposite camp to switch his support to new Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa in a week-old political crisis.

President Maithripala Sirisena fired Ranil Wickremesinghe as prime minister and named Rajapaksa in a surprise move last week that has drawn criticism from political parties and the international community.

Wickremesinghe called his sacking illegal and demanded a floor test in parliament to show he retains his majority. The session has been set for Wednesday, the speaker of parliament has said.

On Friday, a member of parliament from Wickremesinghe's party, Palitha Range Bandara, said a caller from the Rajapaksa camp urged him to defect before the parliament session.

"A proxy for Rajapaksa called me today and offered 500 million rupees to support the new prime minister and they also offered a cabinet portfolio," Bandara told Reuters.

He did not identify the caller but said he would go to the country's anti-graft commission with a complaint.

Rajapaksa's party dismissed the allegation. "We did not offer money to anybody, we don't have money to offer to anybody," said one of its legislators, Mahindananda Aluthgamage.

"If someone offered him money he can go to police and lodge a complaint."

The speaker of parliament in the Indian Ocean island, Karu Jayasuriya, said Sirisena had agreed to call parliament on Nov. 7, following calls for an early session to end the crisis. But the president's office has not yet issued a formal statement.

Critics say the longer he delays calling the legislature, the more allegations of defections and bribes will emerge.

Wickremesinghe's United National Party said 118 lawmakers had met the speaker on Friday in a show of their strength in the 225-member parliament and to demand a parliament session.

"There are dealers going around and trying to buy MPs as if it is a marketplace. This is a shame to the dignity of the MPs," Rauff Hakeem, a legislator, told Reuters after meeting the speaker.

The United States and the European Union have urged Sirisena to honour the constitution and said parliament must be allowed to choose its leader.

The European Union could deny Sri Lanka duty-free access to its market if the island backs off its rights commitments, the grouping's envoy has said.

But Sirisena held his ground, saying he had told UN Secretary General António Guterres in a telephone conversation that his action accorded with the law.

"I assured him that the appointment of the new Prime Minister has been done in keeping with the constitution of Sri Lanka," Sirisena said on social network Twitter.

&nbsp;

A Sri Lankan legislator on Friday said he had been offered $2.8 million and a ministerial post by a telephone caller from the opposite camp to switch his support to new Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa in a week-old political crisis.

A Sri Lankan legislator on Friday said he had been offered $2.8 million and a ministerial post by a telephone caller from the opposite camp to switch his support to new Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa in a week-old political crisis. President Maithripala Sirisena fired Ranil Wickremesinghe as prime minister and named Rajapaksa in a surprise move last week that has drawn criticism from political parties and the international community. Wickremesinghe called his sacking illegal and demanded a floor test in parliament to show he retains his majority. The session has been set for Wednesday, the speaker of parliament has said. On Friday, a member of parliament from Wickremesinghe's party, Palitha Range Bandara, said a caller from the Rajapaksa camp urged him to defect before the parliament session. "A proxy for Rajapaksa called me today and offered 500 million rupees to support the new prime minister and they also offered a cabinet portfolio," Bandara told Reuters. He did not identify the caller but said he would go to the country's anti-graft commission with a complaint. Rajapaksa's party dismissed the allegation. "We did not offer money to anybody, we don't have money to offer to anybody," said one of its legislators, Mahindananda Aluthgamage. "If someone offered him money he can go to police and lodge a complaint." The speaker of parliament in the Indian Ocean island, Karu Jayasuriya, said Sirisena had agreed to call parliament on Nov. 7, following calls for an early session to end the crisis. But the president's office has not yet issued a formal statement. Critics say the longer he delays calling the legislature, the more allegations of defections and bribes will emerge. Wickremesinghe's United National Party said 118 lawmakers had met the speaker on Friday in a show of their strength in the 225-member parliament and to demand a parliament session. "There are dealers going around and trying to buy MPs as if it is a marketplace. This is a shame to the dignity of the MPs," Rauff Hakeem, a legislator, told Reuters after meeting the speaker. The United States and the European Union have urged Sirisena to honour the constitution and said parliament must be allowed to choose its leader. The European Union could deny Sri Lanka duty-free access to its market if the island backs off its rights commitments, the grouping's envoy has said. But Sirisena held his ground, saying he had told UN Secretary General António Guterres in a telephone conversation that his action accorded with the law. "I assured him that the appointment of the new Prime Minister has been done in keeping with the constitution of Sri Lanka," Sirisena said on social network Twitter.

Sri Lankan MP says telephone caller offered $2.8 million to back new PM

Sri Lanka's speaker on Friday defied the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-crisis-presidents-party-u-turns-on-parliament-suspension-174961">president's order to suspend parliamen</a>t and called a meeting of lawmakers next week to discuss a worsening constitutional crisis, reported news agency AFP.

"The speaker met a majority of MPs at a committee room and promised he will open parliament on November 7," Karu Jayasuriya's spokesman told.

President Maithripala Sirisena's party has said the 225-member assembly must remain shut until November 16 amid turmoil over his <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-crisis-thousands-take-streets-to-protest-against-ranil-wickremesinghe-sacking-174423">sacking of Ranil Wickremesinghe</a> as prime minister.

The country was thrown into political turmoil after Sirisena named <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/south-asia/mahinda-rajapaksa-sri-lankas-lord-of-the-rings-back-in-power-174789">Mahinda Rajapaksa as prime minister</a> last week after sacking the unity government of Wickremesinghe.&nbsp;

Jayasuriya told more than 118 MPs, a majority of the House, that he could not ignore their demands to call the parliament in a bid to end the impasse, the report added.

Wickremesinghe's United National Party says that the president wants to shut down parliament for as long as possible to give himself more time to engineer defections in support of Rajapakse.

"It is clear that Rajapakse does not have the numbers in parliament to justify getting the prime minister post," UNP spokesman Harsha de Silva said. "They are now trying to wriggle out of this crisis."

Sri Lanka's speaker on Friday defied the president's order to suspend parliament and called a meeting of lawmakers next week to discuss a worsening constitutional crisis, reported news agency AFP.

Sri Lanka's speaker on Friday defied the president's order to suspend parliament and called a meeting of lawmakers next week to discuss a worsening constitutional crisis, reported news agency AFP. "The speaker met a majority of MPs at a committee room and promised he will open parliament on November 7," Karu Jayasuriya's spokesman told. President Maithripala Sirisena's party has said the 225-member assembly must remain shut until November 16 amid turmoil over his sacking of Ranil Wickremesinghe as prime minister. The country was thrown into political turmoil after Sirisena named Mahinda Rajapaksa as prime minister last week after sacking the unity government of Wickremesinghe. Jayasuriya told more than 118 MPs, a majority of the House, that he could not ignore their demands to call the parliament in a bid to end the impasse, the report added. Wickremesinghe's United National Party says that the president wants to shut down parliament for as long as possible to give himself more time to engineer defections in support of Rajapakse. "It is clear that Rajapakse does not have the numbers in parliament to justify getting the prime minister post," UNP spokesman Harsha de Silva said. "They are now trying to wriggle out of this crisis."

Sri Lankan Speaker defies president, vows to convene parliament next week

Maithripala Sirisena is likely to agree to reconvene Sri Lankan Parliament next week, Speaker Karu Jayasuriya's office said on Wednesday, amid indications that a compromise is being worked out to avoid a showdown between the President and ousted premier Ranil Wickremesinghe.

Speaker Jayasuriya held emergency talks with President Sirisena on Wednesday evening to convince him on the need to reconvene Parliament to try and end the current political impasse over the sacking of Prime Minister Wickremesinghe last Friday.

The meeting came after Attorney General Jayantha Jayasuriya earlier on Wednesday refused to endorse the President's dismissal of Wickremesinghe for former strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa.

The attorney general refused to give an opinion to Jayasuriya over the sacking of Wickremesinghe, saying it would be "deemed inappropriate". Some political experts have opined that it is clear sign that the attorney general considers the move as unconstitutional.

Wickremesinghe's sacking was carried out by Sirisena inspite of the 19th amendment to the Constitution which had stripped president's powers to sack a prime minister.

Immediately after Rajapaksa's appointment Sirisena suspended parliament until November 16, which experts said was meant to buy time to engineer crossovers from Wickremesinghe's side to Rajapaksa in the 225-member parliament to reach the 113 working majority mark.

Jayasuriya had insisted since the crisis broke out that it needs to be resolved in parliament with a floor test.

Sirisena has faced relentless international pressure to reconvene parliament to allow a floor test. Countries other than China and Burundi have not recognised Rajapaksa as the new prime minister.

The Speaker, seeking the AG's opinion, had asked five questions including the one on the validity of President Maithripala Sirisena dismissing Wickremesinghe as the premier.

The attorney general wrote to the speaker: "Having regard to the role of the Attorney General under the Constitution, I am of the view that expressing an opinion on the said questions would be deemed inappropriate".

Sirisena is under increasing political and diplomatic pressure to reconvene Parliament and resolve the constitutional crisis.

Wickremesinghe, who is refusing to accept his dismissal, argues that he cannot legally be dismissed until he loses the support of Parliament.

On Tuesday, angry protests rocked Sri Lanka's capital as thousands of demonstrators gathered for a rally organised by deposed prime minister Wickremesinghe's party against what it said was a "coup" by President Sirisena, even as the opposing sides were engaged in efforts to secure their numbers in Parliament to end the country's political crisis.

Amidst the political turmoil in Sri Lanka, a top UN envoy here met President Sirisena Wednesday and discussed the prevailing political crisis.

United Nations Resident Coordinator Hanaa Singer met Sirisena days after UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed "great concern" over the deepening political crisis and called on the country's government to respect democratic values and constitutional provisions and process.

Meanwhile, new prime minister Rajapaksa assumed duties on Wednesday.

Maithripala Sirisena is likely to agree to reconvene Sri Lankan Parliament next week, Speaker Karu Jayasuriya's office said on Wednesday, amid indications that a compromise is being worked out to avoid a showdown between the President and ousted premier Ranil Wickremesinghe.

Maithripala Sirisena is likely to agree to reconvene Sri Lankan Parliament next week, Speaker Karu Jayasuriya's office said on Wednesday, amid indications that a compromise is being worked out to avoid a showdown between the President and ousted premier Ranil Wickremesinghe. Speaker Jayasuriya held emergency talks with President Sirisena on Wednesday evening to convince him on the need to reconvene Parliament to try and end the current political impasse over the sacking of Prime Minister Wickremesinghe last Friday. The meeting came after Attorney General Jayantha Jayasuriya earlier on Wednesday refused to endorse the President's dismissal of Wickremesinghe for former strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa. The attorney general refused to give an opinion to Jayasuriya over the sacking of Wickremesinghe, saying it would be "deemed inappropriate". Some political experts have opined that it is clear sign that the attorney general considers the move as unconstitutional. Wickremesinghe's sacking was carried out by Sirisena inspite of the 19th amendment to the Constitution which had stripped president's powers to sack a prime minister. Immediately after Rajapaksa's appointment Sirisena suspended parliament until November 16, which experts said was meant to buy time to engineer crossovers from Wickremesinghe's side to Rajapaksa in the 225-member parliament to reach the 113 working majority mark. Jayasuriya had insisted since the crisis broke out that it needs to be resolved in parliament with a floor test. Sirisena has faced relentless international pressure to reconvene parliament to allow a floor test. Countries other than China and Burundi have not recognised Rajapaksa as the new prime minister. The Speaker, seeking the AG's opinion, had asked five questions including the one on the validity of President Maithripala Sirisena dismissing Wickremesinghe as the premier. The attorney general wrote to the speaker: "Having regard to the role of the Attorney General under the Constitution, I am of the view that expressing an opinion on the said questions would be deemed inappropriate". Sirisena is under increasing political and diplomatic pressure to reconvene Parliament and resolve the constitutional crisis. Wickremesinghe, who is refusing to accept his dismissal, argues that he cannot legally be dismissed until he loses the support of Parliament. On Tuesday, angry protests rocked Sri Lanka's capital as thousands of demonstrators gathered for a rally organised by deposed prime minister Wickremesinghe's party against what it said was a "coup" by President Sirisena, even as the opposing sides were engaged in efforts to secure their numbers in Parliament to end the country's political crisis. Amidst the political turmoil in Sri Lanka, a top UN envoy here met President Sirisena Wednesday and discussed the prevailing political crisis. United Nations Resident Coordinator Hanaa Singer met Sirisena days after UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed "great concern" over the deepening political crisis and called on the country's government to respect democratic values and constitutional provisions and process. Meanwhile, new prime minister Rajapaksa assumed duties on Wednesday.

Sirisena may reconvene Parliament next week as AG refuses to endorse sacking of Wickremesinghe

The Sri Lankan president's party on Thursday reignited a constitutional crisis over which of two rival prime ministers heads the government by insisting that parliament will remain suspended.

A spokesman for President Maithripala Sirisena's party announced the new u-turn just hours after Sirisena told diplomats in Colombo that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-presidents-climbdown-offers-hope-of-end-to-political-crisis-174935">parliament would be allowed</a> to meet on Monday.

Sirisena set off the crisis last Friday by sacking Ranil Wickremesinghe as prime minister and bringing in former strongman leader Mahinda Rajapakse.

Wickremesinghe refused to accept the dismissal and the president suspended parliament.

The announcement of a Monday meeting had boosted hopes that lawmakers would be allowed to vote on which of the arch-foes they support. Rajapakse had also told a meeting of academics in Colombo that the legislature will be recalled on Monday.

But at the end of the day, Sirisena party spokesman Mahindananda Aluthgamage told reporters parliament will only reconvene on November 16 in line with the early suspension order. "On Monday we will have a mass rally near parliament."

In parallel, the Rajapakse administration announced measures to reduce personal and corporate taxes and cut the price of fuel and several commodities. Observers said this could be an attempt to win over the population.

The renewed suspension still came as a new bombshell in the dispute which will mark one week with much of the government paralysed.

Parliament speaker Karu Jayasuriya warned this week that delaying the reopening of parliament could lead to a "bloodbath" on the streets. One activist has already been killed in fallout from the tensions.

Sirisena agreed to lift the suspension in a meeting late Wednesday with Jayasuriya, according to officials. But the speaker's staff said no written notification of the deal was ever sent.

The crisis has put the country on edge, threatens to polarise voters and also caused international concern.

Sirisena insists his actions were legal but Jayasuriya, who holds the third most powerful state post, has refused to defend the president's manoeuvres.

Attorney General Jayantha Jayasuriya has also cast doubt on the legality of Sirisena's moves, increasing pressure on the president.

Foreign pressure

Colombo-based Western diplomats have made it clear that they were unwilling to recognise the new administration, diplomatic sources said.&nbsp;

The United States, neighbouring India and Sri Lanka's key financial backer China have called on the rivals to peacefully resolve the crisis.

Wickremesinghe has remained bunkered in the prime minister's official residence in Colombo with hundreds of his followers camped outside.

He has repeatedly demanded that the legislature be recalled for him to prove his majority in the 225-member assembly.

Rajapakse, whose decade as president up to 2015 became known for corruption allegations and the brutal ending of the Tamil civil war, is working out of a separate building that is officially the prime minister's offices.

The 72-year-old has named a small ministerial team of 12 and addressed bureaucrats at the finance ministry on Wednesday. He added another 14 ministers on Thursday night.

The two rivals are also jockeying for power behind the scenes, battling to tempt lawmakers from opposing sides to bolster their numbers for when a vote is held.

Both sides have asked legislators on foreign visits to return home immediately.

Rajapakse has given five legislators from Wickremesinghe's party ministerial positions in his cabinet after they defected.

Wickremesinghe has convinced at least two lawmakers from Sirisena's camp to join his United National Party.

According to the latest counts, Wickremesinghe has 104 MPs while Rajapakse and Sirisena together have 99. A majority of the 22 remaining MPs are expected to back Wickremesinghe, observers said.

Even if the crisis is patched up, observers are worried about how the country will go into a presidential election scheduled for next year and legislative polls in 2020.

"The struggle for power jeopardises progress on reforms, ethnic reconciliation, and prospects for peaceful and fair elections in 2019," said the International Crisis Group think tank.&nbsp;

It has called on the United States, European Union and other key nations to put more pressure on Sirisena to end the battle.

"They should back these calls by making clear that Rajapakse's appointment, if it stands, threatens the future of security and economic cooperation."

The Sri Lankan president's party on Thursday reignited a constitutional crisis over which of two rival prime ministers heads the government by insisting that parliament will remain suspended.

The Sri Lankan president's party on Thursday reignited a constitutional crisis over which of two rival prime ministers heads the government by insisting that parliament will remain suspended. A spokesman for President Maithripala Sirisena's party announced the new u-turn just hours after Sirisena told diplomats in Colombo that parliament would be allowed to meet on Monday. Sirisena set off the crisis last Friday by sacking Ranil Wickremesinghe as prime minister and bringing in former strongman leader Mahinda Rajapakse. Wickremesinghe refused to accept the dismissal and the president suspended parliament. The announcement of a Monday meeting had boosted hopes that lawmakers would be allowed to vote on which of the arch-foes they support. Rajapakse had also told a meeting of academics in Colombo that the legislature will be recalled on Monday. But at the end of the day, Sirisena party spokesman Mahindananda Aluthgamage told reporters parliament will only reconvene on November 16 in line with the early suspension order. "On Monday we will have a mass rally near parliament." In parallel, the Rajapakse administration announced measures to reduce personal and corporate taxes and cut the price of fuel and several commodities. Observers said this could be an attempt to win over the population. The renewed suspension still came as a new bombshell in the dispute which will mark one week with much of the government paralysed. Parliament speaker Karu Jayasuriya warned this week that delaying the reopening of parliament could lead to a "bloodbath" on the streets. One activist has already been killed in fallout from the tensions. Sirisena agreed to lift the suspension in a meeting late Wednesday with Jayasuriya, according to officials. But the speaker's staff said no written notification of the deal was ever sent. The crisis has put the country on edge, threatens to polarise voters and also caused international concern. Sirisena insists his actions were legal but Jayasuriya, who holds the third most powerful state post, has refused to defend the president's manoeuvres. Attorney General Jayantha Jayasuriya has also cast doubt on the legality of Sirisena's moves, increasing pressure on the president. Foreign pressure Colombo-based Western diplomats have made it clear that they were unwilling to recognise the new administration, diplomatic sources said. The United States, neighbouring India and Sri Lanka's key financial backer China have called on the rivals to peacefully resolve the crisis. Wickremesinghe has remained bunkered in the prime minister's official residence in Colombo with hundreds of his followers camped outside. He has repeatedly demanded that the legislature be recalled for him to prove his majority in the 225-member assembly. Rajapakse, whose decade as president up to 2015 became known for corruption allegations and the brutal ending of the Tamil civil war, is working out of a separate building that is officially the prime minister's offices. The 72-year-old has named a small ministerial team of 12 and addressed bureaucrats at the finance ministry on Wednesday. He added another 14 ministers on Thursday night. The two rivals are also jockeying for power behind the scenes, battling to tempt lawmakers from opposing sides to bolster their numbers for when a vote is held. Both sides have asked legislators on foreign visits to return home immediately. Rajapakse has given five legislators from Wickremesinghe's party ministerial positions in his cabinet after they defected. Wickremesinghe has convinced at least two lawmakers from Sirisena's camp to join his United National Party. According to the latest counts, Wickremesinghe has 104 MPs while Rajapakse and Sirisena together have 99. A majority of the 22 remaining MPs are expected to back Wickremesinghe, observers said. Even if the crisis is patched up, observers are worried about how the country will go into a presidential election scheduled for next year and legislative polls in 2020. "The struggle for power jeopardises progress on reforms, ethnic reconciliation, and prospects for peaceful and fair elections in 2019," said the International Crisis Group think tank. It has called on the United States, European Union and other key nations to put more pressure on Sirisena to end the battle. "They should back these calls by making clear that Rajapakse's appointment, if it stands, threatens the future of security and economic cooperation."

Sri Lanka crisis: President Maithripala Sirisena's party backtracks on parliament suspension

Day after <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/mahinda-rajapaksa-sri-lankas-lord-of-the-rings-back-in-power-174789">Mahinda Rajapaksa</a> took oath as the new Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, his son and Member of Parliament Namal has reached out to India. New Delhi is yet to endorse Rajapaksa's prime ministership, saying it is "watching developments closely." In an exclusive interview to WION, Namal Rajapaksa, who in the past has accused India of influencing elections and acting against his father's presidency, has said they're "ready to put the past behind."

"Indian influence in the region is very important. India has to play a bigger role when it comes to the region's development - we have always believed that. Before 2015, there was a misrepresentation of his (Rajapaksa's) policies. Now we want to talk about the future, and not the past. We were non-aligned and we always want to be non-aligned," said Namal.

When asked about China's dominance and mounting debt, he called Beijing Colombo's partner. "My father offered Hambantota port to India first. Since the deal with India did not materialise, we had to go to China. There is nothing for India to be worried about. China and Sri Lanka are economic partners. China has invested a huge amount of money in our country. But we want friendly relations with every country."

Namal also defended President Maithripala Sirisena's decision to sack the Wickremesinghe government, saying, "Appointing Rajapaksa as Prime Minister was in national interest. Valid reasons were given which were purely based on national interest and keeping in mind national security."

President Sirisena, in a sudden turn of events, sacked Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on Friday and replaced him with former President Mahinda Rajapaksa. The President then <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lankas-president-to-reconvene-parliament-on-november-5-says-new-pm-174824">prorogued the Sri Lankan Parliament</a> prompting protests and a demand for the House to be reconvened, to allow lawmakers to choose their leader.

Wickremesinghe has <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-attorney-general-refuses-to-endorse-sacking-of-ranil-wickremesinghe-174723">called his removal unconstitutional</a> and has demanded he be allowed to prove his parliamentary majority.

Observers call it the first such unconstitutional transfer of power in Sri Lanka. But Namal today insisted that it is not a constitutional crisis. He called it a "political crisis" and was confident that his father Mahinda Rajapaksa has the required numbers to prove majority in Parliament.

Attacking Wickremesinghe, he said, "I ask: What reforms have taken place here during Wickremesinghe's term? They promised to amend the Constitution, but did nothing. They promised reforms but nothing happened. They postponed the provincial election for three years. Now they are talking about all this. What happened in their government?"

The return of Rajapaksa, a former president who crushed a decades-old Tamil insurgency, has stoked fears of fresh political and ethnic division in the island nation of 21 million mostly Sinhalese Buddhists, with Tamil and Muslim minorities.

Namal Rajapakse said his party was prepared to put the past behind. Listing out his father's priorities, Namal said, "We are looking at bringing economic and social stability in the country, rehabilitation of former LTTE cadres and of course the constitutional amendment which should be acceptable to everyone."

India and western countries have expressed concern about Rajapaksa's ties to China, as he ushered in billions of dollars of investments from Beijing during his tenure as President, to help rebuild the country after a 26-year civil war against ethnic Tamil separatists ended in 2009. In fact, China was the first country to congratulate Rajapaksa and endorse him as the new Prime Minister.&nbsp;

The power struggle in Sri Lanka comes at a critical time for its economy, with credit rating agencies warning that the turmoil could raise financing costs and lower foreign capital inflows as it attempts to refinance sizeable government debts.

Day after Mahinda Rajapaksa took oath as the new Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, his son and Member of Parliament Namal has reached out to India. New Delhi is yet to endorse Rajapaksa's prime ministership, saying it is "watching developments closely.

Day after Mahinda Rajapaksa took oath as the new Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, his son and Member of Parliament Namal has reached out to India. New Delhi is yet to endorse Rajapaksa's prime ministership, saying it is "watching developments closely." In an exclusive interview to WION, Namal Rajapaksa, who in the past has accused India of influencing elections and acting against his father's presidency, has said they're "ready to put the past behind." "Indian influence in the region is very important. India has to play a bigger role when it comes to the region's development - we have always believed that. Before 2015, there was a misrepresentation of his (Rajapaksa's) policies. Now we want to talk about the future, and not the past. We were non-aligned and we always want to be non-aligned," said Namal. When asked about China's dominance and mounting debt, he called Beijing Colombo's partner. "My father offered Hambantota port to India first. Since the deal with India did not materialise, we had to go to China. There is nothing for India to be worried about. China and Sri Lanka are economic partners. China has invested a huge amount of money in our country. But we want friendly relations with every country." Namal also defended President Maithripala Sirisena's decision to sack the Wickremesinghe government, saying, "Appointing Rajapaksa as Prime Minister was in national interest. Valid reasons were given which were purely based on national interest and keeping in mind national security." President Sirisena, in a sudden turn of events, sacked Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on Friday and replaced him with former President Mahinda Rajapaksa. The President then prorogued the Sri Lankan Parliament prompting protests and a demand for the House to be reconvened, to allow lawmakers to choose their leader. Wickremesinghe has called his removal unconstitutional and has demanded he be allowed to prove his parliamentary majority. Observers call it the first such unconstitutional transfer of power in Sri Lanka. But Namal today insisted that it is not a constitutional crisis. He called it a "political crisis" and was confident that his father Mahinda Rajapaksa has the required numbers to prove majority in Parliament. Attacking Wickremesinghe, he said, "I ask: What reforms have taken place here during Wickremesinghe's term? They promised to amend the Constitution, but did nothing. They promised reforms but nothing happened. They postponed the provincial election for three years. Now they are talking about all this. What happened in their government?" The return of Rajapaksa, a former president who crushed a decades-old Tamil insurgency, has stoked fears of fresh political and ethnic division in the island nation of 21 million mostly Sinhalese Buddhists, with Tamil and Muslim minorities. Namal Rajapakse said his party was prepared to put the past behind. Listing out his father's priorities, Namal said, "We are looking at bringing economic and social stability in the country, rehabilitation of former LTTE cadres and of course the constitutional amendment which should be acceptable to everyone." India and western countries have expressed concern about Rajapaksa's ties to China, as he ushered in billions of dollars of investments from Beijing during his tenure as President, to help rebuild the country after a 26-year civil war against ethnic Tamil separatists ended in 2009. In fact, China was the first country to congratulate Rajapaksa and endorse him as the new Prime Minister. The power struggle in Sri Lanka comes at a critical time for its economy, with credit rating agencies warning that the turmoil could raise financing costs and lower foreign capital inflows as it attempts to refinance sizeable government debts.

Rajapaksa's appointment in national interest, India shouldn't be worried, son Namal tells WION