Sri Lanka has imposed 36-hour nationwide curfew to quell the unrest in the country that has erupted in the wake of economic crisis.

"Under the powers given to the president, curfew has been imposed countrywide from 6 p.m. (1230 GMT) on Saturday to 6 a.m. (0030 GMT) on Monday," the government's information department said in a statement.

Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has already invoked stringent laws to tackle the growing unrest. A state of emetgency has been declared.

In the past, a state of emergency order allowed the military to arrest and detain suspects without warrants.

The current restrictions were not immediately clear, said a rights' lawyer.

Watch | Sri Lanka's economic crisis explodes- public emergency declared

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Bhavani Fonseka, a senior researcher at the nonprofit Colombo Centre for Policy Alternatives rights group said regulations defining the president's emergency powers have yet to be issued.

Shops opened and traffic was normal, while police remained stationed at some petrol stations.

The Indian Ocean island nation of 22 million people is grappling with rolling blackouts for up to 13 hours a day as the government scrambles to secure foreign exchange to pay for fuel imports.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/after-protests-turned-ugly-sri-lankas-president-gotabaya-rajapaksa-declares-emergency-467576">Sri Lanka Crisis Updates: After declaration of emergency, security forces patrol Colombo</a>

Rajapaksa said the state of emergency was necessary to protect public order and maintain essential supplies and services.

The order has raised fears that the government could resort to a crackdown to quell protests.

"There has been a failure to understand the aspirations of the people and to empathize with the suffering of the people of the country," the lawyers, members of the Bar Association of Sri Lanka, said in their appeal.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/how-sri-lankas-economy-spiralled-into-crisis-467476">How Sri Lanka's economy spiralled into crisis</a>

US Ambassador Julie Chung said, "Sri Lankans have a right to protest peacefully - essential for democratic expression.

"I am watching the situation closely, and hope the coming days bring restraint from all sides, as well as much needed economic stability and relief for those suffering," she tweeted https://twitter.com/USAmbSL/status/1510092795452981248?s=20&amp;t=TPXDzfvxXd7wQLkfPGg8Yw.

Angered by shortages of fuel and other essential items, hundreds of protesters clashed on Thursday with police and the military outside Rajapaksa's residence as they called for his ouster and torched several police and army vehicles.

Police arrested 53 people and imposed a curfew in and around Colombo on Friday to contain other sporadic protests.

(With inputs from agencies)

Sri Lanka has imposed 36-hour nationwide curfew to quell the unrest in the country that has erupted in the wake of economic crisis. "Under the powers given to the president, curfew has been imposed countrywide from 6 p.

Sri Lanka has imposed 36-hour nationwide curfew to quell the unrest in the country that has erupted in the wake of economic crisis. "Under the powers given to the president, curfew has been imposed countrywide from 6 p.m. (1230 GMT) on Saturday to 6 a.m. (0030 GMT) on Monday," the government's information department said in a statement. Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has already invoked stringent laws to tackle the growing unrest. A state of emetgency has been declared. In the past, a state of emergency order allowed the military to arrest and detain suspects without warrants. The current restrictions were not immediately clear, said a rights' lawyer. Watch | Sri Lanka's economic crisis explodes- public emergency declared × Bhavani Fonseka, a senior researcher at the nonprofit Colombo Centre for Policy Alternatives rights group said regulations defining the president's emergency powers have yet to be issued. Shops opened and traffic was normal, while police remained stationed at some petrol stations. The Indian Ocean island nation of 22 million people is grappling with rolling blackouts for up to 13 hours a day as the government scrambles to secure foreign exchange to pay for fuel imports. Also Read | Sri Lanka Crisis Updates: After declaration of emergency, security forces patrol Colombo Rajapaksa said the state of emergency was necessary to protect public order and maintain essential supplies and services. The order has raised fears that the government could resort to a crackdown to quell protests. "There has been a failure to understand the aspirations of the people and to empathize with the suffering of the people of the country," the lawyers, members of the Bar Association of Sri Lanka, said in their appeal. Also Read | How Sri Lanka's economy spiralled into crisis US Ambassador Julie Chung said, "Sri Lankans have a right to protest peacefully - essential for democratic expression. "I am watching the situation closely, and hope the coming days bring restraint from all sides, as well as much needed economic stability and relief for those suffering," she tweeted https://twitter.com/USAmbSL/status/1510092795452981248?s=20&t=TPXDzfvxXd7wQLkfPGg8Yw. Angered by shortages of fuel and other essential items, hundreds of protesters clashed on Thursday with police and the military outside Rajapaksa's residence as they called for his ouster and torched several police and army vehicles. Police arrested 53 people and imposed a curfew in and around Colombo on Friday to contain other sporadic protests. (With inputs from agencies)

Sri Lanka imposes nationwide curfew till Monday to quell unrest

Sri Lankan demonstrators clash with police in violent protest over economic crisis

Sri Lanka is facing mounting challenges with its public debt. Critics say a series of missteps - mainly by the Rajapaksas - triggered the worst economic crisis in Sri Lanka's history. Palki Sharma tells you how.

Gravitas: What caused Sri Lanka's economic crisis?

Sri Lanka's financial crisis is worsening. According to the Central Bank data, country's gross foreign currency reserves have fallen over 24% to 2.36 billion US$ by end of January.

Trouble continues for Sri Lanka's finance sector as forex fall by 24%

Tamil Lawmakers from Sri Lanka have written a letter to India's PM Narendra Modi asking for help. They're seeking his intervention to implement a 'contentious amendment' which ensures their rights. Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: Sri Lanka's Tamil MPs seek PM Modi's help

Sri Lanka may be on a brink of bankruptcy as the island country faces an acute financial crisis topped by a blow to a food supply. As 2022 begins, Sri Lanka is looking to face record-high inflation, financial crisis, exorbitant food prices, humanitarian crisis, and pandemic-induced disruptions. The Sri Lankan government had decided to temporarily ban the use of chemical fertilizers in May 2021. The ban led to protest by farmers ultimately leading to a drastic drop in cultivation in Sri Lanka. Moreover, long queues were seen outside shops for bare necessities lie milk, sugar, and rice. Also, several shops in the markets were shut. Opposition MP Harsha de Silva told Sri Lankan parliament that the country would go bankrupt.

Sri Lanka may go bankrupt in 2022? From financial to food crisis Sri Lanka’s woes amid Covid

Sri Lanka to opt for an international monetary fund bailout or not, that is a big question in Sri Lanka right now. Sri Lanka's cabinet of ministers is now trying to meet further to explore the IMF option as a country reels under a massive financial crisis.

Sri Lanka's inflation hit a record 11.1% in November

Sri Lanka's police chief has refused a request by President Maithripala Sirisena to step down following suicide bombings on churches and hotels, two sources at the president's office said on Saturday, deepening the rift at top levels of government.

Sirisena, facing criticism over the failure to thwart the attacks, blamed the inspector general of police Pujith Jayasundara and defence secretary Hemesiri Fernando for not sharing advance warnings of the attacks with him.

Fernando resigned earlier in the week, but Jayasundara was holding on, the two officials said.&nbsp;

"He has refused to resign despite the president's request," one of the sources said. Under Sri Lanka's constitution, only parliament can remove the police chief through a lengthy process designed to shield officers from political interference.

The attacks in which more than 250 people were killed have exposed the divisions between Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, with both saying they had not seen warnings given by India's spy service about impending strikes on churches and the Indian embassy including one just hours before the attacks.

Jayasundara, the police chief, was handpicked for the job by Wickremesinghe. The first source at the president`s office said Sirisena was still expecting him to turn in his papers. The second source confirmed the situation. 
Both sources declined to be identified as they were not authorised to speak with media.

Jayasundara did not answer his phone or email seeking comments. An officer at the police department said the police chief had not resigned but did not come to work on Saturday. 
&nbsp;

Sri Lanka's police chief has refused a request by President Maithripala Sirisena to step down following suicide bombings on churches and hotels, two sources at the president's office said on Saturday, deepening the rift at top levels of government.

Sri Lanka's police chief has refused a request by President Maithripala Sirisena to step down following suicide bombings on churches and hotels, two sources at the president's office said on Saturday, deepening the rift at top levels of government. Sirisena, facing criticism over the failure to thwart the attacks, blamed the inspector general of police Pujith Jayasundara and defence secretary Hemesiri Fernando for not sharing advance warnings of the attacks with him. Fernando resigned earlier in the week, but Jayasundara was holding on, the two officials said. "He has refused to resign despite the president's request," one of the sources said. Under Sri Lanka's constitution, only parliament can remove the police chief through a lengthy process designed to shield officers from political interference. The attacks in which more than 250 people were killed have exposed the divisions between Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, with both saying they had not seen warnings given by India's spy service about impending strikes on churches and the Indian embassy including one just hours before the attacks. Jayasundara, the police chief, was handpicked for the job by Wickremesinghe. The first source at the president`s office said Sirisena was still expecting him to turn in his papers. The second source confirmed the situation. Both sources declined to be identified as they were not authorised to speak with media. Jayasundara did not answer his phone or email seeking comments. An officer at the police department said the police chief had not resigned but did not come to work on Saturday.

Sri Lanka police chief refusing to quit despite president Sirisena's request: Report

While Japanese PM Shinzo Abe expressed deep anguish, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said India stands with Sri Lanka in this hour of crisis.

World leaders condemn bombings in Sri Lanka

A rift between Sri Lanka's president and prime minister, which sparked a crisis last year, came under scrutiny on Monday a day after a series of deadly bomb blasts, with questions over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-memo-circulated-a-day-before-had-warned-of-attack-212458">how the government handled a recent warning</a> of an attack.

The premier has been kept out of intelligence briefings since he fell out with the president, a government minister said, a day after Easter attacks on churches and hotels killed 290 people and wounded nearly 500.

Police had been warned this month about a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-says-local-militant-group-national-thowheed-jamath-behind-easter-sunday-blasts-212556">possible attack on churches by a little-known domestic Islamist group</a>, according to a document seen by Reuters.

But Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe had not been told of the report, dated April 11, that said a foreign intelligence agency had warned of attacks on churches by a domestic militant group called the National Thawheed Jama'ut, Health Minister Rajith Senaratne told reporters.

It was not immediately clear what action, if any, was taken in response to the tip-off.

"When we asked about the intelligence report, the prime minister was not aware of this," said Senaratne, who also briefs reporters on the deliberations of the cabinet.

It was not clear if the president, Maithripala Sirisena, was aware of the report but the top security organisation, the Security Council, reports to him, while the prime minister was no longer invited to council meetings because of the rift, Senaratne said.

The president was out of the country when the bombers struck. His office declined to comment.

"As a government, we have to say very, very sorry and we have to apologise to the families and their institutions about this incident," said Senaratne.

The president fired Wickremesinghe last October over political differences, only to reinstate him weeks later under pressure from the Supreme Court.&nbsp; 
Their relationship has not improved and their differences have delayed government decisions, politicians say.&nbsp;

On Sunday, with the president on a foreign trip and the country shaken by the suicide attacks, Wickremesinghe called a Security Council meeting but its members failed to show up, Senaratne said.&nbsp;

"This is the first time in history we have seen that the Security Council refused to come for a meeting with the country`s prime minister," he said.

On Monday, Wickremesinghe attended a council meeting called by Sirisena after his return. It was the prime minister`s first council meeting since the political crisis, his office said.&nbsp;

Senaratne said security forces had raided training sites of the National Thawheed Jama'ut. The government also believed there were international links to the attacks.

"We don't think a small organisation can do all that. We are now investigating international support for them and their other links - how they produced the suicide bombers and bombs like this," he said.

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A rift between Sri Lanka's president and prime minister, which sparked a crisis last year, came under scrutiny on Monday a day after a series of deadly bomb blasts, with questions over how the government handled a recent warning of an attack.

A rift between Sri Lanka's president and prime minister, which sparked a crisis last year, came under scrutiny on Monday a day after a series of deadly bomb blasts, with questions over how the government handled a recent warning of an attack. The premier has been kept out of intelligence briefings since he fell out with the president, a government minister said, a day after Easter attacks on churches and hotels killed 290 people and wounded nearly 500. Police had been warned this month about a possible attack on churches by a little-known domestic Islamist group, according to a document seen by Reuters. But Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe had not been told of the report, dated April 11, that said a foreign intelligence agency had warned of attacks on churches by a domestic militant group called the National Thawheed Jama'ut, Health Minister Rajith Senaratne told reporters. It was not immediately clear what action, if any, was taken in response to the tip-off. "When we asked about the intelligence report, the prime minister was not aware of this," said Senaratne, who also briefs reporters on the deliberations of the cabinet. It was not clear if the president, Maithripala Sirisena, was aware of the report but the top security organisation, the Security Council, reports to him, while the prime minister was no longer invited to council meetings because of the rift, Senaratne said. The president was out of the country when the bombers struck. His office declined to comment. "As a government, we have to say very, very sorry and we have to apologise to the families and their institutions about this incident," said Senaratne. The president fired Wickremesinghe last October over political differences, only to reinstate him weeks later under pressure from the Supreme Court. Their relationship has not improved and their differences have delayed government decisions, politicians say. On Sunday, with the president on a foreign trip and the country shaken by the suicide attacks, Wickremesinghe called a Security Council meeting but its members failed to show up, Senaratne said. "This is the first time in history we have seen that the Security Council refused to come for a meeting with the country`s prime minister," he said. On Monday, Wickremesinghe attended a council meeting called by Sirisena after his return. It was the prime minister`s first council meeting since the political crisis, his office said. Senaratne said security forces had raided training sites of the National Thawheed Jama'ut. The government also believed there were international links to the attacks. "We don't think a small organisation can do all that. We are now investigating international support for them and their other links - how they produced the suicide bombers and bombs like this," he said. ×

Sri Lanka PM not alerted to warning of attack because of feud: Health minister

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

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

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

Rajapaksa maintained strong ties with successive Indian leaders: Son Namal 

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa's son Namal on Friday said that his father will step down as Prime Minister of the island nation in order to ensure stablity.&nbsp;

Namal announced this on his official Twitter handle a day after Sri Lanka's Supreme Court refused to stay a court order restraining Mahinda Rajapaksa from holding the office of Prime Minister.&nbsp;

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To ensure stability of the nation, Former President <a href="https://twitter.com/PresRajapaksa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PresRajapaksa</a> has decided to resign from the Premiership tomorrow after an address to the nation. The SLPP with Frm President, SLFP &amp; others will now work to form a broader political coalition with President Sirisena.
— Namal Rajapaksa (@RajapaksaNamal) <a href="https://twitter.com/RajapaksaNamal/status/1073571310691733504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2018</a></blockquote>
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''To ensure stability of the nation, Former President @PresRajapaksa has decided to resign from the Premiership tomorrow after an address to the nation. The SLPP with Frm President, SLFP &amp; others will now work to form a broader political coalition with President Sirisena,'' tweeted Lankan parliamentarian and Rajapaksa's son Namal.

The apex court's latest ruling came a day after it unanimously declared that the dissolution of Parliament by President Maithripala Sirisena was "illegal", in a body blow to the embattled leader, whose controversial decisions plunged the island nation into an unprecedented political turmoil.

Sri Lanka is going through a major political crisis since October 26 when President Maithripala Sirisena, in a controversial move, removed Wickremesinghe and installed ex-strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa in his place.

Parliamentarians of Wickremesinghe's UNP, Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) and Tamil National Alliance on November 23 filed the petition in the Court of Appeal challenging Rajapaksa on continuing to hold the office of Prime Minister after a no-confidence motion was passed in Parliament against him.

Sirisena, after sacking Wickremesinghe on October 26, dissolved Parliament and called for a snap election on January 5. 
However, the Supreme Court overturned his decision and halted the preparations for snap polls.

Wickremesinghe and Rajapaksa both claim to be the prime ministers with the former claiming that his dismissal is invalid because he still holds a majority in the 225-member Parliament.

Prior to the crisis, Wickramasinghe's UNP had the backing of 106 parliamentarians while Rajapaksa and Sirisena combine had 95 seats.

(With inputs from PTI)

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa's son Namal on Friday said that his father will step down as Prime Minister of the island nation in order to ensure stablity.

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa's son Namal on Friday said that his father will step down as Prime Minister of the island nation in order to ensure stablity. Namal announced this on his official Twitter handle a day after Sri Lanka's Supreme Court refused to stay a court order restraining Mahinda Rajapaksa from holding the office of Prime Minister. To ensure stability of the nation, Former President @PresRajapaksa has decided to resign from the Premiership tomorrow after an address to the nation. The SLPP with Frm President, SLFP & others will now work to form a broader political coalition with President Sirisena. — Namal Rajapaksa (@RajapaksaNamal) December 14, 2018 × ''To ensure stability of the nation, Former President @PresRajapaksa has decided to resign from the Premiership tomorrow after an address to the nation. The SLPP with Frm President, SLFP & others will now work to form a broader political coalition with President Sirisena,'' tweeted Lankan parliamentarian and Rajapaksa's son Namal. The apex court's latest ruling came a day after it unanimously declared that the dissolution of Parliament by President Maithripala Sirisena was "illegal", in a body blow to the embattled leader, whose controversial decisions plunged the island nation into an unprecedented political turmoil. Sri Lanka is going through a major political crisis since October 26 when President Maithripala Sirisena, in a controversial move, removed Wickremesinghe and installed ex-strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa in his place. Parliamentarians of Wickremesinghe's UNP, Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) and Tamil National Alliance on November 23 filed the petition in the Court of Appeal challenging Rajapaksa on continuing to hold the office of Prime Minister after a no-confidence motion was passed in Parliament against him. Sirisena, after sacking Wickremesinghe on October 26, dissolved Parliament and called for a snap election on January 5. However, the Supreme Court overturned his decision and halted the preparations for snap polls. Wickremesinghe and Rajapaksa both claim to be the prime ministers with the former claiming that his dismissal is invalid because he still holds a majority in the 225-member Parliament. Prior to the crisis, Wickramasinghe's UNP had the backing of 106 parliamentarians while Rajapaksa and Sirisena combine had 95 seats. (With inputs from PTI)

Mahinda Rajapaksa to resign as Sri Lanka Prime Minister on Saturday, says son Namal

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sri Lanka turmoil: Mahinda Rajapaksa calls for fresh polls

Sri Lankan police reversed on Tuesday a decision sacking a top detective investigating a string of high-profile gruesome cases involving the rich and powerful, following intense protests.

The island nation has been politically paralysed since October 26 when President Maithripala Sirisena controversially sacked prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and replaced him with former rival Mahinda Rajapakse.

Removing detective Nishantha Silva was seen as the latest twist in the ongoing crisis as Sirisena struck up a new alliance with Rajapakse.

An internal memo by police chief Pujith Jayasundara -- seen by AFP -- said that Silva was being transferred back to the Criminal Investigation Division (CID) to meet "urgent service requirements".

Jayasundara had removed Silva on Sunday.

This came after Silva had secured a court order to arrest Admiral Ravindra Wijegunaratne, the country's most senior military officer.

Wijegunaratne is accused of protecting a navy intelligence officer who is the main accused in the abduction and killing of 11 children between 2008 and 2009.

Despite the court order, Wijegunaratne is evading arrest while holding on to his official position. He denies the charges.

Silva'a removal sparked a chorus of protest.

He is also lead investigator in several other high-profile cases involving the family of former president Rajapakse.

Silva was also investigating the 2009 assassination of high-profile editor Lasantha Wickrematunga. Military intelligence has been implicated in that killing, which drew widespread international condemnation.

Following Silva's removal, Wickrematunga's Melbourne-based daughter Ahimsa in a scathing open letter accused President Sirisena of sabotaging the investigation.

"Mr. President, if you try to stand in the way of justice for my father and other victims of brutality, you will fail," Ahimsa said in her four-page letter, released to the media on Tuesday before Silva's reinstatement.

Sri Lankan police reversed on Tuesday a decision sacking a top detective investigating a string of high-profile gruesome cases involving the rich and powerful, following intense protests.

Sri Lankan police reversed on Tuesday a decision sacking a top detective investigating a string of high-profile gruesome cases involving the rich and powerful, following intense protests. The island nation has been politically paralysed since October 26 when President Maithripala Sirisena controversially sacked prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and replaced him with former rival Mahinda Rajapakse. Removing detective Nishantha Silva was seen as the latest twist in the ongoing crisis as Sirisena struck up a new alliance with Rajapakse. An internal memo by police chief Pujith Jayasundara -- seen by AFP -- said that Silva was being transferred back to the Criminal Investigation Division (CID) to meet "urgent service requirements". Jayasundara had removed Silva on Sunday. This came after Silva had secured a court order to arrest Admiral Ravindra Wijegunaratne, the country's most senior military officer. Wijegunaratne is accused of protecting a navy intelligence officer who is the main accused in the abduction and killing of 11 children between 2008 and 2009. Despite the court order, Wijegunaratne is evading arrest while holding on to his official position. He denies the charges. Silva'a removal sparked a chorus of protest. He is also lead investigator in several other high-profile cases involving the family of former president Rajapakse. Silva was also investigating the 2009 assassination of high-profile editor Lasantha Wickrematunga. Military intelligence has been implicated in that killing, which drew widespread international condemnation. Following Silva's removal, Wickrematunga's Melbourne-based daughter Ahimsa in a scathing open letter accused President Sirisena of sabotaging the investigation. "Mr. President, if you try to stand in the way of justice for my father and other victims of brutality, you will fail," Ahimsa said in her four-page letter, released to the media on Tuesday before Silva's reinstatement.

Sri Lanka reinstates top detective after outcry

Sri Lanka's president ordered the removal of a police chief investigating alleged crimes by the family and associates of his preferred candidate for prime minister Mahinda Rajapakse, officials said Monday.

The Indian Ocean nation has been paralysed since October 26 when President Maithripala Sirisena controversially sacked prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and replaced him with former rival Rajapakse.

Wickremesinghe insists he is still prime minister, leading to a constitutional deadlock in the Indian Ocean nation.

In the latest twist in the ongoing crisis, Chief Inspector Nishantha Silva was transferred from the Criminal Investigation Department on Sunday as he pursued inquiries into the close family and allies of Rajapakse, an official told AFP.

Since sacking Wickremesinghe, Sirisena has taken the police under his direct control.

Silva investigated the killing of 11 children between 2008-2009 and had secured an arrest order last week against the country's top military official when he was shifted on Sunday, an official said.

"He was about to arrest Admiral Ravindra Wijegunaratne when his marching orders came," a senior police official told AFP.&nbsp;

"This is a serious blow to half a dozen high profile investigations."

Wijegunaratne has remained the chief of defence staff.

Silva was also pursuing the killers of editor Lasantha Wickrematunga and investigating Rajapakse's former defence secretary brother Gotabhaya, who is accused of defrauding the state.

Gotabhaya Rajapakse was indicted in September on charges of siphoning off over US $250,000 in state funds to build a memorial for his parents.

Silva was also investigating an alleged corrupt aircraft purchase from Ukraine when Gotabhaya Rajapakse was in power between 2005 and 2015.

Sacked PM Wickremesinghe has accused Rajapakse of seeking to grab power again in order to sabotage the court cases against his family and associates.

In August, a special court charged Rajapakse's chief of staff with embezzling millions of dollars from a state insurance firm.

Rajapakse's top civil servant, Lalith Weeratunga, was convicted of misappropriating US $4 million and sentenced to three years in prison.

Two of the former president's three sons have also been charged with money-laundering and other relatives face corruption allegations.

The former president was questioned in August over the 2008 abduction and torture of a journalist. He denies any wrongdoing and has accused the government of a witch-hunt.

Sri Lanka's president ordered the removal of a police chief investigating alleged crimes by the family and associates of his preferred candidate for prime minister Mahinda Rajapakse, officials said Monday.

Sri Lanka's president ordered the removal of a police chief investigating alleged crimes by the family and associates of his preferred candidate for prime minister Mahinda Rajapakse, officials said Monday. The Indian Ocean nation has been paralysed since October 26 when President Maithripala Sirisena controversially sacked prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and replaced him with former rival Rajapakse. Wickremesinghe insists he is still prime minister, leading to a constitutional deadlock in the Indian Ocean nation. In the latest twist in the ongoing crisis, Chief Inspector Nishantha Silva was transferred from the Criminal Investigation Department on Sunday as he pursued inquiries into the close family and allies of Rajapakse, an official told AFP. Since sacking Wickremesinghe, Sirisena has taken the police under his direct control. Silva investigated the killing of 11 children between 2008-2009 and had secured an arrest order last week against the country's top military official when he was shifted on Sunday, an official said. "He was about to arrest Admiral Ravindra Wijegunaratne when his marching orders came," a senior police official told AFP. "This is a serious blow to half a dozen high profile investigations." Wijegunaratne has remained the chief of defence staff. Silva was also pursuing the killers of editor Lasantha Wickrematunga and investigating Rajapakse's former defence secretary brother Gotabhaya, who is accused of defrauding the state. Gotabhaya Rajapakse was indicted in September on charges of siphoning off over US $250,000 in state funds to build a memorial for his parents. Silva was also investigating an alleged corrupt aircraft purchase from Ukraine when Gotabhaya Rajapakse was in power between 2005 and 2015. Sacked PM Wickremesinghe has accused Rajapakse of seeking to grab power again in order to sabotage the court cases against his family and associates. In August, a special court charged Rajapakse's chief of staff with embezzling millions of dollars from a state insurance firm. Rajapakse's top civil servant, Lalith Weeratunga, was convicted of misappropriating US $4 million and sentenced to three years in prison. Two of the former president's three sons have also been charged with money-laundering and other relatives face corruption allegations. The former president was questioned in August over the 2008 abduction and torture of a journalist. He denies any wrongdoing and has accused the government of a witch-hunt.

Sri Lanka removes top Rajapakse investigator amid crisis

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

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

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

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

Political parties in Sri Lanka decided on Monday to form a select committee to conduct parliamentary affairs following amidst a power struggle set off by

President Maithripapala Sirisena's controversial decision to remove prime minister Ranil Wickeremesinghe last month.&nbsp;

The decision came a day after an all-party meeting called by President Sirisena to resolve the crisis ended inconclusively.

The crisis erupted when President Sirisena suddenly announced on October 26 that he had sacked prime minister Wickremesinghe and installed ex-strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa in his place.&nbsp;

Sirisena later dissolved Parliament, almost 20 months before its term was to end, and ordered snap election. The Supreme Court on Tuesday overturned President Sirisena's decision to dissolve Parliament and halted the preparations for snap polls on January 5.

The House till now has passed two no-confidence motions against Rajapaksa and his government by a voice vote.

The House was convened Monday morning to conduct a third floor test. Ten minutes later, the House was adjourned till November 23.

When the House was convened, Deputy Speaker Ananda Kumarasiri said the party leaders who met in earlier in the day resolved that a select committee would be appointed to conduct the parliamentary business.&nbsp;

The leaders from Wickremesinghe's United National Front, Tamil National Alliance and the JVP or the People's Liberation Front discussed the proposal by Sirisena made at the all party meeting to have a floor test by name or electronic vote for the third motion of no trust against Rajapaksa.&nbsp;

Mano Ganesan, one of the leaders who attended the meeting, said the United People's Freedom Alliance (UPFA of Sirisena and Rajapaksa) "flatly refused and backtracked" on the proposal.&nbsp;

During Monday's session, Dinesh Gunawardena on behalf of the disputed government of Rajapaksa asked the deputy speaker that since they were the government they should have the majority in the select committee.&nbsp;

JVP leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake argued that since the Rajapaksa government had not proved their majority the select committee should have a majority of members from the group that commands majority.

Monday's session was conducted peacefully. Last week Sri Lanka's parliament witnessed unprecedented violence as lawmakers threw furniture and chilli powder at each other.&nbsp;

On Monday, the public and VIP gallery were shut for diplomats on a request by Rajapaksa's United People's Freedom Alliance (UPFA). The security was also tightened to prevent any incident, officials said.&nbsp;

Last week, the apex court issued a temporary order against Sirisena's sacking of parliament with hearing of the case fixed for early December.

After the temporary order, Speaker Karu Jayasuriya reconvened parliament the sittings of which had been suspended by Sirisena till November 14.

Jayasuriya's decision not to recognise Rajapaksa as the prime minister until a floor test is held has angered Sirisena.&nbsp;

Political parties in Sri Lanka decided on Monday to form a select committee to conduct parliamentary affairs following amidst a power struggle set off by President Maithripapala Sirisena's controversial decision to remove prime minister Ranil Wickeremesinghe last month.

Political parties in Sri Lanka decided on Monday to form a select committee to conduct parliamentary affairs following amidst a power struggle set off by President Maithripapala Sirisena's controversial decision to remove prime minister Ranil Wickeremesinghe last month. The decision came a day after an all-party meeting called by President Sirisena to resolve the crisis ended inconclusively. The crisis erupted when President Sirisena suddenly announced on October 26 that he had sacked prime minister Wickremesinghe and installed ex-strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa in his place. Sirisena later dissolved Parliament, almost 20 months before its term was to end, and ordered snap election. The Supreme Court on Tuesday overturned President Sirisena's decision to dissolve Parliament and halted the preparations for snap polls on January 5. The House till now has passed two no-confidence motions against Rajapaksa and his government by a voice vote. The House was convened Monday morning to conduct a third floor test. Ten minutes later, the House was adjourned till November 23. When the House was convened, Deputy Speaker Ananda Kumarasiri said the party leaders who met in earlier in the day resolved that a select committee would be appointed to conduct the parliamentary business. The leaders from Wickremesinghe's United National Front, Tamil National Alliance and the JVP or the People's Liberation Front discussed the proposal by Sirisena made at the all party meeting to have a floor test by name or electronic vote for the third motion of no trust against Rajapaksa. Mano Ganesan, one of the leaders who attended the meeting, said the United People's Freedom Alliance (UPFA of Sirisena and Rajapaksa) "flatly refused and backtracked" on the proposal. During Monday's session, Dinesh Gunawardena on behalf of the disputed government of Rajapaksa asked the deputy speaker that since they were the government they should have the majority in the select committee. JVP leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake argued that since the Rajapaksa government had not proved their majority the select committee should have a majority of members from the group that commands majority. Monday's session was conducted peacefully. Last week Sri Lanka's parliament witnessed unprecedented violence as lawmakers threw furniture and chilli powder at each other. On Monday, the public and VIP gallery were shut for diplomats on a request by Rajapaksa's United People's Freedom Alliance (UPFA). The security was also tightened to prevent any incident, officials said. Last week, the apex court issued a temporary order against Sirisena's sacking of parliament with hearing of the case fixed for early December. After the temporary order, Speaker Karu Jayasuriya reconvened parliament the sittings of which had been suspended by Sirisena till November 14. Jayasuriya's decision not to recognise Rajapaksa as the prime minister until a floor test is held has angered Sirisena.

Sri Lanka: Parties to form committee to conduct parliamentary affairs amid crisis

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

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

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

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

Sri Lankan&nbsp;president on Friday said that he won`t suspend parliament "under any circumstances", after the prime minister he appointed lost his second confidence vote in three days.

Mahinda Rajapaksa was appointed as PM by&nbsp;Maithripala Sirisena last month.

Parliament passed a no-confidence motion against Mahinda Rajapaksa and his government by a voice vote after lawmakers supporting him tried to disrupt proceedings.

"I urge all parliamentarians to uphold principles of democracy, parliamentary traditions at all times," President Maithripala Sirisena said in a tweet. "I will not prorogue parliament under any circumstances."

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I urge all Parliamentarians to uphold principles of democracy parliamentary traditions at all times. I will not prorogue the Parliament under any circumstances.
— Maithripala Sirisena (@MaithripalaS) <a href="https://twitter.com/MaithripalaS/status/1063351905429143552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Earlier chaos prevailed in Sri Lankan parliament after clashes broke out between the two rival camps after Rajapaksa lost the no-confidence motion.&nbsp;

According to reports, Rajapaksa camp clashed with UNP members. The protesters also threw chilli powders at the Speaker, according to WION.&nbsp;

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

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

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

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

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

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

The key players in Sri Lanka's crisis

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