For the second time in five weeks, the President of Sri Lanka declared an emergency amidst the unprecedented economic crisis. President Rajapaksa has given extensive powers to the security forces to tackle the angry protestors. Sri Lanka is currently witnessing one of the worst financial crises since 1948 after independence.
President Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s spokesperson sided with their leader and said he had to call on the strict laws to maintain public order. The rules will come into effect from Friday night, he added. Shops remained closed, and the government stopped the public transport on Friday. Imposing an emergency halted the chaos in Sri Lanka after weeks of turmoil.
The police used tear gas and water cannons against students on Friday morning. According to the reports, they were trying to intrude in the parliamentary session after Rajapaksa’s cabinet resignation. The emergency gives powers to the military to suspend and arrest for a long time.
Worst Crisis Since 1948
Currently, in Sri Lanka, the police and military have the power to maintain law and order. Previously, the Sri Lankan government imposed an emergency on 1st April and allowed it to lapse on 14th April. After thousands of protesters tried to make an onslaught on the President’s private residence, he declared an emergency the following day.
A wave of protests has taken over Sri Lanka as the country faces the worst crisis. Blackouts, food shortages, fuel shortages, and the unavailability of medicines have been a constant part of the crisis. The demonstrators blame Rajapaksa and his ruling family for mismanaging the economy.
As per the sources, Rajapaksa has no intention to step down from power despite the escalating protests. The main opposition party has also refused to take any position in the national administration until the present party steps down and the President holds himself accountable for the mismanagement.
Sri Lanka Bankrupt In All Foreign Debts: Worst Economic Crisis
