Anti-government agitation intensifies in Sri Lanka About 700 people gathered in front of the Sri Lankan parliament at midnight yesterday to protest. The month-long anti-government agitation is gaining strength, demanding the resignation of the president and prime minister, who have claimed responsibility for the country’s economic collapse.
Children and their families took to the streets in support of the protests. Students marched to Parliament on Thursday, marching down the main entrance to Parliament. Police used tear gas against them. The student organizations announced that the protest would continue until the government resigns.
Along with the students, various trade unions are also protesting. Several unions across the health, postal, port and other government services were on strike nationwide. More than 2,000 unions rallied in protest. The unions said they would continue to provide emergency services and assistance.
As the protests intensified, the victory of Ranjith Siyambalapitiya as the Deputy Speaker with the support of the ruling Sri Lanka People’s Party has boosted the confidence of the Gotabhaya government. It is also comforting to note that the first parliamentary election has been won after 40 MPs withdrew their support. Ranjith is a member of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party, led by former President Maithripala Sirisena. Gotabhaya is set to prove his strength in parliament as the opposition prepares to table a no-confidence motion against the government.
English summary; Anti-government protests erupt in Sri Lanka
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