2018 Political Crisis in Sri Lanka

Name: 2018 Political Crisis in Sri Lanka
Start: 2015-10-28
Location: Unspecified

The Sudden Dismissal of Ranil Wickramasinghe

Sirisena's Unforeseen Decision

In October 2018, Sri Lanka plunged into a political crisis when President Maithripala Sirisena unexpectedly fired Prime Minister Ranil Wickramasinghe and his entire cabinet. Sirisena's move came as a shock to many, considering Wickramasinghe's government had been in power for several years and had engaged in reforms aimed at stabilizing the country after decades of civil war.

The Power Play Unfolds

Following the sacking, Sirisena appointed former President Mahinda Rajapaksa as the new Prime Minister. This decision was met with immediate backlash, signifying a clash of political ideologies and personal rivalries. Wickramasinghe’s supporters viewed the appointment as an attempt by Sirisena to strengthen Rajapaksa’s influence and undermine their pursuit of good governance.

Protests Erupt Across the Nation

The Public's Outcry

The political turmoil incited widespread protests throughout Sri Lanka as citizens rallied to support Wickramasinghe. Demonstrators flooded the streets of Colombo, demanding Sirisena's resignation and the reinstatement of their prime minister. The protests underscored the deep divisions in Sri Lankan society and politics.

Tragic Consequences

The protests turned violent, leading to clashes between supporters and opposition groups. Tragically, during the escalating unrest, one protestor lost their life. This moment highlighted the potential for political dissent to spiral into chaos, and raised concerns over the use of state force against civilians.

The Aftermath and Implications

Political Implications for Sri Lanka

As the crisis evolved, Sirisena’s action led to a constitutional showdown. The Supreme Court intervened to rule against Sirisena's suspension of parliament and Rajapaksa’s appointment, reinstating Wickramasinghe as Prime Minister. This political rollercoaster left an indelible mark on the political landscape of Sri Lanka.

Looking Ahead

This crisis propelled significant discussions around political stability and accountability in governance. The events of late 2018 shaped ongoing political dialogues and the voters' decisions in subsequent elections, driving the importance of democratic processes seemingly closer to the hearts of Sri Lankans.

Fun Fact

A Surprising Turn of Events

Despite the political turmoil, the event is notable for showing the resilience of Sri Lankan democracy, with courts playing an active role in resolving the crisis, which is relatively rare in nations experiencing political upheaval.