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The Political Resurgence of Ranil Wickremesinghe in Sri Lanka

The Unexpected Political Shift

Ranil Wickremesinghe's Return

In October 2018, the political landscape of Sri Lanka experienced a dramatic turn when Ranil Wickremesinghe was unexpectedly removed from his position as Prime Minister by President Maithripala Sirisena. However, just two months later, on December 16, 2018, Wickremesinghe was sworn back into office, signaling a significant shift in the nation's political dynamics.

The Circumstances Leading to the Removal

Wickremesinghe's removal was marked by controversy and political maneuvers that left the country in disarray. President Sirisena appointed former President Mahinda Rajapaksa in his place, a decision that was met with public protests and a parliamentary crisis. The constitutional legitimacy of these actions was heavily challenged, illustrating the tense political climate of Sri Lanka.

The Aftermath of the Power Struggle

Judicial Intervention

The Supreme Court of Sri Lanka played a pivotal role in this political drama. On December 13, 2018, the court ruled that Wickremesinghe's ousting was unconstitutional, and the reinstatement of his position became inevitable. This ruling highlighted the judiciary's critical role as a check on executive powers in Sri Lanka.

Implications for Sri Lanka's Governance

The return of Ranil Wickremesinghe as Prime Minister marked not only a personal victory but also a potential stabilizing factor for the country. His administration aimed to restore confidence in governance and navigate the challenges presented by both domestic and international pressures.

Fun Fact

Wickremesinghe's Career Milestones

Ranil Wickremesinghe has served multiple terms as Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, marking him as one of the most experienced politicians in the nation's history. His adeptness in political strategy has often enabled him to navigate through challenging political waters.

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on Ranil Wickremesinghe

If you're interested in learning more about Sri Lanka's political history and Ranil Wickremesinghe's role in it, consider reading "Sri Lankan Politics: From Independence to the Future" and "The Role of Judiciary in Contemporary Politics".