Sri Lanka: Activists to rally outside the parliament in Colombo April 5 as a state of emergency and nationwide protests continue /update 9

Event

A state of public emergency declared April 1 continues in Sri Lanka until further notice amid civil unrest over an ongoing economic crisis. Activists plan to rally outside the parliament house in Colombo April 5, ahead of a parliamentary sitting at 10:00. The Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) party led by Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa has lost its two-thirds majority in the parliament as several coalition partners and lawmakers withdrew support ahead of the session. President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has reportedly offered to allow any party or coalition proving the support of 113 out of 225 members in the parliament to form a government. Additional protests denouncing the administration of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa are occurring or planned in several cities; popular venues include politicians' residences and public squares. Sporadic violence has occurred during demonstrations.

Further demonstrations by civil, political, and labor groups over economic issues are certain in the coming weeks. The Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) party plans to hold rallies nationwide April 7; however, other opposition parties will almost certainly organize their own gatherings. Activists typically hold sit-ins and roadblocks near fuel stations, government buildings, and public squares, as well as along major roadways. Government employees from various sectors such as transport and healthcare have also held strikes and rallies over labor issues in recent weeks.

Authorities will almost certainly maintain a heightened security posture until protests abate. Officials imposed a nationwide curfew 18:00 April 2-06:00 April 4; officials may reinstate the curfew at short notice. Localized transport disruptions and a heavy police presence are likely near any large demonstrations that may materialize. Protests could turn violent quickly, though security forces are usually quick to resort to the use of force to disperse unruly gatherings. Businesses in areas experiencing violent protests and/or heightened security measures could close temporarily as a precaution. Power outages and fuel shortages will likely continue interrupting business operations in the medium term, potentially prompting further disruptions and protests.

Context

Various groups have held protests in Sri Lanka in recent weeks to denounce worsening economic conditions and the government's response to the situation. A lack of foreign reserves to service external payments has caused an economic crisis, with worsening shortages of essential goods such as food, fuel, and medications. Fuel shortages and power outages have, in turn, disrupted water supply, freight and passenger transport, and internet services. The largest protests have occurred in Colombo; popular protest locations include the Fort area, the Nelum Pokuna Theater, and major roadways connecting the Sri Lankan capital to other cities. Cabinet ministers, excluding Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, resigned April 3. Dissident coalition partners and opposition parties refused a power-sharing arrangement under a unified government April 4, heightening political uncertainty over the potential collapse of the government.

Advice

Adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities. Abide by any curfew orders. Reconfirm transport schedules. Avoid all protests due to the potential violence. Do not attempt to cross protester roadblocks; wait for the police to clear them before proceeding. If clashes break out, leave the area immediately and take shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Allow additional travel time in Colombo and other urban centers through at least late April. Plan for long queues to obtain essential items; ensure contingency plans account for the continued access to essential goods and services. Confirm business and medical appointments, deliveries, road status, and transport reservations in advance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation.