Sri Lanka: Activists plan nationwide protests April 9

Activists from several groups, including the People's Struggle Movement and Movement For Peoples' Council, plan to protest nationwide April 9. The action marks the second anniversary of the protest movement in 2022 when tens of thousands of demonstrators demanded the resignation of then-President Gotabaya Rajapaksa. Organizers have called for protests at several locations, including:

• Anuradhapura: Anuradhapura New Bus Stand at 14:00

• Colombo: Fort Railway Station at 15:30

• Matara: Matara Main Bus Stop at 16:00

• Negombo: Telwattha Junction at 17:00

Activists will also rally at unspecified locations in Kalutara, Kottawa, and Marawila. Related protests are also possible in other urban centers across Sri Lanka. Participants will likely gather at key government buildings, universities, public squares, and major intersections/roadways. In Colombo, popular demonstration venues include De Soysa/Liberty Circus intersections and Galle Face Green. While turnout remains unclear, a few hundred people could attend each gathering; attendance may reach at least a thousand people in well-attended rallies in major cities, including Colombo.

Security personnel typically monitor protests; roadblocks and security cordons are possible near prominent government buildings. Localized transport and business disruptions are likely, especially in case of a large turnout. Skirmishes and mass arrests are possible if activists breach security restrictions. Security forces have previously used tear gas and water cannons to disperse demonstrations. Protests may turn violent quickly, with activists committing arson or vandalism. Authorities may restrict public movement and telecommunication services, and could resort to the use of live ammunition if significant violence erupts.