Sri Lanka: Demonstrators gather in Colombo September 8

Event

Hundreds of demonstrators gathered in Colombo on Tuesday, September 8 to denounce a controversial constitutional amendment. The twentieth constitutional amendment bill, reportedly approved by the cabinet last week, would reportedly grant extraordinary powers to the head of state, overturning an amendment passed by the previous administration. The protest seemingly passed off peacefully and no arrests or clashes were immediately reported. 

Further unrest over the issue is possible in Colombo over the near term and a heightened security presence and localized disruptions are possible in the vicinity of any demonstrations.  

Advice

Those in Colombo are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all demonstrations and political gatherings as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.