Sri Lanka: President dissolves parliament and schedules presidential elections April 25 /update 4

Event

President Gotabaya Rajapaksa dissolved parliament on Monday, March 2, and called for new parliamentary elections on Saturday, April 25. Political rallies and protests are possible across the country, particularly in Colombo, in the lead up to the elections and following the announcement of election results. Associated transport disruptions and a heightened security presence are to be expected near any rally or demonstration.

Context

President Rajapaksa was elected to office on November 16, 2019.

Advice

Individuals in Sri Lanka are advised to monitor developments, avoid all political gatherings as a precaution, anticipate a heightened security presence, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.