Sri Lanka President Gotabaya Rajapaksa fled as angry protesters surround his residence, calling for his resignation amidst the worst economic crisis since 1948, media reported on Saturday.
Thousands of demonstrators in Colombo have stormed the presidential residence in one of the largest anti-government marches in the crisis-hit country this year. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe summoned an emergency Cabinet meeting to discuss the situation and come to a swift resolution, ANI reported.
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Two defence ministry sources said President Rajapaksa was removed from the official premises on Friday for his safety ahead of the planned rally over the weekend.
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At least 21 people including two policemen were injured and hospitalised in the ongoing protests, hospital sources told Reuters.
Last week, Rajapaksa called on Russian leader Vladimir Putin to help his country import fuel as it faces its worst economic crisis in seven decades.
“Had a very productive telecon with the Russian President Vladimir Putin. While thanking him for all the support extended by his govt to overcome the challenges of the past, I requested an offer of credit support to import fuel to #lka in defeating the current econ challenges,” Sri Lanka’s President said.
“We unanimously agreed that strengthening bilateral relations in sectors such as tourism, trade & culture was paramount in reinforcing the friendship of our two nations share,” he added.
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