Resignation of Sri Lankan PM

May 12, 2022

Recently, the Sri Lankan Prime Minister (PM) Mahinda Rajapaksa tendered his resignation as Prime Minister to the Sri Lankan President.

Why did the Sri Lankan Prime Minister resign?

Amid the economic crisis and intensified protests and violence, Sri Lankan citizens have been demanding the resignation of the Prime Minister. Also, Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa wanted Prime Minister to resign, as it will enable him to form an interim government and pave the way for a solution to the present crisis in Sri Lanka.

Why are the earlier positions held by Mahinda Rajapaksa?

Mahinda Rajapaksa also served as a President. During his term, Sri Lanka witnessed the defeat of Tamil Tiger rebels in 2009. His term is marked by allegations of corruption, human rights abuses, and nexus with China, which led the country into a debt trap.

What happens after the resignation of the Sri Lankan Prime Minister?

The Sri Lankan cabinet will be dissolved and a new Prime minister will be selected. A unity government with the Opposition can be formed by the President. The Parliament may be dissolved and fresh elections can be conducted for the Parliament.

How the new Prime Minister will be selected?

A national council appointed by the President will select the new prime minister and Cabinet comprising all parties in the Sri Lankan Parliament.

Can the Sri Lankan President dissolve Parliament?

President can dissolve the Parliament. But as per the constitution of Sri Lanka, the president cannot dissolve parliament until midway through its five-year term (until February 2023). To dissolve the parliament before February 2023, the parliament has to pass a resolution.

What is the crisis in Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka is facing its worst economic crisis. The nation does not even have enough foreign exchange reserves to import essential items like fuel, medicines, and food. It also defaulted on its foreign debts. The economic turmoil gave rise to political instability and civil strife.

What are the reasons for the economic crisis in Sri Lanka?

The economy was already in decline and the Covid-19 pandemic further worsened the economic situation. Exports like tea drastically fell due to the pandemic, and the remittances were also reduced. The tourism sector on which the Sri Lankan economy is dependent also suffered. Decisions like reducing corporate income tax, and abruptly moving towards organic farming also aggravated the economic crisis.

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