News analysis

Attacks on peaceful protests threaten to stall Sri Lanka’s recovery

Government supporters and the police clashing outside the President’s office during a protest in Colombo, on May 9, 2022. PHOTO: AFP
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BANGALORE - Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa's resignation, after his supporters attacked peaceful anti-government protesters in the capital Colombo, has changed the mood of dissent in the island nation.

For over a month, protesters across many venues in the country have been chanting "Rajapaksa Go Home". The demonstration sites, especially at the Galle Face beachside in Colombo, resembled a carnival, with people across classes chanting cheeky slogans, artists painting walls and singing, and ordinary people donating food and medicine.

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