Amid unending economic crisis, Lankan Prez declares state of emergency

Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has once again declared a state of emergency in Sri Lanka with effect from Friday midnight. As the country is battling a serious economic crisis that has triggered country-wide protests against the government, a state of emergency has been declared second time in the country in just over a month.

The state of emergency will provide the police with the sweeping power to arbitrarily arrest and detain people.

The decision taken by Rajapaksa eyes to ensure public security and maintain essential services so that the country can function smoothly.

The decision came amid the weeks of unending protests demanding the removal of the government and the president. The protesters allege that Rajapaksa and his family in the government are responsible for the sinking economic conditions of Sri Lanka.

 Sri Lanka is currently shrouded with dark days as the country is battling the biggest economic crisis since its independence. The economic turmoil has sprung from a lack of foreign currency, which has meant that the country cannot afford to pay for imports of staple foods and fuel, leading to acute shortages and very high prices.