• Security personnel stand guard after a raid on an anti-government protest camp in Colombo early on Friday, amid Sri Lanka's economic crisis. Reuters
    Security personnel stand guard after a raid on an anti-government protest camp in Colombo early on Friday, amid Sri Lanka's economic crisis. Reuters
  • Anti-government protesters speak with members of Sri Lankan security forces. AFP
    Anti-government protesters speak with members of Sri Lankan security forces. AFP
  • A policeman walks past slogans against the newly elected Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickramasinghe in Colombo. AFP
    A policeman walks past slogans against the newly elected Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickramasinghe in Colombo. AFP
  • Ranil Wickremesinghe is sworn in as the new president of Sri Lanka by Chief Justice Jayantha Jayasuriya. Reuters
    Ranil Wickremesinghe is sworn in as the new president of Sri Lanka by Chief Justice Jayantha Jayasuriya. Reuters
  • Mr Wickremesinghe, centre, arrives at his swearing-in ceremony in Colombo. EPA
    Mr Wickremesinghe, centre, arrives at his swearing-in ceremony in Colombo. EPA
  • Ranil Wickremesinghe leaves a Buddhist temple in Colombo after he was named as Sri Lanka's eighth executive president. Reuters
    Ranil Wickremesinghe leaves a Buddhist temple in Colombo after he was named as Sri Lanka's eighth executive president. Reuters
  • Sri Lankans protest after Mr Wickremesinghe defeated Dullas Alahapperuma, a member of the breakaway faction of the ruling Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna party, by 134 votes to 82 in a parliamentary vote to pick the next president. Getty
    Sri Lankans protest after Mr Wickremesinghe defeated Dullas Alahapperuma, a member of the breakaway faction of the ruling Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna party, by 134 votes to 82 in a parliamentary vote to pick the next president. Getty
  • Dinesh Gunawardena, centre, leader of the House of Parliament, arrives at Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo. Getty
    Dinesh Gunawardena, centre, leader of the House of Parliament, arrives at Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo. Getty
  • Soldiers stand guard at the Presidential Secretariat after Mr Wickremesinghe was announced as Sri Lanka's new president. Getty
    Soldiers stand guard at the Presidential Secretariat after Mr Wickremesinghe was announced as Sri Lanka's new president. Getty
  • Protesters watch a live broadcast of the parliamentary vote to pick Sri Lanka's new president. EPA
    Protesters watch a live broadcast of the parliamentary vote to pick Sri Lanka's new president. EPA
  • A screen grab of Mr Wickremesinghe, bottom left, during the vote count announcement in Sri Lanka's Parliament. AFP
    A screen grab of Mr Wickremesinghe, bottom left, during the vote count announcement in Sri Lanka's Parliament. AFP
  • Mr Alahapperuma, bottom right, during the parliamentary vote in Colombo. AFP
    Mr Alahapperuma, bottom right, during the parliamentary vote in Colombo. AFP
  • A supporter celebrates in Colombo after Mr Wickremesinghe was elected as president. Reuters
    A supporter celebrates in Colombo after Mr Wickremesinghe was elected as president. Reuters
  • Mr Wickremesinghe's supporters celebrate in the capital after his election as Sri Lankan president. Getty
    Mr Wickremesinghe's supporters celebrate in the capital after his election as Sri Lankan president. Getty
  • Sri Lankans protest after the announcement of Mr Wickremesinghe as president. Getty
    Sri Lankans protest after the announcement of Mr Wickremesinghe as president. Getty
  • Demonstrators watch a public screen as voting begins in Sri Lanka's Parliament. Reuters
    Demonstrators watch a public screen as voting begins in Sri Lanka's Parliament. Reuters
  • Protesters in Colombo demand Mr Wickremesinghe's resignation as prime minister and acting president before the parliamentary vote. AP
    Protesters in Colombo demand Mr Wickremesinghe's resignation as prime minister and acting president before the parliamentary vote. AP
  • Demonstrators carry an effigy of Mr Wickremesinghe. AFP
    Demonstrators carry an effigy of Mr Wickremesinghe. AFP
  • Demonstrators take part in a procession against Mr Wickremesinghe. AFP
    Demonstrators take part in a procession against Mr Wickremesinghe. AFP
  • Demonstrators shout slogans. AFP
    Demonstrators shout slogans. AFP
  • Sri Lankan demonstrators take part in a celebration in Colombo to mark the 100th day of protests. AFP
    Sri Lankan demonstrators take part in a celebration in Colombo to mark the 100th day of protests. AFP
  • After months of street protests, Sri Lanka’s parliament will elect a new president to replace Gotabaya Rajapaksa on Wednesday. AFP
    After months of street protests, Sri Lanka’s parliament will elect a new president to replace Gotabaya Rajapaksa on Wednesday. AFP
  • The country faces its worst economic crisis in decades due to the lack of foreign reserves, resulting in severe shortages of food, fuel, medicines and imported goods. Getty
    The country faces its worst economic crisis in decades due to the lack of foreign reserves, resulting in severe shortages of food, fuel, medicines and imported goods. Getty
  • Soldiers lower the national flag at Galle Face Green in Colombo. Getty
    Soldiers lower the national flag at Galle Face Green in Colombo. Getty
  • A demonstrator writes a slogan against acting president Ranil Wickremesinghe. AFP
    A demonstrator writes a slogan against acting president Ranil Wickremesinghe. AFP
  • Mr Wickremesinghe is a top contender in the race to succeed Mr Rajapaksa. AFP
    Mr Wickremesinghe is a top contender in the race to succeed Mr Rajapaksa. AFP
  • People light candles in the capital in memory of protesters killed or wounded since the demonstrations began. EPA
    People light candles in the capital in memory of protesters killed or wounded since the demonstrations began. EPA
  • Police officers stand guard outside Parliament in Colombo. Reuters
    Police officers stand guard outside Parliament in Colombo. Reuters
  • The vandalised office of the Sri Lankan president inside his official residence in the capital. Getty
    The vandalised office of the Sri Lankan president inside his official residence in the capital. Getty
  • Police officials gather evidence at the president’s official residence after it was overrun by anti-government protesters on July 9. AFP
    Police officials gather evidence at the president’s official residence after it was overrun by anti-government protesters on July 9. AFP
  • Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, right, is sworn in as acting president by Chief Justice Jayantha Jayasuriya in Colombo. EPA
    Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, right, is sworn in as acting president by Chief Justice Jayantha Jayasuriya in Colombo. EPA
  • Parliamentary Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena addresses the media in Colombo. AFP
    Parliamentary Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena addresses the media in Colombo. AFP
  • People dance in Colombo as they celebrate the resignation of Mr Rajapaksa amid the country’s economic crisis. Reuters
    People dance in Colombo as they celebrate the resignation of Mr Rajapaksa amid the country’s economic crisis. Reuters
  • Demonstrators cheer after hearing news that Mr Rajapaksa had emailed his letter of resignation after fleeing months of anti-government protests. Bloomberg
    Demonstrators cheer after hearing news that Mr Rajapaksa had emailed his letter of resignation after fleeing months of anti-government protests. Bloomberg
  • Members of the media wait outside the VIP complex of Changi International Airport in Singapore for the arrival of Mr Rajapaksa, his wife and two bodyguards. Sri Lanka's president left the Maldives on July 14 aboard a Saudia Airlines plane bound for Singapore. AFP
    Members of the media wait outside the VIP complex of Changi International Airport in Singapore for the arrival of Mr Rajapaksa, his wife and two bodyguards. Sri Lanka's president left the Maldives on July 14 aboard a Saudia Airlines plane bound for Singapore. AFP
  • A Saudia Airlines plane believed to be carrying Mr Rajapaksa arrives on the tarmac at Changi Airport in Singapore. EPA
    A Saudia Airlines plane believed to be carrying Mr Rajapaksa arrives on the tarmac at Changi Airport in Singapore. EPA
  • Police officers walk outside Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe's office, a day after thousands of anti-government protesters stormed the building, when he was named acting president. AFP
    Police officers walk outside Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe's office, a day after thousands of anti-government protesters stormed the building, when he was named acting president. AFP
  • A Saudia airline Boeing 787 Dreamliner bound for Singapore and carrying Sri Lanka's fleeing president Gotabaya Rajapaksa, his wife and bodyguards prepares to take off at the Velana International airport, in the Maldives. AFP
    A Saudia airline Boeing 787 Dreamliner bound for Singapore and carrying Sri Lanka's fleeing president Gotabaya Rajapaksa, his wife and bodyguards prepares to take off at the Velana International airport, in the Maldives. AFP
  • Sri Lankan soldiers stand guard near the parliament building in Colombo, a day after thousands of anti-government protesters stormed the prime minister's office. AFP
    Sri Lankan soldiers stand guard near the parliament building in Colombo, a day after thousands of anti-government protesters stormed the prime minister's office. AFP
  • A soldier walks past a demonstrator sitting in a meeting room, at the prime minister's offices. AFP
    A soldier walks past a demonstrator sitting in a meeting room, at the prime minister's offices. AFP
  • Soldiers patrol the buildings of the prime minister's office. AFP
    Soldiers patrol the buildings of the prime minister's office. AFP
  • Troops make their way to an anti-government protest at the prime minister's office in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Bloomberg
    Troops make their way to an anti-government protest at the prime minister's office in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Bloomberg
  • Demonstrators takes pictures inside the complex housing the Sri Lankan prime minister's offices. AFP
    Demonstrators takes pictures inside the complex housing the Sri Lankan prime minister's offices. AFP
  • An injured protester lies in an ambulance after clashes with police near parliament in Colombo. AP
    An injured protester lies in an ambulance after clashes with police near parliament in Colombo. AP
  • People wait to enter the presidential palace in Colombo, Sri Lanka. AP
    People wait to enter the presidential palace in Colombo, Sri Lanka. AP
  • Protesters in Colombo hold Sri Lankan flags as they stand on top of the office of acting Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, amid the country's economic crisis. Reuters
    Protesters in Colombo hold Sri Lankan flags as they stand on top of the office of acting Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, amid the country's economic crisis. Reuters
  • Protesters demand the resignation of Mr Wickremasinghe. Bloomberg
    Protesters demand the resignation of Mr Wickremasinghe. Bloomberg
  • Police officers stand guard in Colombo. Reuters
    Police officers stand guard in Colombo. Reuters
  • Police fire tear gas to control the crowds. Reuters
    Police fire tear gas to control the crowds. Reuters
  • A protester pours water on a man as tensions soar. Reuters
    A protester pours water on a man as tensions soar. Reuters
  • Protesters throw teargas shells. AP Photo
    Protesters throw teargas shells. AP Photo
  • Protesters storm Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe's office in Colombo, Sri Lanka and demand his resignation, after President Gotabaya Rajapaksa fled the economic and political crisis for the Maldives. AP
    Protesters storm Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe's office in Colombo, Sri Lanka and demand his resignation, after President Gotabaya Rajapaksa fled the economic and political crisis for the Maldives. AP
  • Police use tear gas to disperse Sri Lankan protesters outside the prime minister's office. AP
    Police use tear gas to disperse Sri Lankan protesters outside the prime minister's office. AP
  • A protester sleeps on vandalised furniture inside the presidential palace in Colombo, which has been occupied by demonstrators for days. Getty Images
    A protester sleeps on vandalised furniture inside the presidential palace in Colombo, which has been occupied by demonstrators for days. Getty Images
  • A satellite image shows people gathered outside Sri Lanka's Parliament building in Colombo amid the country's economic and political crisis. AFP
    A satellite image shows people gathered outside Sri Lanka's Parliament building in Colombo amid the country's economic and political crisis. AFP
  • Youths play carrom inside the Sri Lankan prime minister's official residence, which was stormed by protesters at the weekend. Reuters
    Youths play carrom inside the Sri Lankan prime minister's official residence, which was stormed by protesters at the weekend. Reuters
  • People sit on a couch inside the prime minister's official residence. The protests against the government have simmered since May, but erupted again last Saturday. Reuters
    People sit on a couch inside the prime minister's official residence. The protests against the government have simmered since May, but erupted again last Saturday. Reuters
  • Army cadets march past people queuing to get inside Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa's official residence in Colombo. AFP
    Army cadets march past people queuing to get inside Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa's official residence in Colombo. AFP
  • People visit Mr Rajapaksa's official residence in Colombo. It was reported on Wednesday that he had fled the country for the Maldives. AFP
    People visit Mr Rajapaksa's official residence in Colombo. It was reported on Wednesday that he had fled the country for the Maldives. AFP
  • A man takes a selfie at the presidential palace. AP
    A man takes a selfie at the presidential palace. AP
  • Sri Lankans line up to take a look inside the presidential palace in Colombo. EPA
    Sri Lankans line up to take a look inside the presidential palace in Colombo. EPA
  • Crowds flock to take in the presidential palace. EPA
    Crowds flock to take in the presidential palace. EPA
  • A man takes a rest inside the prime minister's official residence in Colombo. EPA
    A man takes a rest inside the prime minister's official residence in Colombo. EPA
  • People sing songs inside the prime minister's official residence. EPA
    People sing songs inside the prime minister's official residence. EPA
  • Protesters erect a banner on the presidential palace three days after it was stormed by anti-government demonstrators in Colombo. AP
    Protesters erect a banner on the presidential palace three days after it was stormed by anti-government demonstrators in Colombo. AP
  • People wait in a queue to collect gas at a distribution point in Colombo. AFP
    People wait in a queue to collect gas at a distribution point in Colombo. AFP
  • Sri Lankans quarrel as they wait for gas at a distribution point. AFP
    Sri Lankans quarrel as they wait for gas at a distribution point. AFP
  • A driver of an autorickshaw sleeps inside his vehicle while waiting in a queue to buy petrol at a fuel station in Colombo. AP
    A driver of an autorickshaw sleeps inside his vehicle while waiting in a queue to buy petrol at a fuel station in Colombo. AP

Sri Lanka PM Wickremesinghe tells police 'to do what is necessary' after office stormed


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Sri Lanka's Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe has delivered a televised address ordering the military to “do whatever is necessary to restore order” after thousands of protesters stormed his office on Wednesday.

Mr Wickremesinghe told protesters to leave his office and other state buildings and co-operate with authorities.

“We can't tear up our constitution,” he said. “We can't allow fascists to take over. We must end this fascist threat to democracy.”

Mr Wickremesinghe's speech came on the day he was named acting president, hours after incumbent Gotabaya Rajapaksa fled the bankrupt country in an air force jet.

Witnesses said protesters who stormed Mr Wickremesinghe's office had breached military defences. It was unclear on Wednesday evening whether security forces would use live ammunition on protesters, as has been the case since May when the army were given orders to use any means necessary to stop rioting. Almost 30 protesters were shot in a single incident on April 22 — one fatally — the first of several shootings since protests began.

The UN has warned Sri Lankan authorities to refrain from deadly force, while the police say they have tried to use water canons and tear gas to protect property.

But on Wednesday evening, Sri Lanka's defence chief, General Shavendra Silva, said the armed forces and police would respect the constitution, and called for calm.

“We have requested political leaders to decide the way forward till a new president is sworn in and notify us and the public by this evening,” he said.

People stood on chairs and desks waving Sri Lankan flags, chanting “that's what we said, don’t mess with us”, the BBC reported from inside Mr Wickremesinghe's office.

Police and troops had failed to hold back crowds despite firing tear gas and water cannon, AFP reported.

  • Security personnel stand guard after a raid on an anti-government protest camp in Colombo early on Friday, amid Sri Lanka's economic crisis. Reuters
    Security personnel stand guard after a raid on an anti-government protest camp in Colombo early on Friday, amid Sri Lanka's economic crisis. Reuters
  • Anti-government protesters speak with members of Sri Lankan security forces. AFP
    Anti-government protesters speak with members of Sri Lankan security forces. AFP
  • A policeman walks past slogans against the newly elected Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickramasinghe in Colombo. AFP
    A policeman walks past slogans against the newly elected Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickramasinghe in Colombo. AFP
  • Ranil Wickremesinghe is sworn in as the new president of Sri Lanka by Chief Justice Jayantha Jayasuriya. Reuters
    Ranil Wickremesinghe is sworn in as the new president of Sri Lanka by Chief Justice Jayantha Jayasuriya. Reuters
  • Mr Wickremesinghe, centre, arrives at his swearing-in ceremony in Colombo. EPA
    Mr Wickremesinghe, centre, arrives at his swearing-in ceremony in Colombo. EPA
  • Ranil Wickremesinghe leaves a Buddhist temple in Colombo after he was named as Sri Lanka's eighth executive president. Reuters
    Ranil Wickremesinghe leaves a Buddhist temple in Colombo after he was named as Sri Lanka's eighth executive president. Reuters
  • Sri Lankans protest after Mr Wickremesinghe defeated Dullas Alahapperuma, a member of the breakaway faction of the ruling Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna party, by 134 votes to 82 in a parliamentary vote to pick the next president. Getty
    Sri Lankans protest after Mr Wickremesinghe defeated Dullas Alahapperuma, a member of the breakaway faction of the ruling Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna party, by 134 votes to 82 in a parliamentary vote to pick the next president. Getty
  • Dinesh Gunawardena, centre, leader of the House of Parliament, arrives at Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo. Getty
    Dinesh Gunawardena, centre, leader of the House of Parliament, arrives at Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo. Getty
  • Soldiers stand guard at the Presidential Secretariat after Mr Wickremesinghe was announced as Sri Lanka's new president. Getty
    Soldiers stand guard at the Presidential Secretariat after Mr Wickremesinghe was announced as Sri Lanka's new president. Getty
  • Protesters watch a live broadcast of the parliamentary vote to pick Sri Lanka's new president. EPA
    Protesters watch a live broadcast of the parliamentary vote to pick Sri Lanka's new president. EPA
  • A screen grab of Mr Wickremesinghe, bottom left, during the vote count announcement in Sri Lanka's Parliament. AFP
    A screen grab of Mr Wickremesinghe, bottom left, during the vote count announcement in Sri Lanka's Parliament. AFP
  • Mr Alahapperuma, bottom right, during the parliamentary vote in Colombo. AFP
    Mr Alahapperuma, bottom right, during the parliamentary vote in Colombo. AFP
  • A supporter celebrates in Colombo after Mr Wickremesinghe was elected as president. Reuters
    A supporter celebrates in Colombo after Mr Wickremesinghe was elected as president. Reuters
  • Mr Wickremesinghe's supporters celebrate in the capital after his election as Sri Lankan president. Getty
    Mr Wickremesinghe's supporters celebrate in the capital after his election as Sri Lankan president. Getty
  • Sri Lankans protest after the announcement of Mr Wickremesinghe as president. Getty
    Sri Lankans protest after the announcement of Mr Wickremesinghe as president. Getty
  • Demonstrators watch a public screen as voting begins in Sri Lanka's Parliament. Reuters
    Demonstrators watch a public screen as voting begins in Sri Lanka's Parliament. Reuters
  • Protesters in Colombo demand Mr Wickremesinghe's resignation as prime minister and acting president before the parliamentary vote. AP
    Protesters in Colombo demand Mr Wickremesinghe's resignation as prime minister and acting president before the parliamentary vote. AP
  • Demonstrators carry an effigy of Mr Wickremesinghe. AFP
    Demonstrators carry an effigy of Mr Wickremesinghe. AFP
  • Demonstrators take part in a procession against Mr Wickremesinghe. AFP
    Demonstrators take part in a procession against Mr Wickremesinghe. AFP
  • Demonstrators shout slogans. AFP
    Demonstrators shout slogans. AFP
  • Sri Lankan demonstrators take part in a celebration in Colombo to mark the 100th day of protests. AFP
    Sri Lankan demonstrators take part in a celebration in Colombo to mark the 100th day of protests. AFP
  • After months of street protests, Sri Lanka’s parliament will elect a new president to replace Gotabaya Rajapaksa on Wednesday. AFP
    After months of street protests, Sri Lanka’s parliament will elect a new president to replace Gotabaya Rajapaksa on Wednesday. AFP
  • The country faces its worst economic crisis in decades due to the lack of foreign reserves, resulting in severe shortages of food, fuel, medicines and imported goods. Getty
    The country faces its worst economic crisis in decades due to the lack of foreign reserves, resulting in severe shortages of food, fuel, medicines and imported goods. Getty
  • Soldiers lower the national flag at Galle Face Green in Colombo. Getty
    Soldiers lower the national flag at Galle Face Green in Colombo. Getty
  • A demonstrator writes a slogan against acting president Ranil Wickremesinghe. AFP
    A demonstrator writes a slogan against acting president Ranil Wickremesinghe. AFP
  • Mr Wickremesinghe is a top contender in the race to succeed Mr Rajapaksa. AFP
    Mr Wickremesinghe is a top contender in the race to succeed Mr Rajapaksa. AFP
  • People light candles in the capital in memory of protesters killed or wounded since the demonstrations began. EPA
    People light candles in the capital in memory of protesters killed or wounded since the demonstrations began. EPA
  • Police officers stand guard outside Parliament in Colombo. Reuters
    Police officers stand guard outside Parliament in Colombo. Reuters
  • The vandalised office of the Sri Lankan president inside his official residence in the capital. Getty
    The vandalised office of the Sri Lankan president inside his official residence in the capital. Getty
  • Police officials gather evidence at the president’s official residence after it was overrun by anti-government protesters on July 9. AFP
    Police officials gather evidence at the president’s official residence after it was overrun by anti-government protesters on July 9. AFP
  • Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, right, is sworn in as acting president by Chief Justice Jayantha Jayasuriya in Colombo. EPA
    Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, right, is sworn in as acting president by Chief Justice Jayantha Jayasuriya in Colombo. EPA
  • Parliamentary Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena addresses the media in Colombo. AFP
    Parliamentary Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena addresses the media in Colombo. AFP
  • People dance in Colombo as they celebrate the resignation of Mr Rajapaksa amid the country’s economic crisis. Reuters
    People dance in Colombo as they celebrate the resignation of Mr Rajapaksa amid the country’s economic crisis. Reuters
  • Demonstrators cheer after hearing news that Mr Rajapaksa had emailed his letter of resignation after fleeing months of anti-government protests. Bloomberg
    Demonstrators cheer after hearing news that Mr Rajapaksa had emailed his letter of resignation after fleeing months of anti-government protests. Bloomberg
  • Members of the media wait outside the VIP complex of Changi International Airport in Singapore for the arrival of Mr Rajapaksa, his wife and two bodyguards. Sri Lanka's president left the Maldives on July 14 aboard a Saudia Airlines plane bound for Singapore. AFP
    Members of the media wait outside the VIP complex of Changi International Airport in Singapore for the arrival of Mr Rajapaksa, his wife and two bodyguards. Sri Lanka's president left the Maldives on July 14 aboard a Saudia Airlines plane bound for Singapore. AFP
  • A Saudia Airlines plane believed to be carrying Mr Rajapaksa arrives on the tarmac at Changi Airport in Singapore. EPA
    A Saudia Airlines plane believed to be carrying Mr Rajapaksa arrives on the tarmac at Changi Airport in Singapore. EPA
  • Police officers walk outside Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe's office, a day after thousands of anti-government protesters stormed the building, when he was named acting president. AFP
    Police officers walk outside Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe's office, a day after thousands of anti-government protesters stormed the building, when he was named acting president. AFP
  • A Saudia airline Boeing 787 Dreamliner bound for Singapore and carrying Sri Lanka's fleeing president Gotabaya Rajapaksa, his wife and bodyguards prepares to take off at the Velana International airport, in the Maldives. AFP
    A Saudia airline Boeing 787 Dreamliner bound for Singapore and carrying Sri Lanka's fleeing president Gotabaya Rajapaksa, his wife and bodyguards prepares to take off at the Velana International airport, in the Maldives. AFP
  • Sri Lankan soldiers stand guard near the parliament building in Colombo, a day after thousands of anti-government protesters stormed the prime minister's office. AFP
    Sri Lankan soldiers stand guard near the parliament building in Colombo, a day after thousands of anti-government protesters stormed the prime minister's office. AFP
  • A soldier walks past a demonstrator sitting in a meeting room, at the prime minister's offices. AFP
    A soldier walks past a demonstrator sitting in a meeting room, at the prime minister's offices. AFP
  • Soldiers patrol the buildings of the prime minister's office. AFP
    Soldiers patrol the buildings of the prime minister's office. AFP
  • Troops make their way to an anti-government protest at the prime minister's office in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Bloomberg
    Troops make their way to an anti-government protest at the prime minister's office in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Bloomberg
  • Demonstrators takes pictures inside the complex housing the Sri Lankan prime minister's offices. AFP
    Demonstrators takes pictures inside the complex housing the Sri Lankan prime minister's offices. AFP
  • An injured protester lies in an ambulance after clashes with police near parliament in Colombo. AP
    An injured protester lies in an ambulance after clashes with police near parliament in Colombo. AP
  • People wait to enter the presidential palace in Colombo, Sri Lanka. AP
    People wait to enter the presidential palace in Colombo, Sri Lanka. AP
  • Protesters in Colombo hold Sri Lankan flags as they stand on top of the office of acting Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, amid the country's economic crisis. Reuters
    Protesters in Colombo hold Sri Lankan flags as they stand on top of the office of acting Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, amid the country's economic crisis. Reuters
  • Protesters demand the resignation of Mr Wickremasinghe. Bloomberg
    Protesters demand the resignation of Mr Wickremasinghe. Bloomberg
  • Police officers stand guard in Colombo. Reuters
    Police officers stand guard in Colombo. Reuters
  • Police fire tear gas to control the crowds. Reuters
    Police fire tear gas to control the crowds. Reuters
  • A protester pours water on a man as tensions soar. Reuters
    A protester pours water on a man as tensions soar. Reuters
  • Protesters throw teargas shells. AP Photo
    Protesters throw teargas shells. AP Photo
  • Protesters storm Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe's office in Colombo, Sri Lanka and demand his resignation, after President Gotabaya Rajapaksa fled the economic and political crisis for the Maldives. AP
    Protesters storm Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe's office in Colombo, Sri Lanka and demand his resignation, after President Gotabaya Rajapaksa fled the economic and political crisis for the Maldives. AP
  • Police use tear gas to disperse Sri Lankan protesters outside the prime minister's office. AP
    Police use tear gas to disperse Sri Lankan protesters outside the prime minister's office. AP
  • A protester sleeps on vandalised furniture inside the presidential palace in Colombo, which has been occupied by demonstrators for days. Getty Images
    A protester sleeps on vandalised furniture inside the presidential palace in Colombo, which has been occupied by demonstrators for days. Getty Images
  • A satellite image shows people gathered outside Sri Lanka's Parliament building in Colombo amid the country's economic and political crisis. AFP
    A satellite image shows people gathered outside Sri Lanka's Parliament building in Colombo amid the country's economic and political crisis. AFP
  • Youths play carrom inside the Sri Lankan prime minister's official residence, which was stormed by protesters at the weekend. Reuters
    Youths play carrom inside the Sri Lankan prime minister's official residence, which was stormed by protesters at the weekend. Reuters
  • People sit on a couch inside the prime minister's official residence. The protests against the government have simmered since May, but erupted again last Saturday. Reuters
    People sit on a couch inside the prime minister's official residence. The protests against the government have simmered since May, but erupted again last Saturday. Reuters
  • Army cadets march past people queuing to get inside Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa's official residence in Colombo. AFP
    Army cadets march past people queuing to get inside Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa's official residence in Colombo. AFP
  • People visit Mr Rajapaksa's official residence in Colombo. It was reported on Wednesday that he had fled the country for the Maldives. AFP
    People visit Mr Rajapaksa's official residence in Colombo. It was reported on Wednesday that he had fled the country for the Maldives. AFP
  • A man takes a selfie at the presidential palace. AP
    A man takes a selfie at the presidential palace. AP
  • Sri Lankans line up to take a look inside the presidential palace in Colombo. EPA
    Sri Lankans line up to take a look inside the presidential palace in Colombo. EPA
  • Crowds flock to take in the presidential palace. EPA
    Crowds flock to take in the presidential palace. EPA
  • A man takes a rest inside the prime minister's official residence in Colombo. EPA
    A man takes a rest inside the prime minister's official residence in Colombo. EPA
  • People sing songs inside the prime minister's official residence. EPA
    People sing songs inside the prime minister's official residence. EPA
  • Protesters erect a banner on the presidential palace three days after it was stormed by anti-government demonstrators in Colombo. AP
    Protesters erect a banner on the presidential palace three days after it was stormed by anti-government demonstrators in Colombo. AP
  • People wait in a queue to collect gas at a distribution point in Colombo. AFP
    People wait in a queue to collect gas at a distribution point in Colombo. AFP
  • Sri Lankans quarrel as they wait for gas at a distribution point. AFP
    Sri Lankans quarrel as they wait for gas at a distribution point. AFP
  • A driver of an autorickshaw sleeps inside his vehicle while waiting in a queue to buy petrol at a fuel station in Colombo. AP
    A driver of an autorickshaw sleeps inside his vehicle while waiting in a queue to buy petrol at a fuel station in Colombo. AP

Sri Lanka’s state broadcaster Rupavahini went off air after being seized by protesters in Colombo, Bloomberg reported.

At about 1.02pm local time, shortly after the protester-imposed deadline lapsed for Mr Rajapaksa to submit his resignation, Rupavahini showed images of one of its presenters introducing two protesters.

Shortly afterwards, the channel played the national anthem and went off air.

“We have not cast a stone at Rupavahini,” one protester said.

“We only ask that you join the people in our struggle rather than taking the side of the government in power. We thank the staff of Rupavahini for assisting us.”

Ranil Wickremesinghe's office was stormed on Wednesday, hours after he was named acting president. AP
Ranil Wickremesinghe's office was stormed on Wednesday, hours after he was named acting president. AP

Protesters captured the broadcaster after an announcement that Mr Wickremesinghe, who is also being asked to resign, will be acting president after Mr Rajapaksa fled.

Some local media reports cited unnamed Rupavahini officials as saying engineers shut down the broadcast after protesters stormed the building.

Sri Lanka's Information Ministry has not responded to requests for comment, Bloomberg reported.

Protests were widespread in Colombo on Wednesday. Tear gas was fired and barricades were set up in parts of the capital.

The country’s economy has been wrecked by a combination of mismanagement, a slump in tourism due to the pandemic and a surge in import costs related to the war in Ukraine.

COMPANY PROFILE
Company name: BorrowMe (BorrowMe.com)

Date started: August 2021

Founder: Nour Sabri

Based: Dubai, UAE

Sector: E-commerce / Marketplace

Size: Two employees

Funding stage: Seed investment

Initial investment: $200,000

Investors: Amr Manaa (director, PwC Middle East) 

Uefa Champions League last 16 draw

Juventus v Tottenham Hotspur

Basel v Manchester City

Sevilla v  Manchester United

Porto v Liverpool

Real Madrid v Paris Saint-Germain

Shakhtar Donetsk v Roma

Chelsea v Barcelona

Bayern Munich v Besiktas

COMPANY PROFILE
Name: Kumulus Water
 
Started: 2021
 
Founders: Iheb Triki and Mohamed Ali Abid
 
Based: Tunisia 
 
Sector: Water technology 
 
Number of staff: 22 
 
Investment raised: $4 million 
The%20Specs
%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EEngine%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3E3.6-litre%20twin%20turbocharged%20V6%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3ETransmission%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3E10-speed%20automatic%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EPower%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20472hp%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3ETorque%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20603Nm%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EPrice%3A%20%3C%2Fstrong%3Efrom%20Dh290%2C000%20(%2478%2C9500)%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EOn%20sale%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20now%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
Results:

Men's 100m T34: 1. Walid Ktila (TUN) 15 sec; 2. Rheed McCracken (AUS) 15.40; 3. Mohammed Al Hammadi (UAE) 15.75. Men's 400m T34: 1. Walid Ktila (TUN) 50.56; 2. Mohammed Al Hammadi (UAE) 50.94; 3. Henry Manni (FIN) 52.24.

While you're here
UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets
West Asia Premiership

Dubai Hurricanes 58-10 Dubai Knights Eagles

Dubai Tigers 5-39 Bahrain

Jebel Ali Dragons 16-56 Abu Dhabi Harlequins

Ten tax points to be aware of in 2026

1. Domestic VAT refund amendments: request your refund within five years

If a business does not apply for the refund on time, they lose their credit.

2. E-invoicing in the UAE

Businesses should continue preparing for the implementation of e-invoicing in the UAE, with 2026 a preparation and transition period ahead of phased mandatory adoption. 

3. More tax audits

Tax authorities are increasingly using data already available across multiple filings to identify audit risks. 

4. More beneficial VAT and excise tax penalty regime

Tax disputes are expected to become more frequent and more structured, with clearer administrative objection and appeal processes. The UAE has adopted a new penalty regime for VAT and excise disputes, which now mirrors the penalty regime for corporate tax.

5. Greater emphasis on statutory audit

There is a greater need for the accuracy of financial statements. The International Financial Reporting Standards standards need to be strictly adhered to and, as a result, the quality of the audits will need to increase.

6. Further transfer pricing enforcement

Transfer pricing enforcement, which refers to the practice of establishing prices for internal transactions between related entities, is expected to broaden in scope. The UAE will shortly open the possibility to negotiate advance pricing agreements, or essentially rulings for transfer pricing purposes. 

7. Limited time periods for audits

Recent amendments also introduce a default five-year limitation period for tax audits and assessments, subject to specific statutory exceptions. While the standard audit and assessment period is five years, this may be extended to up to 15 years in cases involving fraud or tax evasion. 

8. Pillar 2 implementation 

Many multinational groups will begin to feel the practical effect of the Domestic Minimum Top-Up Tax (DMTT), the UAE's implementation of the OECD’s global minimum tax under Pillar 2. While the rules apply for financial years starting on or after January 1, 2025, it is 2026 that marks the transition to an operational phase.

9. Reduced compliance obligations for imported goods and services

Businesses that apply the reverse-charge mechanism for VAT purposes in the UAE may benefit from reduced compliance obligations. 

10. Substance and CbC reporting focus

Tax authorities are expected to continue strengthening the enforcement of economic substance and Country-by-Country (CbC) reporting frameworks. In the UAE, these regimes are increasingly being used as risk-assessment tools, providing tax authorities with a comprehensive view of multinational groups’ global footprints and enabling them to assess whether profits are aligned with real economic activity. 

Contributed by Thomas Vanhee and Hend Rashwan, Aurifer

Infobox

Western Region Asia Cup Qualifier, Al Amerat, Oman

The two finalists advance to the next stage of qualifying, in Malaysia in August

Results

UAE beat Iran by 10 wickets

Kuwait beat Saudi Arabia by eight wickets

Oman beat Bahrain by nine wickets

Qatar beat Maldives by 106 runs

Monday fixtures

UAE v Kuwait, Iran v Saudi Arabia, Oman v Qatar, Maldives v Bahrain

Sweet%20Tooth
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Updated: July 14, 2022, 11:12 AM