Winnipeggers rally to support Sri Lankans, facing worst economic crisis in decades
CBC
As Sri Lanka grapples with its worst economic and political crisis in decades, some Winnipeggers are rallying to send support back home.
The situation in the South Asian country escalated on Monday, as Sri Lanka's prime minister resigned, setting off violent attacks on peaceful protesters in the capital, Colombo.
Mahinda Rajapaksa was just one member of a political dynasty that includes his brother. Gotabaya Rajapaksa remains in power as president, but many are demanding he step down as well, including some Sri Lankans living in Winnipeg.
Shenaly Kuluppuarachchi is studying global political economics at the University of Manitoba. She misses her parents, whom she hasn't seen since before the pandemic, but the situation back home doesn't make for safe travel.
"We cannot focus on our day-to-day tasks," said Kuluppuarachchi. "The first thing I do is call my mom and find out if they're OK, when I wake up in the morning."
Her parents live in Colombo, a city now in crisis. Protesters were attacked this week by government supporters, with 23 sent to hospital.
The protesters had camped outside the president's and prime minister's offices for a month, calling on them to resign.
Mahinda Rajapaksa's resignation Monday triggered violence and fires at politicians' homes.
WATCH | Sri Lankan PM resigns on Monday following protests:
President Gotabaya Rajapaksa declared a state of emergency last Friday, allowing him to authorize detentions, property seizure and the search of any premises.
He can also change or suspend any law in the interests of public security and for the maintenance of essential supplies.
In Winnipeg, Kuluppuarachchi has been glued to the powerful online images of tanks and troops patrolling the streets of Colombo.
"I also saw the police and forces randomly shooting to disperse crowds, which I don't think is right," said the 25-year-old. "It's a basic violation of human rights."
Kuluppuarachchi has helped organize recent protests here in Manitoba, including one at the legislature in April. She said she's proud to support Sri Lankans standing up in Colombo, including her parents.
