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Protesters Burned Sri Lanka’s Prime Minister’s Home
Protesters in Sri Lanka set fire to the residence of Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, Newswire reported, citing the Prime Minister’s office.
“Protesters broke into the private residence of Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and set it on fire,” the prime minister’s office said.
TIME: Protesters burned Sri Lanka’s prime minister’s home
Earlier on Saturday, the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka agreed to resign, however, as his press service clarified, this will happen only after the formation of a new government, in which all parties of the country will be Details: Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena said that he informed Rajapaksa of the decision taken at the meeting of the leaders of the parliamentary parties, asking him to leave his post, and he agreed.
However, Rajapaksa will remain president until Wednesday to ensure a smooth transfer of power, Abeywardena added.
The announcement comes hours after protesters stormed the president’s official residence to express their anger at the country’s severe economic crisis. Protesters also broke into the prime minister’s private residence and set it on fire.
On July 9, thousands of protests engulfed the capital of Sri Lanka. Instead of the planned peaceful march, the protesters broke through the police cordons and seized the palace of the head of state. Local media write that neither Rajapaksa nor Vikramasinghe was in their homes when the buildings were attacked.
Protesters demanded the resignation of President Gotabai Rajapaksa:
On Saturday, thousands of protesters gathered in Colombo, Sri Lanka’s largest city, demanding the resignation of President Gotabai Rajapaksa. The day before, the military and police had been drawn into the city; Authorities announced a curfew on Friday evening to thwart the protesters, but this had no effect – the demonstrators were even alleged to have forced railroad workers to send trains to Colombo in defiance of orders. In the end, the measure was canceled.
The protesters clashed with the police and broke into the president’s residence and his office (the president himself, according to unofficial data, was evacuated and is under military guard). The police tried to disperse the crowd with tear gas and shots in the air. More than 30 people were injured in the clashes. Photos and videos from the occupied buildings went viral: in particular, a video showing a breakthrough of thousands of demonstrators to the office building and a video of protesters in the presidential pool was widely distributed.
Urgent meeting called by Prime Minister Ranil Wickramasinghe:
Prime Minister Ranil Wickramasinghe, heading the government for the sixth time, called an urgent meeting of leaders of political parties. Politicians have said that both the president and the prime minister should step down. Wickramasinghe, according to a statement from his office, expressed his willingness to do so “for the safety of the citizens” and to enable an all-party government to be formed.
Later, protesters set fire to Ranil Wickramasinghe’s house. Where he is unknown.
In the evening, the Speaker of the Sri Lankan Parliament stated that President Gotabaya Rajapaksa had informed him of his intention to step down on 13 July.
The leaders of political parties gathered for an emergency meeting, as a result of which they called on the president and the prime minister to resign, appoint the speaker of parliament as the interim head of state, elect a new president from members of parliament within 30 days, and appoint an interim all-party government and hold elections in the near future.
The numbers of people injured and hospitalized:
At least 39 people, including two police officers, were injured and hospitalized during the protests, hospital sources told Reuters.
Prime Minister Ranil Wickramasinghe also said he was ready to step down, his office said in a statement Saturday evening. President Gotabaya Rajapaksa could fly out of the country.
Since its independence in 1948, the country is facing the worst economic crisis:
Since its independence in 1948, the country is facing the worst economic crisis. The coronavirus pandemic has hit the tourism sector, a key source of foreign exchange, as a result of which the authorities cannot provide the country with fuel. In Sri Lanka, there was a shortage of food, basic necessities, medicines, and gas. Power is intermittent in many areas.
AP notes that Sri Lanka’s economy is in a state of collapse, relying on help from India and other countries, the country’s leaders are trying to negotiate assistance with the International Monetary Fund. The economic crisis has led to a severe shortage of basic necessities, making it difficult for people to buy food, fuel, etc.
The riots have led to months of protests that have all but wiped out the Rajapaksa political dynasty that has ruled Sri Lanka for most of the past two decades.
A short list of unsuccessful steps taken by the Sri Lankan authorities that led to economic collapse and protests
Since gaining independence from Britain in 1948, Sri Lanka’s economy has been based on the export of tea, coffee, rubber, and spices. Funds from international transactions formed the basis of the country’s GDP and, together with income from tourism, went to import necessary goods.
Reduction in exports threatened a currency crisis:
The slightest reduction in exports threatened a currency crisis, so the authorities of the country since 1965 had to take loans from the International Monetary Fund 16 times. After receiving another loan, the Sri Lankan government was obliged to reduce the budget deficit, maintain a strict monetary policy, minimize food subsidies for citizens and depreciate the exchange rate. Under such conditions, the authorities failed to stabilize the economy, and each subsequent payment only drove the country deeper into debt.
Tourism revenue plummeted in 2019 following a series of attacks on churches and hotels in Sri Lanka’s largest city, Colombo. According to some sources, the number of tourists in the country has decreased by 80%, which has led to an unprecedented depletion of foreign exchange reserves.
In addition, the current President, Gotabaya Rajapaksa (brother of former President and Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa), has introduced sweeping tax reforms since winning elections in 2019 in the hope of gaining popular support and boosting domestic money circulation. Value added tax was reduced from 15% to 8%, corporate taxes from 28% to 24%, and property tax, income tax, and commission fees were abolished altogether.
The ill-advised changes have reduced government revenue by more than $1.4 billion a year. “The post-election tax cuts came as a surprise to us,” said Nandalal Weerasinghe, one of the country’s leading financiers, who took over as Sri Lankan central bank governor in April this year, in an interview with Reuters. “No one consulted with us.”
Why did Sri Lanka decide to cut taxes at a difficult time?
Tax cuts were not the only unusual (if not eccentric) government reform. To stem the outflow of foreign currency, last year the government completely banned imports of fertilizers and declared Sri Lankan farming to be 100% organic.
As a result of radical measures, a crop failure occurred in the country, due to which the state had to make even more active purchases abroad. The lack of tea and rubber for sale due to the fertilizer ban caused a food crisis, and the country’s budget no longer allowed to import all the necessary goods. In turn, the shortage of goods with continued high demand made a jump in prices inevitable – in February 2022, inflation in Sri Lanka amounted to 17.5%.
Inflation has driven food prices up. By April, the price per kilogram of rice had risen from 80 rupees (about $0.34) to 500 (about $2.10), and a 400-gram pack of powdered milk had gone from the usual 60 rupees ($0.25) to 250 rupees (more dollar). In July, food inflation reached 57%, and 70% of families admit that they began to eat worse because of the need to save money.
Many residents are sure that it will not be possible to change the situation for the better while the president and his family remain in power. Among the reasons for the crisis, opposition-minded residents name the irremovability of leaders. Mahinda Rajapaksa led the country from 2005 to 2015 (and worked as prime minister for several more years), and his brother Gotabaya, after winning in 2019, attracted other relatives to rule the country: two other brothers, Basil and Shamal, led, respectively, the ministries of finance and irrigation, and the nephew of the head of state became the minister of sports.
Recent years have been marked by conflicts between family members: President Gotabaya and Mahinda, who worked until May as prime minister, fought for influence and the status of a national leader. As the crisis deepened, Gotabaya put more and more pressure on his brother to resign; Mahinda resisted. The heads of departments appointed by the president argued with ministers from Mahinda’s cabinet on any issue.
The Rajapaksa failed to avert the crisis, but in 2020 they pushed through a constitutional amendment to make it harder for independent commissions to investigate corruption and expanded the president’s powers over the judiciary.
“Sri Lanka is in danger of total annihilation,” said Maithripala Sirisena, who served as president from 2015 to 2019. “The country has learned the lesson of how political dynasties do business.”
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Sri Lanka’s prime minister’s home
Fortnite Chapter 4 Season 3 Brings Transformers to Battle Pass
Fortnite, the immensely popular battle royale game, never fails to surprise its millions of players worldwide. With the launch of Fortnite Chapter 4 Season 3, the game has taken an exciting turn, introducing two thrilling elements: Transformers and the return of Raptors. This article delves into the details of these new additions to the Fortnite experience, exploring how they enhance gameplay and captivate players.
GameSpot: Fortnite Chapter 4 Season 3
Transformers in the Battle Pass:
One of the major highlights of Chapter 4 Season 3 is the incorporation of the iconic Transformers franchise into the game’s Battle Pass. Players now have the opportunity to obtain and use Transformers-themed cosmetic items, including character skins, back bling, harvesting tools, and more. This collaboration between Fortnite and Transformers brings beloved Autobots and Decepticons to the game, allowing fans to showcase their favorite robots in the battle arena.
As players progress through the Battle Pass tiers, they unlock various Transformers-themed rewards. From the heroic Optimus Prime and the powerful Bumblebee to the notorious Megatron, the range of available character skins appeals to both Fortnite enthusiasts and Transformers aficionados. This crossover not only adds visual flair to the game but also allows players to embody these legendary characters as they battle it out for victory.
Fortnite Chapter 4 Season 3: The Return of Raptors:
In addition to the Transformers extravaganza, Chapter 4 Season 3 marks the return of a fan-favorite element—Raptors. These prehistoric creatures have made a comeback, roaming the island and adding an element of danger and excitement to the gameplay. Players can encounter and tame Raptors, forming a bond with them as they explore the map and participate in battles.
Taming a Raptor offers several advantages in Fortnite. Raptors can be used as loyal companions, aiding players in combat scenarios. They possess unique abilities, such as the ability to track down nearby enemies or provide enhanced mobility. Players can also ride on the back of Raptors, allowing them to navigate the terrain swiftly and effectively. This reintroduction of Raptors injects a new layer of strategy and excitement into the game, encouraging players to adapt their gameplay tactics to utilize these formidable creatures to their advantage.
Impacts on Gameplay and Community:
GameSpot: Fortnite Chapter 4 Season 3
The introduction of Transformers and the return of Raptors significantly impact the gameplay experience and the Fortnite community as a whole. The addition of beloved Transformers characters and cosmetic items enhances player immersion and personalization, providing a fresh visual appeal and allowing fans to express their individuality within the game. The inclusion of Transformers-themed challenges and rewards also promotes engagement and rewards players for their progress.
Moreover, the reappearance of the Raptors brings back nostalgia for veteran players who may have enjoyed their presence in previous seasons. It also introduces an element of surprise for newcomers, presenting them with unique opportunities to explore the island, form new strategies, and forge connections with these virtual companions. The excitement and speculation surrounding these new additions foster a sense of community and shared enthusiasm among Fortnite players.
Conclusion:
Fortnite Chapter 4 Season 3 continues to captivate players with its innovative and exciting updates. The inclusion of Transformers in the Battle Pass and the return of Raptors offer players fresh and thrilling experiences within the game. The ability to don Transformers-themed cosmetic items and unlock beloved characters from the iconic franchise adds a new layer of personalization and fan engagement. Simultaneously, the return of Raptors injects unpredictability and strategic depth into the gameplay, encouraging players to adapt their tactics and embrace these prehistoric companions.
As Fortnite evolves and expands, these additions demonstrate the game’s commitment to delivering novel experiences and catering to the diverse interests of its player base. Whether players are thrilled to embody their favorite Transformers or eager to tame and ride Raptors, Chapter 4 Season 3 presents an exhilarating journey within the ever-evolving Fortnite universe.
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Federal Indictment Accuses Trump of Lying and Scheming to Keep Documents He Knew Were Classified
In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves through the political landscape, a federal indictment has been filed against former President Donald Trump, accusing him of lying and scheming to retain classified documents during his tenure in office.
The Hollywood Reporter: Trump Accused of Lying and Keeping Classified Documents
The allegations paint a damning picture of a leader willing to flout the law and undermine national security for personal gain. This article explores the details of the indictment and its potential implications for Trump’s legacy and the rule of law.
The Allegations:
According to the federal indictment, Trump knowingly and willfully lied about the classification status of certain documents, falsely claiming that they were unclassified and within his personal purview. In reality, the documents in question were highly sensitive and contained classified information vital to national security. By retaining these documents, Trump allegedly put the nation at risk and violated numerous federal laws and regulations.
The indictment further asserts that Trump engaged in a deliberate scheme to hide and conceal the classified documents from proper authorities. It alleges that he directed his staff to remove them from secure government systems and store them in private, unsecured locations, with the intent to control access to the information and avoid accountability. Such actions would be a clear violation of established protocols and procedures for handling classified information.
Legal Ramifications:
If convicted, Trump could face severe legal consequences, including imprisonment and hefty fines. Lying about the classification of documents and actively scheming to retain them could constitute offenses under the Espionage Act, which prohibits the unauthorized disclosure of classified information. Additionally, charges related to obstruction of justice and abuse of power may also come into play, as Trump’s actions appear to have been aimed at impeding investigations and undermining the integrity of the government.
Implications for National Security:
The indictment raises serious concerns about the potential impact on national security. Classified information is classified for a reason – it contains sensitive data that, if compromised, could endanger lives, compromise intelligence sources, and undermine vital operations. By knowingly retaining such information outside of authorized channels, Trump potentially exposed it to unauthorized access and misuse.
The alleged actions outlined in the indictment also reflect a dangerous disregard for established protocols and safeguards that are in place to protect national security. If those entrusted with the highest levels of authority can act with impunity and ignore the rules, it erodes public trust and weakens the foundations upon which our democratic institutions are built.
Political Fallout:
Beyond the legal ramifications, the indictment is likely to have far-reaching political consequences. Trump’s supporters may rally around him, dismissing the charges as politically motivated or part of a larger conspiracy to undermine his presidency. Conversely, his critics will view the indictment as further evidence of his disregard for the rule of law and his willingness to prioritize personal interests over the welfare of the nation.
The indictment could also impact Trump’s political ambitions, should he choose to run for office again. It will undoubtedly become a focal point in any future campaigns and may influence public opinion and voting patterns. The outcome of the legal proceedings will determine the weight of this indictment on Trump’s political future.
Conclusion:
The federal indictment accusing Donald Trump of lying and scheming to retain classified documents presents a serious challenge to his legacy and the rule of law. The allegations, if proven true, reveal a former president who knowingly violated national security protocols and endangered the country’s well-being for personal gain.
The legal and political implications of the indictment are substantial, and the case will undoubtedly be watched closely by observers around the world. As the proceedings unfold, the nation waits to see how justice will be served and what lasting impact this indictment will have on the United States political landscape.
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Odisha Train Accident Updates: A Tragic Incident and its Aftermath
On a fateful day in Odisha, a train accident shook the nation, resulting in significant loss of life and widespread devastation. This tragic incident has raised concerns about railway safety and highlighted the need for preventive measures to ensure the well-being of passengers. In this article, we will provide an overview of the Odisha train accident and explore the latest updates regarding the incident.
Odisha Train Accident Updates and Aftermath
The Odisha Train Accident:
On [Date], a train traveling from [Origin] to [Destination] in Odisha met with a disastrous accident. The train, carrying a significant number of passengers, derailed in the [Location] area, leading to a horrific chain of events. The precise cause of the accident is yet to be determined, but preliminary investigations suggest that it might be attributed to a faulty track or mechanical failure.
Casualties and Rescue Efforts:
The train accident resulted in a tragic loss of life and left numerous passengers injured. The exact number of casualties is still being verified, as rescue operations are ongoing. Upon receiving information about the accident, local authorities and railway personnel immediately mobilized resources for rescue and relief operations. Rescue teams, including medical personnel, were dispatched to the accident site to provide immediate assistance to the survivors.
Medical teams worked tirelessly to treat the injured and provide necessary medical aid. The injured passengers were quickly transported to nearby hospitals and medical facilities for further treatment. The local administration, along with railway authorities, coordinated their efforts to ensure timely and efficient rescue and relief operations.
Investigations and Accountability:
Following the Odisha train accident, investigations were initiated to determine the exact cause and to hold those responsible accountable. Railway authorities, along with experts from relevant fields, conducted thorough examinations of the accident site, the train, and the tracks. The investigation aims to identify any lapses in maintenance, safety protocols, or other factors that might have contributed to the accident.
Railway Safety Measures:
In the wake of the Odisha train accident, railway authorities have intensified their focus on enhancing safety measures. Regular track inspections and maintenance routines have been reinforced to identify and rectify any potential issues promptly. Additionally, technology-driven solutions, such as track monitoring systems and advanced signaling systems, are being explored to prevent similar accidents in the future.
The Indian Railways, which is one of the largest railway networks in the world, is constantly striving to improve safety standards. Lessons learned from such accidents are crucial in driving reforms and implementing robust safety protocols across the entire rail network.
Assistance to Victims and Their Families:
The government and railway authorities have extended their support to the victims and their families affected by the Odisha train accident. Compensation packages, including financial aid and medical assistance, have been announced for the victims and their kin. Special helplines and counseling services have also been set up to provide psychological support to those traumatized by the incident.
Conclusion:
The Odisha train accident serves as a tragic reminder of the importance of maintaining and upgrading railway infrastructure and safety protocols. As the investigations progress, it is hoped that the causes behind the accident will be identified, and measures will be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future. The focus must remain on ensuring the safety and well-being of passengers, and efforts should be made to implement the lessons learned from such incidents to create a more secure and reliable railway system.
While the nation mourns the loss of innocent lives, it is imperative that authorities and stakeholders work together to prevent such accidents from occurring again. By prioritizing safety, investing in infrastructure, and employing advanced technologies, we can strive to make railway travel in Odisha and across the country safer for everyone involved.
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