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Within a week, the President of Sri Lanka will pick a new Prime Minister and cabinet.

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3 years ago

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Within a week, the President of Sri Lanka will pick a new Prime Minister and cabinet.

As the island struggles to cope with its political and economic crises, President Gotabaya Rajapaksa said on Wednesday that he will appoint a new Prime Minister with a parliamentary majority and a Cabinet of Ministers within a week.

“I am taking steps to form a new government to control the current situation and prevent the country from descending into anarchy,” he said in a televised address, two days after his older brother Mahinda Rajapaksa resigned as Prime Minister amid violent attacks by ruling party supporters.

Mr. Gotabaya also met with former Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on Wednesday and discussed the possibility of appointing him as Premier if a majority of lawmakers in Parliament support the move, according to sources familiar with their conversation. Mr. Wickremesinghe is considering the option, according to a reliable source who asked not to be identified due to the sensitivity of the talks, which are taking place in the midst of a severe economic crisis and ongoing political gridlock.

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Mr. Wickremesinghe is currently the lone parliamentarian of the United National Party, which split after his former deputy Sajith Premadasa formed the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB or United People’s Force), which is now the main Opposition party. Mr. Premadasa, the opposition leader, has stated that he will not accept any position under President Gotabaya, who is widely despised, as citizens struggle to meet basic needs such as food, fuel, cooking gas, and medicines. They blame the Rajapaksas for the country’s economic collapse and their misery.

If willing, Mr. Wickremesinghe will need support from both the ruling and opposition camps to gain a majority in the 225-member legislature and form government. Mr. Gotabaya, who has been widely chastised for his “failed” crisis response, would still be his boss. Citizens groups across the country have been agitating for months, demanding his resignation, and demonstrators have been protesting near his sea-facing office in Colombo for more than a month.

Mr. Gotabaya also promised to amend the Constitution to give Parliament more powers, something Mr. Mahinda had proposed in Parliament just weeks before resigning. The proposal would effectively undo legislation passed by his government that gave the Executive President more power and immunity.

“I will give the new government and PM the opportunity to begin a new programme to move the country forward,” Mr. Gotabaya said. The President stated that once “stability” is restored, he will discuss abolishing the Executive Presidency, which is one of the main demands of anti-government protesters and opposition parties.

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US vice president JD Vance, wife Usha and kids visit Jaipur’s iconic Amber Fort | Pics

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16 hours ago

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April 24, 2025

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US vice president JD Vance, wife Usha and kids visit Jaipur’s iconic Amber Fort | Pics

US Vice President JD Vance, his wife Usha Vance, and their children visited the historical Amer Fort in Jaipur on April 22, 2025. The Vance family received a warm welcome at the Fort, where they were greeted with a traditional Rajasthani dance performance and elegantly decorated elephants. Second Lady Usha Vance, the wife of US vice president JD Vance, carries her daughter Mirabel as they watch a cultural performance at the Amber Fort in Jaipur.

Rajasthan CM Bhajanlal Sharma welcomed the Vance family as they visited the historic Amer Fort in Jaipur. The Vance family will depart for the US early Thursday morning. In related news, JD Vance and wife Usha attended Good Friday service at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. Vance also visited the Taj Mahal in Agra on April 23, 2025. Vance said that “good progress.

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In other news, Pope Francis’ funeral is set to start on Wednesday, and the J&K tourist hub has been completely shut today. On 4/20, celebrations across the US highlight cannabis culture and calls for legalization had been made towards a trade deal with India after meeting with “tough negotiator” Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. The Vance family visited.

On April 22, 2025, US Vice President JD Vance, accompanied by his wife Usha Vance, and their three children, visited Jaipur’s historic Amber Fort. The family received a warm welcome, highlighted by traditional Rajasthani folk performances and a red carpet reception. As they entered the fort’s main courtyard, Jaleb Chowk, they were greeted by two elegantly decorated elephants named Chanda and Mala, raising their trunks in greeting. ​

During their visit, the Vances were joined by Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma and Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari, who guided them through the fort’s rich history and architectural marvels. The family also enjoyed cultural performances featuring traditional dances such as Kacchi Ghodi, Ghoomar, and Kalbeliya, offering a glimpse into the vibrant.

Usha Vance, dressed in a chic white shirt and patterned skirt, explored the fort alongside her family and dignitaries, embracing the cultural experience culture of Rajasthan This visit was part of Vice President Vance’s four-day official trip to India, aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between the United States and India. The Vance family departed for Washington.

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Bhajanlal Sharma welcomed the Vance family as they visited the historic Amer from Jaipur on April 24, concluding their cultural tour of India Upon their arrival at Amber Fort, the Vance family was greeted with traditional Rajasthani hospitality. Two elegantly decorated elephants, Chanda and Pushpa, adorned with silver ornaments, were stationed at the entrance welcome.

The family was also treated to a cultural performance featuring folk artists dressed in traditional Rajputi and Kalbelia attire, accompanied by musicians playing regional instruments. The vibrant rangolis and the overall festive atmosphere highlighted the rich cultural tapestry of Rajasthan The fort’s impressive courtyards and majestic structures.

Exploring the Fort’s Historical Significance

During their tour of Amber Fort, the Vance family explored various architectural marvels, including the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), known for its intricate mirror work and stunning design. They were accompanied by Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma and Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari, who provided insights into the fort’s history and significance.​

Engaging with Local Culture

Throughout their visit, Vice President Vance demonstrated a keen interest in engaging with The Vance family’s visit to Amber Fort was part local culture. He interacted with the folk artists and expressed appreciation for the traditional performances, reflecting a genuine curiosity and respect for India’s diverse cultural heritage.​

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