Thousands march in support of Sri Lanka’s new government

Thousands of Sri Lankans are marching in support of a new government under the country’s former strongman.

The rally near Parliament Monday comes amid a deepening political crisis sparked by President Maithripala Siriena’s move to oust Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, replace him with ex-leader Mahinda Rajapaksa, and suspend Parliament.

Supporters at the rally chanted “Whose power is this? Mahinda’s power!”

Wickremesinghe has refused to vacate his official residence claiming he is the lawful prime minister while thousands of his supporters keep vigil.

Critics say the suspension of Parliament was meant to give Rajapaksa time to gather enough support to survive a no-confidence vote when lawmakers reconvene Nov. 14.