Sri Lanka Prime Minister offers resignation amid worst economic crisis - official

Sri Lanka's Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa on Monday offered his resignation amid the island nation's worst economic crisis since independence that has led to widespread protests, a government official said.

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa in August 2020.Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa in August 2020. Photo: AFP or licensors

"The prime minister has sent his letter of resignation to the president," the official said, declining to be named.

President Gotabaya Rajapaksa is the prime minister's younger brother.

Sri Lanka is under nationwide curfew after ruling party supporters attacked crowds protesting at the government's handling of the economic crisis.

At least 20 people were injured in the violence outside the prime minister and president's offices in Colombo.

Police fired tear gas and water cannon at government supporters after they breached police lines and attacked people using sticks and poles.

Demonstrators and government supporters clash outside the official residence of Sri Lanka's Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, in Colombo on May 9, 2022.Demonstrators and government supporters clash outside the official residence of Sri Lanka's Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, in Colombo on May 9, 2022. Photo: AFP or licensors

Soaring prices and power cuts have led to mass protests since last month.

According to a local hospital, at least 78 people have been injured in Monday's violence.

The island nation is facing its worst economic crisis since gaining independence from Britain in 1948.

The government has requested emergency financial help. Many Sri Lankans want President Gotabaya Rajapaksa to go.