In Sri Lanka, anti-government protests took a dramatic turn overnight

Demonstrations have been going on in Sri Lanka for weeks against the government of the brothers Gotabaya (the president) and Mahinda (prime minister) Rajapaksa. On Monday, that protest got out of hand, after supporters of the controversial politicians went to the rallying point of the activists. The two camps clashed – prompting the security forces to clean up the streets of the city, including the protest camp. It led to a day and night of violent disturbances, during which the houses of politicians were also set on fire. As chaos grew on Monday, Mahinda Rajapaksa announced his resignation to make room for his brother to put the country’s economic problems in order with a new cabinet. But for many opponents, Gotabaya also has to give up his position.