Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa says the government is willing to hold discussions with the youths who are engaged in a mass protest at the Galle Face Green.

“Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapakse declares that he is ready to negotiate with the protestors who picket at the Gall Face Greens on socio-economic and political issues in the country,” the PM’s Office said.

“Accordingly, important thoughts held by the protestors will be discussed in detail for the sake of overcoming the challenge faced by the country at the moment,” the statement said.

Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapakse further mentions that he invites the representatives of the groups who picket if they are ready to negotiate.  

The anti-government agitation at the Galle Face Green entered its fifth consecutive day today.

Scores of people from all walks of life, mostly youths, amassed at the Galle Face Green premises last Saturday (April 09) in protest of the incumbent government and the President.

Braving the heavy rains, they have since been protesting in front of the Presidential Secretariat, urging the President to step down amidst the economic crisis and political turmoil in the country.

The apolitical protesters have also set up a small village at the Galle Face Green premises, providing free food, beverages, makeshift tents, emergency medical facilities for those who arrive there in support of the demonstration.