SJB protest despite heavy rains, but Police use teargas and water cannons

(UPDATED) - Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) supporters braved heavy rains to protest in Colombo, demanding that Local Government elections be held as scheduled, but Police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse them.

Protesters from several areas were making their way towards Fort when they were blocked  few hundred meters after they passed the Technical Junction in Maradana.

SJB members argued with the police over their right to hold the protest campaign calling the government to ensure that the Local Government elections are held on schedule on March 9.

A heavy traffic block was caused in the Pettah, Fort and Maradana areas as an estimated 2500 supporters entered the city for the protest campaign.

Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa commenting said that they would continue their protest campaigns.

Buses from several outstation areas had brought in SJB supporters.

Ahead of the protest a heavy police and security forces presence was observed in the city and suburbs.

Earlier the Police made an attempt to obtain a court order from the Colombo Chief Magistrate Courts banning the protest, but the court rejected the request.

A request was also made to the Colombo Fort Magistrate Courts and the court ordered that protests cannot be held in a manner disrupting the movement of the public. They also said that entry into key buildings in the area was not allowed.

Pix by M.A.Pushpakumara