Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa announced he would step down late Saturday night after thousands of protesters rushed his official residence and offices earlier in the day.
Rajapaksa has taken refuge in an undisclosed location, some have pointed out, possibly on a naval ship.
Parliament Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena told the nation in a televised announcement late Saturday that Rajapaksa will resign Wednesday “to ensure a peaceful transition.”
“To ensure the continuation of the Government including the safety of all citizens I accept the best recommendation of the Party Leaders today, to make way for an All-Party Government … To facilitate this I will resign as Prime Minister.”
Read more: Sri Lanka President To Quit After Palace Stormed By Angry Protesters