On Monday last week, just as anti-Muslim riots were spreading in apparent reprisal for the attacks, Sirisena embarked on a three-day trip to key financier China, leaving some Sri Lankans feeling abandoned. Sirisena's trip to China, where he met President Xi Jinping, was pre-planned and beneficial to the nation, coordinating secretary Shiral Lakthilaka told Reuters. Sirisena returned to Sri Lanka on Thursday and only addressed attacks on Muslim homes and shops on Friday, five days after the violence erupted. Some disgruntled Sri Lankans were also frustrated that Sirisena's son's wedding went ahead. "President Sirisena does not have a fighting chance," said Eurasia analyst Akhil Bery.

Source: Dhaka Tribune May 21, 2019 11:37 UTC