evidence: For Sri Lankans hankering for political change, such a clearly status quo move came as a disappointment. The protesters announced that their agitation will continue, a move that risks more unrest as Wickremesinghe has signaled a willingness to use force to maintain public order. [...] In recent weeks, demonstrators stormed and occupied the homes and offices of the president and the prime minister, demanding their resignations. Wickremesinghe had offered to step aside but ultimately did not. His private home was destroyed when a mob set it on fire earlier in July. [...] Wickremesinghe denounced the protesters, calling them "fascists" for clashing with security forces on the streets of Colombo.