It was supposed to be a post-war success story,a fast-developing economy healing after decades of conflict. Instead,it is nearly broke and backsliding into authoritarianism.
The results could enable them to change the constitution and strengthen dynastic rule.
Notre-Dame burned. So did NSW. Tragedies played out in suburbs and on a volcanic island. Politics didn't disappoint with barbs,upsets and firsts. Here's what consumed our attention in 2019.
Australian victims of Sri Lanka's Easter Sunday bombings can claim compensation after it was officially declared a terrorist act by the federal government.
The country's security system failed to track the progression of religious extremists into terrorists,an inquiry was told.
Unlike 250 others who died in the Easter Sunday bombings in Sri Lanka,Melbourne airport check-in worker Chathudila Weerasinghe and her mother Vipuli got another chance.
A 29-year-old man has been detained in connection with the April 21 attacks in Sri Lanka that left more than 250 people dead,Interpol says.
The government is concerned that overnight attacks on Muslim homes and mosques could grow out of control.
Sri Lanka President Maithripala Sirisena said the security forces would"eradicate terrorism"and restore stability before a presidential election due for year-end,vowing to bring to heel all militants linked to the Easter Sunday suicide attacks.
Chathudila Weerasinghe,28,injured in the Easter Sunday terrorist attacks in Sri Lanka is now back home,but will have to undergo further surgery to treat her horrific wounds.
A small number of Christian refugees have also been caught up in violence through mistaken identity.