Colombo, Sri Lanka — The islet nation of Sri Lanka is set to witness a historic presidential election on Saturday, marking its first significant electoral decision since the severe economic collapse of 2022. This three-way battle for the presidency is poised to reshape the political landscape as voters head to the polls for what experts are calling a critical moment in the country's recovery journey.
Incumbent President Ranil Wickremesinghe, 75, is seeking re-election for a five-year term as an independent candidate. His campaign is built around the theme of economic recovery, following extensive reforms linked to an International Monetary Fund (IMF) bailout that many hailed as one of the fastest recoveries in the world. Despite facing criticism and unpopularity for his stringent recovery measures, Wickremesinghe remains steadfast in his commitment to restoring stability.
"I will ensure that I end the country’s ruin by advancing the reforms we have initiated," he proclaimed at an election rally on Wednesday night. The election will see Wickremesinghe contend with two formidable challengers: Anura Kumara Dissanayake, 56, from the National People’s Power (NPP), and Sajith Premadasa, 57, the leader of the opposition Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB). This three-cornered contest is particularly noteworthy, as it represents the first of its kind since 1982 in Sri Lanka’s presidential history.
Analysts have pointed out that all three main contenders have faced setbacks in previous elections, adding an unpredictable element to the upcoming vote. Dissanayake, who is perceived as a frontrunner according to unofficial polls, garnered only three percent of the vote in the 2020 parliamentary elections, while Wickremesinghe received a mere two percent, and Premadasa captured over 25 percent.
The backdrop of economic strife, which led to widespread protests and the ousting of former president Gotabaya Rajapaksa, has played a significant role in shaping the electoral landscape. Unlike previous elections, the long-standing issue of Tamil minority rights has taken a backseat in this campaign. Instead, the focus has shifted to the battered economy and the measures needed for recovery, with all three candidates agreeing on the necessity of sticking to the IMF bailout reforms.
However, both Dissanayake and Premadasa have expressed intentions to modify these programs to provide greater economic relief to the public. Addressing supporters at a recent rally, Dissanayake claimed that he has secured widespread support from various segments of the island, including the Tamil-majority regions in the north and east. His anti-corruption platform has resonated particularly with younger voters who are craving systemic change in governance.
Meanwhile, Premadasa expressed confidence in his ability to secure over two million votes, positioning himself as a key player in the race. With approximately 17 million registered voters eligible to participate, polls will open at over 13,400 polling stations, and a turnout of around 80 percent is anticipated. As the island nation prepares for this consequential electoral event, the results will be revealed on Sunday, potentially ushering in a new chapter for Sri Lanka’s governance and economic landscape.
