Sri Lanka is poised for a significant political moment as the presidential election approaches on September 21, 2024. Incumbent President Ranil Wickremesinghe, who ascended to power in July 2022 following the resignation of Gotabaya Rajapaksa amid mass protests, is seeking re-election as an independent candidate.

Wickremesinghe has emphasized the need for stability and continuity in governance, focusing on economic recovery and implementing the painful reforms required by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). However, his administration has faced criticism for its close ties to the previous Rajapaksa regime, which has led some voters to question his commitment to genuine reform.

Challenging Wickremesinghe are prominent candidates, including Sajith Premadasa, leader of the opposition Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), who has campaigned on promises of social welfare and economic assistance for the struggling middle class and vulnerable populations. Anura Kumara Dissanayake, representing the leftist National People's Party (NPP), aims to address systemic corruption and advocate for workers' rights, appealing to those disillusioned by past governments. Lastly, Namal Rajapaksa, son of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, seeks to leverage his family's political legacy while distancing himself from the corruption associated with their rule.

Current polling indicates that Anura Kumara Dissanayake is leading the race with approximately 32% of the vote, reflecting a growing desire among voters for new leadership and a shift away from the entrenched political elite. Wickremesinghe follows closely behind with around 30%, while Sajith Premadasa trails with about 25%.

The upcoming election is particularly significant as it represents a critical opportunity for the Sri Lankan populace to assert their democratic rights and influence the country's future direction following years of instability and hardship. The "Aragalaya" movement, which played a pivotal role in ousting former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, has fostered a heightened political consciousness among citizens, making them more vocal about their demands for accountability and reform.

Sri Lanka employs a purely democratic process for their Presidential elections, where voters directly elect the president through a popular vote.

Background

Since gaining independence from British colonial rule in 1948, Sri Lanka has experienced a complex political landscape. The country's first parliamentary election in 1947 established a democratic political system, which has faced challenges over the years, including periods of political instability and civil conflict.

In 1978, Sri Lanka adopted a presidential system, with the first presidential election held that same year. The nation has conducted several presidential elections since. However, the 1980s and 1990s were marked by a protracted civil war that had lasting impacts on governance and the country's development.

In recent years, Sri Lanka faced an unprecedented economic crisis, which escalated in 2022. Severe inflation rates peaked at around 70%, leading to significant shortages of essential goods such as food, fuel, and medicine. Public dissatisfaction grew, fueled by allegations of economic mismanagement and corruption against the Rajapaksa administration. This culminated in massive protests across the country, part of a movement known as "Aragalaya," demanding accountability and reform.

In July 2022, facing intense pressure from demonstrators, former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa fled Sri Lanka to the Maldives and later to Singapore. He officially resigned from the presidency shortly thereafter, marking a pivotal moment in Sri Lankan politics.

As the country approaches the presidential election in September 2024, the political landscape continues to evolve. The upcoming election represents a crucial turning point for Sri Lanka as citizens seek to shape their future following years of instability and economic hardship.