Sri Lanka will hold its presidential election on September 21, a key event that will shape the nation’s future as it emerges from a severe financial crisis.
The Election Commission confirmed the date, with candidates required to submit their nominations by August 15.
Incumbent President Ranil Wickremesinghe, who assumed the office in July 2022 following the resignation of Gotabaya Rajapaksa amid widespread protests, has become the first candidate to register.
At 75, Wickremesinghe seeks a full term after Parliament appointed him to complete Rajapaksa’s term.
Sri Lanka’s election occurs during a fragile recovery from a deep economic downturn. The country, which declared bankruptcy in April 2022, has seen some stabilization thanks to a $2.9 billion IMF bailout.
Inflation has been dramatically reduced from 70% to 1.7%, and economic growth is projected to be 3% in 2024. However, challenges remain, including high poverty levels and the need for continued structural reforms.
The election will also feature significant opposition figures. Sajith Premadasa, the main opposition leader, and Anura Kumara Dissanayake of the Marxist-leaning Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) are both expected to run.
Both candidates have expressed intentions to reevaluate the IMF program to address the cost of living and debt issues.
In a notable political shift, the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), previously aligned with Wickremesinghe, has decided not to support him.
Instead, the SLPP will field its own candidate, which could challenge Wickremesinghe’s re-election bid. Despite this, he remains a contender as an independent and is working to form a coalition of support.
The election also sees new entrants such as Field Marshal Sarath Fonseka and Justice Minister Wijeyedasa Rajapakshe, who resigned from his ministerial role to focus on his campaign.
Rajapakshe is backed by former president Maithripala Sirisena and aims to address ongoing issues in various sectors.
As Sri Lanka approaches this crucial vote, the outcome will be vital in determining the path of its economic reforms and political stability.
Analysts stress the importance of a transparent and fair election to ensure the nation’s hard-won progress is not undone.
(With inputs from Al Jazeera, Reuters, PTI)
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