Sri Lankans began voting today in a crucial presidential election, marking the first significant electoral event since the country’s economic collapse in 2022. With over 17 million registered voters eligible, this election could profoundly influence the nation’s recovery from its worst financial crisis in decades.
The ballot features 38 candidates, including incumbent President Ranil Wickremesinghe, opposition leader Sajith Premadasa of the Samagi Jana Balawega (SJB), and Anura Kumara Dissanayake from the National People’s Power (NPP). Recent opinion polls suggest a competitive race, with Dissanayake gaining support among voters eager for change.
Voting commenced at 7 am local time and will run until 4 pm, with more than 13,000 polling stations set up across the island. Early reports indicate smooth voting processes, with citizens queuing to cast their ballots. Observers noted a palpable sense of urgency among voters, reflecting the election’s significance for the nation’s future.
Wickremesinghe, who assumed office after the resignation of Gotabaya Rajapaksa in mid-2022 following mass protests over economic mismanagement, has overseen a tentative recovery bolstered by a $2.9 billion bailout from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Under his leadership, inflation has plummeted from a staggering 70% to approximately 0.5%, yet many Sri Lankans still face high living costs and economic instability.
Dissanayake, campaigning on a platform of reform and accountability, emphasized the election’s potential to reshape the country. “This is an election that will change the history of Sri Lanka. People are voting enthusiastically,” he remarked after casting his vote in Colombo.
The election utilizes a ranked voting system, requiring candidates to secure over 50% of the votes for an outright win. If no candidate achieves this threshold in the initial count, a second round will take place, redistributing votes among the top two contenders. This format may result in a lengthy counting process, as analysts predict a close outcome.
The election serves as a referendum on Wickremesinghe’s administration and the economic reforms he has enacted. Many voters view this as an opportunity to reset the political landscape after years of turmoil, which culminated in widespread protests and the removal of the previous government.
Enhanced security measures are in place at polling stations, with a significant presence of public officials and law enforcement to ensure a peaceful voting process. High voter turnout is anticipated, driven by a deep-seated public desire for change in leadership and policy direction.
As the day progresses, the Election Commission plans to begin counting votes shortly after polls close, with results expected to be announced by Sunday. The newly elected president will face the challenging task of guiding Sri Lanka toward stability and economic growth, addressing the needs of a populace still recovering from the financial crisis.
