Sri Lanka elected Anura Kumara Dissanayake as its new president, showing strong support for his anti-corruption and economic recovery agenda. The 55-year-old, without a political background, defeated incumbent President Ranil Wickremesinghe and opposition leader Sajith Premadasa to secure the presidency.
Dissanayake’s victory marks a significant shift in Sri Lankan politics, with the election serving as a referendum on the previous administration’s management of the country’s finances. Wickremesinghe, who steered the nation through a financial crisis, faced challenges due to austerity measures, finishing third in the race.
Dissanayake’s platform of change resonated with voters, propelling him to victory with 42.3% of the vote. His focus on fighting corruption and addressing economic challenges struck a chord with a populace grappling with poverty and high living costs.
The new president’s pledge to dissolve parliament for fresh elections and renegotiate IMF deals signals a push for economic reforms to benefit the people. The election outcome reflects a desire for a new political landscape and a drive for better governance in Sri Lanka.