Sri Lankans have started voting in the first election since the economic collapse that led to mass protests and former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa fleeing the country. The current President Ranil Wickremesinghe, who implemented austerity measures backed by the IMF, is facing two strong rivals in this crucial election. Despite stabilizing the economy, these measures have left many struggling and unpopular with voters. Opposition leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake and Sajith Premadasa are expected to make a strong showing, with voters wanting change from the current political climate. With 17 million eligible voters and a record 38 candidates vying for the presidency, the election is seen as a referendum on the current government’s policies. Police have been deployed to polling stations due to the country’s history of political violence. Polls close at 4pm with results expected on Sunday. Wickremesinghe, in his final campaign rally, emphasized the need to continue reforms to prevent bankruptcy, while his opponents promise to change the corrupt political culture in the country. The election is crucial for Sri Lanka’s future direction, with voters looking for a change in governance and economic policies.
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Voters casting ballots in Sri Lanka’s first election since economic collapse | Latest on Elections
