Anura Kumara Dissanayake, leader of the leftist Janatha Vimukthi Peremuna party, has been declared the winner of the 2024 Presidential Election in Sri Lanka, according to the Election Commission. Dissanayake, 55, defeated Sajith Premadasa in the country’s first-ever presidential election run-off. Incumbent President Ranil Wickremesinghe was eliminated in the first round, finishing third.
Call for National Unity
In a statement posted on X, Dissanayake emphasized the need for unity among all Sri Lankans, including Sinhalese, Tamils, and Muslims, as he celebrated his victory. “The dream we have nurtured for centuries is finally coming true,” he said, acknowledging the collective effort of thousands who contributed to his campaign. He expressed gratitude for their sacrifices, emphasizing that the new beginning he envisions depends on shared strength and vision.
Expected Swearing-In Ceremony
Dissanayake is anticipated to be sworn in as the 9th Executive President of Sri Lanka on Monday. Rauff Hakeem, a parliamentarian with the Sri Lanka Muslim Congress, congratulated him on his victory, calling it a significant achievement that reflects the people’s determination.
Context of the Election
This presidential election follows the economic crisis that struck Sri Lanka in 2022, largely due to excessive borrowing for unproductive projects and deep tax cuts implemented by the previous Rajapaksa government. The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated the situation, leading to severe revenue losses and widespread public discontent. The resulting protests culminated in the resignation of former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and the election of Ranil Wickremesinghe to complete his term.
The election of Dissanayake marks a critical moment in Sri Lanka’s political landscape, as the nation seeks recovery from its economic turmoil.