Anura Kumara Dissanayake has emerged as a frontrunner in Sri Lanka’s highly anticipated presidential election, marking a significant political shift in the nation. This election serves as the first since widespread protests led to the ousting of former leader Gotabaya Rajapaksa in 2022, a pivotal moment following the country’s severe economic turmoil.
Dissanayake’s platform, which emphasizes stringent anti-corruption measures and improved governance, has garnered substantial support from voters eager for change. Preliminary results indicate that he has secured nearly 50% of the votes counted, positioning him well ahead of the competition. A candidate needs to achieve 51% of the total vote to be officially declared the winner.
Currently in second place is Sajith Premadasa, who has garnered approximately 26% of the vote, followed by incumbent President Ranil Wickremesinghe, who is striving for a second term with 16%. Namal Rajapaksa, nephew of the deposed president, trails with close to 3%.
With 17 million Sri Lankans eligible to vote, the election proceeded smoothly, although a curfew was implemented on Sunday morning and extended until noon local time.
Dissanayake has already received congratulations from supporters of both his main rivals, signaling a potential shift in political dynamics. Foreign Minister Ali Sabry acknowledged the early results, affirming that they indicate a clear victory for Dissanayake.
Despite his support for Wickremesinghe, Sabry expressed respect for the electorate’s choice. Additionally, MP Harsha de Silva, a Premadasa supporter, reached out to Dissanayake to extend his congratulations on what he described as an evident path to the presidency. Another supporter from the Tamil National Alliance commended Dissanayake’s impressive win, noting his avoidance of divisive rhetoric during the campaign.
