Sri Lanka has elected Anura Kumara Dissanayake, a Marxist-leaning leader, as its new president, signaling a shift towards his anti-corruption platform and promises of revitalizing the country's fragile economy. The 55-year-old's victory comes after a decisive lead throughout the election process, defeating incumbent President Ranil Wickremesinghe and opposition leader Sajith Premadasa. Dissanayake, who lacks the political dynasty background of his opponents, became Sri Lanka's 10th president after securing 42.3% of the vote, a significant rise from the 3% he garnered in 2019. Premadasa came second with 32.8%, while Wickremesinghe, whose austerity-driven economic recovery efforts from the 2022 financial crisis hampered his re-election bid, finished third with 17%.
The election also served as a verdict on Wickremesinghe's leadership, particularly regarding handling the debt-laden nation's recovery. Despite stabilizing the economy, his measures proved unpopular with the electorate.
After his win, Dissanayake expressed gratitude, stating, "The dream we have nurtured for centuries is finally coming true. This victory belongs to all of us." He emphasized the collective hope and determination of the people to reshape Sri Lanka's future. Wickremesinghe congratulated his successor, expressing confidence in Dissanayake's ability to lead the country towards continued stability and growth.
According to the election commission, Dissanayake will be sworn in at the historic President's Secretariat in Colombo later today.
