Voting in progress for the first election in Sri Lanka after economic downturn | Election Updates

Sri Lankans have begun voting in the first election since the economy collapsed, prompting former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa to flee the country. This election is seen as a referendum on current President Ranil Wickremesinghe, who has implemented austerity measures with IMF support to stabilize the economy. These measures, including tax hikes, have left many struggling and unpopular with voters. Wickremesinghe, expected to lose to one of his two rivals, remains firm in his commitment to reforms.
Anura Kumara Dissanayake, leader of the JVP, has gained support due to the economic crisis and promises to change the corrupt political culture. Sajith Premadasa, son of a former president assassinated during the civil war, is also expected to do well in the election. Voters are expressing disappointment in the current government’s governance, with a record 38 candidates vying for the presidency.
With 17 million eligible voters, polling stations have been heavily guarded due to the country’s history of political violence. Polls will close at 4pm with results expected on Sunday. The election is crucial for the future of Sri Lanka as voters decide between a continuation of austerity measures or a change in leadership to address the economic turmoil and political corruption.

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