Voting commenced in Sri Lanka's snap parliamentary election on November 14, 2024. Over 17 million eligible voters are casting ballots to determine the fate of newly elected President Anura Kumara Dissanayake's policies aimed at economic recovery and poverty alleviation.
There are 8,821 candidates competing for 196 parliamentary seats, with results anticipated on November 15. Election Commission Chairman RML Rathnayake emphasized the need for a free and fair election, stating that all necessary arrangements are in place.
Dissanayake, a leftist leader elected in September, seeks to strengthen his National People's Power (NPP) coalition, which currently holds only three seats in the 225-member parliament. He dissolved the legislature early to gain a stronger mandate for his initiatives, which include reducing taxes, expanding welfare programs, and combating corruption.
The political landscape has shifted following the economic crisis that led to the resignation of former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and the ousting of the previous government. The country is currently engaged in a $2.9 billion bailout program with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Despite some signs of economic recovery, many citizens, particularly the impoverished, continue to struggle with high living costs.
Political analysts suggest that the opposition's chances appear bleak, with a significant number of senior politicians from the prior administration opting not to participate in the elections. The outcome is expected to solidify Dissanayake's position and facilitate the implementation of his economic policies.