Namal Rajapaksa Runs for Sri Lankan Presidency

Namal Rajapaksa, son of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa and nephew of ousted President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, is running for president of Sri Lanka as the nation prepares for new elections. His candidacy comes after the Rajapaksa family's political downfall, which was precipitated by widespread protests against their rule, culminating in a significant economic crisis in 2022. Despite presenting himself as an agent of change, many view his bid as an attempt by the controversial political dynasty to regain power. Namal aims to distance himself from the family's corruption allegations, asserting that similar accusations are commonplace among politicians. He expresses hope that voters will recognize the challenges facing the country and the shared blame among all political figures. The Rajapaksa family, once dominant in Sri Lankan politics, is now seeking to reclaim influence amid a backdrop of economic turmoil and public discontent.