Sri Lanka Hold Snap General Election for Reforms

Sri Lanka is set to hold a snap general election, the first under President Anura Kumara Dissanayake's newly elected leftist government, following a significant economic crisis in 2022. Dissanayake, from the National People's Power (NPP) party, aims to increase his party's representation in parliament from just three seats out of 225, as he seeks a mandate to implement promised reforms and tackle corruption. The election comes amid hopes of economic recovery, supported by a $2.9 billion IMF bailout, although challenges such as high living costs persist. Notably, there has been a surge in female candidates participating in this election, which could potentially reshape the patriarchal norms in Sri Lankan politics. Voting will take place across 22 constituencies, with results expected shortly after polls close. Analysts suggest that voter support for Dissanayake, evidenced by his 42% presidential election win, could carry over into this parliamentary election.