Sri Lanka's Critical Presidential Election Amid Economic Crisis

Sri Lanka is holding a crucial presidential election on September 21, 2024, the first since its economic collapse in 2022. The election sees a three-way contest between incumbent President Ranil Wickremesinghe, opposition leader Sajith Premadasa, and Marxist legislator Anura Kumara Dissanayake. Economic recovery is the central issue, with the country having stabilized somewhat under an IMF program following severe shortages and 70% inflation. Wickremesinghe claims credit for stabilizing the economy but faces criticism for high costs of living and ties to the previous regime. All candidates promise to continue recovery efforts, address poverty, and attract investments. The election outcome will be pivotal for the country's future economic policies and debt restructuring plans.