The Election Commission of Sri Lanka has announced that the country will hold its presidential election between September 17 and October 16. The commission, chaired by R M A L Ratnayake, issued a notice confirming the timeframe for the election.
Nominations for candidates will be called within this period, as stipulated by the country’s Constitution.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe is anticipated to run for re-election, with reports suggesting he will do so under a new symbol. Wickremesinghe, who assumed office as President in 2022, succeeded Mahinda Rajapaksa amid widespread protests against the nation’s economic crisis. He previously held the position of Prime Minister, having served multiple terms since 1994.
Wickremesinghe, now 75 years old, is expected to stand as a national candidate, representing several political parties. His long-standing leadership of the United National Party (UNP) underscores his political experience, having served as Prime Minister on five occasions, leading six governments.
One potential contender in the upcoming election is Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe, currently serving as Sri Lanka’s Minister of Justice. He may challenge President Wickremesinghe in the election, setting the stage for a face-off within the government’s ranks.
Meanwhile, the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP), led by former President Maithripala Sirisena, has declared its candidate for the election. Rajapakshe, aged 65, is set to represent the SLFP in the presidential race, as confirmed by Sirisena.
As the election date approaches, political dynamics in Sri Lanka are expected to intensify, with various candidates vying for the presidency amid ongoing challenges facing the country. The outcome of the election will have significant implications for the future direction of the country, particularly regarding economic recovery and political stability.
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