Sri Lanka Holds First Presidential Election Since Economic Collapse with 17 Million Voters on September 21

Sep 21, 2024, 02:23 AM

Sri Lanka is holding its first presidential election since the economic collapse and debt default of 2022. Over 17 million voters are eligible to participate in the election on September 21, which features 38 candidates. The main contenders include incumbent President Ranil Wickremesinghe, opposition leader Sajith Premadasa, and Marxist lawmaker Anura Kumara Dissanayake. Voting is taking place at over 13,400 polling centres. The election is seen as crucial for the country's recovery, with voters focusing on economic issues and the unpopular International Monetary Fund austerity plan. The outcome will also influence Sri Lanka's international relations, particularly with China, India, and the United States.