From the tumultuous backdrop of Sri Lanka's economic collapse emerged Anura Kumara Dissanayake, the country's first-ever leftist president. His victory on September 21, 2024, as the candidate for the National People’s Power (NPP) coalition, marks not just a political shift but also potentially signals hope for a nation yearning for change. The roads to power for Dissanayake have been long and fraught, dating back to the Aragalaya protests of 2022, which saw citizens rise against the then-extant government.
The Aragalaya protests, which translated means 'struggle' in Sinhala, were emblematic of the public's frustration with years of mismanagement and corruption. The images of protestors storming the presidential palace and demanding the resignation of then-President Gotabaya Rajapaksa not only captured global attention, but initiated the political evolution culminating with Dissanayake's unexpected rise to power. His ascent from the grassroots of society as the son of a laborer places him starkly against the historical trend of elite-led governments.
Born on November 24, 1968, Dissanayake's humble beginnings and educational achievements paint the portrait of someone who deeply understands both the plight and aspirations of the average Sri Lankan. A physics degree holder and once a tuition teacher, he made his name through activism and has long criticized the entrenched political elite. He has previously faced significant challenges, including having only secured 3% of votes in his presidential bid in 2019, but the changing political climate following the protests has run his party's popularity sky-high.
While the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP)—a party he leads—has its roots steeped deeply in left-wing ideology and insurrections, it has been gradually transitioning toward mainstream politics for years. Through the National People’s Power, Dissanayake has managed to capture both the essence and ally sentiments of the modern Sri Lankan electorate. They have been gravely concerned over rampant corruption, nepotism, and economic upheaval.
The stakes are high for Dissanayake as he embarks on his presidency, marked by the significant challenges posed by Sri Lanka’s crippling economic realities. After declaring bankruptcy and freezing repayments on nearly $83 billion worth of loans, the nation is trying to rebuild. The previous inflation rates surged dramatically, peaking at 70% and crippling the common citizen's ability to buy essentials.
Despite the overwhelming nature of the crisis, Dissanayake has vowed to prioritize the people’s interests. He has promised specific measures including cutting taxes, arranging for subsidies for farmers, and restoring public access to roads previously closed for security reasons. More significantly, he plans to resume discussions with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to proceed with the $2.9 billion bailout package needed to revive Sri Lanka's economy.
Political experts, including Bhavani Fonseka, indicate the change brought forth by Dissanayake resonates deeply with the sentiments stirred up during the crisis and people are now demanding tangible change. They want political accountability and reforms to assure swift action against corruption which continues to blight the nation. Yet, the actual effectiveness of his proposed reforms will heavily rely on the NPP’s ability to garner support within the 225-member Parliament. Currently, his party holds only three seats, necessitating potential coalitions—especially to influence significant legislative matters.
Further complicate matters, Dissanayake’s administration faces pressing questions about how it will handle Sri Lanka's often-fragile ethnic divides. Key concerns remain about whether he’ll advocate for the rights of the Tamil ethnic minority and uphold promises tied to the 13th Amendment of the constitution, which varies issues of devolution relevant to police and land powers for Tamils. His position could clash with the expectations of his predominantly Sinhala political base.
Importantly, Dissanayake has called for snap parliamentary elections scheduled for November 14, aiming to secure a majority from the electorate and solidify his power base. His recent engagements with India have also raised expectations of diplomatic ties, especially as Sri Lanka has relied significantly, both financially and politically, on its larger neighbor. Navigations between Indian and Chinese interests will define much of his initial foreign policy.
Critics of his regime are vocal about the need for Dissanayake to avoid pitfalls associated with previous governments. His party’s ascent is not merely the result of protests; it symbolizes widespread discontent with political machinations which placed politicians' interests above those of the common people. Many analysts posit it’s now or never for Dissanayake: can he leverage the momentum of the democratic desires voiced during the protests to implement the transformative measures necessary to overhaul Sri Lanka’s political culture?
Efforts to stabilize the economy have led to tentative improvements, alongside massive struggles felt by ordinary citizens burdened by the price of basic goods. While statistics might point to percentage improvements on paper, the raw realities of day-to-day life remain stark. Food prices have soared and millions remain without electricity due to unaffordable bills, pointing to the pressing need for Dissanayake to balance economic recovery with the concerns of his constituents.
Given the various pressures—economic, social, and political—Dissanayake's immediate job calls for prompt action. The upcoming elections will test the waters for his administration's legitimacy and responsiveness to the public's outcry for transformative change. Each step he takes will either build stronger bridges with the electorate or deepen existing rifts embedded within the fabric of Sri Lankan society.
While skeptics and supporters will both have their voices, Anura Kumara Dissanayake stands at the helm of Sri Lanka with the potential for unprecedented leadership. The months to come could either shape him as the agent of necessary reforms or part of the established political culture he set out to change. The citizens watch closely, waiting to see if the tension between ideals and political practicality can be successfully navigated.
