Wed Sep 25 08:56:39 UTC 2024: ## New Sri Lankan President Calls for Snap Election, Aims for Parliamentary Majority

COLOMBO (Reuters) – Sri Lanka’s newly elected President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has announced a snap parliamentary election to be held on November 14th, less than two months after his landslide victory in the presidential election. The decision comes as Dissanayake aims to consolidate power and secure a strong majority in the 225-seat parliament to implement his pro-poor agenda.

Dissanayake’s surprise win in the weekend’s presidential election, where he garnered over 42% of the vote, has given him a significant mandate. He now seeks to leverage this popularity to gain control of the legislature, which is currently dominated by his opponents.

His campaign promises include slashing taxes, reducing the impact of austerity measures implemented under an IMF bailout program, and restructuring Sri Lanka’s $25 billion foreign debt. However, fulfilling these pledges will be difficult without a parliamentary majority.

Dissanayake, who heads the National People’s Power alliance, currently holds only three seats in parliament. A strengthened position in the legislature would grant him greater leverage in negotiations with international lenders and ensure the smooth passage of his budget proposals.

The lack of parliamentary support has already hampered the new president’s ability to form a full cabinet. He has been forced to appoint a limited number of ministers, keeping key portfolios like finance, defense, and energy for himself.

The upcoming election is expected to be closely watched as it will determine the direction of Sri Lanka’s political and economic landscape. Dissanayake’s success in securing a parliamentary majority will be crucial for his ability to deliver on his campaign promises and steer the country out of its current economic difficulties.

Read More