Sri Lankan President Prioritizes Economic Recovery in Election Manifesto

Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe has emphasized continuing his economic recovery strategy as the core of his election campaign for the upcoming presidential election. Despite facing opposition, he aims to maintain policies aligned with international partners like the IMF to secure the country's financial stability and growth.

Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe on Thursday underscored the continuation of his economic recovery path as the cornerstone of his election manifesto for the upcoming presidential election. Wickremesinghe, who is seeking reelection, highlighted the importance of adhering to agreements with international partners, including the IMF, to sustain the island nation's financial stability. Despite facing public dissatisfaction due to the stringent reforms, Wickremesinghe argues that these measures are necessary to foster growth and ensure essential services for the population.

The current administration has witnessed significant positive growth in the bankrupt economy after six quarters of negative performance following the severe forex shortage in 2022. This economic turmoil had led to mass protests, resulting in the resignation of the former president, Gotabaya Rajapaksa. Wickremesinghe's rivals, including opposition leader Sajith Premadasa and Marxist leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake, have promised to revise the IMF-led reforms to offer more relief to the populace.

Premadasa has committed to maintaining fiscal discipline per the IMF agreement while amending current plans to better the lives of those under the poverty line. Wickremesinghe emphasizes the urgency of action over debate, urging the need to remember and address the hardships faced by the people.

(With inputs from agencies.)