Anura Kumara Dissanayake Assumes Presidency Amidst Unprecedented Economic Recovery

Sri Lanka's newly elected president, Anura Kumara Dissanayake, has committed to fighting corruption and reviving the country's economy. A longtime advocate of Marxist economic policies, Dissanayake ran under the National People's Power alliance. His leadership marks a significant shift from the political dynasties that have historically ruled the nation.

Anura Kumara Dissanayake, a leftist leader, took office as Sri Lanka's president on Monday, bringing a promise of change to a nation long dominated by powerful political families. His election comes as Sri Lanka faces its worst economic crisis in over seven decades. Voters placed their trust in Dissanayake's pledges to fight corruption and strengthen the fragile economic recovery.

During his inauguration, Dissanayake emphasized his commitment to democracy and the need for cleaner politics, reflecting the public's demand for a new political culture. Running as the candidate for the National People's Power alliance, which includes his Janatha Vimukthi Peremuna party, Dissanayake attracted support with his more centrist stances in recent years.

His immediate tasks include forming a new cabinet and securing parliamentary support for a budget, aligned with a $2.9-billion IMF bailout plan. The economic collapse in 2022 led to widespread protests and the resignation of former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, setting the stage for Dissanayake's election and a renewed hope for the nation's future stability and development.

(With inputs from agencies.)