Sri Lanka Elections: Economy, Not Religion Or Race, On Voters' Mind As Top Candidates Spar

Sri Lanka is gearing up for its first presidential election since the massive uprising that ousted President Gotabaya Rajapaksa two years ago. In 2022, the country was faced with an economic collapse, sparking widespread protests that ultimately forced Rajapaksa to flee.

Traditionally, Sri Lankan voters have been swayed by religious and ethnic affiliations, but as the country stages a slow recovery from the 2022 crisis, the state of the economy is taking centre stage.

After Gotabaya Rajapaksa fled Sri Lanka, the country's parliament swiftly replaced him with Ranil Wickremesinghe, who was then serving as prime minister.

Under his leadership, the country has made significant progress, with key economic indicators improving, and no shortages of food and fuel. Inflation, which peaked at 70%, is now almost under control.

But, the common man is still struggling to make ends meet, with some having to borrow money for daily expenses. There's an exodus of youth in search of jobs and better opportunities.

While Sri Lanka narrowly avoided bankruptcy, thanks to timely interventions by the International Monetary Fund and countries like China and India, the country is now grappling with the weight of its massive $92 billion debt.

Citizens are also disappointed that the key demands of the 2022 protests are yet to be fulfilled. Rajapaksa and allies are yet to be held accountable for the the economic mismanagement that led to the crisis, and there is still no limitations imposed on presidential powers. The movement seeks a democratic overhaul to prevent similar crises, emphasizing the need for a new political system capable of stabilizing the nation's economy and politics.

In this backdrop, a record 38 candidates are vying for the presidency in the September 21 election. They have outlined similar visions for the country's future, promising to develop new industries to drive economic growth, boost agriculture, broaden the tax base to increase revenue and create tens of thousands of jobs.

The key candidates in the election are Ranil Wickremesinghe, Sajith Premadasa, Anura Kumara Dissanayake and Namal Rajapaksa.

Wickremesinghe, a six-time former prime minister, is seeking re-election as an independent candidate. However, his presidency has been marred by allegations of protecting the Rajapaksa family and shielding them from prosecution. He has denied the claims.

Sajith Premadasa, leader of the main opposition Samagi Jana Balawegaya, is running on the plank of economic reform, promising to increase taxes on the wealthy and improve conditions for the poor.

Anura Kumara Dissanayake, candidate of the leftist National People's Party alliance, has gained momentum with his promises of tough anti-corruption measures and good governance.

Namal Rajapaksa, son of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, is trying to overcome the political baggage associated with his family's name. He faces an uphill battle convincing voters who blame the Rajapaksas for the country's economic crisis.VO: No matter who is elected to power, the new Sri Lankan President would face the uphill task of stabilising a battered economy and bringing about political reforms that can prevent a rerun of 2022.