Anura Kumara Dissanayake, the leader of the National People's Power (NPP), has shed light on the ongoing dispute between President Ranil Wickremesinghe and the Rajapaksas regarding the sequence of elections in Sri Lanka.
Speaking at the Colombo District Women's Convention, Dissanayake elucidated that President Wickremesinghe favors holding the Presidential election before the General Elections, whereas the Rajapaksas advocate for the General Elections to take precedence.
Dissanayake emphasized that President Wickremesinghe's preference for the Presidential election stems from his perceived lack of grassroots support. Conversely, the Rajapaksas are inclined towards the General Elections, fearing a disadvantageous position in a Presidential contest due to the absence of a strong candidate.
He further highlighted the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna's (SLPP) acknowledgment that the Rajapaksas may not emerge as viable presidential contenders. Despite Basil Rajapaksa's recent return to the country, Dissanayake asserted that he lacks a feasible chance to compete for the presidency. Consequently, the SLPP views the General Elections as more advantageous.
Dissanayake projected that if the impasse persists, granting the Elections Commission the authority to conduct the Presidential election by July 22, 2024, would be inevitable.
Moreover, he underscored the apprehension among major political parties regarding potential electoral losses, suggesting a reluctance to face imminent elections. Dissanayake contended that the impending election would be transformative, transcending beyond mere governmental or presidential changes. He predicted a profound shift across political, social, and economic spheres.
Highlighting the country's systemic collapse across various sectors, Dissanayake cautioned against expecting a remedy solely through a change in government. He implied that comprehensive reforms are imperative to address Sri Lanka's multifaceted challenges effectively.
