Sri Lanka elections: Dissanayake gains early lead to become president, vote count underway

Sri Lanka's presidential election: Marxist-leaning Anura Kumara Dissanayake gained early lead with about 53% of million votes counted. Opposition leader Sajith Premadasa at 22%, incumbent Ranil Wickremesinghe third. Turnout about 75% of 17 million eligible voters. Dissanayake contested under NPP alliance, including JVP. He promised anti-corruption measures and pro-poor policies, and to dissolve parliament within 45 days. Foreign Minister Ali Sabry conceded, respecting the mandate. The election is the first since the 2022 economic crisis. The winner must continue IMF programme until 2027.

Sri Lanka's presidential election: Marxist-leaning Anura Kumara Dissanayake gained early lead with about 53% of million votes counted. Opposition leader Sajith Premadasa at 22%, incumbent Ranil Wickremesinghe third. Turnout about 75% of 17 million eligible voters. Dissanayake contested under NPP alliance, including JVP. He promised anti-corruption measures and pro-poor policies, and to dissolve parliament within 45 days. Foreign Minister Ali Sabry conceded, respecting the mandate. The election is the first since the 2022 economic crisis. The winner must continue IMF programme until 2027.

Sri Lanka's presidential election: Marxist-leaning Anura Kumara Dissanayake gained early lead with about 53% of million votes counted. Opposition leader Sajith Premadasa at 22%, incumbent Ranil Wickremesinghe third. Turnout about 75% of 17 million eligible voters. Dissanayake contested under NPP alliance, including JVP. He promised anti-corruption measures and pro-poor policies, and to dissolve parliament within 45 days. Foreign Minister Ali Sabry conceded, respecting the mandate. The election is the first since the 2022 economic crisis. The winner must continue IMF programme until 2027.

This story involves 1 source and may affect public understanding of anura kumara dissanayake / sri lanka elections.