Sri Lanka has faced considerable political and economic turmoil in recent times.
A major economic crisis, which started in 2022 and sparked widespread protests that led to the resignation of then-President Gotabaya Rajapaksa that July, lingers to this day.
The island nation’s next presidential election, on September 21, is a significant moment that will provide critical insight into where Sri Lanka is headed in the coming years.
To learn more about what journalists can expect in the upcoming election, the country’s political dynamics and more, I turned to Munza Mushtaq, a senior journalist who has written for a wide range of outlets, including Nikkei Asia, Al Jazeera and the Los Angeles Times.
Here’s what she had to say.
What do journalists need to know about Sri Lanka’s forthcoming presidential election?
Up until this presidential election, Sri Lanka has historically seen a two-pronged battle between two frontrunners. However, for the first time, we have four influential political leaders – incumbent President Ranil Wickremesinghe, leader of the opposition, Sajith Premadasa, National People’s Power (NPP) Leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake, and Namal Rajapaksa – vying for the presidency, of which three are frontrunners (Anura, Sajith and Ranil).
The Election Commission has already informed their officers to be prepared for a possible second count for the first time, unlike in the past when a winner is usually declared at the very first count. According to the Presidential Elections Act No. 15 of 1981, a candidate must secure more than 50% of the total votes to win the election.
If no candidate achieves this majority in the first round, the two candidates with the highest number of votes will move to a second count. Therefore, there may be a delay in releasing the final results this time, should a second count be required.
What are the main issues animating the election?
This is a crucial election as it is the first since the country plunged into economic turmoil and political instability following the 2022 uprising, which demanded better accountability and reforms. Each candidate has put forward policy proposals aimed at pulling Sri Lanka out of its ongoing economic crisis.
President Wickremesinghe has emphasized the importance of continuing the International Monetary Fund (IMF)-backed economic restructuring, warning of a deeper economic crisis if his efforts are interrupted.
Meanwhile, both Premadasa and Dissanayake, while supporting the IMF agreement, have yet to provide concrete alternatives for economic recovery. Although they have stated that the IMF program will “continue,” no one knows for sure to what extent or what changes they might introduce or try to amend, and whether such steps could potentially derail the program. It’s also worth noting that Sri Lanka has had 16 IMF programs in the past and failed to meet the goals of all 16.
Many Sri Lankans have, since the economic crisis, called for change. For the first time, the NPP’s Anura Kumara Dissanayake, identified as a left-wing populist, has gained significant traction in recent months due to his continuous pledges to fight corruption – an important demand of the 2022 uprising that ousted Gotabaya Rajapaksa from the presidency. A notable portion of the younger generation, along with a significant segment of grassroots voters, appears to favor Dissanayake as part of their demand for change from traditional politicians.
How much attention is Sri Lanka’s relationship with the International Monetary Fund getting?
The IMF has been a central issue in this presidential election, with many candidates aiming to woo voters’ support by offering relief from the heavy tax burdens and austerity measures introduced by Wickremesinghe. I believe this election, in many ways, serves as a referendum on the economic restructuring policies driven by Wickremesinghe and the IMF, which have caused widespread hardship, including a strict tax regime and austerity measures that have worsened the cost-of-living crisis for many.
At various business forums, the leading candidates have reassured voters that they will not derail the IMF program, acknowledging its importance for Sri Lanka's economic recovery and path toward stability. However, if history is any indication, governments cannot endlessly subsidize or reduce taxes without creating larger financial issues, as demonstrated during Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s presidency, despite the many promises made in the wake of the 2019 election.
Do you have any safety recommendations for journalists?
A journalist’s job involves covering public sentiment, but large gatherings can quickly turn volatile during politically charged events. Therefore, it's crucial to maintain a safe distance from potential flashpoints and have clear exit strategies if the situation escalates, especially in rowdy crowds.
Police are often present at these events, and it's wise to stay close to them. There may be instances where unruly protests lead to the use of water cannons or tear gas, so being prepared for such scenarios is important.
Additionally, after voting ends at 4:00 p.m., curfews might be imposed to maintain order. Journalists should always carry their accreditation or ID for easy identification while in the field.
What’s your take on how international outlets and reporters have covered the campaign thus far?
This election has drawn considerable attention, especially since it’s taking place after the economic crisis. The stakes are high, and people’s expectations for reform, accountability, and change are driving much of the discourse. It’s essential to capture these feelings accurately. This election may even define Sri Lanka’s future direction, and to report on it effectively, it’s important for foreign journalists to connect with the sentiments on the ground when reporting to the world.
I think it’s important for foreign reporters covering this election to take time to speak with a wide range of people, not just the usual voices. Engage with communities, understand the ground realities, and get a sense of what ordinary Sri Lankans are thinking.
Too often, reporting from afar or relying on surface-level observations can result in vague or incomplete coverage that misses the core of what people are truly experiencing.
This interview has been edited lightly.
Photo by DIRON j via Pexels.
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