‘A govt, single party can’t resolve deep crisis’: Anura Kumara Dissanayake takes oath as President of Sri Lanka

He also said that Sri Lanka cannot navigate its economic crisis in isolation. “I have said before that I am not a magician – I am an ordinary citizen. There are things I know and don’t know. My aim is to gather those with the knowledge and skills to help lift this country,” he added.

Dissanayake added that we need to establish a new clean political culture.  “I commit to achieving this. We will do the utmost to win back the people’s respect and trust in the political system… We need to strengthen democracy. I pledge to do my utmost to safeguard democracy,” he said.

Significance of Dissanayake’s election

Dissanayake, 55, defeated opposition leader Sajith Premadasa, who garnered 4,530,902 votes, along with 36 other candidates. His presidency follows the resignation of Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, clearing the way for Dissanayake to appoint a new prime minister and cabinet.

The JVP, which leads the National People’s Power (NPP) coalition, has a revolutionary past, having staged two unsuccessful armed uprisings in the 1970s and 1980s in pursuit of a socialist state. Over the years, however, the JVP transitioned into democratic politics, often remaining in opposition while occasionally supporting various presidents.

As president, Dissanayake faces the daunting task of tackling the country’s severe economic crisis. One of his immediate challenges will be addressing the austerity measures introduced by his predecessor, Ranil Wickremesinghe, under a $3 billion International Monetary Fund (IMF) relief deal. Wickremesinghe had warned that any changes to the agreement could delay much-needed financial assistance.

India, China congratulate Dissanayake

Prime Minister Narendra Modi his extended wishes to the newly-elected President. “I look forward to working closely with you to further strengthen our multifaceted cooperation for the benefit of our people and the entire region,” Modi said.

The Prime Minister also said Sri Lanka holds a “special place” to India’s Neighbourhood First Policy and Vision SAGAR.

In response, Dissanayake said “I share your commitment to strengthening the ties between our nations. Together, we can work towards enhancing cooperation for the benefit of our peoples and the entire region.”

Similarly, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi extended his congratulations to Dissanayake. “May our countries continue to work together towards mutual growth and progress,” the former Congress chief said.

Chinese President Xi Jinping sent his congratulations to Dissanayake. China, along with India, is one of Sri Lanka’s largest creditors, and its role in the country’s economic future remains pivotal. China had previously taken over Sri Lanka’s Hambantota port on a 99-year lease as part of a debt restructuring deal.