Sri Lanka's Presidential Election Set for Sept. 21

Sri Lanka is set for its presidential election on September 21, with 39 candidates officially submitting their nominations, marking the first major poll since the country defaulted on its foreign debt in 2022. The election is crucial for navigating the ongoing economic crisis, and the Election Commission is optimistic about a peaceful and transparent process. Front-runners include incumbent President Ranil Wickremesinghe, opposition leader Sajith Premadasa, and Marxist candidate Anura Kumara Dissanayake, with Namal Rajapaksa, son of former president Mahinda Rajapaksa, also entering the race. Candidates are expected to present their manifestos focusing on economic recovery, anti-corruption, and enhancing living standards. The winner will need to implement a $2.9 billion program with the IMF while addressing a $12.5 billion debt restructuring. Approximately 17 million Sri Lankans are eligible to vote in this pivotal election.