Sri Lanka Implements Night Curfew Following Peaceful Presidential Election
On September 21, Sri Lanka enforced a night curfew nationwide, despite a tranquil presidential election that serves as a referendum on an unpopular IMF bailout. The Election Commission deemed the September 21 poll as the most peaceful in the country’s electoral history. President Ranil Wickremesinghe, facing a challenging re-election bid, imposed the unexpected travel restriction as an additional protective measure for the people.
Curfew Announcement and Election Results
- The police announced an eight-hour curfew post the Election Commission’s declaration of the peaceful election.
- People were urged to stay indoors, and September 23 was declared a special public holiday.
- Results of the September 21 election are anticipated to be revealed on September 22.
Voter Turnout and Presidential Election History
- Turnout was estimated at 75 percent when polling stations closed after nine hours of voting.
- The record for voter turnout in a Sri Lankan presidential election stands at 83.72 percent, set in 2019.
Wickremesinghe’s Re-Election Bid and Economic Stabilization
- President Wickremesinghe seeks re-election to continue economic belt-tightening measures that stabilized the economy post the 2022 economic crisis.
- His two years in office restored calm after civil unrest and economic turmoil.
- Wickremesinghe emphasized taking the country out of bankruptcy and restoring stability.
Public Response and Economic Challenges
- Tax hikes and IMF bailout terms have left millions struggling financially.
- Many citizens, like lawyer and musician Soundarie David Rodrigo, express concerns about potential future upheavals.
Analysis:
The article highlights the political and economic landscape in Sri Lanka following a peaceful presidential election marred by economic challenges. President Wickremesinghe’s bid for re-election is intertwined with the country’s recovery from a severe economic crisis. The implications of the IMF bailout and subsequent austerity measures have been felt by the population, leading to financial struggles for many.
The high voter turnout and peaceful election signify the importance of political stability and economic recovery for the citizens of Sri Lanka. The imposition of a night curfew amid the election results underscores the government’s commitment to maintaining order and security during this critical period.
Overall, the article sheds light on the complex interplay between politics, economics, and public sentiment in Sri Lanka, emphasizing the significance of leadership decisions on the lives and financial well-being of the population.