A political alliance centered on the working class has gained momentum in Sri Lanka's upcoming presidential race, positioning itself as the harbinger of change demanded by millions of disillusioned citizens amidst an unprecedented economic crisis. Led by Anura Kumara Dissanayake, the National People's Power alliance has vowed to address the grievances of those who participated in public protests that ousted former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa in 2022.
The economic collapse in 2022, attributed to unsustainable debt, poorly timed tax cuts, ill-planned import bans, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, prompted widespread discontent leading to mass demonstrations and the eventual ousting of Rajapaksa. Current President Ranil Wickremesinghe, who assumed office following Rajapaksa's departure, implemented measures such as negotiating a bailout package with the International Monetary Fund to stabilize the economy.
