The Youth Vote

First-Time Voters Speak on Their Hopes for a New Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka has ushered in a new chapter in its political landscape as Anura Kumara Dissanayake was decla red the winner of the country's presidential election. Dissanayake, the National People's Power (NPP) candidate, secured the presidency with 42.3 percent of the vote. Opposition leader Sajith Premadasa followed closely behind, earning 32.8 percent, while outgoing President Ranil Wickremesinghe trailed with 17.3 percent. This election marks a historic moment as it was the first time the presidency was decided by a second round of vote counting after no candidate managed to secure the mandatory 50 percent in the initial round.

Dissanayake's rise to power comes at a time when Sri Lanka is grappling with its worst financial crisis in decades. The country, still reeling from the 2022 economic collapse, faces a host of challenges, including high inflation, a crippling debt burden, and widespread discontent with the political establishment. Many voters have placed their faith in Dissanayake’s ability to bring about real change, hoping his leadership can steer the island nation toward economic recovery. His campaign focused heavily on fighting corruption, an issue that has plagued Sri Lanka’s governance for years, and promised to prioritise the needs of ordinary citizens who have been hard-hit by the economic downturn.

The election results reflect a deep desire for a fresh start. Dissanayake's victory signals a shift in public sentiment, particularly among younger voters who are eager for reforms that will create job opportunities, improve living conditions, and restore the country's economic stability. The outgoing president, Wickremesinghe, had taken office during the height of the economic crisis and imposed tough austerity measures as part of an International Monetary Fund (IMF) bailout agreement. However, these policies, while necessary to stabilise the economy, were deeply unpopular with many Sri Lankans who felt the brunt of rising prices and shrinking wages.

As Dissanayake takes the reins, there is cautious optimism about the future. While some question his lack of experience in handling the complex issues Sri Lanka faces, many are hopeful that he will work collaboratively with experts and advisors to address the country’s pressing problems. The road ahead will be challenging, as the new president must balance economic recovery with social and political reforms. However, the election results show that a significant portion of the population is ready for change, even if it comes with uncertainties.

Dissanayake’s ability to deliver on his promises will be closely watched, particularly by the youth and first-time voters who played a critical role in this election. Many of them are eager to see if the new administration can tackle unemployment, reform the education system, and create a more inclusive society. As Sri Lanka embarks on this new chapter, the nation's hope for a brighter future rests on Dissanayake’s leadership and his ability to unite a country in need of direction.

To better understand what the youth of Sri Lanka expect from their newly elected president, we spoke to several first-time and young voters. Here are their thoughts and expectations for how President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s leadership can shape the future of the country and address the key issues that matter to them.

Everything is so expensive right now, from basic groceries to fuel. As young people, we’re struggling to manage. Most of us are juggling multiple jobs, and it feels like there’s no way forward. I hope the new president makes lowering inflation and bringing down the cost of living a top priority because we can't keep living like this. 
- Shree

This was my first time voting and I decided to vote for AKD. I know a lot of people are worried about his lack of experience in running a country, but honestly, what have the 'experienced' leaders really done for us? The country’s still in a mess. I just hope he’ll be smart enough to work with experts and surround himself with people who know how to fix things. If he can collaborate with the right people, that might actually make a difference 
- Amit

A lot of young people, including myself, want to start our own businesses, but the current economic climate makes it almost impossible. Besides, the red tape involved is unbelievable. I’d like to see the President support small businesses with easier access to loans and incentives for young entrepreneurs. 
- Jared

Honestly, I want to see more done for social equality. We need a president who doesn’t just cater to the majority but also stands up for minority rights and creates a space where everyone feels safe. I hope Anura Kumara Dissanayake will be that leader.
 - KP

I would really love to see more of us, the younger generation, actually involved in decision-making. It’s not enough to just promise things for youth—include us in the process. If the President can open up those doors, he’ll really win over young people like me. For far too long older people who should be retiring and know nothing about the pulse of the country have had a run of things and failed miserably. 
- Shari

We need a president who will focus on sustainable economic growth. It’s not just about fixing things for the next few months, but about setting up a system that works for the next few decades. I hope this government can think long-term, especially when it comes to industries like tourism and tech. 
- Nimansa

We have seen corruption destroy our country for too long. As a young person, I just want a leader who will finally be accountable, and who won’t get swallowed up by the same old system. If President AKD can break that cycle, we might finally see real change. This was one of the things he promised, so I really hope he delivers. 
- Jagath