Sri Lanka’s recently-elected President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has taken bold steps to consolidate power after his weekend victory. Dissanayake dissolved Parliament on Tuesday and announced parliamentary elections to be held on Nov. 14, aiming to strengthen his control over the legislative chamber. His party currently holds only three seats in the 225-member Parliament, prompting the decision for early elections.
In a significant move, Dissanayake appointed Harini Amarasuriya, an opposition lawmaker, as the country’s new Prime Minister. Amarasuriya’s appointment marks the first time in 24 years that a woman will lead the Sri Lankan government. Both Dissanayake and Amarasuriya belong to the Marxist-leaning National People’s Power coalition, reflecting a push for change following the election where Sri Lankans rejected the previous political establishment.
The new government faces challenges, as Dissanayake’s party’s limited seats in Parliament present obstacles in forming a complete Cabinet. Amidst promises to address the economic crisis and ease austerity measures, adjustments to a bailout agreement with the International Monetary Fund may impact the country’s financial situation. The economic turmoil in Sri Lanka has been exacerbated by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and previous terrorism attacks.
Dissanayake’s administration is also notable for its inclusion of women in key positions, breaking a trend of male-dominated politics in the country since the introduction of universal suffrage in 1931. The historical appointment of the first female Prime Minister in over two decades and the broader representation of women in decision-making roles signal a shift towards more diverse and inclusive governance in Sri Lanka.