**Ally of Rajapaksa Wins Presidential Election in Sri Lanka**
Six-time prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe emerged as the new president of Sri Lanka after securing a substantial victory in the parliament vote yesterday. With a total of 134 votes in the 225-member parliament, Wickremesinghe clinched the presidency, with his main opponent Dullas Alahapperuma managing only 82 votes and leftist Anura Dissanayake receiving a mere three. This victory grants him an absolute majority on first preferences, paving the way for him to take the reins of a country grappling with a myriad of challenges.
**Country in Crisis**
Wickremesinghe, a seasoned 73-year-old leader, acknowledged the significant hurdles facing Sri Lanka and called for a unified approach to address the needs and expectations of the people. “Our country is facing massive challenges, and we have to work on a new strategy to fulfill the aspirations of the people,” he remarked after his triumph. The President’s Office confirmed that he would be sworn in today and proceed to appoint a new prime minister, expected to be Dinesh Gunawardena, a close ally and schoolmate of Wickremesinghe.
**Public Dissent and Protests**
Despite the election outcome, dissent and protests against Wickremesinghe were palpable on the streets. A group of demonstrators expressed disappointment and disillusionment with the parliamentary decision. Nuzly Hameem, a civil engineer, articulated his discontent, emphasizing the unmet expectations from the elected representatives. “The reason why people came out against Gota(baya) was not a personal grudge. It was protesting for ideals and values he held,” echoed Buwanaka Perera, a 26-year-old protester, highlighting the ongoing struggle for justice, transparency, and accountability in governance.
**Challenges Ahead**
Assuming office amidst economic turmoil and social unrest, Wickremesinghe faces the arduous task of steering a nation grappling with food, fuel, and medicine shortages, compounded by bailout negotiations with the IMF. The weight of expectations from the populace, coupled with the shadow of the Rajapaksas looming over his victory, underscores the delicate balance he must strike between stability, reform, and representation.