COLOMBO, 23 September 2024, (TON): - President Anura Kumara Dissanayake was sworn in as Sri Lanka’s new President. He took office at a time when Sri Lankan economy was in shambles. The new President vowed to revitalize the economy and restore public trust.

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake is a seasoned leader of the National People's Power (NPP) alliance who said after taking the oath, "I understand the complexity of the problems facing Sri Lanka, and I will work hard to realize people's hopes and win the confidence of all Sri Lankans".

With 42.31% of the vote, Dissanayake's victory marks a significant shift in Sri Lanka's political landscape. His National People's Power alliance won the presidency in the first election since mass protests forced Gotabaya Rajapaksa from office amid an economic collapse in 2022.

As leader of the People's Liberation Front (JVP) party, Dissanayake has a long history of advocating for social and economic change. Inspired by Marxist revolutionary Che Guevara, he has softened some policies, stating his belief in an open economy and openness to privatization.

The International Monetary Fund's $2.9 billion loan has stabilized Sri Lanka's economy, but strict austerity measures have caused hardship for many.