Millions of Sri Lankans have turned out today to vote today in the island’s 9^th presidential election, which is the first open presidential election since the country’s economic collapse in 2022.

Early polling indicated that across the island approximately 50% of people turned out to vote. 

A special exhibition was held in Nallur, Jaffna this week to commemorate the political wing leader of the LTTE, Lt Col Thileepan, who fasted until death to protest against the repression of Tamils 37 years ago.

Former Sri Lankan cricketer Dulip Samaraweera has been handed a 20-year ban from holding any position within Australian cricket, following allegations of inappropriate behavior towards a female player which was described as “utterly reprehensible”. 

Pakkiyaselvam Ariyanenthiran, who was put forward as the “Tamil common candidate”, has garnered support from a range of Tamil political parties and civil society organisations.

As we approach Sri Lanka’s presidential election on 21 September, Tamil Guardian takes a closer look at the leading candidates ahead of Saturday's polls.

As we approach Sri Lanka’s presidential election on 21 September, Tamil Guardian takes a closer look at the leading candidates ahead of Saturday's polls.

Ranil Wickremesinghe

Sajith Premadasa, whose father Ranasinghe Premadasa had previously served as head of the United National Party (UNP) and had served in the roles of president and prime minister, is the leader of the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB).