General Election Contingent on MPs' Desire, Asserts Presidential Advisor

In response to inquiries regarding rumored agreements between former Minister Basil Rajapaksa and President Ranil Wickremesinghe on elections, Senior Presidential Advisor Ashu Marasinghe clarified yesterday that a General Election would be convened if Parliamentarians opt for an early dissolution of Parliament.

Professor Marasinghe emphasized that while a Presidential Election could legally occur within the current year, more time remains for a General Election. He highlighted the necessity for MPs to pass a resolution advocating for Parliament's dissolution to facilitate an early General Election.

Expressing the importance of sustaining Sri Lanka's economic momentum, Professor Marasinghe underscored the country's progress in revitalizing its economy. He noted a significant turnaround, citing a shift from a primary account balance deficit of minus Rs 885 billion in 2022 to a surplus of plus Rs 51 billion as of December 31, 2023.

Efforts to uphold the present economic stability were emphasized as paramount by Professor Marasinghe, signaling a continued focus on fostering economic resilience in Sri Lanka.