Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi congratulated the newly elected President Anura Kumara Dissanayake for being elected as the 9th Executive President of Sri Lanka over a social media post on ‘X’ (formerly, Twitter).

The Indian Prime Minister said, “Congratulations @anuradisanayake, on your victory in the Sri Lankan Presidential elections. Sri Lanka holds a special place in India’s Neighbourhood First Policy and Vision SAGAR. I look forward to working closely with you to further strengthen our multifaceted cooperation for the benefit of our people and the entire region.”

National People’s Power Leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake has been officially elected as the Ninth Executive President of Sri Lanka, marking the beginning of a new era that brings hope for alleviating the hardships faced by the people in the aftermath of the unprecedented economic crisis of 2022.

During the campaign, Dissanayake took a tough stance on corruption and vowed to bring massive political transformation under his rule.

Dissanayake emerged victorious over his closest rival, Sajith Premadasa, by a margin of approximately 10 percentage, as reported by the official count from the Election Commission. NPP sources said that he is scheduled to take oaths before the Chief Justice today as the Ninth Executive President of the country.The NPP won 14 district out of 22 districts whereas the SJB secured only eight districts.

The NPP Leader has garnered over 50% of votes across all districts in the Western, Southern, North Western, North Central provinces while Premadasa won in the Nuwara Eliya, Puttalama, Badulla, Jaffna, Wanni, Batticaloa, Trincomalee districts

He received a total of 5,740,179 votes, which comprised 105,264 preferential votes, whereas Sajith Premadasa from the Samagi Jana Balawegaya secured 4,530,902 votes, including 167,867 during the second count.

For the first time in the election history of the country, the Presidential election went into a second round of counting yesterday after no single candidate won more than 50% of the vote.

Announcing the official results of the 2024 Presidential election, Election Commission Chairman R.M.A.L.Rathnayake said the Commission has not received any complaints concerning illegal activities or obstructions occurring at polling stations throughout the country.

Rathnayake said that the commission started counting second and third preferences as the Dissanayake and Premadasa have failed to obtain 50 per cent of votes.

He added that according to election regulations, a second counting must be conducted if none of the candidates secures 50 per cent of the votes.

“Presidential candidates other than NPP leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake and SJB leader Sajith Premadasa have been removed from the fray and the commission has started counting the their first and second preferences”

Rathnayake highlighted to the President-elect the necessity of amending various regulations pertaining to the election process. He noted that a Parliamentary Select Committee, along with other parliamentary committees, had deliberated on the significance of introducing amendments to the election regulations, including the provision of facilities for Sri Lankans overseas to participate in the electoral process.

He expressed his hope that the President-elect would give this matter serious consideration prior to the upcoming election.

Anura Kumara Dissanayake of NPP obtained 5634,915 votes and his main rival Sajith Premadasa of Samagi Jana Balawegaya obtained 4,363,035 in the first count, according to official results.

“In the first round, NPP Leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake emerged in the lead with 42.31 per cent.In the second place was the SJB leader Sajith Premadasa who received 32.76 per cent.

UNP Leader Ranil Wickremesinghe, who ran as an independent candidate backed by dissenting parliamentarians of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna, became third-place garnering 2,299,767 votes.

The United National Party and the Samagi Jana Balawegaya lost their many strongholds including Borella. However, celebratory firecrackers were not heard in the city or suburbs after the Election Chief announced the winner of the crucial election. There was no sign of major mobilization of Security Forces and the entire election process was peaceful and free from major incidents.

“President Anura Dissanayake, With deepest affection, I entrust to you “the beloved child of Sri Lanka”- President Ranil Wickremesinghe.

In a special address, President Ranil Wickremesinghe expressed his deep gratitude to the people of Sri Lanka for the mandate granted during the 21st presidential election. He acknowledged that, in accordance with the will of the people, the leadership of the country should now be passed on to President Anura Dissanayake.

President Wickremesinghe extended his sincere thanks to all those who supported him during his tenure. He reflected on his role as a caretaker, stating that he had guided “the beloved child of Sri Lanka” across significant challenges, symbolized by the “Vine Bridge,” and expressed his confidence that under President Dissanayake’s leadership, the journey will continue safely and successfully.
The full transcript of President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s speech is shown below;
“Ayubowan!

Dear Citizens,

The people of the country have given their decision at this Presidential Election held on 21st September 2024. Therefore, we must respect their decision and act according to that mandate to ensure the functioning of the country.
Two years ago, I took over a bankrupt country and a collapsed economy at an extremely turbulent time.
I accepted the challenge at a time when no one else had the courage to face it.

I successfully completed the responsibility that history put upon my shoulders.
I was able to rescue my motherland from bankruptcy within a short period of two years.
I believe this to be the most important thing I could do for my country during my political career.
Inflation was 70% when I took over the country, but I could reduce it to 0.5% during my time as the President.
I increased the Foreign Reserve, which was at USD 20 Million when I came to power, to USD 5.7 Billion.

I was able to ensure that the Sri Lankan Rupee which was 380 against the US Dollar, came down to a strong and solid amount of 300.
Also, when I took over, the economic growth of the country was negative 7.3% (- 7.3%). But I was able to increase it to positive 2.3% (2.3%). I am happy and proud about it.

I believe that the future generation of the country will give the proper assessment for my historical political role, the way it deserves.
I am aware that my place in history as the ruler of this country will be decided not today, but in future.
I followed the right path and saved people from hunger and sorrow. I hope that the new President will also follow the right path and put an end to the remaining issues that the people are facing.

I was eventually able to carry the dear child called Sri Lanka along a long distance safely – on the dangerous rope bridge.
Close to the very end of the rope bridge, people have decided to handover the dear child called Sri Lanka to President Anura Dissanayake.
Mr. President, here I handover to you with much love, the dear child called Sri Lanka, whom we both love very dearly. I wish that you will be able to carry this child away from the bridge to the other bank, even safer than the way I carried the child.

I will be devoted to serving my motherland with or without power, with or without a post or powers, for the rest of my life.
I wish to thank everyone who supported me, who did not support me, and all the citizens of the country during my time as President. Thank you.”

Ranil Wickremesinghe,
22nd September 2024.

Today marks a significant milestone as the Lake House Media Academy opens its new premises. Several years ago, the Academy began with great promise, and after previously operating in various locations, it has now moved to a permanent home.

This achievement is the result of contributions from many individuals, to whom we extend our heartfelt gratitude, said the Chairman of the Associated Newspaper Ceylon Limited (ANCL) Prof. Harendra Kariyawasam.

He added, “The media landscape today requires informed, insightful journalists who are dedicated to their craft. The Media Academy’s mission is to produce such professionals – educated, trained, and equipped to meet the challenges of modern journalism. We aim to elevate media education to a university-level standard.”

He made these remarks during the inauguration ceremony held yesterday (19).

Prof. Kariyawasam further said: “Although we lack the vast financial resources of private media corporations, with our strong foundation and environment, we are confident in creating something exceptional. This presents a great challenge for the Lake House team, but one we are ready to meet.”

Following the inauguration, blessings were invoked by Chief Sanghanayaka of Southern Province, Most Ven. Ittademaliye Indrasara Thera.

Several Lake House publications, including Mihira, Tharuni, Budusarana, Subasetha, and Sarasaviya, were relocated to the new premises as part of the inauguration. ANCL Editorial Director Sisira Paranathantrie, Finance Director Dr. Sunil Jayantha Navaratne and General Manager Sumith Kothalawala attended the event.

Election Commission (EC) Chairman R. M. A. L. Rathnayake said that they hope to conclude the official releasing and announcing of the 2024 Presidential Election results declaring the winning candidate by September 22.

He said this during the special Election Commission Media Conference held yesterday (19) morning at the Department of Government Information auditorium joined by the members of the Election Commission, Elections Commissioner General Saman Sri Rathnayake and Police Media Spokesman DIG Nihal Thalduwa. A team of Election observers from the European Union who are in the country to observe the Presidential election were also present. Youth aged 18 years plus not having National Identity Cards issued to them yet and are eligible to vote for the first time can produce their temporary National Identity documents with their photographs issued by the Department for Registration of Persons at the respective polling centers as a valid personal identification document which is accepted to cast their vote, Elections Commissioner General Saman Sri Rathnayake said.

The EC Chairman stressed that carrying mobile phones to the polling booths by voters is strictly prohibited and to refrain from taking mobile phones when going to cast their votes which was also affirmed by the Police Media Spokesman DIG Nihal Thalduwa.

The temporary election offices erected for Presidential candidates of all parties in all electoral districts in the country have been instructed to be shutdown and removed by midnight yesterday (19) by the EC. Strict action will be taken on those who violate these rules including arrest by the Police, the EC Chairman said.

The EC Chairman said they hope to begin counting of postal votes in each district from around 4 pm and votes cast on the Election Day from around 7 pm. He said that if a candidate has a clear majority of 50.1 percent of the total votes then that person will be declared the winner of the Presidential election, failing which counting of preferential votes given for the top two candidates who received the highest number of votes will be carried out from the valid vote ballot papers of the other presidential candidates to decide the winning candidate out of the top two. All outdoor election related propaganda and near the polling centers to coerce and influence voters is strictly prohibited and orders are given to the Police to arrest those engaged in such illegal activities.

Police Media Spokesman DIG Thalduwa said that outdoor public screening on giant screens of election results and crowd gathering is strictly banned and for all people to stay indoors and view the election results in private at their homes. He further said that measures have been taken by the police to prevent violence including brawls during public screening of election results and such screens and equipment will be removed and confiscated and the crowds gathered will be dispersed.

Thalduwa said that 63,000 police officers will be deployed for the security of the presidential election and other duties including security for the polling and counting centers and special security will be provided to safeguard the sealed ballot boxes during transportation from polling centers to counting centers in all districts including protection from natural disasters and other dangers. He said that maximum police protection and security will be enforced across the country until post election results. 10,000 civil defense personnel will be deployed to assist the Police and Police Special Task Force (STF) officers will be deployed to conduct Election Day street monitoring mobile trips. DIG Thalduwa said that police have been tasked to use maximum force if any person behaves riotously in the polling centers on the day of the Presidential election including arresting such individuals who break the law.

The Diploma Awarding ceremony of the Lake House Media Academy will take place today at 1 pm at the BMICH premises under the patronage of Transport, Highways and Mass Media Minister Dr. Bandula Gunawardhana. 

Lake House Chairman Prof.Harendra Kariyawasam, members of the Board of Directors and senior management will participate in the awards ceremony. 

Prof.Aruna Shantha will deliver the keynote address at this second Diploma awards ceremony organised by the Lake House Media Academy since its establishment in September, 2022.

Over 20 students who have completed Diploma in Mass Communication and Diploma in Digital Journalism will receive their diploma certificate at this ceremony.

The Academy has made arrangements to start Diploma in Mass Communication course in Tamil medium soon.

• Economic Stability Paves the Way for Financial Activities in Port City.
• Commitment to On-going Programs Promises a Brighter Future for the Nation.
• Revising IMF and Foreign Credit Agreements Could Undermine Future Prospects – President.
• Parliament Approves Key Regulations to Kick-start Financial Activities in Port City Yesterday- State Minister for Investment Promotion Dilum Amunugama.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe officially opened “The Mall,” a newly constructed duty-free shopping complex in the Colombo Port City area today (September 5).

This marks the debut of the first urban duty-free shopping mall in the region, featuring a range of stores, restaurants, and various retail outlets. Notable international duty-free retailers, including One World, China Duty Free Group (CDFG), and Flemingo will be operating within the mall, positioning the Colombo Port City as a premier shopping destination.

Following the unveiling of a commemorative plaque and the official opening, the President embarked on an observation tour of the new complex.

In his address at the occasion, President Ranil Wickremesinghe reflected on the rapid development of the port city, noting that two years ago, such progress seemed unlikely. He attributed this turnaround to his government’s efforts in establishing economic stability, supported by the

International Monetary Fund (IMF), which has enabled the Port City’s financial sector to advance.

The President also highlighted that approximately 100 companies are now interested in the Port City, with 74 expected to commence investment activities by the end of the year. He expressed optimism about the future growth and potential of the area.

Addressing the gathering, President Ranil Wickremesinghe further elaborated;

The inauguration of this duty-free centre in the Port City today marks a significant milestone. Our tourism industry has now gained global prominence, attracting visitors who are drawn to this new shopping complex. The development of shopping malls in the Port City is a key part of our strategy to enhance the region’s appeal and provide goods for tourists. This represents the beginning of a new era for the Port City.

Two years ago, the prospect of such development seemed improbable. However, we have made this progress possible through our efforts to establish economic stability, with crucial support from the IMF. Our agreements with the IMF, the World Bank, the Asian Development Bank (ADB), and 18 lending countries have been instrumental in advancing this program. Maintaining these agreements without alterations is essential for securing a prosperous future for our country. Any attempts to modify these agreements could jeopardize our on-going progress and future prospects.

Approximately 100 companies are currently directing their attention towards the Port City. Of these, 74 companies are expected to arrive in Sri Lanka by the end of this year. Additionally, a new tourist zone will be established in Colombo Fort, which is anticipated to increase the number of visitors to these areas.

The police headquarters has been relocated, and the Foreign Ministry is moving to a new building. Plans are underway to renovate the Republic Square and construct new buildings in its centre, aiming to develop the area into a tourist zone. The old post office building will also be utilized to advance the tourism industry. The old port and its jetty, as well as the old customs building, will be repurposed for tourism.

The naval headquarters has been relocated to Akuregoda, creating opportunities for new hotel developments in that area. The current President’ House will also be leveraged to expand the tourism sector, with plans to create a robust tourism industry there.

To develop the country, it is essential to attract a larger number of tourists and increase the revenue generated from them. We should take pride in being able to initiate such a shopping complex within two years. Three renowned global companies have already established themselves within a 7,000-square-meter area, with more expected to arrive. We are committed to securing the country’s economic stability and advancing the Port City to become a globally recognized centre.

State Minister for Investment Promotion Dilum Amunugama;

The opening of the duty-free shopping complex in the heart of the city, for the first time in Sri Lankan history, is a significant milestone. I extend my gratitude to everyone involved in making this a reality.

Mr. President, you understand the challenges of this process. Navigating the existing regulations and executing this unprecedented initiative has not been easy. My Chairman, Mr. Dinesh Weerakkody, is well aware of the obstacles faced. We have operated within the current framework, adhering to old laws and regulations.

Special thanks are due to Mr. Dinesh Weerakkody for his relentless efforts, and to the Secretary of our Ministry, Mr. M.M. Nayeemudeen, and my additional Secretaries for their support. I also thank Mr. Revan and the Managing Director for their efforts in making this project successful.

We are now entering a new phase. Yesterday, all necessary regulations for the Colombo Port City, including important banking regulations, were approved by Parliament. Consequently, the Colombo Port City is now fully operational and ready for business.

In a time of crisis, the leadership provided to create the environment necessary for opening such a prestigious shopping complex deserves my heartfelt thanks to the President.

Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena, Minister Bandula Gunawardena, Chinese Ambassador Qi Zhenhong, Commissioners and Ambassadors, Eastern Province Governor Senthil Thondaman, Prime Minister Secretary Anura Disanayake, Chief Financial Officer of China Harbour Engineering Company Sang Kui Feng, and other distinguished officials and guests were also attend at the event.

The government, citing potential future unrest in the country, announced yesterday that a new policy has been implemented allowing parliamentarians to keep two firearms after they retire from ministerial roles.

Addressing the media, Cabinet Spokesman and Minister Bandula Gunawardana explained that parliamentarians could purchase and retain these firearms after their term as MPs end. He made this statement in response to a journalist's question about the Defence Ministry's announcement regarding additional firearms.

The minister also mentioned that a parliamentarian was tortured and killed by a group of Aragalaya members, noting that the violence following the Aragalaya protests left a negative image of the country.

He added that within 24-hours, the official residences of 72 parliamentarians and the President's library were burned down. He also mentioned a plot to set the Parliament on fire.

Given these circumstances, the government has granted current ministers the privilege of keeping two firearms at home for their safety. Any parliamentarian can request to purchase these firearms.

Although some ministers have obtained firearms for self-defence, Minister Gunawardana said he does not need one for his safety.

The Defence Ministry has also announced its decision to provide MPs with repeater firearms for their safety in addition to the currently issued pistols. The ministry informed the Secretary-General of Parliament that all 225 MPs are eligible to receive these weapons.