Anura Kumara Dissanayake: From Grassroots to Sri Lanka's New President

Anura Kumara Dissanayake, a left-leaning leader, has been elected as Sri Lanka's next president in the country's first election since its economy collapsed in 2022. His journey to the presidency is a story of perseverance, political evolution, and a deep commitment to social justice.

Early Life and Political Awakening

Dissanayake was born into a humble farming family in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. His early experiences, including the loss of his cousin to political violence, shaped his political consciousness.

• He joined the student wing of the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), a Marxist-Leninist party, as a young man.
• Dissanayake's family home was destroyed during the government's crackdown on the JVP's second insurrection in 1988, further solidifying his commitment to the party's cause.

Political Evolution and Rise to Leadership

Dissanayake's political journey has been marked by significant transformations. He has witnessed the JVP's evolution from a staunch anti-imperialist and socialist party to one that embraced Sinhala nationalism in the 1980s.

• The JVP fiercely opposed Tamil political claims and external intervention in Sri Lanka's ethnic conflict during this period.
• Following a period of being banned, the JVP re-entered mainstream politics, winning seats in parliament.
• Dissanayake became a Member of Parliament in 2000 and briefly served as the Minister of Agriculture under President Chandrika Kumaratunga Bandaranaike.
• He became the leader of the JVP in 2014, succeeding Somawansa Amarasinghe.

The National People's Power (NPP) Alliance

Under Dissanayake's leadership, the JVP underwent a significant shift, moving away from its traditional appeal to a broader political base.

• He recognized that the JVP's traditional appeal was limited and formed the National People's Power (NPP) Alliance, uniting over two dozen political groups, professionals, academics, and activists.
• The NPP aimed to present itself as a viable alternative to the two traditional political camps in Sri Lanka: the Sri Lanka Freedom Party and the United National Party.

Dissanayake's Leadership and Ideology

Dissanayake is described by his colleagues as a clear-headed decision-maker who values collective input.

• He has a reputation for carefully considering multiple viewpoints before making decisions.
• His calm demeanor and ability to craft powerful narratives against Sri Lanka's ruling class have made him a popular figure in public life.
• The NPP, under Dissanayake's leadership, shifted its focus from purely socialist principles to a broader political message, addressing corruption and economic mismanagement.

Presidential Elections and Political Campaigns

Dissanayake's journey to the presidency was not without its challenges. He contested the 2019 presidential election against Gotabaya Rajapaksa, but only secured 3.16% of the vote.

• The NPP won just three seats in the 2020 parliamentary election, earning the label of the "3% party."
• Despite these setbacks, Dissanayake and the NPP remained committed to grassroots mobilization, expanding their reach through political organizing and engaging with the Sinhala expatriate community.

The 2022 People's Uprising and Dissanayake's Rise

The 2022 Janatha Aragalaya, or the people's struggle, was a turning point in Sri Lanka's political landscape. It led to the ouster of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa.

• The NPP played a crucial role in supporting the people's demand for "system change," and its grassroots activism resonated with those disillusioned by the political elite.
• Dissanayake's rallies drew large crowds, and his oratory style, combining calm analysis with impassioned calls for reform, resonated with many.

Dissanayake's Election Victory and the Future of Sri Lanka

Anura Kumara Dissanayake's election victory marks a new chapter in Sri Lanka's political history. He represents a departure from the country's long-entrenched political elite and embodies the hopes of those seeking change.

• Sri Lanka faces significant economic challenges and political uncertainty. Dissanayake's leadership will be crucial in addressing these issues and navigating the country toward a more stable and prosperous future.