By Facebook Sentiment Around Sri Lanka’s Presidential Candidates: Wickremesinghe, Premadasa, and Dissanayake
Dr. Sanjana Hattotuwa’s recent analysis of Facebook commentary has shed light on public sentiment toward Sri Lanka’s three main presidential candidates: Ranil Wickremesinghe (RW), Sajith Premadasa (SP), and Anura Kumara Dissanayake (AKD). By examining over 4,000 tweets and 1,500 comments each on Facebook, Dr. Hattotuwa provides insights into how these candidates are perceived as the election approaches.
Ranil Wickremesinghe
RW’s supporters highlight his experience and leadership during Sri Lanka’s 2022 economic crisis. Many see him as a stabilizing force who managed to bring some stability to the country, ending fuel shortages, and initiating economic reforms. Comments often praise his focus on technology and youth empowerment, and his international connections are viewed as beneficial for attracting foreign investment. Supporters appreciate his efforts to engage with the public through live Q&A sessions on Facebook.
However, critics accuse RW of being part of the old political establishment, responsible for many of Sri Lanka’s current issues. Some allege that he has failed to address corruption adequately and is too close to the Rajapaksa family, whom many blame for the country’s economic troubles. There are concerns about his age and doubts about the long-term impact of his economic policies.
Sajith Premadasa
Supporters of SP view him as a promising leader, often referring to him as the “next president” and the “friend of the poor.” They believe he can bring positive change and solve the problems exacerbated by the 2022 crisis. Many comments connect him to his father’s legacy, hoping for a continuation of the perceived positive aspects of his father’s presidency.
Conversely, some commenters are skeptical about SP’s ability to deliver genuine change. They worry that his connections with established political figures and accusations of vote-buying could undermine his promises. Critics suggest that the large crowds at his rallies might be inflated by free transportation and food rather than genuine support.
Anura Kumara Dissanayake
AKD is seen by his supporters as a principled alternative to traditional politics, offering hope for a more transparent and just government. His candidacy resonates with those frustrated by corruption and mismanagement, and many see him as a leader who can bring about significant reform.
On the downside, critics question AKD’s economic policies and accuse him of hypocrisy. They worry about his lack of executive experience and his party’s ties to trade unions. Some view his policies as potentially detrimental to foreign investment and economic stability.
Dr. Hattotuwa’s analysis underscores the polarized and dynamic nature of Sri Lankan political discourse on social media. While support and criticism are abundant, the most notable aspect is the strong emotional investment in each candidate. This digital landscape will likely play a crucial role in shaping voter perceptions and influencing the outcome of the upcoming presidential election.
