Polling Stations in Sri Lanka Closed, Vote Counting Underway After Closely Fought Presidential Election

Sri Lankans Vote in Closely Contested Presidential Election

Polling stations in Sri Lanka have closed and the counting of votes is underway after a closely fought presidential election.

The frontrunners in the race are Sajith Premadasa of the main opposition Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) party and Gotabaya Rajapaksa of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) party.

The election has been closely watched as a test of the country's post-civil war reconciliation process.

Rajapaksa and Premadasa Lead Close Race

Rajapaksa, a former defense secretary, is seen as the favorite to win, but Premadasa has mounted a strong challenge.

Rajapaksa is seen as representing the country's Sinhalese majority, while Premadasa is seen as more representative of the country's Tamil and Muslim minorities.

The election has been marred by some violence, with several people killed in clashes between supporters of the two main candidates.

Election Seen as Test of Post-Civil War Reconciliation

The election is seen as a test of the country's post-civil war reconciliation process.

The civil war, which lasted from 1983 to 2009, left deep scars on the country and there are concerns that the election could exacerbate tensions between the country's different ethnic groups.

The results of the election are expected to be announced on November 18, 2024.