ISAS South Asia Discussion Papers

Gotabaya Rajapaksa became the eighth president of Sri Lanka following his decisive and clear victory at the presidential polls in November 2019. This election was arguably the most dynamic, competitive and hardfought with a record number of 35 candidates who contested for the top position. Despite the long list of candidates, the presidential election was primarily a two-man contest between Gotabaya and Sajith Premadasa. The Institute of South Asian Studies at the National University of Singapore has prepared a series of post-election papers examining major issues and political, economic and social challenges relating to Gotabaya’s presidency. These include his foreign policy imperatives, relationship with India and China, economic priorities and policies, engagement with the minority communities and the likely impact of his government on social cohesion and development in the country.