The Rajapaksa family, influential in Sri Lanka's politics since 1948, has decided not to participate in the upcoming November parliamentary elections, marking a significant shift in the nation's political landscape. This decision comes after a notable decline in their popularity following the 2022 economic crisis, which led to widespread protests and the eventual ousting of former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa. Analysts suggest that the brothers' withdrawal indicates a recognition of their diminishing influence and the potential collapse of their political legacy, particularly affecting the prospects of the next generation, including Mahinda Rajapaksa's son, Namal.
The Rajapaksa brothers, particularly Mahinda and Gotabaya, have been pivotal figures in Sri Lanka's recent history, with Mahinda serving as president from 2004 to 2015 and Gotabaya from 2019 until his resignation amid protests in 2022. Despite their past military successes, including the defeat of the Tamil Tigers in 2009, their governance has been marred by allegations of corruption and racial discrimination, particularly against minority groups such as Muslims. These issues have contributed to a significant decline in their public support, leading to their decision to withdraw from the electoral race.
The Rajapaksa family's political journey has been characterized by a reliance on pro-China foreign policies, which have been criticized for neglecting balanced diplomatic relations, particularly with India. The economic turmoil faced by Sri Lanka in 2022, exacerbated by poor governance and heavy reliance on Chinese loans, has further tarnished their reputation. The Supreme Court's recent ruling holding Gotabaya and his finance ministers accountable for the economic crisis reflects the growing discontent among the populace and the shifting political dynamics in the country.
- The Rajapaksa family's political influence has been a defining feature of Sri Lanka's governance structure, with their control spanning multiple decades and generations. Their withdrawal from the upcoming elections is unprecedented and signals a potential end to their political dynasty, which has been challenged by rising public discontent and demands for accountability.
- The economic crisis of 2022, which led to severe shortages of essential goods, was a turning point for the Rajapaksa brothers. The protests that erupted, termed 'Argalia,' showcased the people's frustration with the government's inability to manage the economy effectively. The subsequent flight of Gotabaya Rajapaksa highlighted the severity of the crisis and the loss of public confidence in the Rajapaksa leadership.
- As the political landscape in Sri Lanka evolves, the absence of the Rajapaksa brothers from the parliamentary elections opens the door for new political actors and potentially a shift towards more inclusive governance. The future of Sri Lankan politics may see a greater emphasis on addressing the concerns of marginalized communities and ensuring accountability for past governance failures.
