Colombo, May 18: President Ranil Wickremesinghe has departed for Bali, Indonesia, to participate in the 10th World Water Forum, scheduled from May 18 to 20. The forum, themed “Water for Shared Prosperity,” underscores Sri Lanka’s proactive role in global water sustainability.
Invited by Indonesian President Joko Widodo, President Wickremesinghe will deliver a keynote address on May 20. His speech will highlight Sri Lanka’s commitment to equitable water access and sustainable water management practices. In addition to his address, President Wickremesinghe will engage in bilateral discussions with President Widodo, focusing on collaborative water management initiatives.
The forum’s agenda aligns with Sri Lanka’s ongoing efforts to address water scarcity and promote sustainable practices, reflecting the nation’s active participation in global environmental forums.
President Wickremesinghe’s departure coincides with growing political tensions back home. Rumours are circulating about a possible dissolution of parliament, which could pave the way for a general election ahead of the presidential election. According to sources close to President Wickremesinghe, he is not inclined toward a general election first, preferring to launch his presidential campaign in mid-June.
In contrast, Basil Rajapaksa, a key strategist for the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), has advised the President to hold a general election first to counter the rising influence of opposition leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake (AKD). Meanwhile, opposition leader Sajith Premadasa is also aiming for a presidential election.
Upon his return, President Wickremesinghe is expected to present the Economic Transformation Act in Parliament. The act, which has already circulated among Colombo’s political circles via WhatsApp, has sparked considerable debate. Sources from both the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) and the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna/National People’s Power (JVP/NPP) reveal that they are prepared to debate the proposed legislation to expose President Wickremesinghe’s true intentions.
Independent analysts have cautioned that the premature circulation of such a significant act could lead to misinterpretations and unnecessary controversy. Nevertheless, the upcoming debates are pivotal in shaping the country’s economic future.
