September 05, Colombo (LNW): Former President Chandrika Kumaratunga has declared her decision to stay neutral in the upcoming 2024 Presidential election, despite several candidates reportedly seeking her support.
Addressing recent media speculation, Kumaratunga clarified that while she had been linked to endorsing various contenders, she will not back any candidate in this election.
Her statement urged voters to carefully evaluate their choices, emphasising the importance of considering candidates’ proposed policies and the methods they intend to implement.
Kumaratunga highlighted that voters should prioritise a candidate’s commitment to abolishing the Executive Presidency and focus on key policy areas such as education, healthcare, agriculture—particularly in supporting small farmers—small and medium enterprises, as well as industries like plantations, international trade, and tourism.
In addition to these sectors, she stressed the necessity of diversified industries and exports to strengthen the economy.
She further called on voters to demand assurances of honest governance and transparency from candidates, noting that corruption must be eradicated.
Kumaratunga emphasised the importance of appointing individuals of high integrity and qualification to prominent government positions, ensuring proper execution of promised policies.
