Sasanka De Silva Pannipitiya.

As the upcoming Presidential election approaches, there’s a growing narrative in highly manipulated social media platforms that only two are viable presidential candidates.

This perspective is not only premature but also undermines the democratic process.

It is crucial to wait for all parties to announce their candidates and engage in a comprehensive debate that includes all representatives.

A debate featuring a full spectrum of candidates will give the electorate a thorough understanding of each party’s policies, rather than limiting the discussion to just two perspectives.

The electorate deserves a debate that goes beyond unachievable promises and sugarcoated rhetoric.

Voters are keen to understand how each party plans to address the nation’s pressing issues.

Here are some key policy areas where clear, detailed plans are essential:

1. Debt Management:

How do candidates plan to navigate the country out of the current debt trap without resorting to further borrowing?

Sustainable solutions are needed to ensure economic stability and growth.

2. Investment in Education and Healthcare:

What percentage of the GDP do candidates propose to allocate to education and healthcare?

These sectors are crucial for the long-term development and well-being of the nation.

3. Digitalization of Systems:

What are the candidates’ plans to digitalize governmental and administrative systems?

Digital transformation is essential for efficiency, transparency, and service delivery.

4. Food Security:

What strategies do candidates have for ensuring future food security?

This includes policies on agricultural development, food distribution, and sustainability practices.

5. Welfare Payments Reduction:

How do candidates intend to reduce welfare payments in a way that supports those in need while promoting self-sufficiency and economic participation?

6. Non-Productive Recurrence Expenditure:

With non-productive recurring expenditures currently at about 88% of the GDP, what are the plans to significantly cut down these costs and reallocate resources more effectively?

7. Taxation System Reform:

What are the proposals for reworking the taxation system to make it fairer and more efficient, ensuring it supports economic growth and reduces inequality?

8. Environmental Policies:

What are the plans to increase the green cover in the country and improve environmental sustainability?

This includes tackling climate change, protecting biodiversity, and promoting renewable energy.

9. Public Transport:

What are the strategies for enhancing the public transport system across the entire country, not just in urban areas?

Reliable and efficient public transport is vital for economic activity and quality of life.

10. Crime Reduction:

How do candidates propose to reduce crime rates nationwide?

Effective law enforcement, social programs, and economic opportunities are critical components of this effort.

11. Transparency and Accountability:

What measures will be implemented to ensure transparency and accountability in government operations?

This includes anti-corruption initiatives, open data policies, and citizen engagement mechanisms.

12. Human Rights as a Cornerstone:

What measures will be taken to make sure this is done?

13. Peace and Security:

What measures will be taken to make sure this is done?

A live debate featuring all presidential candidates will provide a platform for these critical issues to be discussed in depth.

It will allow voters to compare each candidate’s policies and track records, enabling them to make an informed decision based on substance rather than spectacle.

In conclusion, the electorate must insist on inclusive debates that allow for a comprehensive evaluation of all candidates.

Only then can voters make a truly informed choice about who can lead the nation.

Let us reject the notion of a two-candidate race and instead embrace a democratic process that values diversity of thought and robust policy discussion.

The future of our nation depends on it.

Sasanka De Silva

Pannipitiya.