Independent presidential candidate Ranil Wickremesinghe has called on the 6.9 million voters who previously supported Gotabaya Rajapaksa to back his campaign in the upcoming election. Ranil criticized the 38 other presidential candidates for their lack of involvement during the country's recent crisis, accusing them of abandoning the country during a time of severe shortages.

"Where were these candidates when the country was in crisis?" Ranil asked, highlighting the absence of figures like Sajith Premadasa and Anura Kumara Dissanayake during the emergency. He argued that his team was actively engaged and took responsibility for addressing the crisis, contrasting their actions with the inaction of his rivals.

Ranil highlighted his commitment to a comprehensive revolution, including an economic overhaul focused on creating a new export-driven economy and modernizing agriculture. He also outlined plans for social and political reforms, including empowering women, establishing a Social Justice Commission, and increasing representation for women and indigenous communities through new councils.

Addressing criticisms, he defended his approach, noting that despite challenges and opposition from within his own party, his focus remained on the country’s stability and development.