Commentary: No easy path to recovery for Sri Lanka

Such use of force not just intensifies opposition in order to Wickremesinghe’s presidency and threatens continuity of rule in the country, but also raises questions regarding Wickremesinghe’s commitment to the particular rule of law in the international community’s eyes .

Wickremesinghe should thus order security forces to stop all crackdowns towards civilians and instead initiate dialogue with leaders of demonstration groups. This enables Wickremesinghe to factor their particular concerns and passions directly into the administration’s governance strategy plus challenges the assumption that Wickremesinghe’s federal government – comprising a number of Rajapaksa loyalists – is simply a continuation of the past.

Sustained rapport with all the people is critical to advancing IMF bailout talks. Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva lately made clear that the IMF is willing to work with any Sri Lankan administration “as lengthy as the next leader enjoys support and has the longevity to lead the country”.

ECONOMIC CRISIS WON’T END ANYTIME SOON

Even if protests ceased and preparations for all-donor wedding are made, Sri Lanka’s economic crisis won’t finish anytime soon. The war in Ukraine can continue to hike up commodity prices, and Sri Lanka’s restricted integration in the global supply chain provides additional constraints upon short-term relief.

Some of Sri Lanka’s closest contributor remain vulnerable to rising oil prices, challenging the country’s prospects of securing affordable fuel quickly. Sri Lanka’s Central Bank governor already warned its water external resources are almost “nonexistent” and that all available forex resources were taken by gas imports into the country.

These types of global pressures upon food and fuel prices are beyond the newest government’s control, further complicating Sri Lanka’s way to recovery.

Wickremesinghe’s best shift now is to support discussions with the IMF simply by locking in good assurance from its creditors. He should also go after dialogue with protestors to put Sri Lanka back again on track towards political stability.

Hannan Hussain is an international affairs commentator plus recipient of the Fulbright Award at the University or college of Maryland.