New Cabinet Unveiled: President Dissanayake Puts Stock in Reforms Amid Economic Crisis

Colon, Sri Lanka - Sri Lanka's President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has appointed a 21-member cabinet, marking a significant shift towards sweeping reforms, including the long-held campaign promise of a new constitution. The move comes as the country grapples with its worst economic crisis in decades.

President Dissanayake retained key portfolios such as defence and finance while introducing changes to address corruption and stimulate growth. His plan outlines sweeping reforms aimed at revamping the economy and addressing issues that have plagued the nation for far too long.

Among the cabinet members announced on Monday includes veteran politician Vijitha Herath as foreign minister, educationist Harini Amarasuriya who has been reappointed as prime minister, and Bimal Rathnayake tapped as transport, highways, ports, and civil aviation minister.

The NPP-led coalition secured a landslide victory in Thursday's parliamentary elections, resulting in an overwhelming two-thirds majority of 159 seats. With this new dynamic, President Dissanayake can push ahead with constitutional reforms as promised without relying on any alliances or coalitions for support.

The cabinet includes members from various backgrounds and parties, reflecting the changing face of Sri Lanka's politics. The appointment showcases a focus on strengthening local capacities in international cooperation, including ongoing talks between the IMF delegation scheduled to arrive at key juncture of economic reform implementation set out by previous government.

The new administration begins its first parliamentary sitting this Thursday with plans to draft a budget for 2025 aligned with the ongoing $2.9 billion bailout secured under past administration. The cabinet's focus now shifts towards implementing reforms effectively and navigating Sri Lanka through this period amidst economic uncertainty.