Former Minister and actor Ranjan Ramanayake has described President Anura Kumara Dissanayake as “extremely frugal,” stating that the characteristic has had a positive impact on the country.

Ramanayake made these remarks while addressing an event to inaugurate a new business premises in Galle on Sunday.

He said that if the current challenges facing Sri Lanka—particularly in the context of global geopolitical tensions—are managed effectively, Dissanayake would have a strong chance of securing victory at the next presidential election.

“The capable leader is the one who can steer a ship through a storm. That opportunity has now come to the President,” Ramanayake said, referring to ongoing global crises, including conflicts in the Middle East.

He added that although Sri Lanka has faced various challenges such as floods and external pressures, the Government’s ability to navigate the current situation would determine its future political success.

Commenting further, Ramanayake said public dissent and protest slogans were not unique to Sri Lanka, noting that similar expressions could be seen globally. He stressed that the focus should be on ensuring those in power deliver results rather than calling for their removal.

Ramanayake also defended the President’s economic approach, characterising it as cautious and disciplined.

“In my view, he is very frugal. That frugality is good for the country because it prevents waste. Previous leaders were not like that and spent public funds excessively,” he said.

He added that the Government’s emphasis on saving resources had resulted in greater financial discipline, arguing that such an approach ultimately benefits the public rather than serving personal interests.