Field Marshal Sarath Fonseka officially announced his candidacy for the 2024 Presidential Election in Sri Lanka today. Fonseka made the announcement on ‘X’ (formerly Twitter), stating his intention to answer the call of the people.

“A lot of people have asked me to contest for the presidential election and I am looking forward to accepting the call of the people of Sri Lanka,” Fonseka said. He highlighted the need to address corruption and leverage natural resources for economic growth.

Fonseka, a decorated military officer and former Army Commander, led the Sri Lankan Army to victory in the 26-year war against the LTTE in 2009. He entered politics after his military career, running as the common opposition candidate in the 2010 presidential election. Despite his defeat, he was later elected to Parliament and promoted to Field Marshal in 2015.