Sri Lanka"s presidential election: Women voters outnumber men, no female candidates

In Sri Lanka's presidential election, women represent over half of the electorate, yet none are on the ballot. This election, taking place after a significant financial crisis that led to the previous president's ousting, features 38 candidates vying for the presidency. Despite nearly 9 million women voters, the absence of female candidates highlights a persistent gender disparity in political representation. Activists express disappointment, emphasizing the need for more female representation in leadership roles. Historically, women in Sri Lanka have held important political positions, often entering politics following the deaths of male relatives. This trend reflects a broader patriarchal structure within the country's political landscape. The 2016 law mandating a minimum of 25% female representation in local councils was a step towards gender equality, yet many believe that progress in higher political offices remains insufficient. Women’s rights advocates, like Sepali Kottegoda, argue that the lack of female candidates for the presidency underscores the need for systemic change. Kottegoda's organization is now pushing for a similar quota for women in the national parliament, where female representation is currently a mere 5.3%. The absence of female candidates in this election raises questions about the future of women's political participation in Sri Lanka. Ajantha Perera, the first woman to run for president in two decades, expressed hope for future female candidates. She believes that a strong female presence in the presidential race could significantly impact the political landscape, fostering greater gender equality in governance.