Ranil says he was fourth choice to lead Sri Lanka in 2022

Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe has said that he was not the first choice to assume leadership during Sri Lanka’s political and economic crisis in 2022, but stepped in when others declined responsibility. Speaking at a recent event, Wickremesinghe recalled the circumstances under which he became President, noting that the United National Party (UNP) had been reduced to a single seat in Parliament. “I may have been about number four. But I thought it could be handled, and we have to go ahead, stabilize the economy, and work it out,” he said. He emphasized that he did not need special preparation to take on the role. “You can’t make yourself ready, you must be ready for it, and you should take it. If you’re not ready for it, then you shouldn’t be in the game,” Wickremesinghe remarked. The former President explained that he accepted the responsibility because the country was in crisis and no other political leader was willing to step forward. He underscored that his priority was to stabilize the economy and restore confidence, relying on parliamentary support to carry forward reforms. (Newswire)