This year (2022) saw a number of unprecedented developments that had an impact on almost all aspects of Sri Lankans’ lives, and it is sure to enter the history books as a year that changed the country’s economic and political directions. The economic crisis, which dealt a heavy blow to the people and businesses, is the most significant development among them. The spate of anti-Government protests that the economic crisis led to, known as the “aragalaya” movement, were unlike any protest movement that the country had seen before, both in terms of its size and the results it achieved. 

This year was plagued with various forms of crises that stemmed from the economic crisis. However, it was also a year where the people realised that their sovereignty does not have to be limited to elections and that they do not have to be limited to being voters. For the first time in Sri Lanka’s history, an Executive President stepped down in the face of public opposition, which served as a reminder to many that the people are still in charge.

The “aragalaya” is at the centre of many discussions on the state of the nation. On the one hand, it was this movement that led to many political changes that the country saw amidst the economic crisis, and on the other hand, there is a widespread discussion on whether the changes that it brought about were the changes that the country actually needed. For example, there is great uncertainty surrounding the question as to whether the “aragalaya” was counterproductive, because although it achieved its primary aim of overthrowing former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, the appointment of Ranil Wickremesinghe as his successor was an undesirable and unexpected outcome, from the point of view of the protestors. This very issue has raised questions about the success of the “aragalaya”, which several months ago was seen as the only movement that was capable of ousting the Rajapaksa administration.

However, it should be noted that while the appointment of Wickremesinghe was largely unexpected, the movement’s main objective was removing Rajapaksa, which was achieved. That is a victory that must be celebrated before lamenting Wickremesinghe’s appointment. History has provided more than enough examples to show that no movement, especially those led by ordinary citizens, was ever perfect. While people-led movements could have their weaknesses, sometimes, as in the case of Wickremesinghe’s appointment, these movements do not have complete control over every outcome. Perhaps, more than the removal of a President who the people did not want in power any longer, the fact that the “aragalaya” unified and empowered citizens, especially youths who were not interested in politics, is a larger victory that can stand testament to the success of the “aragalaya”.

One must not forget that although this year was a crucial one, the reasons that made it crucial are merely the beginning of much bigger changes. Although the “aragalaya” movement’s first phase came to an end with Rajapaksa’s resignation, it is still very much active in various other forms and places. Furthermore, although the present Government appears to be taking certain measures to stabilise the economy, it is yet to gain the people’s trust, mainly due to the lack of accountability for the harmful decisions and policies and the lack of investigation or scrutiny into the allegations of corruption of the political hierarchy. Above all, this year, the people realised their power to exert influence on the Government by demanding political change, and a strong precedent has been set. With that epiphany, the general public is likely to be emboldened to exercise their power in the future without hesitation. 

The year ahead will certainly be a challenging one. However, now that the people have greater will and resolve than they did at the beginning of this year, 2023 will see more demands for people-friendly, responsible, uncorrupt, and forward-looking governance.