China-friendly Rajapaksa family take slim lead in Sri Lanka vote count

COLOMBO - A family of strongmen who tilted the nation toward a deep reliance on China took a slim early lead in the early count of Sri Lanka's presidential election, against the current government that promises more freedom but failed to avert terror attacks that killed over 250 people in April.

Premadasa is also from a prominent political dynasty and a member of the ruling alliance that took power four years ago vowing to push for greater democracy, more transparent finances and an independent foreign policy with improved ties with India and the US.A Rajapaksa presidency could take the island nation back toward greater authoritarianism and abuse of power and an era of impunity for human rights abuses and corruption.

Premadasa has pledged to reduce import duties, reform taxes and state-owned enterprises, and open up the economy for foreign investment. He has also promised reconciliation measures to help the country heal from the wounds of the civil war. But his party faces a credibility crisis after the security lapses that led to the Easter attacks on churches and hotels.

Elections Commissioner Mahinda Deshapriya said the voter turnout across the island could be as much as 84 per cent. "The reason for the shooting incident is definitely political elements trying to prevent voting," Gajanayake said, adding that the victims, who escaped unhurt, had been able to exercise their franchise.

Rajive Premathilake, 54, a business executive who said he voted for Premadasa, said the next government needs to ensure"democracy, freedom and civil liberties while getting the economy going. It can't be one at the expense of the other."

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