Mr. President, popularity must now bring results!

For most Sri Lankans, one issue matters above all others. The cost of living

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake continues to enjoy strong public support. In a country where trust in leaders has often been short lived, this is significant. According to the latest survey by the Centre for Policy Alternatives, his approval rating stands at 75.5 percent. That number reflects hope. It reflects a public that still believes change is possible.

But in Sri Lanka, popularity can fade quickly. People have seen leaders rise with promise before, only to fall when results did not follow. The real test for this administration has now begun. Support must turn into delivery.

For most Sri Lankans, one issue matters above all others. The cost of living.

There is a clear gap between talk of recovery and the reality people face each day. The economy may be stabilising on paper, but daily life is still a struggle. Prices remain high. Salaries have not kept up. Managing a household has become a constant balancing act. Basic food items still take up a large share of income. Electricity bills continue to worry families. Transport costs remain high, whether it is fuel or bus fares. School expenses add another layer of pressure.

Take a young couple living in Colombo. Both may be working, yet most of their income goes towards rent, food, and bills. Saving is difficult. For a pensioner, the situation is even harder. Medical costs alone can take away much of a monthly income.

These are not isolated cases. This is the reality for a large part of the country.

This is why the government must act with urgency. People are not asking for dramatic change overnight. They are asking for relief they can actually feel. Even small reductions in key costs can make a difference.

There are limits, of course. Sri Lanka is still under financial discipline as part of its recovery programme. But within those limits, there is room to act. Better management of state resources, cutting waste, and targeted support for those most in need can ease the pressure.
At the same time, the country cannot only focus on managing hardship. It must create opportunity. This is where foreign direct investment becomes essential.

For years, Sri Lanka has spoken about its potential. Its location is ideal. Its people are skilled. Yet large investments have not come in the way they should due to lack of confidence. Investors look for stability. They want clear policies and quick decisions, not delays, changing rules, and long processes. If this is to change, the system must improve. Large investments will create jobs and give young people a reason to stay in the country.

Today, many young Sri Lankans are still planning to leave. They are not only looking for better pay. They are looking for stability and a future they can rely on. But even the best plans will fail if they are not carried out properly. This brings us to a key challenge,  the bureaucracy. People often feel that while decisions are made at the top, they do not move through the system. 

For example, a small business owner trying to expand may wait months for approvals. An investor ready to commit funds may lose interest due to delays. A citizen seeking a simple service may have to go from office to office. The President must address this directly. It is not enough to have the right policies. They must be implemented efficiently. 

There are capable people within the system. But they need clear direction and the space to act. A culture of results must replace a culture of delay.

The current level of public support gives the President an advantage. It gives him the time and space to act. But that window will not stay open forever. The 75.5 percent approval rating is a sign of trust and of  responsibility. Sri Lanka is at a critical stage. The worst of the crisis may be over, but recovery is not complete. The priorities are clear. Reduce the cost of living in ways that people can feel. Attract large investments that create real jobs. Make sure the system of government actually works.

Popularity brought this government to power. Only performance will keep it there.