Leadership Failures and Governance Crisis: Analyzing the Presidency of Gotabaya Rajapaksa in Sri Lanka

This research paper examines the leadership failures and governance crises during Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s presidency in Sri Lanka, culminating in mass protests and his resignation in 2022. Despite being elected with overwhelming public support and promises of strong leadership, Rajapaksa’s administration faced significant challenges that ultimately undermined his governance. The study identifies key issues such as economic mismanagement, which led to a severe financial crisis; political centralization that eroded democratic institutions; and the erosion of public trust exacerbated by inadequate responses to both the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent economic turmoil. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the research incorporates quantitative surveys to assess public sentiment and qualitative interviews to gather insights from stakeholders, providing a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics surrounding Rajapaksa’s presidency. By synthesizing findings from these analyses, the paper discusses broader implications for leadership failures in similar political contexts and emphasizes the need for transparency, accountability, and inclusiveness in governance. The conclusion outlines actionable recommendations aimed at enhancing future governance strategies in Sri Lanka, suggesting that addressing these challenges is essential for rebuilding public trust and ensuring effective governance in the post-crisis landscape. This research contributes to the understanding of the complexities of governance in developing democracies, offering valuable lessons for leaders and policymakers navigating similar crises.