Although Dissanayake's Janatha Vimukthi Peremuna (JVP) party has just three seats in parliament, the 55-year-old candidate has been boosted by his promises of tough anti-corruption measures and bigger welfare schemes.

Anura Kumara Dissanayake is a prominent candidate in Sri Lanka's presidential election, known for his leftist policies and anti-corruption promises. Despite limited parliamentary seats, Dissanayake has seen a surge in popularity with his pledge for change and economic reforms at a time of national crisis.

Economic issues top the agenda as the island country of 22 million goes to the polls to elect its 10th president.