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Independents use everyday objects that connote superficial traits
View(s):By Nathara Abeywickrema
In the lead-up to the presidential contest, the Election Commission has gazetted various symbols for independent candidates, allowing them to select those that resonate with their values or public image.
Independent groups, or the candidates themselves, have picked from among 115 symbols.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe, running as an independent candidate, has chosen the gas cylinder symbol.
According to the United National Party (UNP) General Secretary Palitha Range Bandara, the President selected this symbol because it resonates strongly with the everyday lives of the people.
“Gas cylinders are a household staple, and President Wickremesinghe believes that by choosing a symbol that is intimately familiar to the public, voters will find it easy to identify and connect with on the ballot paper,’’ he said.
This choice underscores the strategic importance of symbols in helping candidates build a relatable image and ensuring their presence is easily recognised by the electorate.
Roshan Ranasinghe, a former minister of sports and youth affairs, chose the cricket bat as his symbol. Mr. Ranasinghe said his decision reflected his commitment to building a corruption-free environment within the sport of cricket and, by extension, a corruption-free country.
Ven. Akmeemana Dayarathana Thera, another independent candidate and a former member of Parliament, has chosen the blackboard as his symbol.
He said the blackboard, a tool of education and enlightenment, represented his commitment to guiding people along the right path.
He said he believed that just as a blackboard was used to teach and impart knowledge, his leadership would steer the nation towards a more informed and just future.
Sarath Keerthirathne, a former member of Parliament, has chosen the football as his symbol. For Mr. Keerthirathne, this choice is deeply personal, as the sport has been a significant part of his life since childhood. Football is not just a game to him; it represents teamwork, perseverance, and the competitive spirit qualities he aims to bring into his political journey.
K.K. Piyadasa, the former opposition leader of the Central Provincial Council and another independent candidate, has selected the calculator as his symbol.
Mr. Piyadasa said his choice was rooted in his own experiences as a schoolboy who lacked access to such tools. He said the calculator symbolised the importance of education and the role it plays in simplifying complex problems, much like his policies. He said he believed this symbol would resonate with schoolchildren and professionals alike.
Siripala Amarasinghe, a former MP with a background in environmental affairs, has opted for the tyre symbol. Mr. Amarasinghe’s selection reflects his belief in the essential role that tyres play in daily life, from transport to industry. He sees it as a symbol of movement and progress, embodying the drive to push forward and overcome obstacles.
Pemasiri Manage, a former MP, selected the spectacles symbol. He explained that this choice was driven by his desire to offer the public a “new perspective’’. He said that while his supporters had suggested symbols like a horse and a chicken, he ultimately chose the spectacles for their deeper, more meaningful representation.
P. Ariyanethiran, an independent candidate fielded by some Tamil political parties and civil society outfits, said his symbol “conch shell” was related to Tamil culture. It was considered an instrument to announce happenings in ancient times, and therefore, it was an ideal symbol for the Tamil people who wanted to express their political aspirations through his candidacy.
Ananda Kularathne, who previously served as the Southern Regional Development Minister, opted for the medal symbol. For Mr. Kularathne, the medal symbolises a sense of honour, as if he is being bestowed with the highest recognition. He felt that this symbol aligned well with his aspirations and the message he wished to convey to the electorate.
Anura Sidney Jayarathne, who served as the opposition leader of the North Central Provincial Council in 2015, chose the jackfruit as his symbol. Mr. Jayarathne explained that jackfruit was deeply rooted in Sri Lankan culture, often regarded as equal to the main meal. He said he aimed to resonate with voters on a personal level, as the symbol held special significance for the Sinhalese people.
Interestingly, some choices have been random.
J.D.K. Wickramarathne, a member of the Central Provincial Public Service Commission, chose the flag symbol. When asked about his decision, Mr. Wickramarathne admitted that there was no specific reasoning, indicating that sometimes the selection process could be as arbitrary as it is strategic.
Whether chosen for their symbolic meaning or personal significance, the symbols reflect the diverse approaches and messages that independents wish to convey to the electorate. The symbols will play a crucial role in how the candidates are perceived and remembered by the voting public.
Seventeen candidates are contesting as independents, while 22 others are from registered political parties represented by symbols.
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