Two years ago, tens of thousands of Sri Lankans rose up against their president and forced him to flee the country. As the country prepares for its first election since then, many say they’re still waiting for change.

Scarred by a decades-long civil war and struggling to survive in Sri Lanka's crippled economy, ethnic minority Tamils in the island nation say they have little hope that Saturday's presidential election will improve their lot by much.

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.