President Ranil Wickremesinghe yesterday declared the country would be able to decide on their future next year, with the use of the ballot, after the recovery of the economy.

The President addressing a Rotary District Conference said his priority was the country’s economic recovery.

He pledged to restore the country’s economy, improve the people’s quality of life, and establish a functioning democratic society before the end of this year.

Meanwhile, The Election Commission will be compelled to reconsider a new date for scheduled local council elections by next week if a solution is not found to the issue of funding, EC Chairman Nimal Punchihewa has told the Sunday Times newspaper.

His comments come against the backdrop of the Cabinet this week approving a proposal by President Ranil Wickremesinghe in his capacity as Finance Minister, not to use any surplus Treasury funds other than for five areas which have been prioritized.