Colombo, September 22 – Anura Kumara Dissanayake has been officially elected as the 9th Executive President of Sri Lanka. He is set to assume office tomorrow, September 23, marking a significant turning point in the nation’s political landscape.
Born on November 24, 1968, in Devahuwa village, Matale, Dissanayake comes from a humble background. He is the second child of Ranbanda Dissanayake Mudiansela and Seelawathi Dissanayake Mudiansela. His educational journey began at Tambuttegama Primary School, where he completed his general education before proceeding to Tambuttegama Madhya Maha Vidyalaya for his advanced studies. He excelled in Science and Mathematics, eventually securing admission to the University of Kelaniya in 1992.
During his time as a student, Dissanayake became an active political figure, particularly known for his involvement in the Socialist Students Union, opposing the Indo-Ceylon Agreement of 1987. At university, he rose to prominence as a leader of the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) affiliated Socialist Students’ Union, adopting the name “Aravinda.” He also served as president of the Kelaniya University Buddhist Association.
After graduating with a Bachelor of Science in 1995, Dissanayake fully immersed himself in politics. By 1997, he was elected to the JVP’s Central Committee and, in 1998, became a member of the party’s political bureau. His first election to Parliament came in 2000, where he served as a member of the National List of the JVP. He was re-elected in 2004, representing the Kurunegala district, where he secured the highest number of preferential votes.
During the 2004 United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) government, Dissanayake served as Minister of Agriculture, Lands, Irrigation, and Livestock, earning a reputation for his integrity and dedication. His political career took a pivotal turn in February 2014 when he assumed leadership of the JVP, succeeding Somawansa Amarasinghe during the party’s 7th National Congress.
Dissanayake played a key role in opposition politics from 2015 to 2018, serving as the chief opposition whip. In August 2019, he founded the National People’s Force (NPP), uniting various political parties, civil organizations, and activists under a common platform. His first presidential bid in 2019 saw him receive 418,553 votes, amounting to 3.16% of the national vote.
Since becoming the leader of the NPP in December 2021, Dissanayake has actively campaigned across the country, promoting his vision for a “rich country and a beautiful life.” His message resonated with voters, leading to his election as president.
Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s victory reflects the public’s desire for change and reform. As he prepares to take office, he faces the monumental task of addressing the nation’s economic and social challenges while fulfilling the promises of his campaign.
With his extensive political experience and a commitment to transparency and accountability, Dissanayake is poised to lead Sri Lanka into a new era. The people of Sri Lanka now look to him to guide the country toward a brighter future over the next five years.
