As Sri Lanka begins a new chapter under the leadership of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and the National People’s Power (NPP), I find myself reflecting on the journey we undertook during one of the most challenging periods in our nation’s history—the aftermath of the 2022 economic crisis.
Amidst uncertainty and turbulence, I had the privilege of working closely with several exceptional leaders who demonstrated extraordinary commitment, resilience, and a deep sense of responsibility. Four individuals stand out—Kanchana Wijesekera, Ramesh Pathirana, Shehan Semasinghe, and Tharaka Balasuriya. Although they are no longer in Parliament, their contributions merit recognition—not only for the tangible outcomes they achieved but also for the character they displayed in facing immense challenges.
Kanchana Wijesekera: Resolute Leadership in Power and Energy
Kanchana assumed the Ministry of Power and Energy during a period of chaos. With 13-hour power cuts, crippling fuel shortages, and widespread public frustration, he faced an almost insurmountable challenge. When I, as Finance Minister, proposed cost-reflective pricing as an unavoidable reform, Kanchana readily embraced the challenge, fully aware of the backlash it might bring.
Through courage, innovation, and meticulous planning, he introduced measures like the QR code system for fuel distribution, initiated reforms at the CEB, and engaged with stakeholders and experts to find practical solutions. His ability to withstand opposition from powerful trade unions and entrenched interest groups, often called the “diesel mafia,” demonstrated his strength of character. Rather than critiquing from the sidelines, Kanchana stood firm and delivered real solutions, leaving a lasting legacy.
Ramesh Pathirana: A Calm and Steady Hand in Health
Ramesh exemplified calmness and depth in his leadership as Minister of Health during a time of unprecedented turmoil. Often underestimated, he seamlessly addressed critical shortages of medicine and other essentials while restoring public confidence in the health sector.
What set Ramesh apart was his unwavering commitment to his constituents in Galle. Whether it was building hospitals, schools, courthouses, smart classrooms, or playgrounds, his approach was always thoughtful and people-centric. His quiet yet effective leadership exemplifies the kind of leaders Sri Lanka needs—those who work tirelessly for their people, even if their efforts go unnoticed.
Shehan Semasinghe: Precision and Dedication in Economic Recovery
Shehan approached public service with meticulous preparation and a deep sense of responsibility. As my State Minister of Finance, he played a pivotal role in managing IMF negotiations and advancing the debt restructuring process during a critical phase of Sri Lanka’s economic recovery.
History will remember Shehan as a key figure in stabilizing the economy during one of its darkest periods. His ability to collaborate and deliver results reflects his professionalism and dedication. Shehan’s contributions extended beyond his mandate—he proved to be a steady hand and a dependable team player when the country needed it most.
Tharaka Balasuriya: Diplomacy with a Gentleman’s Touch
Tharaka, a consummate gentleman, brought courtesy, intelligence, and pragmatism to his role as State Minister of Foreign Affairs. His ability to navigate complex geopolitical dynamics was instrumental in rebuilding Sri Lanka’s relationships with key partners, including the Islamic world and Japan.
Tharaka played a crucial role in garnering international support for economic reforms and debt restructuring, ensuring nations like India, China, Japan, Russia, and Western countries aligned with Sri Lanka’s recovery strategy. His push to modernize consular services through digitization also left a lasting legacy of efficiency. His diplomatic acumen and ability to balance competing interests on the global stage made him an invaluable colleague.
Shared Values and a Common Vision
What unites Kanchana, Ramesh, Shehan, and Tharaka is their shared belief in a common and inclusive Sri Lankan identity. They demonstrated intelligence, pragmatism, and unwavering commitment to their responsibilities. In a time when many chose to remain passive onlookers, they stepped forward and immersed themselves in the complexities of governance, taking on thankless tasks with resolve and determination.
Public service is often a thankless job. Leaders like them are judged harshly by armchair critics who contribute little but are quick to condemn. Yet, these four individuals stood tall, making tough decisions and carrying the weight of responsibility at a time when Sri Lanka needed it most. Their expertise in addressing critical issues—from energy and healthcare to economic recovery and foreign diplomacy—would have been invaluable in Parliament today.
A Call to Rise Again
As Nelson Mandela once said, “Character is not defined by how many times you fail but by how often you get up.” Though they may not be in Parliament today, I am confident in their resilience and ability to rise again. Sri Lanka’s journey forward requires leaders of their caliber—dedicated, hardworking, and unwavering in their belief in a better future for all Sri Lankans.
As we have been taught, we should neither be overly excited by praise nor overly burdened by blame. To Kanchana, Ramesh, Shehan, and Tharaka: your contributions during one of the most challenging chapters of our history have not gone unnoticed. I hope you will return to public service and continue to steer Sri Lanka toward progress and unity, rising above the noise of empty criticism.
Sri Lanka still suffers from a leadership crisis at many levels, but with individuals like you, there is hope for a brighter and more inclusive future.
