November 01, Colombo (LNW): Veteran lawyer and respected left-wing political activist Lal Wijenayake has died, bringing to a close a long career devoted to legal practice and political engagement. He passed away on Saturday evening.
A longstanding member of Sri Lanka’s leftist political movement, Wijenayake was associated with the National People’s Power (NPP), serving on both its National Operations Committee and Executive Council.
Despite his advancing years, he remained committed to political work until the end. Among his recent initiatives was an effort to establish a Left Centre in Kandy, aimed at strengthening cooperation among progressive political groups.
Wijenayake was also vocal in his opposition to the proposed 22nd Amendment to the Constitution and campaigned against legislation intended to protect the State from terrorism, reflecting his continued involvement in debates over constitutional and civil liberties.
His political journey spanned several decades, beginning with a prominent role in the Lanka Sama Samaja Party (LSSP), where he served as a member of its Politburo. After eventually leaving the party, he became instrumental in forming the United Left Front, further extending his contribution to the country’s left-wing political landscape.
One of the notable chapters of his public life was his tenure as Leader of the Opposition in the first Central Provincial Council, a position that underscored his influence in regional politics.
