March 24, Colombo (LNW): Today marks the 75th birthday of President Ranil Wickramasinghe, a figure whose recent contributions to Sri Lanka’s political landscape have been both pivotal and scrutinised.
Reflecting on the events of the past two years, Sri Lanka found itself embroiled in a multifaceted crisis by March 2022. The populace grappled with extensive fuel and gas shortages, incessant power outages, and a rapid escalation in commodity prices, fostering an environment of economic turmoil and political unrest.
In the midst of this upheaval, Ranil Wickramasinghe, having endured a resounding defeat in the 2020 general election and subsequent months of relative seclusion, emerged as a central figure in the nation’s political theatre.
Assuming the roles of Prime Minister, Acting President, and Executive President during a period of intense flux, Wickramasinghe faced the daunting task of navigating Sri Lanka through the turbulent waters of economic strife and political volatility.
In the words of former President Ranasinghe Premadasa, Wickramasinghe wielded a “double-edged sword,” confronting the twin challenges of economic downturn and political instability, each exacerbating the other’s effects. Urgent action was imperative to prevent the conflagration of public discontent from engulfing the nation entirely, threatening the fabric of its democratic governance.
While the resolution of Sri Lanka’s economic woes remains an ongoing endeavour, Wickramasinghe’s adept handling of the immediate need for political stability stands as a testament to his leadership acumen.
His tenure between his 73rd and 75th birthdays serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance required to navigate crisis-ridden waters, where not every decision is met with universal acclaim, yet decisive action remains paramount.
As Sri Lanka stands at another critical juncture, with impending elections shaping the nation’s future trajectory, Wickramasinghe’s role in shaping the country’s destiny hangs in the balance.
Whether he chooses to embrace a more active role in the coming months or assumes a different position remains to be seen, a decision that will not only be inscribed in the annals of history but also shape the course of Sri Lanka’s political landscape.
On this milestone occasion, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Mr. Ranil Wickramasinghe, acknowledging his enduring dedication to public service and wishing him a happy 75th birthday.
~ Team LNW
