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Ranil WickremesinghePresident of Sri Lanka from 21 July 2022
Date of Birth: 24.03.1949
Country:  Sri Lanka |
Content:
- Ranil Wickremesinghe: A Political Powerhouse in Sri Lanka
- Political Career: The Rise of the United National Party (UNP)
- Premiership: Transitions and Turmoil
- Presidency: A Momentous Election
- Domestic Reforms and Economic Recovery
- Conclusion
Ranil Wickremesinghe: A Political Powerhouse in Sri Lanka
Early Life and EducationRanil Wickremesinghe was born on March 24th, 1949, into a prominent family in Colombo. His father, Esmond Wickremesinghe, was a media mogul and politician. Wickremesinghe received his education at Royal College and Colombo Law College.
Political Career: The Rise of the United National Party (UNP)
Wickremesinghe entered politics in the early 1970s, joining the UNP at the invitation of his uncle, J.R. Jayewardene, the future first president of Sri Lanka. He was elected to Parliament in 1977 as the first graduate legislator under the free education scheme. Wickremesinghe quickly rose through the ranks, holding various cabinet positions, including Minister of Foreign Affairs, Minister of Youth Affairs and Employment, and Minister of Education.
Premiership: Transitions and Turmoil
In 1993, Wickremesinghe became Prime Minister for the first time after the assassination of President Ranasinghe Premadasa. He held this position until 1994, when the UNP lost the parliamentary election. After the defeat, Wickremesinghe became the Leader of the Opposition.
In 2001, the UNP regained power, and Wickremesinghe was once again elected Prime Minister. His government initiated a ceasefire agreement with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) and began peace negotiations. However, the peace process faltered, and corruption scandals marred his administration.
Presidency: A Momentous Election
In 2022, following the resignation of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa amid widespread protests and economic crisis, Wickremesinghe assumed the role of acting president. On July 20th, he was elected President of Sri Lanka by Parliament.
Domestic Reforms and Economic Recovery
As President, Wickremesinghe has prioritized economic recovery and addressing the ongoing political unrest. He has implemented austerity measures, sought international assistance, and cracked down on dissent.
Conclusion
Ranil Wickremesinghe is a seasoned politician who has played a significant role in Sri Lankan history. His premiership was marked by both economic growth and political challenges. As President, he faces the daunting task of leading the nation through an unprecedented crisis and ensuring its stability and prosperity.
