Sri Lanka (Commonwealth Union)_ In a historic move for Sri Lanka, Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, a prominent figure in the National People’s Power (NPP), was sworn in as the country’s 16th Prime Minister on Tuesday. This appointment marks her as the third woman to hold the esteemed office, following in the footsteps of late Sirimavo Bandaranaike, the first female Prime Minister, who last held the position in 1994. Dr. Amarasuriya’s swearing-in comes at a crucial time, with the current parliament set to be dissolved, paving the way for a snap parliamentary election expected before the end of November.
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Alongside Dr. Amarasuriya, fellow NPP MPs Vijitha Herath and Lakshman Nipuna Arachchi have also been appointed as cabinet ministers, contributing to a caretaker cabinet during this transitional phase. As a multifaceted leader, Dr. Amarasuriya will not only serve as Prime Minister but will also hold several key portfolios, including Justice, Education, Labour, Industries, Science & Technology, Health, and Investments. Her diverse responsibilities reflect her commitment to addressing various pressing issues facing the nation. With her extensive background in education and human rights activism, she brings a wealth of knowledge to these critical sectors.
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Dr. Amarasuriya, aged 54, is a rights activist with a PhD in Social Anthropology from the University of Edinburgh. Her academic pursuits have focused on state-society relations, political movements, dissent, and activism, providing her with valuable insights into the complexities of governance. Before her political career, she was a university lecturer and was working in the international humanitarian and development sector, gaining firsthand experience in addressing societal challenges. Born into a family of planters in southern Sri Lanka, Dr. Amarasuriya’s early life was marked by significant socio-political changes, particularly the civil war and the subsequent government takeover of tea estates. She pursued higher education in the United States, Delhi (Hindu College), and Australia, ultimately returning to Sri Lanka to contribute to the humanitarian sector.
These experiences shaped her feminist ideals and ignited her passion for activism. Furthermore, her political journey began in earnest in 2011 when she joined a protest against the then-powerful Rajapaksa government, demonstrating her dedication to advocating for justice and human rights. Following the change in government in 2015, she aligned herself with the JVP, becoming a prominent voice within the NPP coalition. As Prime Minister, Dr. Amarasuriya faces numerous challenges, including revitalizing the education sector, addressing labour issues, enhancing industrial growth, advancing science and technology, improving health services, and fostering investments. Her leadership style is expected to prioritize inclusivity and social justice, reflecting her activist roots.
The NPP’s vision under her guidance aims to create a more equitable and progressive Sri Lanka, focusing on the empowerment of marginalized communities and sustainable development. The appointment of Dr. Amarasuriya heralds a new chapter in Sri Lankan politics, as the nation looks forward to her leadership in navigating the complexities of governance in a rapidly changing world. Furthermore, Dr. Harini Amarasuriya’s ascent as Prime Minister, is not just a milestone for her career but a significant moment for Sri Lanka, symbolizing a shift towards greater representation and progressive governance. As the country prepares for the upcoming elections, her administration is poised to lay the groundwork for a brighter future.
