President celebrates 42 years in politics
Today is the 42nd anniversary of President Mahinda Rajapaksa having first entered Parliament as its youngest MP in 1970.
It was at the general election held on May 27, 1970 that President Rajapaksa was elected Member of Parliament for the Beliatta electorate.
Contesting under the SLFP ticket, he polled 23,103 votes. His nearest rival Dr. Ranjith Atapattu of the UNP polled only 16,499 votes and lost to young Rajapaksa. He was honoured in Parliament by being assigned to deliver the Vote of Thanks on behalf of the Sirimavo Bandaranaike-led Government.
Since then, he won all Parliamentary elections until he became President in 2005.
Even after becoming the First Citizen, he amply demonstrated his passion for Parliamentary politics by attending Parliament regularly.
Courtesy: Sunday Observer
Latest Headlines in Sri Lanka
- Sri Lanka reaffirms neutrality amid global crisis, moves to secure energy supply March 20, 2026
- IMF warns: Sri Lanka recovery strong but risks rising over Middle East crisis March 20, 2026
- Sri Lanka–Japan defence ties strengthened through high-level talks and naval visit March 20, 2026
- Man jailed for two months over unlicensed petrol transport in Wellawatte March 20, 2026
- SriLankan Airlines completes bond restructuring with over 99% participation March 20, 2026
Dear Honorable Peoples President, GOD BLESS YOU
HE President Rajapaksha!
It is quite fitting to see a Southern Leader taking such devotion & interest in politics of Sri lanka.
Many are proud of your achievments & looking forward to much more work that has to be done for Sri Lanka to find its unique place in the world.
My wishes for many more years & May the Noble Triple Gems Guard you & protect you now & always…Budhu Saranayi…..