The President and the Minister of Finance
Mr. Anura Kumara Dissanayake
President of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka
Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development
Mr. Anura Kumara Dissanayake is a prominent progressive political leader in Sri Lanka. He has consistently demonstrated a commitment to democratic governance, social justice, and inclusive, participatory politics.
Breaking away from traditional elite political culture, he entered politics from a background closely connected to the everyday lives of ordinary people and, over time, has become one of Sri Lanka’s most influential and prominent contemporary political figures.
Mr. Anura Kumara Dissanayake, who obtained a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Kelaniya, also served as President of the University Buddhist Association. During his tenure, he actively led student initiatives that advanced social equality, youth empowerment, and democratic principles.
His early political engagement began through the Socialist Students’ Union, where he later served as National Organizer. Notably, following a period of political repression, he played a significant role in reviving democratic student activism.
Mr. Anura Kumara Dissanayake was first elected to Parliament in 2000. From 2004 to 2005, he served as Sri Lanka’s Minister of Agriculture, Livestock, Land, and Irrigation. He has also held key leadership roles, including Parliamentary Group Leader of the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), and served as Chief Opposition Whip from 2015 to 2018. Throughout his political career, he has introduced and championed policies and reforms aimed at promoting people-centered governance, accountability, and the fulfilment of the community’s broader needs.
Since 2014, he has led the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP). In 2019, as founder of the National People’s Power (NPP), he sought to unite political parties, civil society groups, and grassroots movements. His political vision focuses on building an inclusive participatory political culture, strengthening democratic institutions, and addressing systemic challenges that hinder economic reform and social justice.
In the 2024 Presidential Election, Mr. Dissanayake contested as the candidate of the NPP, presenting his vision for national renewal grounded in transparency, accountability, and people-centered development. Under his leadership, the NPP has become one of the largest progressive popular movements in Sri Lanka’s recent history.
His strategic leadership, communication skills, empathy, and adaptability have enabled him to engage effectively with diverse communities and foster public participation in democratic reform. His political practice reflects a long-term commitment to promoting participatory governance in Sri Lanka and the development of strong, people-driven institutional systems.
Mr. Anura Kumara Dissanayake assumed office as the Executive President of Sri Lanka on 22 September 2024, becoming the ninth Executive President of the country.