Early life and education
Ranasinghe Premadasa, born on 23 June 1924 in Colombo, emerged from humble beginnings to become one of the country’s most influential political figures. His parents, Richard Ranasinghe and Jayasinghe Arachchige Ensina Hamine, were of modest means, with his father making a living by renting out rickshaws. This background profoundly influenced Premadasa’s worldview and his commitment to uplift the underprivileged segments of society.
Premadasa’s early education took place at Harvard Methodist Girls’ School and St. Lorenz’s College, where he laid the foundations of his academic life. He then attended St. Joseph’s College, Colombo for his secondary education, demonstrating a keen interest in both academics and extracurricular activities.
Additionally, Premadasa attended Hewavitharana Daham Pasala, a Buddhist school, which instilled in him the values of discipline, compassion, and a strong moral code. This diverse educational background equipped him with a well-rounded perspective, combining Western and local educational philosophies.
Entry into politics
Premadasa’s political journey began not with a quest for power but with a genuine desire to serve his community. In 1939, at the tender age of 15, he founded the ‘Sucharitha’ Movement, a community welfare organisation aimed at improving the living conditions of the impoverished in his neighbourhood. This early initiative showcased his leadership potential and his commitment to social justice.
Influenced by the charismatic trade unionist A.E. Gunasinha, Premadasa joined the Labour Party in 1946. His involvement in the party was driven by a desire to fight for workers’ rights and social equity. By 1949, Premadasa had risen to become the President of the Labour Party’s Youth League, a position that allowed him to mobilise and inspire young people towards social activism. His election as a Municipal Councillor of Colombo in 1950 marked his formal entry into the political arena, laying the groundwork for his future political career.
Joining the UNP and initial challenges
Despite his early success, Premadasa soon became disillusioned with the Labour Party’s limited political prospects. Seeking a platform that offered greater influence and broader appeal, he joined the United National Party (UNP). His initial foray into national politics, however, was fraught with challenges. In the 1956 General Elections, he contested from Ruwanwella but was defeated, a setback that tested his resilience and determination.
Undeterred, Premadasa shifted his focus to Colombo Central, a constituency with a diverse and densely-populated electorate. In the March 1960 General Elections, his efforts paid off as he secured a parliamentary seat, marking his entry into the national legislative body. However, his victory was short-lived; in the July General Elections the same year, he lost his seat. This period of political instability and personal challenge tested Premadasa’s commitment to his political ideals.
Rise within the UNP
Premadasa’s persistence began to bear fruit as he consolidated his position within the UNP. His return to Parliament in 1965 was a significant turning point. Appointed as the Deputy Minister of Local Government, he demonstrated his administrative acumen and ability to deliver on public policy. His tenure was marked by efforts to improve local governance structures, which earned him a reputation as a dedicated and effective public servant.
In 1968, Premadasa was elevated to the position of Minister of Local Government. His work in this role was characterised by initiatives aimed at urban development and housing, issues that resonated deeply with his early experiences of poverty. Premadasa’s ability to connect with the masses, regardless of their ethnic or social backgrounds, distinguished him from many of his contemporaries. His grassroots approach and focus on tangible improvements in people’s lives won him widespread support.
Prime Minister and presidential bid
The 1977 General Elections were a watershed moment for the UNP and Premadasa. The party won a landslide victory, securing 141 seats in Parliament. This overwhelming mandate saw Premadasa being appointed as the Prime Minister in 1978 by President J.R. Jayewardene. His tenure as Prime Minister was marked by significant socioeconomic initiatives, particularly in housing and urban development.
Premadasa’s flagship project during this period was the ‘Gam Udawa’ (Village Reawakening) programme, which aimed to develop rural infrastructure and provide affordable housing. This initiative reflected his lifelong commitment to improving the living standards of the rural poor and reducing urban-rural disparities. His efforts in this domain were complemented by other developmental projects, which collectively contributed to Sri Lanka’s socioeconomic progress.
Despite his achievements, Premadasa faced considerable opposition from within his party. As he prepared to contest the 1988 Presidential Election, internal party dynamics and rivalries posed significant challenges. Nevertheless, his deep connection with the grassroots and his track record of service helped him secure the UNP’s nomination. Amidst a backdrop of political turmoil and violence, Premadasa emerged victorious at the election, becoming Sri Lanka’s second Executive President.
Presidency
Premadasa’s presidency was marked by both significant achievements and considerable challenges. Taking office in a period of intense political and ethnic conflict, he prioritised economic development, poverty alleviation, and rural upliftment. His administration continued to focus on the ‘Gam Udawa’ programme, expanding it to include more comprehensive rural development initiatives.
One of Premadasa’s notable contributions was the revitalisation of the ‘Samurdhi’ programme, aimed at poverty reduction through community-based projects and self-employment opportunities. This programme reflected his belief in empowering individuals and communities to take charge of their economic destinies. Additionally, his presidency saw efforts to modernise the country’s infrastructure, with investments in road construction, telecommunications, and urban development.
However, Premadasa’s tenure was also marked by significant challenges. The ongoing civil conflict with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) posed a severe threat to national security and stability. His administration’s efforts to negotiate peace were met with limited success, and the conflict continued to claim lives and disrupt the sociopolitical fabric of the country.
Assassination and legacy
Tragically, Premadasa’s presidency was cut short on 1 May 1993, when he was assassinated by an LTTE suicide bomber during a May Day rally in Colombo. His death was a profound loss for the nation and underscored the persistent threat of terrorism in Sri Lanka.
Premadasa’s legacy is a complex and multifaceted one. He is remembered for his unwavering commitment to social justice, his efforts to uplift the poor, and his contributions to Sri Lanka’s development. His presidency, marked by significant economic initiatives and infrastructural development, left an indelible mark on the country’s progress.
Premadasa’s leadership style was characterised by discipline, hard work, and a deep empathy for the underprivileged. His ability to identify and nurture talent within his administration was notable. He surrounded himself with dedicated and capable individuals such as R. Paskaralingam and Bradman Weerakoon, who played crucial roles in implementing his vision for the country.
Reflections on leadership
Premadasa’s rise from the streets of Colombo to the highest office in the land is a testament to his resilience and determination. His life story serves as an inspiration for many, illustrating that with dedication and hard work, it is possible to overcome even the most daunting obstacles. His leadership was rooted in a deep-seated belief in the potential of the Sri Lankan people and a commitment to creating opportunities for all, regardless of their socioeconomic background.
Despite facing significant opposition and challenges, both from within his party and from external threats, Premadasa remained steadfast in his mission to serve the people. His presidency, though marred by conflict and tragedy, was also a period of significant progress and reform. His initiatives in housing, rural development, and poverty alleviation had a lasting impact, contributing to the socioeconomic upliftment of countless Sri Lankans.
Conclusion
Premadasa’s life and career are a remarkable narrative of perseverance, dedication, and service. From his early days on Colombo’s streets to the pinnacle of political power, Premadasa’s journey reflects the potential for transformative leadership rooted in genuine concern for the welfare of the people.
His assassination was a tragic end to a dynamic and impactful career, but his contributions to Sri Lanka’s development continue to be remembered and appreciated.
Premadasa’s legacy lives on in the many lives he touched through his policies and initiatives. His vision for a more equitable and prosperous Sri Lanka remains relevant today, serving as a guiding light for future generations of leaders.
As Sri Lanka continues to navigate its path towards peace and development, the principles and values that Premadasa championed – hard work, empathy, and a relentless commitment to social justice – offer valuable lessons for the nation and its leaders.
(The writer is Samagi Jana Balawegaya [SJB] Trade Union Chief of Operations)