Sri Lanka has had 10 presidents since it began the presidential system in 1972. The role changed from a mostly formal duty held by William Gopallawa to a more powerful presidency in 1978 when J.R. Jayewardene made new rules. This change has influenced Sri Lanka’s politics for over 50 years. Each president has marked a different time in the country’s journey. Currently, Anura Kumara Dissanayake is the tenth president, starting his term in September 2024.
The history and growth of the constitution.
Pre-Presidential Era (1948-1972)
Before Sri Lanka was a presidency, it was called Ceylon. The country used a Westminster-style parliamentary system that included:
- Governor-General: The Queen’s representative and the leader of the country.
- Prime Minister: The head of the government who makes important decisions.
- Parliament: The main team that holds power in the nation.
Transition to Republic (1972)
The shift to a republic led to significant changes:
- Constitution Change: Getting the First Republican Constitution
- National Name: Changing Ceylon to Sri Lanka
- Leadership Setup: Making a president with a symbolic role
- Government Structure: Setting up a unitary state
Detailed Analysis of Sri Lankan Presidencies
1. William Gopallawa (1972-1978)
As the first president, Gopallawa’s time was known for:
Key Achievements
- A smooth switch from Governor-General to President
- Maintaining constitutional stability
- oversight of the early republican government
Historical Significance
Gopallawa’s presidency established precedents for:
- Rules and events for the president
- The link between the president and lawmakers
- The president’s role in state events
2. J.R. Jayewardene (1978-1989)
Constitutional Reforms
Jayewardene’s time as president brought big changes.
- Executive Powers: Beginning of the executive presidency.
- Electoral System: Application of proportional representation.
- Governance Structure: Formation of local councils.
Economic Policies
Major economic initiatives included:
- Rules for an open economy
- Creation of trade zones
- Support for investments
- Plans for infrastructure development
Political Legacy
- Changes in the political system.
- Opening the economy.
- India-Sri Lanka agreement from 1987.
3. Ranasinghe Premadasa (1989-1993)
Domestic Policy Initiatives
Premadasa focused on social development through:
- Janasaviya Program: A program to help cut down poverty
- Gam Udawa: A project to improve villages
- Housing Development: A plan for one million homes
Economic Achievements
- Growth in the industrial sector
- Help with exports
- Programs for rural development
Challenges and Conflicts
- JVP response to protests
- LTTE conflict increasing
- Managing political rivals
4. D.B. Wijetunga (1993-1994)
Transitional Leadership
During his brief presidency, Wijetunga:
- A steady political situation
- Steady economic rules
- Made sure power changed hands smoothly
Administrative Approach
- Leadership that creates consensus
- Continuation of existing programs
- Aiming for stable management
5. Chandrika Kumaratunga (1994-2005)
Political Reforms
Kumaratunga’s presidency introduced:
- Efforts for peace with LTTE
- Suggestions for changes to the Constitution
- Actions for freedom of the media
Economic Initiatives
- Plans to privatize
- Bringing in investment from other countries
- Building new infrastructure
Social Programs
- Changes in education
- Better health care
- Plans to cut poverty
6. Mahinda Rajapaksa (2005-2015)
Civil War and Post-War Development
Rajapaksa’s presidency was defined by:
- Beating LTTE in battle
- Rebuilding after the fight
- Building new roads and buildings
Economic Development
- Big building projects
- Partnerships for Chinese investment
- Increase in the tourism field
Constitutional Changes
- Putting in place the 18th Amendment
- Ending presidential term limits
- Boosting executive powers
7. Maithripala Sirisena (2015-2019)
Good Governance Initiatives
Sirisena’s presidency focused on:
- Fighting against dishonesty
- Changes to the rules
- Making democratic groups stronger
Political Reforms
- The 19th Amendment became law.
- They set up independent commissions.
- Presidential powers were reduced.
8. Gotabaya Rajapaksa (2019-2022)
Major Challenges
His presidency faced multiple crises:
- Managing COVID-19
- Economic problems
- Debt concerns
- Public demonstrations
Policy Decisions
- Rules for organic farming
- Changes to tax policy
- Rules for currency exchange
9. Ranil Wickremesinghe (2022-2024)
Crisis Management
Wickremesinghe’s presidency focused on:
- Steps to stabilize the economy
- Starting the IMF program
- Discussions on changing debt limits
Reform Agenda
- Changing government-owned businesses
- Changes in the money area
- Restructuring the energy sector
10. Anura Kumara Dissanayake (2024-Present)
Current Priorities
The current presidency focuses on:
- Programs for economic recovery
- Efforts to stop unfair practices
- Improvement in social welfare
- Changes in management
Presidential Powers and Constitutional Framework
Executive Authority
The President’s constitutional powers include:
- Duties of the Head of State
- Roles as Commander-in-Chief
- Power to appoint leaders
- Use of emergency powers
- Control of relations with other countries
Constitutional Limitations
Presidential powers are restricted by:
- Checking by the government
- Reviews by the legal council
- Power of the highest court
- Limits on terms
Impact on Governance and Democracy
Democratic Evolution
The presidency has influenced the development of democracy by:
- Changes to the power balance
- Updates to the constitution
- Growth of institutions
- Changes to the voting system
Administrative Impact
Presidential system effects include:
- Bringing governance together
- Improving policy action
- Working together in administration
- Changes in public services
Future Perspectives
Reform Proposals
Current discussions about changes to the presidential system include:
- Look at how power is shared
- Updates to the voting system
- Better ways to be accountable
- Discuss changes to the constitution
Conclusion
Sri Lanka has seen ten presidents over the last 52 years. This reflects the many changes and challenges in the country’s politics. Each president has helped shape how the government functions. The system is adapting to new challenges while still being key in politics. By learning this history, we can understand Sri Lanka’s political development and what could happen next.