A pioneering figure in Sri Lankan politics and accounting, known for his contributions to the country's economic development and public service. He played a key role in shaping the nation's financial landscape.
P. S. Soosaithasan was a renowned Sri Lankan Tamil accountant, politician, and Member of Parliament who left an indelible mark on the country's political and economic landscape. As a seasoned accountant, he worked in various countries, including Ceylon, the United Kingdom, Zambia, and Canada, before venturing into politics and becoming a prominent figure in Sri Lankan politics.
Born on July 24, 1934, in Vankalai, northern Ceylon, Soosaithasan hailed from a Catholic family. He pursued a career in accounting, working as a chief accountant at Lanka Salu Sala, the state-owned handloom and textile manufacturer. His expertise in accounting took him to various countries, where he worked in the private and public sectors.
Soosaithasan's foray into politics began when he stood as the Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF) candidate in Mannar at the 1977 parliamentary election. He won the election and became a Member of Parliament, serving as the chairman of the Public Accounts Committee. However, he and other TULF MPs boycotted Parliament from mid-1983, citing pressure from Sri Lankan Tamil militants, the Sixth Amendment to the Constitution of Sri Lanka, and the Black July riots, which resulted in the deaths of up to 3,000 Tamils at the hands of Sinhalese mobs. This led to his forfeiture of his seat in Parliament on October 22, 1983.
After leaving Parliament, Soosaithasan migrated to Canada, where some of his children were living, and took up Canadian citizenship. He continued to work as an accountant in the private and public sectors. After retirement, he returned to Sri Lanka, taking up dual citizenship and living in Vankalai.
In 2010, Soosaithasan contested the parliamentary election in Vanni District as a Tamil National Alliance (TNA) candidate. Although he did not secure a seat, his political career remained significant, reflecting his commitment to serving the Sri Lankan Tamil community.
P. S. Soosaithasan's life was marked by his dedication to public service, accounting, and politics. His contributions to Sri Lanka's economic and political spheres are enduring, and his legacy continues to inspire future generations. Soosaithasan passed away on October 13, 2017, leaving behind a rich heritage of service and sacrifice.
Soosaithasan's life serves as a testament to the power of dedication, perseverance, and service to the nation. His story continues to motivate individuals to strive for excellence in their chosen fields and to make a positive impact on their communities.
77 Years Old
The 13th Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, a seasoned lawyer and politician, led the country through significant economic and political reforms, earning him a reputation as a champion of democracy and development.
80 Years Old
A Sri Lankan lawyer and politician who served as the 6th President of Sri Lanka, known for his role in ending the country's 26-year civil war. He's also infamous for alleged human rights abuses during his tenure.
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The 8th president of Sri Lanka is a former military officer who led a crackdown on the Tamil Tigers, ending a decades-long civil war, and later became a populist leader. He's known for his strong nationalist stance and controversial human rights record.
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A pioneering female leader who served as Sri Lanka's first female President, known for her efforts to bring peace and reconciliation to the war-torn nation. She implemented policies to promote economic development and social welfare.
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A Sri Lankan lawyer and politician who served as the 2nd President of Sri Lanka, known for introducing a new constitution and establishing a presidential system of government. He's also credited with opening up the country's economy and promoting market-oriented reforms.
Born in 1899
A lawyer-turned-politician who championed Sinhalese nationalism and led Sri Lanka towards self-sufficiency, introducing sweeping reforms in education, agriculture, and industry. He's remembered for his bold, if sometimes divisive, leadership.
