Susil Moonesinghe facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Susil Moonesinghe
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Personal details | |
Born | 11 February 1930 Colombo, Sri Lanka |
Died | 30 November 2012 Kandy, Sri Lanka |
(aged 82)
Political party | United National Party |
Other political affiliations |
Mahajana Eksath Peramuna, Sri Lanka Freedom Party |
Alma mater | Royal College, Colombo |
Occupation | Politics, diplomat |
Profession | Barrister |
Susil Moonesinghe (born 11 February 1930 – died 30 November 2012) was an important person in Sri Lanka. He was a lawyer, a politician, and a diplomat. This means he worked with laws, helped lead the country, and represented Sri Lanka in other countries. He also led a big trading company.
Susil Moonesinghe was the first ever chief minister of the Western Province in Sri Lanka. He also served as a Member of Parliament and was Sri Lanka's Ambassador to Iran. He was the brother of Anil Moonesinghe and the son of Piyadas Moonesinghe. He studied at the famous Royal College, Colombo.
Contents
Susil Moonesinghe's Early Life
Susil Moonesinghe was born in Colombo, Sri Lanka. He went to Royal College, Colombo, which is a well-known school. After his schooling, he became a barrister, which is a type of lawyer who argues cases in court.
Starting His Political Journey
Susil Moonesinghe began his work in politics by trying to get elected in the Polgahawela area in 1960. He ran with a political group called the Mahajana Eksath Peramuna. Later, in 1970, he worked for the Sri Lanka Freedom Party in the Southern Province.
From 1970 to 1972, he was in charge of the Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation. This is like being the head of the national radio and TV station. After that, he focused on business for a while.
Important Roles in Government
Susil Moonesinghe held several key positions that helped shape Sri Lanka.
Leading the Western Province
In 1988, Susil Moonesinghe made history. He was chosen as the very first chief minister of the Western Province. He held this important job until 1993. As chief minister, he was like the leader of that part of the country.
After being chief minister, he became the leader of the opposition in the provincial council until 1994. This meant he led the group that disagreed with the government's plans.
Serving in Parliament and Abroad
From 1994 to 2000, Susil Moonesinghe was a Member of Parliament for the Colombo District. This meant he represented the people of Colombo in the country's main law-making body.
Later, from 2000 to 2002, he served as Sri Lanka's Ambassador to Iran. As an ambassador, he represented Sri Lanka and worked to build good relationships with Iran.
See also
- List of political families in Sri Lanka
- Sri Lankan Non Career Diplomats