For far too long, Sri Lankan politics has been lacking in more than just capable leaders—it has been dominated by men who have failed to provide people with access to quality education and opportunities for advancement. The absence of wise and practical individuals in the political arena has left the country in need of a new generation of leaders. The call for educated, mature, and pragmatic representatives is louder than ever, and Ajith Naragala is poised to answer that call in the upcoming 2024 general election.
A Shift in Political Culture
Historically, many of Sri Lanka’s political figures have been educated in name only, boasting degrees but lacking the practical skills needed to drive real progress. While education is important, it alone is not enough. What Sri Lanka truly needs are leaders who not only understand the theory behind governance but also have the ability to implement it effectively on the ground. Practical leadership—coupled with education, maturity, and a strong track record of success—should be the hallmark of today’s politicians.
Naragala embodies this vision for the future. A man whose accomplishments in both the public and private sectors speak for themselves, he has shown time and time again that leadership is not a privilege but a responsibility. His record of success, especially during his tenure at the Development Lottery Board, is a testament to his ability to deliver tangible results.
Proven Leadership at the Development Lottery Board
Ajith Naragala’s time as Chairman of the Development Lottery Board marked a golden era for the institution. Under his leadership, the Board’s annual revenue surged from Rs. 16 billion to Rs. 26 billion, a remarkable increase that added an extra Rs. 10 billion to the Treasury. Additionally, Naragala oversaw the highest recorded profit in the Board’s 41-year history, with annual profits reaching a record-breaking Rs. 3.6 billion. These achievements were not by chance but the result of Naragala’s disciplined, strategic, and pragmatic approach to leadership.
In Sri Lanka’s political landscape, chairmanships of corporations and boards have often been treated as privileges—a symbol of power rather than a platform for progress. Many leaders in these roles have failed to fulfill their duties to the country, treating their positions as titles rather than responsibilities. However, Naragala belongs to the minority of individuals who see such roles as opportunities to serve the public good. His clean, efficient, and results-oriented leadership sets him apart as a shining example of what Sri Lanka’s future leaders should aspire to be.
Colombo’s Search for a New Leader
The people of Colombo have long been in search of a leader who is not only talented but also practical, goal-oriented, and capable of effecting real change. In Ajith Naragala, they have found exactly that. Despite his youth, Naragala has already proven himself as a leader who understands the complexities of governance and is committed to achieving measurable results. His background and experience, combined with his vision for the future, make him a natural fit for the political leadership that Colombo, and indeed the whole of Sri Lanka, so desperately needs.
Naragala’s candidacy in the 2024 general election represents a shift in Sri Lankan politics. It signals a move away from the old guard of leaders who failed to meet the people’s needs and toward a new generation of educated, practical, and responsible individuals. He is not just a politician; he is a leader with a vision, a person who understands the importance of setting goals and working tirelessly to achieve them.
A Vision for the Future of Sri Lanka’s Parliament
As the 2024 election approaches, the need for leaders like Ajith Naragala has never been more evident. The Sri Lankan Parliament must be filled with individuals who prioritize the nation’s well-being over party loyalty or personal gain. It needs leaders who are educated, intelligent, practical, and—most importantly—capable of getting things done. Naragala exemplifies these qualities and represents the type of leadership that can bring Sri Lanka into a new era of prosperity and progress.
In Ajith Naragala, Colombo has found its will—a leader who embodies the future of politics in Sri Lanka. As voters prepare to cast their ballots, it is crucial that they recognize the importance of electing individuals who can truly serve the people. Sri Lanka’s Parliament must be filled with people like Naragala, regardless of party affiliation or political color, if the country is to realize its full potential.
