Opposition Leader

Hon. Sajith Premadasa (M.P.)
Leader of the Opposition
Hon. Sajith Premadasa, Leader of the Opposition and head of Samagi Jana Balawegaya, is a dedicated Sri Lankan politician committed to economic reform and social justice. Educated at Royal College, Colombo, and the London School of Economics, he has served as a Member of Parliament since 2000 and held key roles, including Minister of Housing, Construction, and Cultural Affairs.
Sajith Premadasa's educational journey began at St. Thomas' Preparatory College and Royal College, Colombo. He then pursued his O/L and A/L examinations at Mill Hill School in London, where he excelled academically and in extracurricular activities, earning the A/L Prize for Politics and Business Studies, serving as a prefect, and captaining the First XI Cricket Team.
He completed his Bachelor's degree at the London School of Economics, specializing in Economics, Politics, and International Relations. Following his graduation, he interned at the US Senate, working with the Foreign Relations Committee under Senator Larry Pressler, while pursuing his Master of Science degree at the University of Maryland. However, he had to return to Sri Lanka in 1993 following the tragic assassination of his father.
In 1994, Sajith Premadasa embarked on his political career as the District Organizer for Hambantota for the United National Party (UNP). He launched the 'Janasuwaya' project to alleviate poverty in the Hambantota District, demonstrating his commitment to grassroots development. His efforts paid off in the 2000 parliamentary elections, where he secured the highest number of preferential votes in the district and the highest vote percentage in the country, marking his entry into Parliament.
As a member of Parliament, Sajith Premadasa quickly rose through the ranks. The UNP assumed office a year later, and he was appointed Deputy Minister of Health. His popularity and effectiveness were evident as he consistently secured the highest percentage of preferential votes among UNP candidates in four consecutive general elections. Recognized for his people-friendly approach, he was elevated to the position of Deputy Leader of the UNP in 2011.
In 2015, Sajith was appointed Minister of Housing, Construction, and Cultural Affairs. In this role, he implemented numerous initiatives to improve housing and living conditions for the underprivileged, further solidifying his reputation as a dedicated public servant. His leadership and dedication to public service have earned him widespread respect and recognition.
As the Leader of the Opposition, Sajith Premadasa continues to advocate for social justice, economic development, and democratic governance in Sri Lanka. His unwavering commitment to the welfare of the people and his vision for a prosperous and inclusive nation remain at the forefront of his political career.
Former opposition leaders
Hon.Mahinda Rajapakse2018 – 2019
Hon. Rajavarothiam sampanthan2015 – 2018
Hon. Nimal Siripala de Silva2015 – 2015
Hon. Ranil Wickremesinghe2004 – 2015
Hons.Mahinda Rajapakse2002 – 2004
Hons.Ratnasiri Wickremanayake2001 – 2002
Hon.Ranil Wickremesinghe1994 – 2001
Hon.Gamini Dissanayake1994 – 1994
Hon.(Mrs.) Sirima R. D. Bandaranaike1989 – 1994
Hon. Anura Bandaranaike1983 – 1988
Hon. A. Amirthalingam1977 – 1983
Hon. J. R. Jayewardene1970 – 1977
Hon. (Mrs.) Sirima Bandaranaike1965 – 1970
Hon. Dudley Senanayake1960 – 1964
Hon. C. P. De. Silva1960 – 1960
Hon. (Dr.) N.M. Perera1956 – 1959
Hon. S.W.R.D. Bandaranaike1952 – 1956
Hon. (Dr.) N.M. Perera1947 – 1952
Former Secretaries
Hon. Thisath D. B. Wijegunawardhana2022 – 2024
Hon. H. S. Ravi Jayawardena2020 – 2022
Hon. Naufal Abdul Rahman2019 – 2020
Hon. K. P. Harsha Wijewardhana2019 – 2019
Hon. S. A. D. S. Subasingha2015 – 2019
Hon. Anuradha Wijekoon2015 – 2015
Hon. Naufal Abdul Rahman2004 – 2015
Hon. G. L. W. Samarasinha2002 – 2004
Ashoka Gananatha Athurugiriya2001 – 2002
Hon. Naufal Abdul Rahman1994 – 2001
Hon. Palitha Palpola1994 – 1994
Hon. V. C. B. Unanthanna1993 – 1994
