Discover Sri Lanka’s latest government appointments with Aruni Ranaraja leading Foreign Affairs. Explore what’s ahead!
In a major administrative overhaul, the Government of Sri Lanka has appointed new secretaries to 16 key ministries, including the Prime Minister’s Office and the Cabinet. The appointments were announced today (November 19) at the Presidential Secretariat in Colombo. The ceremony, officiated by Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, Secretary to the President, marks a significant step in Sri Lanka’s efforts to enhance governance and improve public service delivery.
Among the notable appointees is Aruni Ranaraja, a veteran diplomat with over 25 years of experience, who has been named Secretary to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, replacing Aruni Wijewardena. Her extensive expertise and proven track record in international relations are expected to bolster Sri Lanka’s foreign policy and diplomatic engagements.
New Leadership: Building a Brighter Future
The appointments come at a critical time for Sri Lanka as the nation navigates economic recovery, infrastructure development, and enhanced global partnerships. Here’s the detailed list of newly appointed secretaries:
Key Appointments Overview
- Prime Minister’s Office
- Secretary: Pradeep Saputhanthri
- Tasked with supporting the Prime Minister in policy implementation and administrative efficiency.
- Cabinet Secretariat
- Secretary: W.M.D.J. Fernando
- Ensures seamless coordination between ministries and the Cabinet.
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- Secretary: Aruni Ranaraja
- Will oversee Sri Lanka’s diplomatic missions and foreign policy strategy.
- Ministry of Transport, Highways, Ports, and Civil Aviation
- Secretary: Senior Prof. Kapila C.K. Perera
- Focuses on modernizing transport systems and boosting port operations.
- Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development
- Secretary: Mahinda Siriwardana
- Aims to drive fiscal reforms and economic growth.
- Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development
- Secretary: Thilaka Jayasundara
- Charged with fostering innovation and industrial growth.
- Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious, and Cultural Affairs
- Secretary: A.M.P.M.B. Atapattu
- Dedicated to preserving Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.
- Ministry of Defence
- Secretary: Sampath Thuyacontha
- Ensures national security and defense readiness.
- Ministry of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs
- Secretary: Ravi Seneviratne
- Works on strengthening law enforcement and legislative support.
- Ministry of Urban Development, Construction, and Housing
- Secretary: Ranjith Ariyaratne
- Leads urban renewal and affordable housing projects.
- Ministry of Power and Energy
- Secretary: Prof. Udayanga Hemapala
- Focuses on sustainable energy solutions and energy security.
- Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils, and Local Government
- Secretary: S. Aloka Bandara
- Enhances provincial governance and public service efficiency.
- Ministry of Labour
- Secretary: S.M. Piyatissa
- Advocates for worker rights and employment opportunities.
- Ministry of Trade, Commerce, Food Security, and Cooperative Development
- Secretary: A. Vimalenthirarajah
- Aims to strengthen trade relations and ensure food security.
- Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Livestock, and Irrigation
- Secretary: D.P. Wickramasinghe
- Works on advancing agricultural productivity.
- Ministry of Education, Higher Education, and Vocational Training
- Secretary: Nalaka Kaluwewa
- Leads educational reforms and skill development programs.
- Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports
- Secretary: A.H.M.U. Aruna Bandara
- Focuses on youth empowerment and sports development.
- Ministry of Plantation and Community Infrastructure
- Secretary: Prabath Chandrakeerthi
- Promotes rural development and plantation sustainability.
Aruni Ranaraja: A Diplomatic Powerhouse
Aruni Ranaraja’s appointment as Secretary to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is a strategic move for Sri Lanka. With her vast experience, including serving in key diplomatic roles globally, Ranaraja is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the country’s foreign relations. Her appointment underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing Sri Lanka’s global presence and fostering strong international partnerships.
Implications of the New Appointments
The new secretaries are entrusted with spearheading reforms and driving development across diverse sectors. These appointments are expected to:
- Improve administrative efficiency.
- Strengthen Sri Lanka’s economic recovery initiatives.
- Enhance transparency and accountability in governance.
- Foster innovation and modernization in critical infrastructure.
What This Means for Citizens
Citizens can anticipate positive changes with the new leadership, including better service delivery, streamlined government operations, and more opportunities for economic and social growth.
Looking Ahead
As the newly appointed secretaries assume their roles, they face the challenge of delivering impactful results in a rapidly changing global and domestic landscape. With a renewed focus on innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity, Sri Lanka is poised to make significant strides toward progress.