JR’s 17-year revolution transformed Lanka, says Ranil

Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe praised Sri Lanka's first Executive President, J. R. Jayewardene, for launching a 17-year revolution that significantly transformed the nation's economy, democracy and quality of life. Speaking at a scholarly discussion organized by the D. S. Senanayake Political Chair at the National Library to commemorate Jayewardene's 120th birth anniversary, Wickremesinghe recalled the far-reaching impact of his predecessor's policies.

Under Jayewardene's leadership, the country saw a surge in school enrolment, rising from 2.5 million to 4.1 million during his tenure. Household electricity coverage also expanded dramatically, from just 10% to a staggering 95%. Furthermore, housing conditions saw a marked improvement, with the proportion of homes boasting permanent roofs and cement walls increasing from 40% to 80%.

Wickremesinghe underscored the revolutionary nature of these reforms, emphasizing that they had dramatically enhanced the quality of life for ordinary Sri Lankans. He highlighted the constitutional reforms enacted in 1978, particularly Article 3 of the Constitution, which vested sovereignty—including fundamental rights and the franchise—in the hands of the people. This provision also guaranteed judicial protection of fundamental rights through Article 126.

The former president paid tribute to other key leaders who contributed to the broader transformation initiated by Jayewardene. These include Ranasinghe Premadasa, Gamini Dissanayake, and Lalith Athulathmudali, whose contributions in areas such as housing, the Mahaweli Development Programme, and the Mahapola scholarship scheme were integral to the nation's progress.

Wickremesinghe expressed his hope that the activities marking the UNP's 80th anniversary would continue the legacy of Jayewardene, inviting members of the SJB to join in this effort.