The Hon. Ajith P. Perera

¶ 01 Madam Presiding Member, I wish to express my deepest condolences on the passing of former MP Hon. Kumara Welgama, who represented my district for a long time—on behalf of the people of Kalutara and as the SJB District Leader.

¶ 02 He lived among the people—practical, grounded, capable of getting things done. He joined in village life—joyous and sorrowful occasions alike—considering it his duty, and extended assistance and blessings as needed.

¶ 03 He conducted politics for a long time as a member of the SLFP and its alliances, and we UNPers opposed him for years. For the first time in 2020, he and I worked together as SJB candidates. Though I am younger in age and politics, he humbly accepted my district leadership and worked cordially. Due to his popularity and respect, he topped the poll. While fulfilling his duties as an MP and senior politician, he was unfortunately assaulted—not due to any fault of his. He shared the very aims of the Aragalaya; in fact, he articulated those views before the Aragalaya itself. Yet he suffered physically and mentally from that violence. We are saddened that such a beloved senior friend who worked for the country suffered such an end. Even afterwards he faced life bravely, and forgave without harbouring personal enmity, believing those youths were misled. He often told me we should educate them about our politics and the country. He believed political change was needed, and his final speeches reflected that.

¶ 04 At an unexpected moment he left us. I extend deep condolences to his beloved wife and to our friend Senal Welgama, attorney-at-law, and all their children. May Senal have the strength to pursue a long political journey like his father.

¶ 05 Hon. Tudor Gunasekara was an honoured UNP stalwart who rendered great service to the country and to Mahara and the Gampaha District—at a time when politics in our country is often about profiteering and status, he dedicated inherited wealth and strength to the people. His political culture is still felt in Gampaha. His beloved grandson, Hasith Gunasekara, an educated and capable youth, now does politics as SJB organizer for Mahara, reflecting Hon. Tudor Gunasekara’s people-centred, clean, public-spirited politics. We pray he has the strength to carry forward that legacy.

¶ 06 We also present condolences on the passing of Hon. H. Nandaseena. Though I did not know him personally, speakers today attested that he was a village-friendly, public-spirited politician who worked for his district. On behalf of the SJB, I extend deep condolences to his family.