The Hon. Eranga Gunasekara - Deputy Minister of Youth Affairs

¶ 01 Hon. Presiding Member, speaking on the passing of our colleague and comrade Kosala Nuwan Jayawira is one of the most difficult moments in my life. He stood with us in struggle, striving to transform society. We never imagined we would speak of him in his absence; yet we must face this reality and carry forward his mission and example.

¶ 02 Our close work began when, as a youth, he joined the Socialist Youth Union and took leadership for Kegalle. Even earlier, while studying engineering at the Open University, he distinguished himself as a courageous student leader, serving as President of the main Students’ Union and as a National Committee member of the Socialist Students’ Union.

¶ 03 Kegalle is a challenging district; he never shirked difficulties. In moments of internal tests for our movement, as a student he chose the people’s side, upholding correct political principles and integrity. He worked in the Youth Union, JVP, and NPP without ever seeking personal gain. He was unfailingly warm, smiling, and compassionate—never harsh in speech—yet decisive and unflinching in the face of challenges.

¶ 04 He consistently chose the hard road of collective purpose over the easy path of personal advancement. At life’s crossroads, he took the route of solidarity and service—finishing university and choosing the struggle for people’s liberation over private careerism. Across decades, our movement has faced stones, not flowers; censure, not praise. He stood with us for truth and the people.

¶ 05 He played a key role in the 2022 people’s uprising, meeting decisive moments with clarity and leadership. Remembering him, I recall Pope Francis’ message: rivers do not drink their own water; trees do not eat their own fruit; the sun does not shine for itself; flowers do not smell themselves; the laws of nature teach us to live for others. Kosala lived this ethos—working for the happiness of the people and youth of this country. The greatest honour we can give him is to realize his vision of a more beautiful, just Sri Lanka. We pledge to do so.