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Sugath Wasantha de Silva
Sugath Wasantha de Silva, a National List candidate from the National People’s Power (NPP), has etched his name in Sri Lankan Parliamentary history as the first visually impaired MP.
His appointment was confirmed through the NPP’s National List, which was gazetted yesterday.
Before venturing into politics, de Silva was a well-known activist advocating for the rights of the visually impaired and disabled communities in Sri Lanka. He currently serves as the President of the Visually Impaired Graduates’ Council (VIGC).
de Silva lost his sight in childhood due to an accident but overcame significant challenges to graduate from the University of Colombo. With over 25 years of experience as a social welfare officer, his contributions to the community have been widely recognised.
Speaking to the media after his appointment, de Silva highlighted the NPP’s commitment to uplifting the lives of disabled individuals in Sri Lanka. He emphasised that the party pledged it would not make decisions on behalf of the community without their representation.
“When I was granted nominations by the NPP, some questioned whether it was merely a political tactic. It is not a tactic. By appointing me, the NPP is honouring its promise to ensure the hopes and aspirations of Sri Lanka’s 1.7 million disabled people are heard. This responsibility now lies with me and the party,” he said.
de Silva pledged to remain steadfast in his commitment to the disabled community, promising to work tirelessly to improve their lives and safeguard their trust.
