An exemplary leader

The name "Amarasiri Dodangoda" will remain among the list of great politicians who sacrificed their life not for their sustenance, but for the well-being of the public. This great political figure, who honestly rendered a dedicated and exemplary services to the people had his hands clean until his demise and was not involved in any fraud or corruption and therefore he was respected by all of us while he set an example as a politician in Galle district.

The acquaintance between "Dodangoda Aiyandi", as I address him with love and respect, flashes back to my school days. Dodangoda, who was a close friend of Vasudewa Nanayakkara played a vital role in progressive politics. He was engaged in leftist movement as an active member of "Janawegaya" and "Ginipupura" campaigns. This brave young leader who always stood against the capitalist forces and the social injustice, became the Secretary of "Janawegaya" later.

He received his primary education from Baddegama Rathanasara College and later from Richmond College, Galle which has produced several eminent citizens of Sri Lanka. He was one of the fluent debaters at College, and quickly became recognized for his talent of debating among the schools of Galle and suburbs. From early stages of life, Dodangoda devoted time and energy for social services, and took part in many self help activities. Even today, people of the area remember the value of this eminent politician as a social worker.

He entered Parliament at the general election held in 1977. He contested Akmeemana seat under the United Socialist Party as its Secretary and later joined the Sri Lanka Freedom Party as its Coordinator of the Galle district. He was appointed as the Chief Coordinator of the Baddegama seat, recognizing his versatile abilities, dedication and commitment by the party leader Sirimavo Bandaranaike.

Dodangoda won the 1993 by-election and became one of the most popular parliamentarians in the South. Dodangoda contested for the post of Chief Minister of the Southern Provincial Council and became eligible as Chief Minister with 136,000 votes. However due to violence and political turmoil created by the then regime, another election was held in 1994 and he became the Chief Minister of the Southern Province obtaining 176,000 preferential votes and his services for the public has been exemplary throughout the period.

It is customary in Sri Lanka that during the elections politicians give various promises to the voters, then they leave their electorates and begin to reside in palatial residences in Colombo. They remember the voters only at the next election; for such fraudulent politicians Hon. Dodangoda will be a classic example. When he could have enjoyed a luxurious life, he was prepared to live with his fellow citizens, mix with them at various occasions, weddings, funerals and religious activities mingling with his people. He was more than a brother to all , loved by every one.

I was lucky to associate with him and work under his guidance. As the leader of the Galle district his services for long years has been exceptional. I am greatly indebted to him for the guidance he provided in my political career and his enormous commitment to the people of Galle.

I salute him with all due respect.

Hemakumara Nanayakkara Minister of Agriculture Chief Organizer- Habaraduwa Electorate