W Karunajeewa's death, irreparable loss to country

The death of W Karunajeewa, Chairman People's Bank and People's Leasing Ltd, will be an irreparable loss to the two institutions and the country, said Prime Minister D M Jayaratne in a condolence message yesterday.

W Karunajeewa

The message said: "I was deeply shocked and grieved to hear of the death of W Karunajeewa, Attorney-at-Law and chairman People's Bank and People's Leasing Ltd.

"After receiving education at the Bowala MV, and Dharmaraja Vidyalaya, Kandy and Graduating from the Peradeniya University, Karunajeewa began his professional career as a teacher.

"Due to his affiliation with progressive politics and social service, he obtained membership of the SLFP and appointed Administrative Secretary of the SLFP in 1973 by late Prime Minister Sirimavo Bandaranaike.

He joined me in my political work on several occasions. After taking oaths as an Attorney-at-Law in 1987, he was appointed Working Director of the Fisheries Co-operation and later rose to be its chairman.

"He has also held several other important posts including chairman, ETF.

"Karunajeewa rendered a great service for the progress of the People's Bank.

"While expressing my deepest sympathies to his bereaved family including his wife Kusum Karunajeewa and children Indika and Dilini, I wish him the eternal bliss of Nibbana."