Early Life and Background

Dingiri Banda Wijetunga, widely known as D. B. Wijetunga, was born on February 15, 1916, in Polgahawela, Kurunegala District, Sri Lanka. He grew up in a humble rural farming family and experienced village life firsthand—experiences that later shaped his political beliefs. He attended local schools for his early education and later studied at Wesley College in Kurunegala. Before stepping into politics, he worked in the Department of Agriculture and as a clerk, where he gained valuable administrative skills.

Entry into Politics

Wijetunga began his political journey by joining the United National Party (UNP) in the early 1960s. In 1965, he won a seat in Parliament, representing the Udunuwara constituency. Known for his quiet demeanor and strong work ethic, Wijetunga earned admiration for his honesty, discipline, and commitment to public service. Over the years, he held various ministerial portfolios, including Information and Broadcasting, Posts and Telecommunications, and later, Public Administration, Home Affairs, and Plantation Industries.

Prime Ministership

In 1989, President Ranasinghe Premadasa appointed Wijetunga as Prime Minister. Although he lacked flamboyance or a charismatic public presence, he gained the role because of his loyalty, integrity, and administrative experience. As Prime Minister, he supported Premadasa’s development programs and governed with a pragmatic, low-profile approach.

Becoming the President

Wijetunga’s political career reached a pivotal moment on May 1, 1993, when an LTTE suicide bomber assassinated President Premadasa. As Prime Minister, Wijetunga was next in the constitutional line of succession, and he assumed office as Sri Lanka’s fourth Executive President on May 7, 1993. At 77, he became the oldest person to take on the presidency in the country’s history.

Presidency and National Leadership

Although his presidency lasted only from 1993 to 1994, Wijetunga worked to stabilize the nation and restore public confidence. At a time of ethnic violence and political uncertainty, he led with calmness, balance, and a collaborative spirit. He prioritized national unity and tried to ease ethnic tensions. During his administration, political freedoms widened, media censorship decreased, and democratic institutions functioned with greater openness.

Instead of seeking reelection in 1994, Wijetunga stepped aside and allowed the democratic process to continue unimpeded. This decision underscored his respect for democracy and earned him widespread public appreciation.

Later Life and Legacy

After his presidency, Wijetunga withdrew from political life and spent his remaining years in quiet retirement. He passed away on September 21, 2008, at the age of 92.

People remember D. B. Wijetunga as a humble and principled statesman who guided the nation through a period of turmoil. Although he did not initiate sweeping reforms or rule with charismatic flair, he served as a stabilizing force. His legacy rests on his integrity, simplicity, and unwavering commitment to democratic values in Sri Lanka.