Gamini Vijith Vijithamuni Soysa
Born November 1, 1958 • Next birthday: November 1, 2026
November 1, 1958
Unknown0
0 likesNovember 1, 2026
336 days out23
Total visitsEvery generation has its pioneers - for Sri Lanka in its evolving post-war political landscape, that beacon of innovation was undoubtedly Gamini Vijith Vijithamuni Soysa. Born on 1958-11-01 in Sri Lanka, he devoted his life to public service with unwavering commitment.
Commanding respect across provinces, he first entered the national legislature in 1989 as a Member of Parliament, representing Monaragala District, and was re-elected in 2000, 2001 and 2010.
Transformative in his regional leadership, he served as Chief Minister of Uva Province from 22 July 2004 to 20 August 2009 - guiding the province through challenging economic conditions and laying groundwork for rural development.
Bold in national service, he held a succession of ministerial portfolios: Minister of Wildlife (2013-2015), Minister of Irrigation and Water Resources Management (from March 2015), and later Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic Resources Development and Rural Economic Affairs (May-December 2018).
Driven by a vision to modernize agriculture, conservation, and rural livelihoods, he championed initiatives to revitalize irrigation and improve water resources - a vital reform in a country often challenged by water scarcity and uneven development. His stewardship of wildlife conservation and fisheries policy reflected a holistic view: rural prosperity and environmental stewardship could go hand in hand.
Reflective of shifting political currents, he worked under multiple administrations, balancing pragmatic governance with his party affiliations - first with Sri Lanka Freedom Party and later with Samagi Jana Balawegaya.
Despite the intensity of his public life, little is publicly documented about his private life; his birth date is known, but there is no verified record of death, implying he remains among the living. His legacy endures in the rural water-management schemes, conservation policies, and strengthened provincial governance frameworks he helped build.
Ultimately, Soysa's national journey - from provincial stewardship to ministerial influence - underscores his remarkable ability to blend local sensibilities with national ambitions, modernizing structures once thought resistant to change. Their story stands as a timeless reminder that true innovation often begins with resilience, unwavering belief, and a willingness to challenge convention.
Watch Video
Career & Achievements
- Member of Parliament for Monaragala District (1989, 2000, 2001, 2010)
- Chief Minister of Uva Province (2004–2009)
- Minister of Wildlife (2013–2015)
- Minister of Irrigation and Water Resources Management (2015–2018)
- Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic Resources Development and Rural Economic Affairs (2018)
Latest News
Daily Mirror
Former Minister Vijith Vijayamuni Soysa arrested by Walana Anti-Vice Unit
On 19 January 2025, police arrested former minister Vijith Vijayamuni Soysa over allegations of illegally assembling a lorry. He was taken into custody after a prolonged statement-recording session by the Walana Anti-Vice Unit. The arrest sparked renewed media interest in his post-ministerial conduct.
Daily Mirror
Vijith Vijayamuni Soysa released on bail by Bandarawela Court
A day after his arrest, on 20 January 2025, Soysa was granted bail by the Bandarawela Magistrate's Court on a Rs. 200,000 surety. The court scheduled the next hearing for early February. The bail decision allows him to remain free during the trial process while legal proceedings continue.
Daily News (Sri Lanka)
Bail confirmed for ex-minister Soysa in lorry-assembly case
On 21 January 2025, follow-up reports confirmed that former minister Soysa's bail had been secured with a Rs. 2 million surety set by the court. The surety amount underscores the seriousness of the charges, though it permits him conditional freedom while awaiting trial.
The Island
Vijith Wijayamuni Soysa pledges support to President Ranil Wickremesinghe
On 12 August 2024, Soysa publicly announced his support for President Ranil Wickremesinghe ahead of the presidential election. The endorsement highlighted his continued political relevance and influence within certain voter blocs, especially in his home region.
FAQ
Who is Gamini Vijith Vijithamuni Soysa?
Gamini Vijith Vijithamuni Soysa is a Sri Lankan politician known for his provincial and national leadership roles. He has served as a Member of Parliament several times and held multiple ministries. His work has focused on rural development, conservation, and irrigation reforms. He remains a recognized figure in Sri Lankan political history.
What are the major political roles he has held?
He has served as Chief Minister of Uva Province, Member of Parliament, and held ministerial portfolios including Wildlife, Irrigation, and Fisheries. Each role allowed him to influence national and regional policies significantly. His governance helped shape long-term development frameworks. He is also remembered for his pragmatic leadership style.
What impact did he have on Uva Province?
As Chief Minister, he helped guide Uva Province through economic challenges and promoted rural development. His initiatives focused on building local infrastructure and improving resource allocation. These efforts strengthened provincial governance. His leadership remains a notable chapter in Uva's administrative history.
What reforms did he support in national ministries?
Soysa supported major irrigation and water-resource management reforms aimed at improving sustainability. He also strengthened wildlife conservation policies and rural economic development programs. His portfolio work helped modernize government systems. These contributions continue to influence national policy discussions.
Is Gamini Vijith Vijithamuni Soysa still alive?
There is no verified public record of his death, suggesting he remains alive as of the latest information. Public updates about his later life are limited. This lack of detail mirrors the generally private nature of his personal affairs. Nonetheless, his political legacy remains well documented.
Which political parties has he been affiliated with?
He has been associated with major Sri Lankan parties including the Sri Lanka Freedom Party and Samagi Jana Balawegaya. These affiliations reflect his long and adaptive political career. His ability to navigate shifting political landscapes strengthened his influence. His career spanned periods of major national change.
What are some long-term initiatives influenced by his work?
Key initiatives include irrigation modernization, wildlife protection strategies, and rural development programs. These efforts contributed to improved water infrastructure and environmental stewardship. They also supported sustainable livelihoods in agriculture-based regions. Many of these programs continue to inform policy decisions today.
Why is he considered significant in Sri Lankan politics?
He is recognized for bridging provincial leadership with national policy influence. His contributions touched core sectors such as agriculture, wildlife, and rural economies. His leadership helped modernize administrative structures that had long resisted change. This legacy solidifies his standing in Sri Lankan political history.
⚔️ Who's More Influential?
Thomas Dang
politician
Peter Cherif
militant
👆 Click on your favorite to vote
