Ms. Chandani Wijewardena has been appointed as the Acting Presidential Secretary, after Mr. Saman Ekanayake, accompanies the President on an official visit to India.

This is the first time in Sri Lanka’s history that a lady has assumed this esteemed position.

The momentous decision was announced today (July 20) and will remain in effect until Mr. Saman Ekanayake returns to the island. Ms. Chandani Wijewardena, an accomplished senior civil servant, is currently serving as a Senior Additional Secretary to the President.

Her illustrious career spans back to 1994 when she joined the Sri Lanka Planning Service. Over the course of 22 years, Ms. Wijewardena held various critical positions within the Treasury and ultimately rose to the position of Director General of the Planning Department. Her dedication and outstanding service have earned her recognition and respect within the civil service.

Notably, Ms. Chandani Wijewardena has also held significant leadership roles in various ministries. From 2015 to 2019, she served as the Secretary of the Ministry of Development Strategy and International Trade, contributing her insights and skills to the nation’s economic development.

In addition, during the President’s official tour of India, State Minister Dilum Amunugama has been appointed as the Minister of Investment Promotion, State Minister Kanaka Herath as the Minister of Technology, & State Minister Anupa Pasqual as the Minister of Women, Children Affairs, & Social Empowerment.