Mahinda Rajapaksa, born on November 18, 1945, in Sri Lanka, is a prominent figure in the country's political landscape. His career as a lawyer took a dramatic turn when he became the 6th President of Sri Lanka in 2005, as well as becoming the Commander in Chief of the Sri Lankan Armed Forces. He is known for his role in ending the decades-long civil war in Sri Lanka.
Rajapaksa was born into a well-known political family in Sri Lanka. He followed in his father's footsteps by joining the Sri Lanka Freedom Party and eventually rising to leadership positions within the party. His background in law provided him with a strong foundation for his political career, and he quickly gained a reputation as a skilled and charismatic leader.
In 2005, Rajapaksa made history by winning Sri Lanka's first election after years of civil unrest. Despite predictions of a close race, he secured a landslide victory, signaling a new era for the country. As President, he faced the daunting task of addressing the ongoing conflict with the Tamil Tiger militant group.
One of Rajapaksa's most significant achievements was his success in defeating the Tamil Tigers and bringing an end to the civil war. Under his leadership, the Sri Lankan Armed Forces were able to effectively combat the militant group and restore peace to the nation. However, his tactics were not without controversy, as some accused him of overstepping his boundaries in the pursuit of victory.
Throughout his presidency, Rajapaksa faced both domestic and international criticism for his handling of the conflict and alleged human rights abuses. His administration was accused of committing atrocities against Tamil civilians and captured fighters, leading to accusations of war crimes. These accusations were brought to light by Julian Assange's Wikileaks organization, further tarnishing Rajapaksa's reputation on the global stage.
Despite these challenges, Rajapaksa remained a formidable leader within Sri Lanka. He continued to prioritize economic development and infrastructure projects, garnering support from various sectors of society. His political prowess and determination to lead the country through difficult times solidified his legacy as a significant figure in Sri Lankan history.
After serving two terms as President, Rajapaksa faced defeat in a bid for re-election in 2015. However, his influence and impact on the country's political landscape continued to be felt long after his time in office. Today, he remains a respected figure in Sri Lankan politics, with a lasting legacy that will be remembered for years to come.