Mahinda Siriwardana bows out as Treasury Secretary

From right: President Anura Kumara Dissanayake presents a commemorative token to Mahinda Siriwardana in recognition of his public service 

• Siriwardana describes his three-year tenure as Treasury Secretary as most significant period of his professional life

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake paid tribute to the outgoing Treasury Secretary Mahinda Siriwardana, acknowledging his pivotal role in steering the country through its most turbulent economic period in decades and achieving “significant economic victories”.

At a farewell ceremony held at the Presidential Secretariat yesterday, Dissanayake said Siriwardana’s exceptional dedication and commitment helped in expertly navigating the nation’s economy through the transformative period, following the recent economic crisis, ultimately achieving significant economic victories for the country.

“It is the responsibility of the public officials to strive to prevent adverse outcomes and contribute to positive change,” Dissanayake said, calling Siriwardana’s service “invaluable”.

Siriwardana, appointed to the top Treasury post in 2022, under former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, remained a central figure in Sri Lanka’s recovery efforts across three successive administrations. His tenure included critical negotiations with the International Monetary Fund and bilateral creditors, as the country worked to emerge from the sovereign default and secure external financing.

Despite a political reset, following the sweeping parliamentary victory of the National People’s Power alliance, Dissanayake retained Siriwardana.

Dissanayake used the occasion to call for a values-based public service, saying the nation must move away from consumerism and corruption.  

“The country requires a public service driven by humanity and empathy towards others, fulfilling its duties,” he said.

Reflecting on his time in office, Siriwardana described his three-year tenure as the Treasury Secretary as the most significant period of his professional life. He thanked Dissanayake for maintaining confidence in him and allowing him to continue in the position, despite a change in government leadership, noting that Dissanayake’s support was a great source 

of strength.