Shirantha Peries claims victory ahead of NOC election

By Susil Premalal

Shirantha Peries addressing the media

Presidential candidate Shirantha Peries claims he is extremely confident of securing victory at the upcoming National Olympic Committee election with a majority of National Associations expected to cast their votes in his favour.

Peries, a businessman, sports administrator and current vice president of the NOCSL, claimed that many affiliated National Associations have privately assured him of their support. He expressed firm belief that the votes will translate into a winning majority at the polls.

The NOCSL election is scheduled to be held on April 25 in Colombo, with five candidates contesting for the post of president. A total of 30 National Associations affiliated to the NOCSL are eligible to vote and Peries said a significant number among them are expected to back his candidacy.

Meanwhile, a meeting organised by Peries for presidents and secretaries of all affiliated National Associations was held on April 20 at the Lotus Tower. However, the absence of several expected participants was a notable feature of the gathering.

Addressing stakeholders, Peries emphasised the need for a more unified and accountable system within Sri Lankan sport. He stressed that a future leadership must focus on building a transparent institution that ensures fairness and delivers consistent results for athletes and sports federations.

Peries has played a key role in developing sports infrastructure, particularly in shooting. Through his involvement with the Clay Target Shooting Club of Colombo, he has contributed to upgrading facilities in Nuwara Eliya, Katukurunda and Payagala to international standards, improving accessibility for athletes.

In 2015, he became the first civilian president of the National Shooting Sport Federation of Sri Lanka, serving until 2025. During his tenure, participation in the sport expanded significantly from around 200 athletes to over 7,500, alongside notable achievements at youth and Asian competitions.

He currently serves as an Executive Member of the Asian Shooting Confederation and contributes to initiatives within the International Shooting Sport Federation. He also holds the position of Chairman of the Lotus Tower, reflecting his involvement in major national projects.

A former national athlete, Peries represented Sri Lanka at the South Asian Federation Games in 2000, winning a team silver medal and an individual bronze medal.

Outlining his vision, Peries proposed key reforms including greater transparency through regular reporting, open funding and sponsorship frameworks, merit-based selection systems and enhanced athlete protection measures. 

He also highlighted the need for structured development programmes for athletes and coaches, along with stronger collaboration between the NOCSL, the Ministry of Sports and government authorities.