Lalith Athulathmudali

Athulathmudali was appointed Minister of Education in the UNP government under President Jayewardene. He implemented education reforms, including the introduction of the national school system and the expansion of university access, though his policies also faced criticism for centralization.

Athulathmudali was appointed Minister of Trade and Commerce, where he oversaw the liberalization of Sri Lanka's economy. He promoted export-oriented industries and foreign investment, playing a key role in the economic transformation of the country during the 1980s.

Athulathmudali was expelled from the UNP after challenging President Premadasa's leadership. He then formed the Democratic United National Front (DUNF), a breakaway party, and became a leading opposition figure, advocating for constitutional reforms and devolution.

Athulathmudali was shot and killed by a gunman at a political rally in Colombo. The assassination was widely attributed to the LTTE, though some theories suggested involvement of other groups. His death occurred during a period of intense political violence in Sri Lanka.