Mahinda Deshapriya

Deshapriya was appointed as the Chairman of the Election Commission of Sri Lanka, a position he held until 2021. He was tasked with overseeing elections in a country with a history of electoral violence and manipulation, and he worked to ensure free and fair polls.

Deshapriya oversaw the 2015 presidential election, which resulted in the defeat of incumbent Mahinda Rajapaksa by Maithripala Sirisena. The election was widely regarded as free and fair, with Deshapriya praised for his impartiality and professionalism in managing the process.

Deshapriya oversaw the 2020 parliamentary election, held during the COVID-19 pandemic. The election resulted in a landslide victory for the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) led by Mahinda Rajapaksa. Despite pandemic challenges, the election was conducted without major incidents.

Deshapriya resigned as Election Commissioner in 2021, citing health reasons. His resignation came after a tenure marked by efforts to strengthen electoral institutions and maintain independence from political interference. He was succeeded by Nimal Punchihewa.