Maithripala Sirisena

ModernPoliticianSri Lanka1951 — ?

Sri Lankan president who reversed authoritarian moves.

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Quick Facts

Born

1951

Country

Sri Lanka

Era

Modern

Occupation

Politician

Score Overview

Military (10%)45

Political (20%)68

Influence (20%)53

Legacy (20%)43

Leadership (15%)68

Strategy (15%)60

Total Score55.0

Maithripala Sirisena — Complete Timeline

2015 AD

Election as President of Sri LankaPolitical Action

Maithripala Sirisena was elected President of Sri Lanka on January 8, 2015, defeating incumbent Mahinda Rajapaksa. His victory was seen as a rejection of Rajapaksa's authoritarian rule and a move towards democratic reforms.

ElectionDemocratic TransitionAnti-Rajapaksa

Impact: nationalconstructive

Repeal of the 18th AmendmentPolitical Action◆ Major

Sirisena's government repealed the 18th Amendment to the constitution, which had allowed the president to seek unlimited terms. The 19th Amendment was passed, restoring the two-term limit and reducing presidential powers, strengthening parliamentary oversight.

Constitutional ReformTerm LimitsDemocratic Reform

Impact: nationalconstructive

2018 AD

Constitutional Crisis of 2018Political Action◆ Major

Sirisena attempted to dismiss Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and appoint Mahinda Rajapaksa as prime minister, sparking a constitutional crisis. The move was ruled unconstitutional by the Supreme Court, and Wickremesinghe was reinstated after 52 days.

Constitutional CrisisPolitical InstabilitySupreme Court

Impact: nationaldestructive

2019 AD

Easter Sunday Bombings ResponsePolitical Action◆ Major

Following the Easter Sunday bombings on April 21, 2019, which killed over 250 people, Sirisena's government faced criticism for intelligence failures. He declared a state of emergency and sought international assistance, but his handling of the crisis was widely condemned.

Terrorist AttackState of EmergencyIntelligence Failure

Impact: nationaltragic