Wasantha Samarasinghe is a Sri Lankan politician,trade union leader,and activist,known for his prominent roles in student politics,parliamentary representation,and labor movement advocacy. He currently serves as the Minister of Trade,Commerce,Food Security and Cooperative Development,having assumed office on 18 November 2024 under the National People's Power (NPP) government. [1] [2]
Samarasinghe completed his Advanced Level studies at Thambuththegama Central College before entering the University of Kelaniya in 1996. He graduated with a special degree in Business Management Accounting.
During his university years,Samarasinghe was a notable student leader. He served as:
In 2004,Samarasinghe was elected to the Sri Lankan Parliament representing the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP). During his tenure,he was an active member of the Parliamentary Accounts Committee. He also served as a member of the North Central Provincial Council.
In 2024,Samarasinghe was re-elected to Parliament,securing the highest number of preferential votes from the Anuradhapura District. [3]
Samarasinghe has been a prominent figure in Sri Lanka's trade union movement,holding key leadership positions:
He is the convener of the Anti-Corruption Voice Organization,focusing on exposing corruption in government administrations.