Mahinda Rajapaksa: Biography, Political Career, Presidency, and Latest News
Mahinda Rajapaksa is a well-known political figure in Sri Lanka who served as the country's president from 2005 to 2015. During his time in office, Sri Lanka experienced major political changes, the end of its long civil war, and significant debates about economic development, governance, and human rights.
Even after leaving the presidency, Rajapaksa remained an influential figure in Sri Lankan politics. His political journey reflects both the achievements and the controversies that have shaped the country's recent history.
Who Is Mahinda Rajapaksa?
Mahinda Rajapaksa was born on November 18, 1945, in Weeraketiya, Sri Lanka. He comes from a family with a long history in politics.
He entered Parliament in 1970 at the age of 24, beginning a political career that would eventually take him to the country's highest office. Over the years, he served in several government positions before becoming president in 2005.
Rajapaksa is also a lawyer by profession and has been associated with the Sri Lanka Freedom Party and, later, the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP).
Mahinda Rajapaksa's Rise in Politics
Rajapaksa began his parliamentary career at a young age. After losing his parliamentary seat in 1977, he returned to Parliament in 1989 and gradually became a prominent national political figure.
He served as a cabinet minister and later became prime minister in 2004. In 2005, he won the presidential election and began his first term as president.
His political appeal was built partly around nationalism, rural communities, and promises of peace and development.
Presidency and the End of the Civil War
One of the most significant events during Rajapaksa's presidency was the end of Sri Lanka's civil war in May 2009. Government forces defeated the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), bringing an end to a conflict that had lasted for decades.
The end of the war was welcomed by many Sri Lankans who hoped it would bring lasting peace and stability.
However, the final stages of the conflict also attracted international concern over civilian casualties, alleged violations of international humanitarian law, and calls for accountability. These issues remain an important part of discussions about Rajapaksa's presidency.
Rajapaksa won re-election in 2010. His administration also pursued infrastructure projects, including roads, ports, and other development initiatives.
Why Did Mahinda Rajapaksa Lose the 2015 Election?
Despite winning a second presidential term, Rajapaksa lost the 2015 presidential election to Maithripala Sirisena.
Concerns about the concentration of political power, governance, and corruption allegations contributed to public debate during this period. His defeat marked a major change in Sri Lankan politics.
However, Rajapaksa did not leave public life permanently. He returned to Parliament and continued to play a role in national politics.
Return as Prime Minister
Rajapaksa returned to the prime minister's office in 2018 during a political crisis, although that appointment was disputed and ultimately reversed following legal and parliamentary developments.
He became prime minister again in 2019 under the presidency of his brother, Gotabaya Rajapaksa.
During this period, Sri Lanka faced growing economic difficulties, including declining foreign currency reserves, shortages of essential goods, and rising public frustration.
In 2022, widespread protests erupted as the country experienced a severe economic crisis. Rajapaksa resigned as prime minister in May 2022 amid the unrest.
The crisis later led to Gotabaya Rajapaksa leaving the presidency as well.
Controversies and Public Criticism
Mahinda Rajapaksa's political career has been accompanied by continuing debate over governance, public finances, human rights, and the influence of the Rajapaksa family.
Critics have raised concerns about alleged corruption and the concentration of power and accountability for events during the civil war. Supporters, meanwhile, have emphasized the end of the war and infrastructure development during his administration.
It is important to distinguish between established events, allegations, and legal findings when discussing political controversies.
Latest Developments Surrounding Mahinda Rajapaksa
As of October 2026, the Rajapaksa family continues to face scrutiny in Sri Lanka.
In September 2026, Mahinda Rajapaksa's son Namal Rajapaksa was arrested in connection with corruption allegations related to the purchase of Airbus aircraft by SriLankan Airlines. Namal Rajapaksa has denied wrongdoing, and the allegations are subject to legal proceedings.
Separately, the Associated Press reported in October 2026 that Mahinda Rajapaksa's wife, Shiranthi Rajapaksa, had been arrested over allegations concerning charitable donations intended to purchase a medical scanner for a government hospital. The investigation is ongoing.
These developments form part of broader anti-corruption efforts under Sri Lanka's current political leadership. The allegations should not be treated as proof of guilt unless established through the appropriate legal process.
Mahinda Rajapaksa's Political Legacy
Rajapaksa remains a significant and contested figure in Sri Lanka's modern history.
His supporters associate his presidency with the end of the civil war and major infrastructure projects. Critics point to concerns about governance, human rights, and the economic difficulties that became especially visible during the later years of the Rajapaksa family's political influence.
Understanding his legacy requires looking at both the developments that occurred during his leadership and the long-term consequences of the policies pursued by his governments.
Final Thoughts
Mahinda Rajapaksa's journey from a young parliamentarian to president and prime minister reflects the major political changes Sri Lanka has experienced over several decades.
His time in office included the end of the civil war, ambitious development projects, political controversies, and growing economic challenges. His family's continuing presence in public affairs means that the Rajapaksa name remains relevant to discussions about accountability and the future of Sri Lankan politics.
As Sri Lanka continues to address economic and governance challenges, Mahinda Rajapaksa's political record remains an important subject for anyone seeking to understand the country's recent history.
This article is for general informational purposes. Allegations mentioned in the article are not findings of guilt.