Today marks the 73rd anniversary of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP), a significant milestone for the political party founded on this day in 1951 by S.W.R.D. Bandaranaike. Known for its centrist stance, the SLFP has played a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s political landscape.
Five years after its inception, the SLFP, with support from the Mahajana Eksath Peramuna, emerged as a formidable force. In 1956, S.W.R.D. Bandaranaike became the fourth Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, uniting key societal groups including doctors, teachers, farmers, and workers. His tenure was marked by the nationalization of businesses and economic centers previously under multinational control and the establishment of Sinhala as the official language.
Over the decades, the SLFP and its allied left-wing parties have governed Sri Lanka for more than 30 years. Following the introduction of the executive presidential system, the SLFP produced two presidents who collectively held office for 21 years. The party also led the nation in abolishing Dominion status and establishing Sri Lanka as a republic.
Notably, the SLFP was led for 41 years by Sirimavo Bandaranaike, the world’s first female Prime Minister, further cementing its enduring legacy in Sri Lankan politics.
