Appreciations

It is now almost two years since the demise of M.L.M. Aboosally, a rare personality, exemplary politician, advisor, philanthropist and remarkable friend, father and grandfather.

Mr. Aboosally was a dedicated Sri Lankan who served the country for over five decades, working in many different political eras but always remaining true to his ideals. He was never overjoyed nor depressed with either success or defeat.

The nation is yet to see a politician of his calibre. He was the ‘Balangoda Conjurer’ since he won his electoral seat against the then strongest party and represented the electorate for over two decades, without a break. I was a staff member in his office during his ministerial portfolio and am well aware of his devotion to his electorate.

He worked for his electorate day and night - he never had work hours when it came to Balangoda. He was concerned about every nook and corner of his beloved electorate and its people, irrespective of religion or caste and did his best for the upliftment of his electorate.

Mr. Aboosally brought many significant proposals to the Cabinet for the betterment of the nation and some were implemented through his line ministries, departments etc., during his ministerial portfolio of Labour and Vocational Training. In addition, his service rendered to the plantation sector was remarkable, especially for the tea industry. He promoted our tea to the Middle East market in early ’90s where there was a big shortfall in the tea market, joining hands with the late Ranjan Wijeratne, the then Minister of Plantations.

Many proposals were implemented for the betterment of the tea smallholders. Some of the best proposals for the upliftment of all major and minor crops were during his era at the Ministry of Plantation Industries. I was fortunate and privileged to work under him for over five years from 1989. Our office environment under his purview was our home away from home.

He treated everyone the same and was a father and good friend to all in office. Even today, all officials who were fortunate to move with him have great regard for him as an exemplary politician and public official. I had uninterrupted job satisfaction during my tenure of service and no doubt the rest of the staff too.

“He never let his left hand know what his right hand gave,” was very true of Mr. Aboosally and this generosity was not confined to the late minister but to his whole family.

Mr. Aboosally was precious to this country. His vast knowledge cannot be replaced and the loss is irreparable to his family and the whole nation. This is the time our country needs the guidance of a patron like Mr. Aboosally, a fact not realized in his own lifetime by his own own colleagues.

Honourable Sir, on behalf of the nation, I salute you for everything you did for our motherland. May the turf lie gently over you and may Almighty Allah grant you Janathul Firdous.

The country misses a man like him