The final rites of former Minister Mahinda Wijesekera will be performed on Saturday (04).

Former Minister Wijesekera, a prominent political figure from the Southern Province, passed away this morning (April 2) at the age of 83.

Former Minister Wijesekera’s final rites will be held at the Matara crematorium at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, according to his son, former Minister Kanchana Wijesekera.

The remains of late Wijesekera will be placed at the family residence in Matara tomorrow (April 3) afternoon.

Former Minister Wijesekera endured long-term health complications after being injured in a suicide bomb attack by the LTTE terrorists in Godapitiya, Matara in 2009. Despite his injuries, he continued to serve in public life until his passing.

Wijesekera’s death marks the end of an era in Southern politics, with colleagues and constituents mourning the loss of a dedicated statesman.

During his political career, Mahinda Wijesekara held several ministerial portfolios, including Minister of Postal and Telecommunication Services in 2008 and Minister of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources from 2001 to 2004.

He served as a Member of Parliament for over two decades, representing the People’s Alliance, the United National Party and the United People’s Freedom Alliance.