Colombo: Harini Amarasuriya was sworn in as the new Prime Minister of Sri Lanka on Tuesday, making history as the first woman to hold the position since Sirimavo Bandaranaike in 2000. The 54-year-old leader of the National People's Power (NPP) took her oath from President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, who also appointed a cabinet of four members, including himself.

Amarasuriya has been entrusted with several key portfolios, including Justice, Education, Labour, Industries, Science and Technology, Health, and Investment. She takes over from Dinesh Gunawardena, who resigned after the recent presidential election.

A rights activist and university lecturer, Amarasuriya's appointment is not only a significant step for gender representation in Sri Lankan politics but also highlights her commitment to social justice and educational reform. She is the third female Prime Minister in the country’s history and the first since Bandaranaike, who last held office in 1994.

Alongside Amarasuriya, NPP parliamentarians Vijitha Herath and Laxman Nipunarachchi were also sworn in as cabinet ministers. This caretaker cabinet will operate until the impending dissolution of parliament, which will pave the way for a snap parliamentary election expected to take place in late November.

Her wide-ranging responsibilities reflect the government's dedication to tackling critical issues in the nation, including education and healthcare improvements. Dissanayake, aged 56, was sworn in as the ninth president of Sri Lanka just days prior, following his election victory.

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