Tab Article

ratings: ★★★★☆ (4.2/5)
Genre: Political Biography, Sri Lankan History, Memoir

Book Review:
B. Sirisena Cooray's ''President Premadasa and I'' is a unique and invaluable contribution to the political history of modern Sri Lanka. Written by a man who was not just a colleague but a close friend and follower of Ranasinghe Premadasa for nearly four decades, this book offers an intimate and deeply personal portrait of one of the country's most controversial and consequential leaders.

The book's greatest strength is its insider perspective. Cooray was not a distant observer; he was a participant in the ''long and difficult journey'' he describes. This allows him to provide insights and anecdotes that would be unavailable to a conventional historian. The reader is given a glimpse into the private man behind the public persona, the nature of their enduring friendship, and the shared experiences that bound them together.

The narrative spans a crucial and turbulent period in Sri Lanka's post-independence history. From Premadasa's rise from humble beginnings to the highest office in the land, through the political upheavals, economic challenges, and the escalating ethnic conflict, Cooray's account is a firsthand witness to history. The book serves as both a personal tribute and a valuable historical record of these events.

The cover photograph, showing the author being photographed by Premadasa himself, is a charming and symbolic image of their reciprocal relationship. It hints at the mutual respect and personal connection that lies at the heart of the book.

For students of Sri Lankan politics, ''President Premadasa and I'' is an essential primary source. It provides a counterpoint to more detached or critical accounts, offering a view from within the inner circle of a powerful and enigmatic leader. It is a testament to a long friendship and a valuable window into a defining era.