A commemorative event to celebrate the 100th birth anniversary of the esteemed former Finance Minister, late M. M. Mustapha, was held on Friday, July 26, at the Sri Lanka Foundation Institute.
Organised by the M. M. Mustapha Foundation, the event was graced by the chief guest, Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena.
- M. Mustapha’s remarkable political career began in 1956 when he entered Parliament representing the Pottuvil electorate. He made history in 1959 by becoming the first Muslim Finance Minister. He also served as the Deputy Minister of Social Services in 1965 and the Deputy Minister of Justice in 1976, earning widespread respect for his dedication and leadership both within Parliament and in his constituency. To commemorate his 100th birth anniversary, the Philatelic Bureau issued a stamp and first day cover. The new stamp and first day cover was cancelled by the Postmaster General. Transport, Highways and Mass Media Minister Dr. Bandula Gunawardhana handed over the first day cover and stamp to Prime Minister Gunawardena.
Additionally, the event featured the launch of a book titled ‘Remembering the Legacy’ which chronicles M. M. Mustapha’s
The first copy of the book ‘Remembering the Legacy’ was presented to the Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena by Mustapha’s family members.
life and achievements. The first copy of the book was presented to the Prime Minister by Mustapha’s family members. This book offers a detailed account of his career as a politician, including key excerpts from his notable Parliamentary speeches.
Guests at the event included Foreign Minister Ali Sabry, former Justice Minister Dr. Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe, and Supreme Court Judge A.H.M.D Nawaz, who delivered speeches in honour of Mustapha. The vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. Shehan Mustapha, grandson of the late M. M. Mustapha.
Other VIP attendees included Minister Pavithra Wanniarachchi, MPs Vajira Abeywardena, Rauff Hakeem and Rishad Bathiudeen, President’s Secretary Saman Ekanayake, and Prime Minister’s Secretary Anura Dissanayake.
The event was a fitting tribute to a leader who made significant contributions to Sri Lanka’s political and social landscape.
