The fifth Executive President of Sri Lanka,  Mahinda Rajapaksa, former Prime Minister, Leader of the Opposition, Member of Parliament, lawyer, human rights activist and trade unionist - comes from a family with a long tradition in people-oriented politics.

President Rajapaksa was born on November 18, 1945 as the second son of the late Hon. D. A. Rajapaksa in Weeraketiya in the Southern province.

He succeeded his father D.A Rajapaksa to Sri Lanka's Parliament in 1970, showing the strong influence that his family has had for decades in Sri Lanka's southern Hambantota District.

He was recognised as the national leader who liberated the country from the clutches of the LTTE and set the country on the path to peace, stronger democracy, and rapid economic development.

The Government Information Department wishes you, Your Excellency   a Happy Birthday. May the Triple Gem Bless You. (KH)