Autobiography of President's Counsel Upul Jayasuriya launched in Colombo

Exemplary moral courage under pressure

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The autobiography of President's Counsel Upul Jayasuriya was launched in Colombo recently at a grand ceremony, where the first copy of the book was presented to his schoolteacher, Mr. S.D. Liyanage, in a gesture that reflected the author's deep respect for the mentors who shaped his early life.

The event drew a distinguished gathering, including a large number of judges, President's Counsel, and senior lawyers. Former Presidents Ranil Wickremesinghe and Maithripala Sirisena, Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa, Deputy Minister Sunil Watagala, and former Speaker Karu Jayasuriya were among the notable attendees.

Upul Jayasuriya’s early life and education form a significant portion of the autobiography. He entered Royal Primary in 1960 and later joined Royal College.

Speaking at the event, former Attorney General Palitha Fernando, PC, reminisced about his school days with the author and revealed that Upul’s determination to pursue a legal career had inspired him to enter the legal field and later join the Attorney General’s Department.

Called to the Bar in 1976 at the age of 21, Jayasuriya became the youngest Attorney-at-Law of his time. He began his career at the Attorney General’s Department and was later called to assist in drafting the Greater Colombo Economic Commission Bill.