96th Birth Anniversary of Late Dr. A.C.S. Hameed

Dr. A.C.S. Hameed entered Parliamentary politics in March 1960, representing the Akurana Parliament seat, which was later changed to the Harispattuwa electorate.

- By Abdul Ghafoor

He continued to represent Harispattuwa until his death on September 3, 1999, after a short illness, serving 39 years in Parliament, without a break.

In 1977, when the U.N.P. under President J.R. Jayawardene returned to power, Dr. Hameed was appointed as the 1st Minister of Foreign Affairs, whose portfolio was held by the Head of Government until this period.

It was noted that President J.R. Jayawardene rarely intervened on Foreign policy matters, seeking to act through his foreign minister.

President J.R. Jayawardene had implicit faith in Dr. Hameed to do what was right in furthering the interests of the country.

Along with the Foreign Ministry, Dr. Hameed was also made responsible for the Immigration Department for a short period. He made it possible for people to get their Passports without a guarantor, which made it a great convenience for people. Even today, it is practised.