Shirantha outlines his vision for NOCSL if he wins Presidency

Wednesday, 22 April 2026 00:08 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Vice President Shirantha Peries

By Shamseer Jaleel

Current Vice President Shirantha Peries on Monday outlined his vision to contest the National Olympic Committee of Sri Lanka (NOCSL) presidency, promising a new era of transparency, unity, and stronger governance for Sri Lankan sports.

Launching his campaign at a gathering of sports association members recently he stands at a defining moment and requires leadership built on trust, fairness, and accountability. He stressed that the NOC must function as a credible institution that creates equal opportunities for athletes across every discipline.

A respected businessman and sports administrator, Peries brings over four decades of professional experience. As owner of Mega Pharma Group of Companies, he has built a strong reputation in business leadership and financial discipline.

His sporting journey began at the age of 12 in air rifle shooting and later represented Sri Lanka at the SAF Shooting Games in 2000, winning a team Silver medal and an individual Bronze giving him firsthand experience of international competition and athlete needs.

Peries’ mandate focuses on building a NOC that is united in purpose, transparent in operation, and fair in opportunity. His key proposals include quarterly visibility of decisions, an open-book approach to funding and sponsorships, merit-based eligibility systems, stronger athlete protection, and structured development pathways for athletes and coaches.

He has also proposed a formal feedback mechanism at Olympic House, clearer accountability through defined responsibilities, and closer collaboration with the Sports Ministry and the Government. He believes stronger systems—not just talent—will drive long-term sporting success.

Shirantha said, “Sri Lankan sport does not lack talent. It lacks a system that brings that talent together,” adding that his goal is to create an NOC that operates with integrity and delivers results the entire country can stand behind. With elections scheduled for 25 April, Peries has positioned himself as a reform-focused candidate aiming for lasting impact.

Pic by Lasantha Kumara