The President truly connects with everyday people, staying down-to- earth and relatable-by Dr Harold Gunatillake
The president recently visited Nanu Oya and was warmly welcomed by the plantation workers, who greeted him with genuine kindness. Pic. courtesy ADA derana
Carefully selected by Dr. Harold Gunatillake to support Sri Lankans everywhere around the world.
Image Source:Themorning
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake (AKD) had a lovely moment connecting with the hardworking tea estate workers during his visit to the Nuwara Eliya district on February 11, 2026.
His unexpected visit to a charming tea estate during his journey to Nuwara Eliya highlighted his humble, approachable leadership style.
Notably, President Dissanayake chose to forgo the usual formalities and adopted a more sincere, down-to-earth approach. This allowed him to connect directly with the workers and truly listen to their voices. The community warmly appreciated this gesture, which showcased his genuine commitment to understanding and tackling the real challenges faced by everyday people.
The President took a moment to visit the Talawakelle Mattakele Estate and the Nanu Oya–Radella road, where he personally spoke with tea pluckers and plantation workers about their daily struggles and well-being.
This heartfelt gesture stood out among those of previous Presidents and Ministers, demonstrating a sincere bond with the community.
As he stepped out of his vehicle, the tea pluckers warmly welcomed him with cheerful greetings. He gladly took a moment to shake hands and share friendly smiles, making the moment feel even more inviting.
This touching moment underscores the President’s genuine effort to connect with everyday people and better understand their experiences.
His visit is likely to lift the spirits of tea plantation workers and draw greater attention to the vital role of Sri Lanka’s tea industry.
Workers are pleased with their recent raise to Rs. 1,750 per day, which they see as a significant step forward following the 2026 budget proposal.
Based on reports from the workers and the President’s Media Division, AKD is warmly appreciated as the only President who has personally visited the estates. He genuinely took the time to examine the workers’ living conditions and real-world concerns, demonstrating a heartfelt commitment rather than merely overseeing policies from a distance.
During his trip, he had the wonderful opportunity to inaugurate the Central Province segment of the inspiring “Nation United” campaign. This heartfelt initiative is all about fighting against illicit drugs, a serious social issue that profoundly impacts the up- country community. It was a meaningful and memorable event that highlighted the importance of coming together to address such vital issues.
Though past presidents, such as Ranil Wickremesinghe in 2024, have visited Nuwara Eliya and its beautiful tea estates, AKD’s visit in February 2026 feels particularly special. It truly highlights his
commitment to connecting with the local community. His relaxed, heartfelt conversations with the hardworking staff reveal his friendly, genuine bond with the people there.
During AKD’s visit to Nuwara Eliya in November 2025, the Daily Mirror highlighted that former presidents had access to unlimited perks and privileges. For instance, they could enjoy fresh organic vegetables grown right in Nuwara Eliya, on land belonging to the President’s House, for their personal use.
The President said, “I refused the organic vegetables grown in Nuwara Eliya, especially for the President”.
He mentioned that the Presidential Secretariat receives two 60-kg bags of vegetables every Friday from Nuwara Eliya. I was pleased to learn that organic vegetables are shipped from Nuwara Eliya weekly. I kindly requested that they use these fresh vegetables to prepare food for the security officials,
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Dr.Harold Gunatillake
