Veteran politician and former Minister Professor Tissa Vitharana has passed away at the age of 91, family members confirmed. He died this morning at his residence in Kotte after a prolonged illness.

A distinguished public servant, Professor Vitharana served as a Member of Parliament, Cabinet Minister, and Provincial Governor. He was the leader of the Lanka Sama Samaja Party (LSSP) and served as Governor of the North Central Province from 2019 to 2020.

Entering politics with the LSSP in 1974, he held various key positions, including Minister of Science and Technology, Minister of Technology and Research, and Senior Minister of Scientific Affairs. Recognized for his contributions to science and technology, he was awarded the Vidya Jyothi title in 2017.

His career included multiple terms as a UPFA National List MP, and he played a significant role in Sri Lanka's political and scientific spheres until his passing.