Prominent Sri Lankan business leader and Western Province Governor Hanif Yusoof has announced his intention to resign from the Governor position , citing the growing challenges of balancing high-level public duties with his role as the President’s Special Envoy for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and family commitments.
In a media release issued today and shared on his official accounts, Governor Yusoof clarified recent speculation about his position. He revealed that he had informed President Anura Kumara Dissanayake of his desire to step down some time ago.
“I wish to clarify recent media speculation regarding my position as Governor,” the statement reads. “Some time ago, I conveyed to His Excellency the President my desire to step down from the role, given the increasing challenge of balancing the responsibilities of public office as Governor, the additional responsibilities of serving as His Excellency’s Special Envoy for Foreign Direct Investment, and my family obligations.”
Yusoof emphasized that he will continue serving until a suitable successor is appointed to ensure a smooth and orderly transition, at the President’s request. After stepping down, he plans to focus on his voluntary honorary role as Special Envoy, leveraging his international networks to attract investment and support Sri Lanka’s economic development.
A highly respected entrepreneur, Hanif Yusoof is the co-founder and former CEO of Expolanka Holdings PLC, one of Sri Lanka’s leading logistics and export powerhouses. Born in 1958 in Kollupitiya to Gujarati-origin parents, he built a significant business legacy before being appointed Governor of the Western Province in September 2024. His appointment brought private-sector expertise into public administration amid the country’s push for economic recovery.
The move comes amid ongoing discussions about balancing business acumen with public service. Reactions have been mixed, with some praising his focus on FDI as crucial for Sri Lanka’s growth, while others note the demands of provincial governance in the economically vital Western Province, which includes Colombo.
No successor has been named yet. President Dissanayake’s office has not issued an immediate comment beyond the reported request for a transitional period. Yusoof concluded his statement by reaffirming his unwavering commitment to the nation: “My commitment to serving our nation remains unwavering, and I remain deeply appreciative of the confidence and trust placed in me by His Excellency the President.”
