K. N. Choksy, Sri Lankan lawyer and politician, Sri Lankan Minister of Finance (d. 2015)
Kairshasp Nariman Choksy, widely known as K. N. Choksy, was a distinguished figure in Sri Lankan public life, serving with distinction as a lawyer, politician, and a long-standing Member of Parliament. Born on 7 February 1933, his impactful career spanned several decades until his passing on 5 February 2015, just two days shy of his 82nd birthday. His legal acumen, coupled with his political dedication, cemented his legacy as a significant contributor to the nation's governance and legal framework.
Before embarking on his illustrious political journey, K. N. Choksy established himself as an eminent legal professional. His designation as a President's Counsel (PC) signifies a pinnacle achievement in the Sri Lankan legal fraternity. The title "President's Counsel" is a prestigious honour bestowed upon senior lawyers in Sri Lanka, similar to the Queen's Counsel (QC) title in other Commonwealth jurisdictions, recognizing exceptional legal expertise, integrity, and contributions to the legal profession. This esteemed background undoubtedly provided him with a profound understanding of constitutional law and governance, which proved invaluable in his subsequent political roles.
A Distinguished Political Career
Parliamentary Service
K. N. Choksy enjoyed a remarkably long and continuous tenure as a Member of Parliament, representing the United National Party (UNP) from 1989 until 2010. This extensive period of over two decades in the national legislature allowed him to witness and participate in significant historical and political transformations within Sri Lanka, consistently contributing to policy debates and legislative processes.
Key Ministerial Portfolios
Cabinet Minister of Finance (2001-2004): Under the premiership of Ranil Wickremesinghe, K. N. Choksy held the crucial portfolio of Cabinet Minister of Finance. His tenure as Finance Minister coincided with a challenging yet hopeful period in Sri Lanka, marked by efforts towards economic liberalization, fiscal consolidation, and an unprecedented ceasefire agreement in the country's civil conflict. He was instrumental in steering the nation's economy through a phase of reform, focusing on prudent fiscal management and attracting foreign investment to foster economic growth and stability.
Cabinet Minister of Constitutional & State Affairs (1993-1994): Earlier in his career, from 1993 to 1994, Choksy served as the Cabinet Minister of Constitutional & State Affairs under President D. B. Wijetunga. This role was particularly significant given the political landscape of the time, following the assassination of President Ranasinghe Premadasa. In this capacity, he was responsible for overseeing critical aspects of governance, state administration, and ensuring constitutional propriety, contributing to the stability and functioning of the government during a delicate transitional phase.
Frequently Asked Questions about K. N. Choksy
- Who was K. N. Choksy?
- Kairshasp Nariman Choksy, known as K. N. Choksy, was a highly respected Sri Lankan lawyer and politician. He notably served as a Cabinet Minister of Finance and a long-standing Member of Parliament.
- What does "PC" stand for in K. N. Choksy's name?
- "PC" stands for President's Counsel, a prestigious title conferred upon senior legal practitioners in Sri Lanka, recognizing their eminence and contributions to the legal field.
- Which ministerial roles did K. N. Choksy hold?
- K. N. Choksy served as the Cabinet Minister of Finance under Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe (2001-2004) and as the Cabinet Minister of Constitutional & State Affairs under President D. B. Wijetunga (1993-1994).
- For how long did K. N. Choksy serve as a Member of Parliament?
- K. N. Choksy served continuously as a Member of Parliament from 1989 to 2010, marking over two decades of dedicated parliamentary service.