Richard de Zoysa, Sri Lankan journalist and author (d. 1990)

Richard Manik de Zoysa: A Voice Silenced Too Soon

Richard Manik de Zoysa, a name that resonates deeply in Sri Lankan history, was a remarkable individual whose multifaceted career left an undeniable impact. Born on March 18, 1958, he was much more than just a public figure; he was a dynamic journalist, a captivating author, a fearless human rights activist, and a talented actor. His contributions spanned various domains, making him a truly well-known personality across the island nation. Richard, whose full name in Tamil is இரிச்சர்ட் டி சோய்சா and in Sinhala is රිචඩ් ද සොයිසා, embodied a spirit of critical inquiry and artistic expression that challenged the status quo.

The Tragic Night of February 18, 1990

The life of this influential Sri Lankan figure was brought to a brutal and untimely end on February 18, 1990. On that fateful day, Richard Manik de Zoysa was abducted, an act that plunged his family and the entire nation into profound grief and fear. His lifeless body was discovered shortly thereafter, confirming the worst fears. This heinous murder did not just claim a life; it sent shockwaves across Sri Lanka, igniting widespread outrage and a demand for justice that echoed from all corners of the country.

Unanswered Questions and Lingering Suspicions

The circumstances surrounding Richard de Zoysa's murder were, and largely remain, deeply troubling and shrouded in controversy. It is widely believed and frequently asserted that his abduction and subsequent killing were not random acts but rather the calculated actions of a death squad. Disturbingly, these clandestine groups were strongly linked to elements operating within the then-government, suggesting a chilling level of official complicity or authorization in silencing a critical voice. This tragic event became a stark symbol of the political turmoil and human rights abuses that characterized Sri Lanka during that period, forever embedding Richard Manik de Zoysa's story into the nation's collective memory as a poignant reminder of the ultimate price paid for truth and dissent.