Former President CBK opens up on juggling leadership with motherhood

In a candid discussion, Kumaratunga revealed the considerable toll that her tenure as President took on her personal finances and family life. The former leader disclosed that she worked extended hours—sometimes up to 15 hours daily—while managing her role as a mother, a balancing act that required difficult personal choices.

Kumaratunga's comments underscore the pressures faced by women in high-ranking political positions, particularly in contexts where institutional support systems for working parents remain limited. Her willingness to speak openly about these challenges comes at a time when questions surrounding work-life balance in senior government roles remain relevant across the region.

The former President's reflections highlight broader discussions about the personal costs of public service, particularly for women leaders navigating complex domestic and professional responsibilities simultaneously. Her experience provides insight into the sacrifices that often accompany executive office, extending beyond the political sphere into family matters and financial stability.