Introduction: Explore the extraordinary leadership qualities of Field Marshal Sarath Fonseka, a distinguished Sri Lankan military leader acclaimed for his courageous efforts in the Eelam War, ultimately leading to the defeat of the Tamil Tigers terrorist group. Content: Field Marshal Sarath Fonseka stands as a paragon of leadership in the annals of Sri Lankan military history, demonstrating remarkable qualities that contributed significantly to the successful resolution of the Eelam War. This analysis delves into the key leadership traits exhibited by Fonseka during this pivotal period. Strategic Vision: Fonseka's leadership was characterized by a profound strategic vision that enabled him to navigate complex military landscapes. His ability to foresee potential challenges and devise comprehensive plans played a crucial role in the ultimate victory over the Tamil Tigers. Fearless Commitment: Undeterred by the formidable nature of the conflict, Fonseka showcased unparalleled fearlessness in his commitment to protecting the nation. His unwavering dedication to the cause became a source of inspiration for the troops under his command. Tactical Acumen: Field Marshal Fonseka's tactical acumen was instrumental in outmaneuvering the Tamil Tigers. His strategic thinking, coupled with an in-depth understanding of military operations, allowed for the formulation of effective and dynamic plans to counter the insurgency. Adaptive Leadership: In the face of evolving challenges, Fonseka displayed exceptional adaptability. His leadership style evolved to meet the changing dynamics of the conflict, demonstrating a capacity to adjust strategies and tactics as required. Inspirational Leadership: Fonseka's ability to inspire and motivate his troops played a pivotal role in boosting morale during challenging times. His charismatic leadership fostered a sense of unity and determination among the military forces, contributing significantly to the overall success of the campaign. Conclusion: Field Marshal Sarath Fonseka's leadership during the Eelam War exemplifies a combination of strategic foresight, fearless commitment, tactical acumen, adaptive leadership, and inspirational guidance. This analysis sheds light on the exceptional qualities that make him a noteworthy figure in the realm of military leadership. Field Marshal Sarath Fonseka Sri Lankan military leader Eelam War Tamil Tigers defeat Leadership traits analysis Strategic vision Fearless commitment Tactical acumen Adaptive leadership Inspirational leadership

1. Field Marshal
Sarath Fonseka
LEADERSHIP PRESENTATION

2. To Elaborate character of
Field Marshal Sarath Fonseka
through Leadership traits and
styles
AIM

3. TABLE OF
CONTENTS
03
Introduction
01
02
04
05
Leadership Type
Leadership Traits
Strengths and
Weaknesses
Lessons Learnt

4. INTRODUCTION
01

5. Field Marshal Gardihewa Sarath Chandralal Fonseka is one of
prominent military character in ELARM war that has extended up to
30 years and he is the Sri Lankan Army Commander when Sri
Lankan military forces defeat the LTTE. Today he is retired army
officer and a member of the parliament of Sri Lanka as Politician.
Introduction

6. Leadership Styles
02

7. Democrative and Participative Style
The leader gives
considerable amount of
autonomy and authority to
take part in the decision
making and the leader
applies being participative.

8. Other Leadership styles possessed
Coaching - Experienced persons are selected
Transactional - Rewards and punishments
Bureaucratic - Rules are highly obeyed

9. Leadership Traits
Of Field Marshal Sarath Fonseka
03

10. Self Confidence
Gen. Fonseka is a self assured personality without being bombastic or overbearing, he
instills confidence in his team members. He always states that it is possible for the army
to reach a position of strength not only to achieve its objectives according to a well
conceived plan but also to retain the areas cleared.

11. Trust worthiness
When he in Riviresa operations Genaral Fonseka had to face many accusions on fraud
due to over use of satellite phone. The bill was raised up to 10 million rupees. However
ultimately the court recovered the reason behind this to be ; that the commander had
given his phone to soldiers to contact their parents.(“I Survived To Do My Duty by My
Country”,2009)

12. Confidence
In a television interview Gen. Fonseka once stated that it is his task to eliminated
terrorism as practiced by the LTTE leader while the Sri Lanka Government will resolve
the political problem with a political solution, which statement sows the confidence and
of his mind.

13. High Tolerance For Frustration
The major factor which enabled the LTTE to increase its strength and influence was
because the Government during the earlier periods did not act accordingly and they
were undecided whether “to fight or not to fight”. This gave the terrorists time to
motivate and build a nexus. Gen. Fonseka observed and frustrated that due to the
lack of a strategy to defeat the LTTE areas which were cleared would soon be lost
due to the absence of direction and commitment. However he tolerated that. He
thought that the day would eventually come when he would lead the defeat of the
LTTE. (“Sri Lanka Army Commander General Sarath Fonseka”, n.d.)

14. Passion for the work and people
Extremely passionate for his work and for his country. The commander identified group
members, their interests and attitudes and the way which can use to reach and to best
communicate with and influence them. When the time where he was engaging in
operations he would let his personal phone be given to his subordinate to contact their
families.

15. Emotional intelligence
His staff members and followers always observed his emotions. He always used his
emotions to persuade his followers.

16. Flexibility and adoptability
Considering the behavior of the commander, who changed the structure of the army and
established a clear coordination among different forces such as the army, navy and the
air force to match with the modern and required level of specifications one could say
that Gen. Fonseka was indeed flexible and very much adaptable to new technology and
other. Furthermore he went out for new technology and aircrafts such as M27 to battle
against the terrorist when the terrorist went for air attacks. These can be identified as
evidence of flexibility in his leadership.

17. Locus of control
The commander once said in a television program, “I am confident that once the Tamil
youth in the East see the advantages of peace they will not go back to join the terrorists.
All communication in the East is cooperating with the security forces and the
Government as they can visualize a bright and peaceful future for all
communities.”Hence this would realize Gen. Fonseka to have an internal locus of
control.

18. Courage
He can be identified as a courages person. He had to face many barriers in reaching to
his position but he never gave up his vision and his target of peace to his mother land..

19. Strengths and Weaknesses
04

20. Strengths
He is good public speaker. He can influence people in to his vision
and today he is actively supporting to Sri Lankan government to
overcome vast economy crisis in the country.

21. Weaknesses
He is kind of tempered character. On public media and in the
parliament of Sri Lanka several times he have spoken rashly and
that will be huge impact on his followers and sometimes it may
cause to loose some followers from him.

22. Lessons Learnt
05

23. Lessons Learnt
Field Marshal Sarath Fonseka is one of great leader in our country
and can be made as example for today youngsters to make their
carriers. he is confident character on his own, he have successfully
completed his honourable military service with great achievements
and in Civil life he managed to do Great service to society as
honourable member of parliament and he have ability to influence
government for the beneficial of the country. His Courage,
Dedication and good leadership qualities led him to his successful
life.

24. THANK YOU!