Victor Ivan: Trailblazer of Investigative Journalism Away at 75

Victor Ivan, the veteran journalist, political critic, and former Editor of the Ravaya newspaper, has passed away at the age of 75, his family confirmed.

He reportedly died while receiving treatment at a hospital, where he had been admitted for several months due to an illness.

Renowned as a fearless investigative journalist, theorist, and social activist, Ivan played a pivotal role in shaping Sri Lankan journalism. A Marxist rebel in his youth, he later became the founding Editor of Ravaya, a groundbreaking Sinhalese newspaper. He held this position for 25 years, turning the publication into a powerful platform for exposing corruption and political malpractice.

Ivan entered the field of journalism in 1986, during a turbulent era of violent youth insurrections. He launched Ravaya as a monthly magazine, which quickly gained popularity and evolved into a weekly tabloid known for its hard-hitting investigations and commitment to accountability.

As an author, Victor Ivan penned several influential books, including Chaurya Rajina (The Queen of Deceit), which scrutinized Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga’s presidency, and Pansale Viplawaya (Revolt in the Temple), an exploration of the Buddhist revival and its socio-political implications.

Victor Ivan’s passing marks the loss of a journalistic giant whose legacy of truth-seeking and advocacy for justice will continue to inspire generations.