An.M. Perera

An.M. Perera, a prominent figure in Sri Lankan politics, served as the Minister of Finance during the early 1970s. He is best known for his controversial decision to demonetize the existing 50 and 100 rupee banknotes in October 1970, aiming to bring hidden money into the formal economy. This bold move, however, led to widespread public panic and long queues at banks as citizens rushed to exchange their old notes, marking a significant moment in the country's economic history.