Sri Lanka mourns the loss of one of its most influential journalists, Victor Ivan, who passed away on January 19, 2025, at the age of 75. Renowned for his fearless approach to journalism and unwavering commitment to justice, Ivan’s passing marks the end of an era in Sri Lankan media and activism.

Born on June 26, 1949, Victor Ivan started his journey as a Marxist activist, a chapter of his life that greatly influenced his later work. This fiery passion for change carried over into his journalism, where he became a relentless voice for accountability and fairness. He was best known as the founder and editor of Ravaya, a Sinhala-language newspaper that fearlessly tackled political corruption and social issues.

For 25 years, Ivan led Ravaya, turning it into a platform that spoke truth to power. The paper became a symbol of investigative journalism, uncovering stories that others hesitated to touch. Ivan’s work often ruffled feathers, but his commitment to exposing injustice never wavered.

Beyond his role as a journalist, Victor Ivan was also a writer and thinker. He authored several books, exploring Sri Lankan politics, society, and the need for systemic reform. His work extended beyond words, as he actively engaged with people to promote social change.

Ivan’s courage and determination earned him admiration across Sri Lanka and beyond. He wasn’t afraid to stand up to authority or to challenge the status quo. He believed in the power of journalism to not only inform but also transform society.

As Sri Lanka mourns this loss, many will remember Victor Ivan not just for his work, but for his principles. He stood for honesty, integrity, and the belief that a free press is essential for a just society.

Victor Ivan’s passing is a profound loss, but his legacy will live on. His work will continue to inspire future generations of journalists to be bold, to ask difficult questions, and to fight for the truth, no matter the cost.