“Wijesoma, more independent in his political outlook, and far closer to the much larger community he addresses each day, is therefore the fiercer fighter (than Collett) in attacking and ridiculing what he detests or dislikes, and indirectly in defending whatever deserves and needs to be preserved and protected. As a colleague and editor, I watched him at work and admired the professional and respected the man.” Mervyn de Silva

W.R. Wijesoma was one of Sri Lanka’s most celebrated political cartoonists, known for his sharp wit, bold lines, and fearless commentary on the country’s turbulent political landscape. He became a household name through his iconic editorial cartoons, which appeared in prominent newspapers such as The Observer, The Daily News, and later The Island. His work offered biting critiques of politicians, social issues, and bureaucracy, becoming a powerful mirror to Sri Lankan society during periods of change, conflict, and corruption.

What set Wijesoma apart was his ability to blend humour with hard-hitting political critique. He had a distinctive drawing style — strong, expressive ink lines, minimalist shading, and exaggerated facial features — that allowed readers to instantly recognise his cartoons. Despite the often grim subject matter, his illustrations never lost their sense of satire and intelligence. He portrayed political leaders with unmistakable character traits, offering subtle and sometimes scathing commentary without resorting to vulgarity or personal attacks, earning both the respect and ire of the political elite. Punchi Singho, Wijesoma himself personified in cartoon form, is an immortal symbol for the common man and his plight in Sri Lankan political art.

Throughout his career, Wijesoma remained fiercely independent, never aligning himself too closely with any political faction. This neutrality granted him a rare degree of credibility in the media landscape. His cartoon series often focused on the everyday struggles of the common man, showing empathy for the public while holding those in power accountable. He had an uncanny ability to distil complex political events into single-frame visuals that were both accessible and thought-provoking, making his work a vital part of public discourse.

His legacy continues to influence generations of Sri Lankan cartoonists and visual commentators. Beyond the humour and satire, his work served as a visual record of the country’s political and social evolution. His cartoons have been archived, studied, and exhibited, affirming their lasting significance in Sri Lankan visual culture. As a chronicler of the nation’s conscience, Wijesoma remains a towering figure in the history of Sri Lankan journalism and cartoon art.