‘coal scam’ in sri lanka Heat: Resignation of Energy Minister Kumar Jayakody, first major blow to NPP government

Sri Lanka Energy Minister Kumar Jayakody Resigns: Sri Lanka’s National People’s Power (NPP) government, which came to power on the promise of corruption-free governance, has suffered its first major political setback. The country’s Power and Energy Minister Kumar Jayakody has resigned from his post. Along with him, Ministry Secretary Udayanaga Hemapala has also stepped down. This development has come to light after allegations of alleged irregularities and corruption in coal imports.

Left the post for impartial investigation

According to the Presidential Media Division (PMD), Minister Jayakody has taken this step to ensure an independent and impartial investigation into matters related to coal imports. This resignation came at a time when the President Anura Kumara Dissanayake set up a ‘Special Presidential Inquiry Commission’ Announced the formation of. This commission ‘Lanka Coal Limited’ There will be a detailed investigation of the coal imports made by the Central Government from the last several decades till 16 April 2026.

What is the whole controversy?

The opposition alleges that the government has committed huge irregularities in the process of coal import and has caused huge financial loss to the exchequer by purchasing poor quality coal. Only last week, a ‘no-confidence motion’ was passed in the Parliament against Kumar Jayakody. Which was brought down by the government with its overwhelming majority (153-49). However, despite winning the no-confidence motion, the minister thought it best to step down to save his anti-corruption image.

Government’s defense and 6 month deadline

Foreign Minister Vijita Herath clarified that these resignations have been given only so that there is no interference of any kind in the investigation process. He claimed that despite the opposition’s allegations, there was no loss to the government exchequer. The commission has been given six months to submit its report.

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Minister Bimal Ratnayake also defended Jayakody, saying that even if there was any loss, it would be borne by him. electricity consumers But will not be put. This resignation is also important because Kumar Jayakody has also been accused of bribery during his previous tenure (State Fertilizer Corporation), although he and his party have been claiming commitment to anti-corruption principles.