Opposition Leader alleges Serious Allegations of Corruption in Emergency Coal Procurement

16-Apr-2026
.

Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has alleged serious irregularities in the emergency procurement of coal and called for a transparent investigation into the matter.

He stated that reports regarding corruption in coal procurement have been emerging continuously and that the company selected by the government lacked the required capacity and qualifications to supply coal.

He further noted that relaxed procurement criteria had led to unqualified companies being eligible, and that the coal supplied was of substandard quality, as confirmed by power plant reports.

He also pointed out that delays in supply forced the government to resort to emergency procurement, during which, he alleged, proper procedures were still not followed.

Premadasa called for a transparent and accountable investigation and stated that responsible parties must be held accountable. He further warned that future procurement processes must ensure strict transparency to prevent corruption.