Minister of Energy Kumar Jayakody and Secretary to the Ministry of Power Udayanga Hemapala Resign

20-Apr-2026

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Minister of Energy Kumar Jayakody and Secretary to the Ministry of Power Udayanga Hemapala have tendered their resignations to the President, stating that they wish to facilitate an impartial and independent investigation to be conducted by a Special Presidential Commission of Inquiry into the coal import process.

A Special Presidential Commission of Inquiry was appointed by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake on April 17 to examine whether irregularities or unlawful activities had taken place in coal imports and coal-based power generation.

The Minister and the Secretary stated that they were stepping down to ensure that the inquiry proceeds without any interference and in a fully impartial manner.

In his resignation letter submitted to the President, Minister Kumar Jayakody noted:

“I commend the decision taken to appoint a Special Presidential Commission of Inquiry into coal supply and the complaint filed by the Presidential Secretary with the Criminal Investigation Department seeking a formal investigation into coal imports since 2009. This reflects the President’s strong commitment to combating corruption and safeguarding the people’s mandate.”

He further stated that the inquiry must be conducted independently and without bias, and that continuing in office during the investigation could be perceived as an impediment. Accordingly, he has decided to resign with immediate effect.

Similarly, Secretary to the Ministry of Power, Professor Udayanga Hemapala, stated in his resignation letter that, in order to avoid any obstruction to the inquiry and to safeguard its independence, it was appropriate for him to step down from his post.