An immediate investigation must be launched into the chairman of the opposition-linked coal company, as resignation does not absolve him of responsibility, said Pubudu Jayagoda, Education Secretary of the Front Line Socialist Party (FLSP).

Speaking to the media in Nugegoda today, Jayagoda alleged serious irregularities in the awarding of a coal tender, claiming the government bypassed national procurement guidelines by granting only three weeks for tender applications instead of the required six. He said this allegedly gave an unfair advantage to pre-selected parties.

“The government claims it was an emergency, but they have not explained what that emergency was,” Jayagoda said. He warned that the tender’s delay—from the usual February–March period to August—could push the first coal shipment to November, potentially creating a shortage.

“This delay could force Sri Lanka to buy coal at higher prices, which will affect electricity consumers. If rains fail in October or November, power cuts are likely,” he cautioned.

Jayagoda also suggested that the delay could benefit private diesel power plant operators and alleged that the tender was being steered toward Panacape, linked to businessman Ruwan Fernando, who previously served as Hilton chairman and was associated with the controversial Maylin company.

“This is not only a matter of corruption but also a betrayal of political ethics,” he said. “The government is prioritising the interests of one individual over the needs of the people, putting the country’s entire electricity system at risk. Authorities must immediately clarify this issue.”