March 31, LNW (Colombo): Namal Rajapaksa, National Organiser of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), has called on the country’s accused Energy Minister to step down without delay, insisting that such action should not depend on pressure from the opposition.
Addressing the media in Colombo, he emphasized that accountability must be upheld, particularly since the government has already acknowledged certain irregularities.
He claimed that ministers had admitted to importing low-cost coal, but cautioned that any financial losses resulting from the deal would ultimately be passed on to the public. He questioned the fairness of the situation, noting that while the government promotes the coal as inexpensive, the burden would fall on ordinary citizens.
Referring to earlier assurances by the ruling party that none of its members were involved in corruption, Rajapaksa pointed out that the indictment of the Energy Minister contradicts those claims. He stressed that under such circumstances, the minister should resign voluntarily rather than waiting for opposition demands.
Rajapaksa also commented on the broader political environment, highlighting the role of various leaders in shaping the country’s future. He mentioned figures such as Sajith Premadasa, Ranil Wickremesinghe, and Anura Kumara Dissanayake as key contributors to the evolving political landscape.
He further stressed the importance of maintaining a balance between experienced politicians and emerging young leaders. According to him, sidelining senior figures would be a mistake, and the country should instead focus on learning from past shortcomings while moving forward with modernization.