May 14, Colombo (LNW): Investigations into alleged irregularities linked to Sri Lanka’s coal procurement process and coal-powered electricity generation are continuing to gather momentum, with senior officials expected to appear before the Presidential Commission of Inquiry once again today.
Sources connected to the inquiry stated that statements are due to be recorded from the Secretary to the Ministry of Energy and several officials attached to the state power generation sector as investigators seek further clarification on a range of financial and administrative matters.
The probe, launched under the direction of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, is examining alleged misconduct, procedural violations and possible corruption connected to coal imports and electricity production spanning the period from 2009 to the present day.
According to commission officials, statements have already been obtained from representatives of seven different institutions and entities believed to have links to the transactions under scrutiny. Investigators are reportedly focusing on procurement procedures, tender evaluations, pricing mechanisms and compliance with regulatory requirements.
Officials from the Auditor General’s Department were also summoned before the commission yesterday to assist investigators in interpreting several audit observations and financial findings related to previous coal deals.
The Special Presidential Commission of Inquiry was appointed in response to longstanding concerns surrounding transparency in energy-related contracts, particularly amid recurring public criticism over fuel costs, electricity pricing and the financial burden on the state.