Ministry of Energy Rejects Corruption Allegations, Calls Claims a Politically Driven Media Smear Campaign
Political Correspondent
The Ministry of Energy has categorically rejected allegations of corruption in the selection of a new coal supplier, stating that neither the Ministry nor the Energy Minister has engaged in any malpractice whatsoever. Officials insist that claims circulating in sections of the media and on social media platforms are false, misleading, and part of a coordinated mud-slinging operation orchestrated by opposition-linked actors.
According to the Ministry, recent reports alleging that substandard coal shipments are being deliberately imported, causing losses to public funds, are factually incorrect and grossly distorted. The Ministry emphasized that all procurement decisions were taken strictly in accordance with established tender procedures, technical evaluations, and legal frameworks, without political interference.
No Irregularity in Supplier Selection
Responding to accusations that the Indian company Trident Champa was selected through improper means, the Ministry clarified that the supplier was chosen following due process under the prevailing procurement guidelines. Assertions that the company was unfairly classified or favoured are described as baseless fabrications, deliberately designed to mislead the public.
“The Ministry of Energy has not intervened in the technical or commercial evaluation process,” an official statement said. “All decisions were made by relevant procurement committees based on objective criteria. Claims suggesting ministerial manipulation are entirely false.”
The Ministry further rejected insinuations that the supplier was a so-called “novice” entity inserted into the tender process through political influence. Officials stressed that eligibility criteria were applied uniformly, and no experienced bidders were sidelined for improper reasons.
Allegations Linked to Political Motives
The Ministry pointed out that many of the allegations appear to be driven by political interests, particularly by individuals affiliated with opposition parties and notably by a former Energy Minister, who is accused of planting misleading stories to discredit the current administration and the incumbent Energy Minister.
“These attacks are not about public interest or transparency,” the statement said. “They are part of a calculated black operation aimed at undermining the reform agenda of the present government.”
The Ministry described sensational headlines referring to “dirty coal shipments” and “billions in losses” as deliberate exaggerations intended to create public panic, especially during a sensitive period for the national power supply.
Shipping and Monsoon-Related Claims Misrepresented
Addressing concerns about shipping schedules and the monsoon season, the Ministry stated that logistical planning for coal imports is conducted by technical experts with full awareness of seasonal risks. Claims that the country faces an imminent power crisis due to shipping arrangements were dismissed as irresponsible speculation.
“There is no scenario in which the country will be plunged into darkness due to these shipments,” officials said. “Contingency planning has been in place from the outset.”
The Ministry also denied suggestions that shipping methods were chosen to evade taxes or conceal quantities, noting that all imports are subject to customs scrutiny and regulatory oversight.
No Loss to the State
Contrary to allegations that public funds are being sacrificed, the Ministry insisted that no financial loss to the state has occurred. Any contractual safeguards, quality assurance mechanisms, and penalty clauses remain fully enforceable under the agreement.
“The narrative that taxpayers are being forced to absorb losses is false,” the statement said. “Sri Lanka’s interests are protected under the contract, and quality verification processes are firmly in place.”
A Campaign of Disinformation
The Ministry characterized the entire controversy as a deliberate disinformation campaign, amplified by politically aligned media outlets and social media activists, aimed at portraying the Energy Ministry as corrupt without evidence.
“This is not investigative journalism; it is political propaganda,” the statement added. “The public should be cautious of unverified claims designed to erode confidence in state institutions.”
Reaffirming its commitment to transparency and accountability, the Ministry of Energy stated that it remains open to scrutiny through lawful and institutional mechanisms. However, it warned that false allegations, politically motivated attacks, and media black operations will not derail the government’s mandate to stabilize the energy sector and ensure uninterrupted power supply to the country.
“The Ministry will not govern by social media accusations,” the statement concluded. “We will govern by law, evidence, and responsibility.”