Coal Crisis: ‘Neither the Tender Procedure nor the Specifications Were Changed’ – Minister of Power and Energy
“We acted in accordance with the 2023 specifications and the established tender procedure. Neither the tender process nor the specifications were changed. If any special issue arises regarding the quality of coal, the actions to be taken are already provided for within the tender and procurement process. We acted strictly in line with those provisions.”
Minister of Power and Energy, Engineer Kumara Jayakody, emphasised that coal imports were carried out in accordance with the 2023 specification-based tender procedure.
He made these remarks while addressing Parliament today (03) on the issue relating to imported coal.
The Minister urged the opposition to refrain from spreading irresponsible and false information within society.
He reiterated that neither the tender procedure nor the technical specifications were altered during the coal import process, and that if any exceptional concerns arose regarding coal quality, the appropriate corrective measures—clearly stipulated within the tender and procurement framework—were duly followed.
Furthermore, the Minister stated that the tender process includes internationally recognised mechanisms for resolving any issues that may arise in relation to coal supply or quality. As these procedures have been adhered to, he requested opposition Members of Parliament to avoid making misleading or unfounded statements.
Elaborating further, the Minister said:
“Under the previous regime, a company with close family connections to those in power supplied coal without any tender process, using those relationships. This time, although that company also participated in the tender, it failed to secure the contract. Some are now speaking on their behalf.
In the event of an urgent requirement, Cabinet approval has already been granted for the procurement of coal. Even if such an emergency purchase is made, it will not result in a loss. At present, six coal shipments have arrived at the port. While there are some differences in the first and third consignments, the remaining shipments meet the required standards.”