Special Report by Dominic
Power and Energy Minister Kumara Jayakody has been asked to resign from his cabinet position amid serious allegations, informed sources reveal.
Jayakody, a close personal friend of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, played a crucial role in the President’s victory in the September 2024 Presidential election and the subsequent Parliamentary elections. His political contribution led to his appointment as Power and Energy Minister despite significant reservations within party circles at the time.
The coal tender controversy has created deep internal conflict within a government that campaigned on promises of transparent governance and a corruption-free administration. The scandal has reportedly placed immense pressure on the administration’s credibility and reform credentials.
Sources indicate Jayakody is expected to resign imminently, following a pattern similar to former Speaker Asoka Ranwala’s departure in 2024. President Dissanayake initially defended Jayakody unconditionally, but mounting pressure has reached a critical point where resignation or dismissal has become unavoidable.
The situation represents a significant political setback for the President, who must now balance loyalty to a key political ally against the government’s stated commitment to accountability and clean governance.
The Power and Energy Ministry oversees strategically vital sectors including electricity generation, distribution, and fuel procurement. The ministry’s importance makes the controversy particularly damaging to government credibility.
Political observers note that the forced departure of another close presidential ally raises questions about vetting processes for ministerial appointments and the government’s ability to maintain ethical standards while rewarding political loyalists.