In a scathing attack on the current administration, Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) National Organizer Namal Rajapaksa has alleged that a powerful coal and diesel mafia is operating from within the government itself, manipulating the energy sector for personal gain.
Speaking on the Hiru Balaya program, Rajapaksa claimed that soon after coming to power, the government deliberately scrapped renewable energy initiatives, including investments in solar power. “Even solar panels that were installed in temples weren’t connected to the national grid,” he said.
He further accused the authorities of intentionally sidelining hydropower due to its limited profitability and pivoting instead to expensive diesel-generated electricity. “They stopped balancing the grid with hydropower and flipped the switch to diesel. This is electricity produced at a higher cost, and it’s the people who are footing the bill,” he charged.
Rajapaksa also dismissed government claims that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) was to blame for the recent electricity tariff hikes. “Don’t pin this on the IMF. The government is burning coal and diesel to serve the interests of a select group,” he said.
Taking aim at top-level decision-makers, he accused a recently resigned chairman who also happens to be a private sector electricity entrepreneur of conflict of interest. “He’s making decisions to benefit his own business, not the public,” Rajapaksa alleged.
These explosive comments come as public outrage mounts over electricity hikes and suspected backdoor dealings in the energy sector, further deepening concerns over corruption and political cronyism within Sri Lanka’s power structure.
