The Ceylon Electricity Board Engineers Union has slammed the government’s chaotic restructuring process, warning it could cripple the power sector, trigger mass blackouts, and force skilled engineers to leave the country.
The Ceylon Electricity Board Engineers Union (CEBEU) has accused the government of rushing through a reckless and unplanned power sector reform process that risks destabilizing the entire country’s electricity supply.
In a strongly worded statement, the union warned that the restructuring will inevitably lead to nationwide power cuts, large-scale layoffs, and the collapse of a sector vital to Sri Lanka’s economy. They accused the authorities of issuing transfer letters to employees in a “very simplistic manner,” disregarding legal requirements, Supreme Court orders, and even provisions of the Electricity Sector Reform Act.
“There is no proper accountability and procedure in the current reform authorities. Even though this is the most critical sector in the country, some are taking the reform process lightly. What will be the end result?” asked CEBEU Joint Secretary, Engineer Amal Ariyaratne.
Earlier this month, the government amended the Reform Act to allow the complete sale of shares in distribution and generation companies, excluding hydropower assets. However, the union claims the process is already mired in confusion due to unclear timelines. Officials had promised to begin the two-month employee notice period after completing required paperwork, but now claim the countdown began on August 27.
“Despite promising transparency, the authorities are misleading the public. We urge the President to intervene immediately. This mismanagement cannot continue,” Ariyaratne said.
The CEBEU also criticized the voluntary retirement scheme offered to employees, which is capped at Rs. 5 million, calling it “inadequate.” They warned this would drive experienced engineers and technical staff to seek opportunities abroad, leaving the power sector crippled.
“If skilled staff leave, the sector will collapse and power cuts will be inevitable. We are on the verge of a crisis,” the union emphasized.
The association accused reform planners of ignoring realities on the ground and prioritizing private interests over public welfare. They urged the government to “reconsider and correct” the restructuring process before irreversible damage occurs.
“If this is truly a people-centric government, reforms must serve the public interest, not private agendas,” Ariyaratne concluded.
