As Sri Lanka’s government pushes forward with restructuring the Ceylon Electricity Board, trade unions threaten resistance, prompting ministers to warn that political games cannot keep the lights on.
The restructuring of the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) has turned into a political tug-of-war, with trade unions ramping up protests while the government insists the reforms are essential for the country’s future.
Health and Mass Media Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa urged trade unions to act responsibly, saying their interference at this crucial stage was both irrational and counterproductive. He argued that the government’s restructuring plan is designed to ensure continuous and affordable electricity supply to the people, while also stabilizing the energy sector.
“Trade unions should support the restructuring process with the aim of making the CEB a profitable institution,” Dr. Jayatissa emphasized, making it clear that obstructive actions would only hurt consumers.
Under the proposed reforms, the CEB will be divided into six state-owned companies, each fully under government control. Four of these entities have already been established, marking what the government calls a decisive step toward efficiency, transparency, and investment opportunities.
The minister’s comments came as electricity workers’ unions intensified their demonstrations against the restructuring program, claiming it undermines their rights and could lead to long-term instability in the sector.
Dr. Jayatissa, however, dismissed these claims, pointing out that the Minister of Power had engaged with union leaders to discuss their concerns. He stressed that restructuring was not about privatization but about strengthening the institution to attract investments and reduce the burden on ordinary consumers.
The debate highlights the high stakes of the CEB reform process, with the government pushing for change and unions determined to resist. For Sri Lanka’s citizens, the outcome will decide whether the promise of reliable, affordable electricity is fulfilled or lost in political wrangling.
