United Republic Front leader Patali Champika Ranawaka has accused Anura Kumara Dissanayake of leading what he described as “bitter politics,” while urging Harini Amarasuriya, Nalinda Jayatissa, and Wasantha Samarasinghe to refrain from misleading the public with inaccurate claims. Speaking to the media in Colombo, Ranawaka emphasized the need for transparency and accountability in addressing critical issues such as electricity tariffs and public finances.
Ranawaka highlighted inconsistencies in the Ceylon Electricity Board’s (CEB) financial reporting and decision-making. He noted that in March, the CEB claimed it could reduce electricity tariffs by only 3%, yet the Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL) approved a 22% reduction, which the CEB reportedly managed without incurring losses. Similarly, in a subsequent instance, the CEB claimed it could reduce tariffs by only 4%, but another 22% reduction was implemented without affecting the board’s profitability. These discrepancies, according to Ranawaka, reveal inaccuracies in the CEB’s financial figures.
He further argued that the CEB’s claims of losses are misleading, as the institution is generating profits. Referring to a statement made by the Energy Minister about a debt of Rs. 322 billion, Ranawaka clarified that this debt is tied to historical liabilities, already accounted for in electricity tariffs. He emphasized that the public should not be misled by false narratives and urged leaders to admit their lack of knowledge rather than misinforming citizens.
Citing an audit inquiry, Ranawaka pointed out that the CEB has manipulated its tariff calculations to include additional costs. He stressed the need for a transparent tariff system based on historical data, allowing for adjustments to accommodate actual profits or losses. He criticized the government’s approach, accusing it of making baseless promises about electricity price reductions and failing to deliver tangible relief to the public.
Ranawaka also took aim at past statements by key figures, including Nalinda Jayatissa and Wasantha Samarasinghe, who claimed reductions of up to 35%. He criticized Dissanayake for creating false expectations, asserting that the public will not remain silent in the face of such deceit.
Drawing comparisons to past governance, Ranawaka highlighted the achievements of the Maithripala Sirisena-led government, which reduced fuel prices and turned around CEB’s financial performance despite claims of significant losses. He argued that good governance involves delivering on promises and refraining from misleading the public with claims of inability.
Ranawaka emphasized the importance of transparency in fiscal policy, noting that the current electricity price formula includes taxes, a 14% profit margin, and a 4% commission for oil distributors. He called on leaders to be honest about the need for revenue to meet the country’s financial goals, instead of blaming individuals like Energy Minister Kanchana Wijesekera.
Concluding his remarks, Ranawaka called on the public to hold leaders accountable for their promises and to rise against political deceit. He urged honesty and responsibility in governance, warning that the public will not forgive those who mislead them.
