A dramatic parliamentary showdown ends with the government closing ranks around Energy Minister Kumara Jayakody, as corruption claims ignite a fierce political battle and bold challenges are thrown at the opposition.
The no-confidence motion brought by the opposition against Energy Minister Kumara Jayakody was decisively defeated by a majority of 104 votes, highlighting the firm backing of the National People’s Power government.
A total of 153 votes were cast against the no-confidence motion, while only 49 members voted in favor, reaffirming the ruling party’s numerical strength and political unity within Parliament.
Energy Minister Kumara Jayakody stated during his address that the government, including himself, came to power with a clear mandate to eliminate corruption, reform governance, and protect public resources, not to engage in theft or misuse of state funds. He further declared that he is fully prepared to resign from his ministerial position if any evidence proves that even a single rupee of corruption has taken place under his leadership.
Participating in the heated parliamentary debate on coal procurement and energy sector transparency, the Minister emphasized that decisive measures have already been taken to dismantle past corrupt practices, including halting coal smuggling operations that were allegedly enabled through questionable Cabinet approvals.
He explained that fraudulent procurement methods, particularly those linked to the Spot Tender system, have now been stopped, and that new tender procedures have been restructured to ensure transparency, accountability, and good governance in energy sector transactions.
The Minister also revealed that during previous administrations, a group connected to Yoshitha Rajapaksa had allegedly imported coal through a Dubai-based company without proper financial guarantees, raising serious concerns about past procurement integrity.
He pointed out that despite 11 coal shipments arriving late last year, no delay charges were imposed, and no action was taken even after laboratory reports confirmed that coal from seven shipments was substandard, resulting in financial losses to the country.
Recalling his past role in 2005, Jayakody highlighted his efforts in exposing corruption within a fertilizer company, stating that he faced death threats for taking legal action against corrupt officials responsible for massive financial losses.
Challenging the opposition’s allegations, the Minister asserted that there is no space for corruption within the National People’s Power Party and that any wrongdoing, even if unintentional, would be addressed immediately by the party itself.
He accused opposition members of hypocrisy, stating that individuals who had previously looted public funds are now attempting to lecture the government on corruption and accountability.
“If you can prove that we have stolen even a single rupee, then take action against us,” the Minister said, reinforcing his stance on transparency and clean governance.
Minister Kumara Jayakody concluded by stating that misinformation campaigns and political attacks will not derail the reform agenda of the National People’s Power government, and reaffirmed his commitment to serving the country and its people with integrity.
