• Namal calls for Jayakody’s resignation  

No decision was taken regarding the ministerial position of Energy Minister Kumara Jayakody, Cabinet Spokesperson Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa said, adding that the Minister will continue in office despite being indicted.

Speaking at the weekly Cabinet media briefing yesterday (31), Dr. Jayatissa said that Jayakody would continue to function in his current role. He noted  the case relates to allegations of corruption stemming from Jayakody’s tenure at a State fertiliser company.

Dr. Jayatissa further observed the case concerning the alleged violation of procurement procedures occurred while Jayakody was serving as a Government official, and emphasised the case had been filed by the present Government. He stated that, as a result, no accusations could be made that the National People’s Power Government had interfered in the matter.

Meanwhile, SLPP National Organiser and Opposition Parliamentarian Namal Rajapaksa called for Jayakody’s resignation, stating that such action should be taken without waiting for pressure from the Opposition.

Speaking to the media in Colombo, Rajapaksa said that accountability must be upheld, particularly when the Government itself has acknowledged irregularities. He alleged that Ministers had admitted to importing low-cost coal, and warned that the financial burden would ultimately fall on the public.

“The Government says that it is cheap, but who will bear the loss? It is the people,” he said, questioning the fairness of the situation.

Referring to earlier claims by the ruling party that no individuals affiliated with it were involved in alleged corruption, Rajapaksa said that Jayakody’s indictment contradicts those assertions.

“If that is the case, we should not wait for the Opposition to call for it. Jayakody should resign,” he said.

Jayakody was indicted and subsequently enlarged on bail in connection with corruption charges linked to his tenure at a State fertiliser company.