Accused energy minister should resign without waiting for opposition: Namal

Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) National Organiser Namal Rajapaksa has called for the resignation of the country’s accused Energy Minister, stating that such action should be taken without waiting for demands from the opposition.

Speaking to journalists in Colombo, the SLPP National Organizer said it is only fair that accountability is upheld, especially when the government itself has acknowledged irregularities.

Namal alleged that ministers have admitted to importing low-cost coal, but warned that the financial burden would ultimately fall on the public. “The government says 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 made by the ruling party that no individuals linked to them were involved in alleged corruption, he noted that the indictment of the Energy Minister contradicts those assertions. “If that is the case, we should not wait for the opposition to call for it. The minister should resign,” he stressed.

Namal also spoke on broader political dynamics, emphasizing the importance of leadership emerging within a democratic framework. He noted that multiple political forces, including those led by Sajith Premadasa, Ranil Wickremesinghe, and Anura Kumara Dissanayake, play a role in shaping the country’s political landscape.

He further underscored the need for a balance between experienced senior leaders and the younger generation, stating that sidelining seasoned politicians would be a mistake. “If the country is to produce young leaders, there must also be guidance from experienced leaders. We should correct past shortcomings and move forward by modernizing,” he added.