FSP challenges legality of coal tenders, plans court action

Colombo, April 9 (Daily Mirror) - The Frontline Socialist Party (FSP) has raised serious allegations over the awarding of two coal tenders, claiming that both long-term and emergency contracts are illegal and calling for legal intervention.

Speaking at a media briefing in Colombo on April 9, FSP Education Secretary Pubudu Jayagoda said the long-term tender for 25 coal shipments awarded to Trident Kempfer and the emergency spot tender for 5 shipments granted to Taranjot Resources were both carried out in violation of proper procedures.

Jayagoda cited findings from the National Audit Office report dated April 2, 2026, alleging that bid documents were issued to Trident Kempfer before the company had officially registered, raising concerns over the legality of the process. He also pointed out that the tender agreement was signed prior to obtaining approval from the Attorney General’s Department, arguing that such agreements are legally invalid.

According to him, the emergency tender issued on March 19, 2026, to Taranjot Resources—after Trident Kempfer reportedly failed to supply coal as required—was also questionable. He claimed the company did not meet the minimum qualification criteria, including experience in trading coal at the required scale and quality, as outlined in tender requirements.

The FSP further alleged that both companies failed to meet necessary legal and technical standards, making the tenders void. Jayagoda warned that the party plans to file legal action seeking to have the contracts declared invalid and to prevent any financial burden from being passed on to electricity consumers.

The allegations have sparked renewed scrutiny over coal procurement practices, with calls for transparency and accountability in public tenders.