Coal procurement manipulated, opposition MP alleges

By Yohan Perera and Ajith Siriwardana

Raising serious concerns over a looming irregularity in coal procurement, Opposition MP D.V. Chanaka yesterday alleged that preparations are underway to facilitate unfair gains for a specific supplier.   
Speaking in Parliament, MP Chanaka pointed out that while the standard coal procurement process typically spans six weeks, a recent Cabinet decision has shortened this period to five weeks. However, he claimed that attempts are now being made to complete the entire process in just three weeks, with the approval of the National Tender Commission.   
“This accelerated process appears to be tailored to benefit a supplier who already has coal in stock,” the MP said.    He further revealed that the Chairman of Lanka Coal Company Ltd. had been untraceable for several days after being requested to sign a purchasing order. “The Chairman has now submitted his resignation,” MP Chanaka added.   
The MP accused the government of bypassing internationally recognized tender procedures in order to facilitate a deal that favours a single supplier.   
“This is a clear attempt to manipulate the process and undermine transparency for the benefit of one party,” he charged