Pelwatta sugar COO resigns amid controversy over FB post

By Wasantha Chandrapala   

Click Here ...

Dharmaratne, who was appointed to the post on October 22, 2024, by Minister Vijitha Herath, said his resignation was prompted by instructions from Minister Sunil Handunnetti. According to Dharmaratne, the minister demanded his resignation after taking issue with the social media post, and he officially handed over his resignation letter on May 27. He formally stepped down and relinquished his duties upon the minister’s return to the country yesterday.  

In a statement to the media, Dharmaratne rejected the allegations made against him. “My statement to a leading national newspaper resulted in this situation. I made that statement by virtue of the powers vested in me. The COO demanded an explanation for disclosing information about the company’s affairs, but I only highlighted the damage done to the sugar industry by diverting maize for ethanol production. My intent was to protect the sugar industry in Sri Lanka,” he said.  

Dharmaratne also denied claims that he was involved in a press conference held by Sevanagala farmers. “I had no connection with the farmers or the media event. The news report included a statement from a Deputy Minister representing the Monaragala district, not from me,” he added.  

He further claimed that Pelwatta Sugar Company is currently in a state of crisis, even struggling to fund basic operational needs such as fuel for its vehicles.