BackPOLITICS
Sri Lanka opposition slams govt over energy minister's resignation after coal probe announcement
The opposition criticized the government after Energy Minister Kumara Jayakodi resigned following the announcement of a Presidential Commission to probe coal imports. They argued substandard coal quality increased diesel use for power generation, while the government said no state loss occurred. The timeline also includes a no-confidence vote earlier in April and the secretary's resignation related to the probe.
Why It Matters
Raises questions about governance and accountability in energy procurement and the handling of coal-import investigations in Sri Lanka.
Timeline
6 Events
Opposition criticizes government over resignation amid coal-probe fallout
April 19, 2026
Sri Lanka's opposition criticised the government over the energy minister's resignation in connection with the coal import probe, claiming substandard coal quality has led to excessive use of diesel for power generation. The government maintained that no loss had been caused to the state. The opposition argued that the substandard coal had caused higher diesel consumption, with claims of over 800,000 litres of diesel being used daily for power generation.
Ministry Secretary Udayanga Hemapala resigns
April 17, 2026
Ministry Secretary Udayanga Hemapala also resigned from the post, as stated by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake's office.
Energy Minister Kumara Jayakodi resigns
April 17, 2026
Minister for Power and Energy Kumara Jayakodi resigned from his post shortly after the announcement of the Presidential Commission to probe coal imports.
Presidential Commission announced to probe coal imports
April 17, 2026
A high-powered Presidential Commission was announced to probe a state-owned entity's coal imports for power generation.
No-confidence motion against minister Kumara Jayakodi defeated in Parliament
April 10, 2026
A no-confidence motion against Minister Kumara Jayakodi was defeated in Parliament on April 10, 2026, by a vote of 153 to 49, allowing him to continue in his role.
Lanka Coal Company Limited established
2008
Lanka Coal Company Limited was established in 2008 to procure and supply coal for thermal power generation, following a Cabinet decision in 2006 and registered under the Companies Act No 7 of 2007.