PoliticsEconomyHOTThursday, May 7, 2026

Opposition Leader Cites Fuel Procurement Flaws, Criticizes Electricity Tariff Hikes and Renewable Energy Payment Defaults

TLDR

Premadasa slams 18% electricity hike, citing substandard coal burden.
Rs. 10 billion unpaid to renewable energy owners; sector allegedly destroyed.
Premadasa highlights egg, fertilizer shortages, farmers' destroyed livelihoods.
Concerns raised on fuel procurement transparency and supplier issues.

Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has stated that Sri Lanka faces significant national dangers, impacting food security, economic, social, and political sovereignty. He asserted that despite the country possessing fuel and gas resources, access is hindered by various pressures. Speaking in Parliament, Premadasa also highlighted multiple issues concerning the transparency and efficiency of the fuel procurement process, calling for more information from the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation. He made these remarks at a recent book launch event and during parliamentary proceedings.

4 Updates

Update #5\u00b7 May 14 · 6:47 AM

Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has stated that farmers have approached him with their issues and requested him to raise them in Parliament. He noted that when he presented these issues, the Minister of Agriculture claimed ignorance. Premadasa also highlighted a recent shortage of egg seeds, adding to concerns about the agricultural sector.

Update #4\u00b7 May 13 · 12:16 PM

Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has also criticized the government's handling of the agricultural sector. He stated that the government has destroyed the livelihoods of farmers despite promises to empower them. Premadasa highlighted issues such as nationwide shortages of eggs and fertilizer, and accused the relevant minister of misleading Parliament by denying the existence of these problems.

Update #3\u00b7 May 9 · 4:19 PM

Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has provided further details regarding the recent 18% electricity tariff hike, stating it places the burden of importing substandard coal onto consumers, a move implemented by the government and the Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL). Regarding renewable energy, Premadasa highlighted that payments of Rs. 10 billion owed to renewable energy owners since December have been defaulted. He further accused the government of deliberately working to destroy the renewable energy sector, contrary to its previous commitments.

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