President Anura Kumara Dissanayake participated in a progress review meeting held morning (15) at the Ministry of Energy. During the discussion, the President emphasized the significant role the energy sector plays in Sri Lanka, likening its importance to the global focus on energy. He acknowledged that the Ministry of Energy generates financial profits, but also noted the public concern that such profitability can sometimes lead to irregularities.
Reflecting on the recent presidential election, President Dissanayake stated that the people voted with expectations for change and that the government is accountable to this mandate. He pointed out that dissatisfaction with the old political system, economic challenges, and inefficiencies in public service led citizens to place their trust in a new political tradition.
The President reiterated that many believe corruption, fraud, and waste were key factors in the nation’s economic downfall, and the current mandate is to eliminate such practices. He urged public servants to be dedicated to safeguarding public wealth and ensuring it is not subjected to misuse.
President Dissanayake stressed the importance of a committed public service in delivering efficient services to meet citizens’ needs, adding that he would take all necessary steps to create a responsible and responsive government. He assured that his administration would provide the required political leadership and would support all pro-people initiatives taken by public servants. However, he also emphasized that appropriate actions would be taken against any misconduct.
The meeting included a detailed review of ongoing and upcoming projects in the energy sector, focusing on how to achieve the sector’s goals over the next three years. Discussions also covered potential short- and long-term relief measures for the public.
Key officials present at the meeting included Energy Ministry Secretary Professor Udayanga Hemapala, Chairman of the Electricity Board Dr. Tilak Siambalapitiya, General Manager of the Ceylon Electricity Board Engineer K. G. R. F. Komester, and Chairman of the Petroleum Statutory Corporation and Petroleum Wholesale Terminals Company Janaka Rajakaruna.
