The Frontline Socialist Party (FSP) has accused the Sri Lankan government of serious irregularities in a recent coal procurement tender, raising concerns about transparency and potential corruption.
Speaking at a press conference on Friday, FSP Education Secretary Pubudu Jayagoda claimed that the tender process violated national procurement guidelines by allowing only a three-week window for submissions, half the required six-week period.
“This shortened timeframe raises serious suspicions of a pre-arranged deal, as it effectively narrows the field of potential bidders and benefits those already prepared,” he said.
The government has cited an “emergency” as justification for the expedited process, but Jayagoda criticised the lack of clarity about the nature of that emergency.
He also addressed claims by the Opposition that the chairman of the coal company resigned in protest over the alleged fraud.
While acknowledging the resignation, Jayagoda said that the chairman must still be held accountable and face an investigation.
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