'Energy Minister resigned due to public pressure,' says Marikkar

The Energy Minister resigned from his post to avoid supporting investigations and due to intense public pressure. Colombo District Member of Parliament for Samagi Jana Balawegaya, S. M. Marikkar, states that the resignation, occurring just a week after the government defeated an opposition-led no-confidence motion, clearly demonstrates the government's defeat and serves as a victory for the people.

Speaking at a press conference held today (18) at the Opposition Leader's office in Colombo, the MP claims that the assertion of resigning to assist investigations is a blatant lie. He points out that the President and the Inspector General of Police belong to the same administration. While welcoming the appointment of a Presidential Commission to investigate coal irregularities dating back to 2009, he insists that the probe must begin with current discrepancies.

The MP questions how certain cabinet ministers can proclaim the Energy Minister's innocence before investigations conclude. He notes that public opinion regarding the coal fraud is overwhelmingly negative and asserts that the procurement of crude oil at 286 US Dollars is now proven. According to the MP, the public is waiting to teach a lesson to the government, which took power promising to catch thieves but is now involved in such thefts.