Presidential commission to investigate coal import irregularities from July

The Presidential Commission appointed to investigate alleged irregularities in coal imports and related procurement processes will commence its examination of evidence in the first week of July. The President established this commission on 17th April to probe systemic irregularities connected to coal imports and power generation from the inception of coal-based power generation up to 16th April 2026.

To date, the commission received 28 complaints and recorded statements from approximately 40 government officials, including procurement committee members and personnel attached to institutions involved in coal transactions.

The investigation comes amidst rising costs, with the Central Bank of Sri Lanka reporting that coal imports cost 43.4 million US dollars in April this year. This represents a significant 74.2% increase compared to April 2025, when expenditure for coal imports stood at 24.9 million US dollars.