The Colombo High Court has summoned Energy Minister Kumara Jayakody to appear in court today to face corruption charges. This case, led by the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC), revolves around significant financial losses estimated at Rs. 8,859,708. This marks a notable moment as Jayakody is the first member of the National People’s Power (NPP) to be indicted for corruption.
Judge Rashantha Godawalage issued the summons. Unlike previous cases where individuals under investigation were arrested and presented in lower courts, Jayakody has been directly called to the High Court.
The investigation into Jayakody relates to suspected misconduct during his tenure as Procurement Manager at the Ceylon Fertilizer Corporation, particularly around early 2014. This investigation began after the government change in 2015 and has taken several years to reach this point.
Recently, Parliament discussed a no-confidence motion against Jayakody related to alleged irregularities in procuring substandard coal for Sri Lanka’s sole coal-fired power station in Norochcholai. Opposition MP Mujibur Rahman emphasized that the NPP’s commitment to an anti-corruption agenda means they cannot protect Jayakody, especially when his alleged wrongdoing from 2014 is now under scrutiny.
Rahman raised concerns about whether the NPP would defend Jayakody even if it jeopardizes the government’s reputation. He pointed out that if Jayakody is officially charged, it would be challenging for the government to retain him as a cabinet member. Meanwhile, SJB MP S.M. Marrikar warned Jayakody to prepare for potential imprisonment due to these allegations. He also noted that rising electricity tariffs could be on the horizon, potentially increasing by up to 18% due to a diesel shortage.
Historically, this isn’t the first instance of a sitting minister facing charges under the Bribery Act. Rahman indicated that this case could intensify opposition efforts against the government. They plan to highlight issues of corruption and call for accountability, regardless of political affiliation.
Rahman also criticized what he sees as special treatment for Jayakody compared to others previously indicted, highlighting that past individuals faced public humiliation during their arrest processes. He questioned if the Bar Association of Sri Lanka would respond to these developments, signaling a growing concern about equity in legal proceedings.
In a society increasingly focused on transparency and integrity in governance, this case may spark broader discussions about accountability among public officials in Sri Lanka.
