Over 100 Statements Recorded by Coal Inquiry Commission

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka’s Special Presidential Commission appointed to investigate controversial coal transactions has recorded statements from over 100 individuals.

Secretary to the Commission, D.V. Bandulasena, confirmed that statements are being obtained on a daily basis from various individuals as part of the ongoing investigation.

Among those who have already provided testimony are several senior government officials, including former ministry secretaries.

The Commission has so far received a total of 28 complaints related to the coal transactions under investigation.

Bandulasena stated that all complainants have been formally instructed to submit detailed reports outlining the facts and allegations contained in their complaints to assist the Commission’s work.

A deadline of the 30th of this month has been given for the submission of these comprehensive reports.

Following this, the Commission is expected to begin reviewing the submitted material in detail starting next month, paving the way for the next phase of the investigation.

Authorities further revealed that public hearings of the Presidential Commission are scheduled to begin in July, during which open evidence examinations will take place.

The full-powered Special Presidential Commission was appointed by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, with Supreme Court Justice Gihan Kulatunga named as its Chairman. 

The other members of the Commission include Court of Appeal Judge Adithya Patabendige and High Court Judge Sanjeewa Somaratne.