Hon. Rohana Bandara

¶ 01 Hon. Presiding Member, after food security, the most impactful area for people’s lives is this Ministry—Power and Energy.

¶ 02 On our electricity system: the recent nationwide blackout drew attention. We later learned engineers had warned months prior, but no action was taken. Due to poor management, power was out for hours. Unfortunately, it was blamed on a monkey. We saw this Government often blames “monkeys” for issues. I saw even during Sanjeewa’s murder, a frightened monkey ran. Jokes aside, the key message is a single monkey could disrupt national power. That shows how vulnerable our national energy security is. We discuss this not to scapegoat, but because energy is a prime necessity.

¶ 03 Why did people surround former President Gotabaya’s house in Mirihana? Because of power cuts and the energy crisis. People moved from Galle Face to Mirihana because of power. Therefore, the Government must understand how power cuts affect all people.

¶ 04 The best way for a near-equatorial country to obtain low-cost electricity is solar. During the crisis, there was great public interest. The previous Government provided facilities and good prices; as a result, the private sector contributed significant capacity. Now you are reducing purchase prices—Rs. 27, then Rs. 22, then Rs. 19. That reduces interest. We have over 365 days of solar potential, but we lack storage; hence we run hydro and thermal. If we could mobilize around USD 5 billion with private sector participation for battery storage, we could meet 70 per cent of our needs from solar. Please focus on that.

¶ 05 People recently feared fuel shortages. Ministers said fuel remained for a week, then for a few days. People expect fuel to be procured and stored adequately. When dealers halted distribution, queues formed again. Discuss dealer margins properly and do not inconvenience the public. Some operate as a service and need reasonable returns.

¶ 06 Petrol sheds also provide sanitation in many countries. Instead of just building public toilets everywhere that are not maintained, require all fuel stations to provide proper sanitation, with fair margins. That would solve a public health problem.

¶ 07 Our storage capacity is about one month. There are plans to hand large tanks to the private sector, even to India. Those who cursed India earlier now say it is good. Give facilities so the country benefits. Eliminate uncertainty about fuel.

¶ 08 I won’t be long. Despite accusations, you now hold responsibility. People have already lifted the rock for you; now push it over the edge—discharge your duty so people live without fear, queues, or recurring crises. Thank you.