MP Ravi Karunanayake has raised concerns in Parliament over an alleged Rs. 80 million vehicle ordered for the former Chairman of Lanka Electricity Company (LECO).
“There had been a vehicle worth Rs. 70 million available in the showroom, which was grey in colour. But a black vehicle was chosen instead, costing Rs. 80 million. In addition, 10 BYD cars were purchased at a total cost of Rs. 200 million,” Karunanayake said.
He acknowledged that, as an independent entity, LECO has the authority to make vehicle purchases, but questioned Minister Wasantha Samarasinghe’s recent claim that government spending on vehicles had been reduced. He also noted that LECO has recently shown positive growth.
Responding to the claims, Energy Minister Kumara Jayakody said that Rs. 622 million was originally allocated in the budget for 17 vehicles, later reduced to Rs. 466 million. This included seven motor vehicles and 10 double cabs.
Jayakody explained that the Chairman’s current BMW vehicle was frequently breaking down, incurring repair costs of Rs. 2 to 3 million. He added that the former Chairman was unaware of the new order and was out of the country when it was placed.
“The company placed the order without his knowledge. An investigation is ongoing, and instructions have been issued to cancel the order. It is unfair to associate his name with this incident,” Jayakody said. (Newswire)