Former Minister Jeevan Thondaman has called on the National Democratic Front (NDF) to appoint Kanchana Wijesekera, former Minister of Power and Energy, to the party's remaining National List seat, citing the need for experienced opposition voices in Parliament.
In a statement on social media platform 'X,' Thondaman pointed out that, given the National Peoples' Power (NPP) Government’s supermajority, it is crucial for the opposition to have seasoned Parliamentarians capable of holding the government accountable. He highlighted Kanchana’s leadership in spearheading significant energy sector reforms, despite their political cost to him, saying his efforts paved the way for competition, transparency, and accountability.
Thondaman praised Kanchana for reducing Sri Lanka's dependency on state-owned entities like the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) and Lanka Indian Oil Company (IOC), making fuel purchases more competitive. He also pointed out that if the reforms in the Electricity Act are fully implemented, Sri Lankans will be freed from monopolies in the power sector, just as they are in telecoms and fuel.
Thondaman concluded by stressing that Sri Lankans deserve the right to choose their energy provider, ensuring fair prices and reliable service.