Even though increasing the electricity tariff to cover the losses suffered by the CEB is an easy answer from the government’s side, it is difficult for the masses, says National Freedom Front (NFF) leader and Minister Wimal Weerawansa.

This problem should have been identified early and solved, the Minister of Construction, Engineering Services, Housing and Common Amenities told reporters, at a media briefing in Battaramulla today.

He stated that power tariff crisis has been dragged on this far due to relevant authorities using temporary solutions for day-to-day survival, instead finding a solution for the complete problem.

Weerawansa said that the energy sector should be monopolized by the government and that the electricity tariff should be increased during periods when consumption is high.  

The minister alleged that the existence of a “fuel mafia” has added to the prevailing crisis causing it to worsen.

He further said that the assets and liabilities of the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) officials should be looked into while attention should be drawn towards where and how their children are being educated.
 
Speaking on the government’s decision to hold elections for the Northern Provincial Council in September, the NFF leader said his party is completely against it as the election will mark “the beginning of the second Eelam mission.”