Former Energy Minister Patali Champika Ranawaka says members of the Presidential Commission of Inquiry into coal-related matters have clearly informed him that he faces no allegations in connection with coal transactions.

He made these remarks while speaking to the media today (26) after appearing before the Presidential Commission of Inquiry investigating coal-related matters.Ranawaka said the Commission had given him an opportunity to present facts regarding a statement made by an official of the Ceylon Shipping Corporation, alleging that he had failed to assist in unloading two coal shipments, identified as shipments 16 and 17, which arrived during the rough monsoon season. He stressed that, apart from this matter, no allegations had been levelled against him.He said the issue concerned the fault of those who had arranged for the ships to arrive during the rough monsoon season.Ranawaka further said the Commission wanted to establish more facts based on testimony given by Kanchana Rathwatte, an official of the Ceylon Shipping Corporation, and that he would present further information on the matter in due course.

He also said:

“A media campaign has been launched to cover up the fraud involving 30 coal shipments under Anura Kumara Dissanayake. We have decided to expose every detail of this fraud without leaving out a single word. This opportunity will arise on the 12th of next month at the Foundation Institute. We will disclose these facts to leading media organisations and everyone interested in this matter.”