Sri Lanka: President Anura Kumara Dissanayake appoints Anura Karunathilake as new Energy Minister

By  News On Air   Apr 20, 2026

Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has appointed Anura Karunathilake as the new Minister of Energy, following the resignation of Kumara Jayakody earlier last week. Mr. Karunathilake took the oath of office at the Presidential Secretariat and will hold the Energy portfolio in addition to his current responsibilities as Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation.

Earlier last week, Kumara Jayakody stepped down to facilitate an independent and transparent investigation into allegations linked to a coal procurement scandal. His resignation comes amid mounting scrutiny over irregularities in energy sector tenders, which have drawn public and political attention in recent weeks.

The appointment signals the government’s attempt to stabilise the crucial energy sector while reinforcing its commitment to accountability. Authorities are expected to expedite the inquiry as part of broader governance reforms pledged by the administration.