By CEB Spokesman Resigns After Insensitive Comments About Studying Under Oil Lamps
Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) Spokesman Noel Priyantha has resigned and issued a public apology after suggesting that children could study using oil lamps if necessary. His comments, made during a talk show, sparked outrage as they came in response to concerns about children from the estate sector facing difficulties due to electricity disconnections.
Power and Energy Minister Kanchana Wijesekera condemned the statement, emphasizing that it did not reflect the views of the government or the CEB. He announced Priyantha’s resignation and apologized on behalf of both the Ministry and the Board. Additionally, the CEB management will take further action regarding the incident.
Minister Wijesekera’s response followed criticism from Estate Infrastructure Development and Water Supply Minister Jeevan Thondaman, who called the statement “entirely lacking in empathy and unacceptable.”
This incident highlights the importance of sensitivity and understanding when addressing public concerns, especially those impacting vulnerable communities. While the government has taken swift action to address the issue, it serves as a reminder of the need for continued efforts to promote empathy and social responsibility within public institutions.
