In the wake of mounting criticism sparked by controversial remarks made by Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) media spokesman Noel Priyantha, Power and Energy Minister Kanchana Wijesekera has extended a formal apology on behalf of both the Ministry and the CEB.
The controversy erupted following Priyantha's comments during a recent television program where he suggested that children should resort to studying using oil lamps if necessary, drawing on the precedent set by previous generations who excelled in their studies under similar conditions.
The remarks quickly ignited a firestorm of backlash on social media platforms, with many condemning the spokesman's comments as out of touch and insensitive to the challenges faced by modern students.
In response to the public outcry, Noel Priyantha tendered his resignation from his position as media spokesman and issued a public apology for his statement.
"The statement does not reflect the views of the Government or the CEB, and I would like to extend my apology on behalf of the Ministry and the CEB," Minister Wijesekera stated in a formal statement addressing the controversy.
The Minister further disclosed that the CEB management had informed him of Priyantha's resignation from the particular post and the issuance of a public apology for his statement. He assured that appropriate steps would be taken by the management regarding the controversial remarks made by the former spokesman.
The swift response from both the Minister and the CEB management underscores a commitment to accountability and sensitivity to public sentiment. As the issue continues to unfold, stakeholders await further actions and communications from the Ministry and the CEB to address the aftermath of the controversial remarks and uphold public trust in their operations and communications.
