Minister sues CEB union member

Ridma DISSANAYAKE

Power and Energy Minister Patali Champika Ranawaka is suing Lanka Viduli Sewaka Sangamaya (LVSS) union member Ranjan Jayalal Perera for defamation, claiming compensation of Rs. 500 million.

The demand relates to a statement made by Perera in connection with the ministers' press briefing at Hotel Nippon on August 29 in which another group of union members also participated.

According to the legal procedure, cases have been filed against the media institutions too which published damaging statements.

Minister Ranawaka said that the aim to take legal action is not to embarrass media personnel but to take action against the Ceylon Electricity Board's (CEB) officers who are trying to defame the minister.

According to the minister, he has never used official vehicles for domestic purposes or security officers or any other resources which belong to the CEB.

"My responsibility is to develop the CEB as a proud government institute and I'll never misuse public property," the minister said.