Western Provincial Council (WPC) Sports Minister Upali Kodikara is alleged to have violated Tender and Technical procedures for the proposed purchase of sports items valued at Rs 3.8 million, Council officials said.
In a letter to President Mahinda Rajapaksa, they alleged that the Sports Minister had opted to purchase items from an outlet not registered with the WPC, ignoring quotations already submitted by regular suppliers.
According to the officials, the Sports Minister intended to make the purchase through a close confidante, ignoring protests from Council officials.
The sports items are distributed mainly among underprivileged recreation clubs and schools selected by the Council’s sports committee.
“But it is not the case this time. He, the Sports Minister has his own favoured list, thereby the true purpose of the exercise is lost”, one official told the Sunday Times.
He also alleged that the Sports Minister had even resorted to intimidation and strong-arm tactics on those who opposed him.
They also said that around Rs 7.2 million that has been allocated for public interest projects this year, risks been pilfered, if no action is taken to stop these irregularities.
The sports goods billed for purchase included some 600 pairs of shoes, volleyballs, cricket equipment etc.
However, Mr. Kodikara said that those making the allegations were a bunch of thieves, fuming because they cannot cheat the Council of its funds in any way. “I have placed the purchase with a State Co-operative, and there is no need for Tenders. Furthermore, we have saved more money since the goods are much cheaper and of a better quality”, Mr. Kodikara told the Sunday Times.
“These allegations are baseless, and I am prepared to face any consequences, since my hands are clean”, he concluded
Chief Minister- Western Province, Prasanna Ranatunga said he was not aware of such a development and directed Chief Secretary- WPC, Victor Samaraweera to hold a full inquiry into the matter.
Mr. Samaraweera told the Sunday Times that such deals will not be tolerated within the WPC, and that the matter will be stopped immediately. |
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