SC fixes for support on 12 Nov. petitions challenging Yugadanavi deal

By Chitra Weerarathne

The Supreme Court yesterday fixed for Support on 12 Nov., petitions filed against the agreement between the government of Sri Lanka and the New Fortress Energy of New York, US for the sale of 40% shares of the Yugadanavi Power Plant.

Petitions were filed by Samagi Jana Balavegaya through its General Secretary Ranjith Madduma Bandara, and jointly by Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith of the Catholic Church and Ven. Elle Gunawansa Thera.

Among the respondent are Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa and Finance Minister Basil Rajapaksa.

The petitioners say that it is a violation of rights of the citizens, under Article 12 (1) of the Constitution.

Thisath Wijesgunawardena PC, appeared for petitioners. Sanjeewa Jayawardena PC appeared with Rukshan Senadheera for the owners of the Yugadanavi Power Plant, the West Coast Power Plant Ltd., which is also a respondent.

Neranjan Arulparagasam appeared for respondent Public Utilities Commission.

Farzana Jameel Additional Solicitor General, PC appeared for the Attorney General.

The bench comprised Justice Murdhu Fernando, Justice Kumudini Wickramasinghe and Justice Mahinda Samayawardhena.