Power Sector Tensions Rise as Unions Oppose Government’s Reform Plan

COLOMBO (News 1st); Trade unions affiliated with the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) have issued a strong warning that they will resort to intensified industrial action if the ongoing restructuring process is not immediately halted and their demands are not adequately addressed.

The unions argue that the government's restructuring plan, which follows the recently passed Electricity Act, will divide the CEB into four separate state-owned entities.

They claim that many of their 24 submitted demands—primarily focused on securing benefits and guarantees during the transition—have yet to receive proper responses.

In recent days, unions including the Engineers’ Association, along with those affiliated with opposition parties such as the Sri Lanka Freedom Party, United National Party, and the Podujana Peramuna, have engaged in a coordinated sick-leave campaign as a form of protest.

However, unions aligned with the ruling party have criticized the move, calling it unjustified and politically motivated.