The Samagi Jana Balawegaya says the government has granted approval to purchase 450,000MT of crude oil from an organisation in Cyprus, without calling for bids.
Speaking at a media briefing this morning, Parliamentarian Harsha de Silva said crude oil cannot be purchased without calling for bids.
MP De Silva said tenders will not be submitted as it is known that the government does not possess dollars to settle crude oil shipments.
He said the Cabinet of Ministers approved the purchase of crude oil based on personal relationships outside of official procedures while Minister Basil Rajapaksa claimed they purchased crude oil through an underground banking system.
The Parliamentarian said such actions outside of official protocol cannot be resorted to on personal whims.
Meanwhile, Parliamentarian Eran Wickramaratne joining the media briefing said the printing and packaging industry is facing a shortage of raw materials.
The MP said stores have put up boards claiming “Dear Customer, only one milk powder pack will be issued per customer”.
The MP said amidst such developments the government is calling for positivity.
He noted that in order to maintain positivity clear policies must be in place, and experience and knowledge is required to enforce these policies.
The Parliamentarian also stated that cement bags cannot be purchased for construction work.
He said the country is facing a major crisis at present.
