The Jaffna Bar Association has raised serious concerns over the sudden transfer of High Court Judge of Jaffna, A.G. Alexraja, to the Civil Appellate High Court of Badulla.
In a letter addressed to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, the Association said the move, coming just a month after Judge Alexraja’s appointment on April 22, has sparked speculation of external influence. The transfer is scheduled to take effect on May 31.
The Association noted that the judge had issued interim orders against the Governor of the Northern Province in certain writ petitions, and alleged that the Governor had sought interference from authorities, including members of the government.
While acknowledging the Judicial Services Commission’s prerogative to transfer judicial officers, the Bar Association warned that unexplained and sudden transfers risk undermining public confidence in the judiciary.
“Even the slightest impression of interference in the workings of the judiciary is a very serious issue”, the Jaffna Bar Association warned, urging the President to investigate the matter as a top priority.
The Association also requested an opportunity to meet the Head of State in person to discuss its concerns. (Newswire)
