The Supreme Court today commenced hearings on a series of petitions filed against the government’s proposed Anti‑Corruption Amendment Bill, which was recently presented to Parliament.
The petitions are being examined before a three‑judge bench comprising Justices Shiran Gunaratne, Mahinda Samayawardhena, and Sampath Wijeratne.
A total of 14 petitions have been lodged, including one by former Minister G.L. Peiris.
Petitioners argue that several provisions in the Bill violate fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution, particularly the sovereignty of the people.
They further contend that the proposed legislation curtails the right to information, raising concerns about transparency and accountability.
The petitioners have requested the Court to determine that, if the Bill is to be enacted, it must secure approval by a two‑thirds majority in Parliament and also be ratified through a referendum. (Newswire)
