Former MP and lawyer Premanath C. Dolawatta has confirmed that the government has moved to restructure the post of Justice of the Peace, a position traditionally assigned to respected citizens in villages.
He noted that, according to Gazette No. 2489/84 issued on June 4, 2025, individuals over the age of 75 will no longer be eligible to hold the post.
In addition, medical certification will be required to determine suitability, with authorities stressing the importance of assessing qualifications for the role.
The Justice of the Peace position has long been regarded as a community honour.
Highlighting the impact of the reforms, Dolawatta pointed out that nearly 41,000 individuals will lose their posts, and argued that it was not right to remove those currently serving. (Newswire)