The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has formally requested the Presidential Media Division to release the unedited full video recording of its discussion with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake held on August 12.

In a letter dated August 14, the BASL noted that only a partial recording of the meeting has been provided so far. 

The association pointed out that the video contains only the initial portion of the discussion, with some sections where the audio is unclear.

Accordingly, the BASL has asked for the complete recording, including all interventions, observations, responses, and the final remarks delivered by its delegation. 

The association also requested that the video be supplied in the best possible audio and visual quality.

The letter, signed by BASL Administrative Secretary Surani Samarasekara, was sent to the Presidential Office. (Newswire)

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The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has expressed hope that the government will reconsider the proposed constitutional amendment to extend the retirement age of judges following discussions with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

Speaking to reporters after the meeting at the Presidential Secretariat, BASL President Rajeev Amarasuriya said the Association explained in detail the reasons behind the legal community’s opposition to the proposed amendment.

He said the BASL delegation included President’s Counsel, former BASL presidents, academics and other legal experts, including Prof. Savitri Goonesekere and Lal Wijenayake.

Amarasuriya said the President also explained his position and views during what he described as a good and frank discussion.

The BASL’s final request was that a change of this nature should only be made following a broad expert consultation involving not only the legal profession but also academics, researchers and others who have studied the issue.

He stressed that the BASL’s position was not directed against any individual and should not be viewed as a confrontation.

“This is not a fight against anyone,” he said, adding that both sides had presented their respective views during the meeting.

Amarasuriya said the BASL hoped the discussion would lead to a wider consultation and eventually allow the proposed amendment to be reconsidered before a final decision is reached.

Responding to questions over personal attacks directed at judges amid the controversy, Amarasuriya said the BASL did not support personal criticism or attacks against anyone.

Asked whether the two sides had reached an agreement, he said no such conclusion had been reached, but expressed optimism following the talks.

Amarasuriya noted that amending the Constitution was within the government’s powers, while the BASL also had the right to express its opposition if it believed such a move was wrong.

He said the BASL expected the President, as a mature political leader who had long advocated for the rule of law and judicial independence, to carefully consider the concerns raised.

“I hope that after today’s discussion, this will move in a positive direction,” Amarasuriya said. (Newswire)

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The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has strongly opposed the Government’s proposed 22nd Amendment to the Constitution, which seeks to extend the retirement age of judges of the Supreme Court and Court of Appeal. 

In a statement issued today, the BASL urged both the Government and the People of Sri Lanka to recognize the serious implications of the move.

The BASL noted that while the Government claims the amendment will expedite trials and improve efficiency in the judicial system, the link between those objectives and extending judicial retirement ages is unclear. 

Together with the Judicial Service Association and other stakeholders, the BASL has unanimously rejected the proposal, describing it as direct interference with judicial independence. Religious leaders, civil society organizations, and international bar and judges’ associations have also voiced opposition.

Citing Article 107 of the Constitution, the BASL emphasized that retirement ages fall under the heading “Independence of the Judiciary,” meaning any amendment would directly affect judicial independence. 

It further pointed to Article 3, which declares sovereignty inalienable, and Article 4(c), which recognizes judicial power as an essential element of sovereignty. The Association recalled the Supreme Court’s 2022 ruling (SC SD 64–71/2022), which held that extending retirement ages of superior court judges violates Article 3.

The BASL warned that if the Government proceeds despite opposition and public criticism, the amendment can only be validly enacted with approval at a referendum.

It stressed that placing the Bill before Parliament would allow any citizen to challenge its constitutionality before the Supreme Court, creating a conflict of interest as judges themselves would be ruling on their own tenure. Such a situation, the BASL cautioned, could erode public confidence in the judiciary and damage its credibility as a cornerstone of democracy.

The Association expressed regret that no meaningful consultation with stakeholders had taken place, unlike in other countries where similar amendments are preceded by careful advisory processes.

It criticized the unusual haste with which the proposal is being advanced, warning that it undermines public trust and sets a dangerous precedent for future governments to manipulate judicial independence.

The BASL concluded that any change to the retirement age of superior court judges must be directly approved by the People at a referendum, reaffirming that judicial independence is a fundamental pillar of democratic governance. (Newswire)

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A special discussion is scheduled to take place tomorrow (12) between President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and the Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) on the government’s proposal to raise the retirement age of judges. 

The Presidential Secretariat announced that the meeting will be held at 1.00 pm tomorrow. 

The talks come in the wake of the government’s proposal to extend the  retirement age of judges.

The Government gazetted the Judicature (Amendment) Bill on August 7, which seeks to amend the Judicature Act, No. 2 of 1978. The Bill proposes to increase the maximum number of High Court Judges from 110 to 120, while raising the retirement age of High Court Judges from 61 to 63 years. 

It also stipulates that the retirement age of all other judges and magistrates will be fixed at 62 years, notwithstanding existing provisions under the Public and Judicial Officers (Retirement) Ordinance.  

The BASL has already expressed strong opposition to the government’s move. At a special general meeting held on July 29, BASL members unanimously rejected the proposal to extend the retirement age of Supreme Court judges, warning that it posed a serious threat to judicial independence. 

The Cabinet had approved the measure on July 27 despite objections from the BASL, the Judicial Service Association, several President’s Counsel, and political parties. (Newswire)

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Attorney-at-Law Jagath Abeynayake has urged the Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) to take action against recent statements targeting the incumbent Chief Justice, warning that such remarks could undermine public confidence in the judiciary.

In a letter addressed to the BASL President, Abeynayake said recent statements made while using parliamentary privileges and allegedly targeting the Chief Justice personally were a matter of serious concern.

The letter comes amid an ongoing debate over the proposed 22nd Amendment to the Constitution and the Judicature (Amendment) Bill, which seek to increase the retirement age of judges by two years.

The proposed legislation has been gazetted, and any party has the opportunity to challenge its constitutionality before the Supreme Court within 14 days of its inclusion in the Parliament Order Paper.

Abeynayake said some members of the BASL had expressed political views portraying the proposed amendments as a move intended to extend the tenure of the incumbent Chief Justice, describing such claims as misleading the public and the Maha Sangha.

While noting that different parties have expressed differing views on the proposed amendments, he said the BASL leadership had adopted a position in support of the proposed changes.

However, Abeynayake stressed that his criticism was not directed at the Chief Justice personally, but at what he described as the BASL’s failure to respond to recent statements targeting the Chief Justice.

He said that if similar statements targeting a sitting judge were made in any other circumstances, the BASL would be expected to regard them as a serious attack on the judiciary and the legal profession and publicly express its opposition.

Abeynayake questioned why the BASL had not responded to the recent statements targeting the incumbent Chief Justice, saying its silence could create a public perception that the association endorsed or tacitly agreed with the remarks.

He stressed that the BASL has a longstanding responsibility to provide support, protection and assistance to its members and judicial officers when necessary, while maintaining impartiality and safeguarding the independence of the judiciary.

He also said that where defamatory statements against a judge could affect the administration of justice, the BASL should intervene publicly in defence of the judge and judicial independence.

Against this backdrop, Abeynayake urged the BASL President to take appropriate action regarding the recent statements and their alleged impact on the incumbent Chief Justice, the Supreme Court and the judiciary.

He further called on the BASL to maintain professionalism while expressing its views on the proposed extension of judges’ retirement ages and other matters concerning the judiciary.

Abeynayake warned that allowing political differences or personal opinions among BASL members to influence the association’s public position could damage the reputation and dignity of the organisation.

He concluded by requesting an opportunity to discuss the matter with the BASL Executive Committee. (Newswire)

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Justice Minister Harshana Nanayakkara told Parliament today that he has not received any letter from the Chief Prelates opposing the proposed constitutional amendment to extend the retirement age of judges, despite claims made by the Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL).

“I have not received any letter as claimed by the BASL, while the President has also not informed me yet if he has received such a letter. As such, I have no letter to table in Parliament,” the Minister said.

Nanayakkara explained that he, along with Minister Nalinda Jayatissa, had met the Chief Prelates regarding the matter. 

“At that time they had not received the correct information. After we provided the correct information, they informed us to conduct the necessary discussions and take the necessary actions in this regard,” he added.

The remarks came after Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa questioned in Parliament about BASL’s statement that the Chief Incumbent of the Malwatu Chapter had informed them that the Chief Prelates of the four Chapters were of the view that the amendment was not suitable, and that this position had been conveyed in writing to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. (Newswire)

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The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) stated that the Chief Incumbent of the Malwatu Chapter has informed them that the Chief Prelates of the four Chapters are of the view that the proposed constitutional amendment to extend the retirement age of judges is not suitable.

Addressing the media, BASL President Rajeev Amarasuriya said the Malwatu Chief Incumbent had conveyed that this position has been communicated in writing to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

Amarasuriya added that, in light of this stance, it would be difficult for the government to proceed with its plan to extend the retirement age of judges. (Newswire)

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The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has provided further details on its opposition to the proposed constitutional amendment to extend the retirement age of judges of the Supreme Court and Court of Appeal.

In a statement to the media, the BASL said, on July 29, its general membership unanimously passed a four‑page resolution, which urged the President, Government, and Members of Parliament “to uphold the Constitution, respect the institutional independence of the Judiciary, preserve public confidence in the administration of justice, and refrain from proceeding with constitutional amendments affecting the tenure of serving judges unless such proposals are demonstrably necessary, transparently developed, widely consulted upon, and fully consistent with Sri Lanka’s constitutional traditions and international obligations relating to judicial independence.”

Later that evening, a BASL delegation led by President Rajeev Amarasuriya, Deputy President Rienzie Arsakularatne PC, Secretary Nalin De Silva, Treasurer Pasindu Silva, and several former Presidents met with Justice and National Integration Minister Harshana Nanayakkara. This was the first opportunity for the Association to present its views directly to the Government, the BASL said. 

At the meeting, the BASL presented the resolution, outlined its considered position, and submitted its initial report, supported by the Justice Sector of Sri Lanka Assessment and Strategic Action Plan: Commercial, Contract and Investment Law Enforcement – 2023, prepared at the request of the Ministry of Justice.

The BASL statement said that Minister Nanayakkara undertook to arrange a meeting between the BASL and the President, enabling the Association to directly present its submissions, position, and findings. (Newswire)

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Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa dismissed claims by the National People’s Power (NPP) that the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) had offered political bribes, including the Chief Minister candidacy, to Bar Association President Rajeev Amarasuriya.

Premadasa, speaking at the opening of the SJB office in Ratnapura yesterday, said the allegation was “the latest lie of the NPP,” stressing that his party had never engaged in political bribery.

He accused NPP MPs of abusing parliamentary privilege to spread falsehoods, noting that one member had claimed the Chief Minister post was promised in exchange for opposing the government’s bid to raise the retirement age of Supreme Court judges.

“The SJB has never given political bribes to anyone. We stand with a straight backbone for an independent judiciary,” Premadasa said, adding that only his party had the moral right to speak about judicial independence.

Premadasa warned that the NPP government was attempting to control judicial power from Pelawatte, delivering a fatal blow to judicial independence by seeking to extend the retirement age of Supreme Court judges while leaving vacancies unfilled.

He recalled past political pressure on judges, including Shirani Bandaranayake, but insisted the SJB had never brought judges before parliamentary committees to exert influence. 

Premadasa further charged that an incapable President and Prime Minister were dragging the country into decline. 

Despite Sri Lanka’s resources in tea, rubber, cinnamon, and gems, he said the government had failed to promote them, instead deceiving the public with false promises to win votes and cling to power.

He pointed to broken pledges: fuel at dockside prices, electricity bill reductions of 33%, and a guaranteed Rs.150 price for paddy. 

“None of these exist today. Instead, this government caused a Rs.17 loss for paddy farmers,” he said. (Newswire)

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Deputy Minister Chathuranga Abeysinghe questioned whether the Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) is acting to protect a particular group, saying he would be “very happy” to see the association issue a statement regarding former Justice Minister Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe or his son.

“We will see whether this is genuine or whether these actions are being taken to protect one particular class,” Abeysinghe said.

Meanwhile, the Deputy Minister confirmed that the Government intends to introduce constitutional amendments to increase the retirement age of judges, noting that a constitutional amendment is required for changes relating to the judiciary, while other reforms could be implemented at the ministerial level.

Abeysinghe also commented on the recent controversial remarks made in Parliament by NPP MP Asitha Niroshana, saying he did not believe Niroshana had made the claims merely by hiding behind parliamentary privilege and that further details should be sought from the MP himself. (Newswire)

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The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has urged the Government not to proceed with a proposed constitutional amendment to increase the retirement age of judges of the Supreme Court and the Court of Appeal without broad consultation with key stakeholders. 

In a letter dated July 16 to Justice Minister Harshana Nanayakkara, the BASL said the proposal carries significant constitutional implications and raises serious concerns regarding judicial independence, the administration of justice and the rule of law. 

The BASL noted that it had previously written to the Justice Minister on March 30 seeking clarification on reports of the proposal and later wrote to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake on May 25 expressing its opposition. It said no response had been received to either communication. 

The association argued that there is no demonstrated institutional necessity to alter the retirement ages of judges, pointing out that the number of judges in both the Supreme Court and the Court of Appeal had already been increased in recent years to address workload concerns. 

According to the BASL, any constitutional amendment aimed solely at extending the tenure of sitting judges could undermine public confidence in the independence of the judiciary and create perceptions that the change is motivated by factors other than institutional need. 

The BASL also said constitutional amendments affecting the superior judiciary should not be introduced on an ad hoc basis, but only after transparent public justification and meaningful consultation with stakeholders. It noted that the proposal has attracted opposition from members of the judiciary, former judges, senior lawyers, academics and international legal organisations. 

Referring to comments made after the Cabinet meeting on July 14, the BASL said the Justice Ministry had been asked to submit its observations before Cabinet makes a final decision on the proposal. It urged the Ministry to ensure that the views of all principal stakeholders are reflected in that process. 

The association has requested the appointment of a committee comprising representatives of the Ministry of Justice, the Judiciary, the BASL and other relevant stakeholders to study the proposal comprehensively before any further action is taken. It also sought a meeting with the Justice Minister to discuss the matter and said no further steps should be taken until meaningful consultations have been completed. (Newswire)

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The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has raised concern over the violent incidents at Negombo Prison between July 5 and 7, which left 27 dead, including seven prison officers, and more than 100 injured. 

In a strongly worded statement issued today (08), the BASL condemned all acts of violence within detention facilities, warning that such incidents undermine the Rule of Law, erode public confidence in justice, and endanger both inmates and prison staff.

Highlighting reports of unrest in other prisons and difficulties faced by statutory oversight bodies, the BASL urged authorities to take immediate measures to safeguard lives and ensure detention facilities are managed with dignity and legality. 

The Association welcomed the Government’s decision to appoint an independent committee led by a retired Supreme Court Judge but stressed that public confidence hinges on the inquiry being independent, impartial, transparent, and swift.

The BASL emphasized that accountability must extend to all parties, whether prisoners, prison officers, or officials, found guilty of misconduct, while victims and families must receive medical care and support.

It further underscored that the tragedy reflects deeper structural deficiencies in Sri Lanka’s prison system, including chronic overcrowding, delays in criminal trials, and inadequate resources for prison officers.

Calling the incident a catalyst for reform, the BASL urged authorities to implement lasting changes such as reviewing remand practices, expanding non‑custodial sentencing, strengthening rehabilitation programs, and modernizing prison management. (Newswire)

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The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has expressed grave concern over reports that the Government is considering a constitutional amendment to increase the retirement age of judges of the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court.

In a letter addressed to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, the BASL said the retirement ages of 63 years for Appeal Court judges and 65 years for Supreme Court judges, in place since the 1978 Constitution, should not be changed arbitrarily. 

The Association warned that such a move would erode public confidence in the integrity of the legal system and raise questions about the Government’s commitment to judicial independence.

The BASL noted that the cadre of judges in both apex courts had already been expanded under the 20th Amendment in 2020, reducing any practical need to extend retirement ages. 

It cautioned that altering the ages now would be seen as interference with the judiciary and set a dangerous precedent for future governments to introduce ad hoc constitutional changes.

“The independence of the Judiciary and the public confidence reposed in it are indispensable pillars of the Rule of Law and the democratic framework of our Republic,” the BASL said, stressing that the judiciary must remain wholly independent and free from even the perception of influence or impropriety.

The Association urged the President not to proceed with any such amendment, stressing the importance of preserving the independence, integrity, dignity, and public trust in the judiciary. (Newswire)

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President of the Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL), Rajeev Amarasuriya, addressed the Supreme Court of India on Tuesday (10), marking a momentous occasion in contemporary history that members of the Sri Lankan Bar have formally appeared before India’s apex court as part of an official delegation.

In a statement, Amarasuriya expressed appreciation to the Chief Justice of India, His Lordship Justice Surya Kant, for the invitation, which was extended together with Supreme Court Justices R. Mahadevan and Joymalya Bagchi. 

The Chief Justice warmly welcomed the Sri Lankan delegation, recalling his visit to Colombo in August last year and the ties between the two nations.

The event was attended by Attorney General of India R. Venkataramani, Solicitor General Thushar Mehta, President of the Bar Association of India Prashant Kumar, and the President of the Supreme Court Advocates Association, who all joined in welcoming the Sri Lankan representatives.

Full statement of BASL President Rajeev Amarasuriya:

My Lord the Chief Justice, His Lordship Justice Surya Kant, Supreme Court Justices Your Lordship Justice R. Mahadevan, Your Lordship Justice Joymalya  Bagchi, Honourable Attorney General R. Venkataramani, Honourable Solicitor General Thushar Mehta, President and Office-bearers of Bar Association of India and the other Law Associations.

Distinguished Members of the Indian and Sri Lankan Bars,

On behalf of the Bar Association of Sri Lanka, the representative body of Attorneys-at-Law in Sri Lanka, it is my honour and privilege to extend warm greetings from Sri Lanka to Your Lordship the Chief Justice, to Your Lordships of the Supreme Court of India, and to our friends and colleagues of the Indian Bar.

Today marks a historic and meaningful moment for our two jurisdictions, jurisdictions that are closely connected not only by geography, but by centuries of shared history, common culture, and a long tradition of legal and constitutional development.

In my understanding, this is the first occasion, at least in the contemporary past, on which members of the Sri Lankan Bar have come before the Supreme Court of India in official delegation, as part of a structured exchange of thought, ideas, and professional engagement.

That alone makes this gathering a significant milestone in the continuing relationship between our two Bars and our two legal systems.

On a personal note, I also had the privilege of extending our warmest welcome to Your Lordship the Chief Justice on the 23rd of October last year, when Your Lordship visited Sri Lanka and joined the Bench of our Supreme Court.

During that memorable visit, Your Lordship delivered the Inaugural Bar Association of Sri Lanka Human Rights Oration on the theme “Strengthening a Legal Aid System to Achieve Human Rights of Marginalised and Minorities: The Indian Case Study.”

Your Lordship also honoured us by delivering the Keynote Address at the Inauguration of the Bar Association of Sri Lanka National Law Conference.

It is particularly memorable for us that during that same visit to Colombo, Your Lordship was formally nominated to be the 53rd Chief Justice of India. It is therefore a singular honour for me today to have the privilege of addressing Your Lordship, the distinguished Bench, and the members of the Indian Bar before this august Supreme Court of India.

This moment reaffirms the deep and enduring friendship between our two legal systems, systems that have evolved in parallel, influenced by common legal traditions, similar constitutional frameworks, and a shared commitment to the rule of law, judicial independence, and democratic governance.

But the connections between our two countries go far deeper than the legal and constitutional spheres. They are rooted in a civilisational relationship that spans over two thousand years.

More than two millennia ago, the message of Buddhism travelled from India to Sri Lanka through the historic mission of Arahat Mahinda Thero, the son of Emperor Ashoka.

That moment changed the course of Sri Lankan history and shaped the moral and philosophical foundations of our civilisation. The sacred Bo Sapling brought from Bodh Gaya and planted in Anuradhapura still stands today as one of the oldest living symbols of that enduring connection between our two nations.

Through centuries of cultural, intellectual, and spiritual exchange, the bonds between India and Sri Lanka have continued to deepen. These connections are not merely historical, they remain living and vibrant in the institutions, traditions, and values that continue to guide our societies.

In many ways, the values that flow from that shared heritage of compassion, fairness, balance, respect for truth, and the pursuit of justice are also values that lie at the heart of our legal traditions.

Today, as members of the legal profession from both our countries gather here in a spirit of friendship and cooperation, we continue that long tradition of exchange, not only of culture and ideas, but also of jurisprudence, professional learning, and institutional dialogue.

Our courts have often looked to each other’s jurisprudence. Our lawyers have learned from each other’s experiences. And our legal institutions have developed with an awareness that the rule of law is strengthened when legal communities engage across borders in a spirit of mutual respect and shared purpose.

It is my sincere hope that engagements such as this will further strengthen the relationship between the Bench and the Bars of our two countries, deepen professional collaboration, and contribute to the continued advancement of justice and the rule of law in our region.

May the friendship between the legal communities of India and Sri Lanka continue to grow stronger in the years ahead.

Thank you very much. (Newswire)

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A silent protest was held in Colombo today demanding the removal of the Attorney General.

According to reports, the silent protest was held in front of the Colombo High Court. 

The protesters were seen holding placards, accusing the Attorney General of alleged corruption and bias. 

Meanwhile, the BAR Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has expressed concern over recent social media posts targeting the Attorney General.

Issuing a statement, the BASL said that certain individuals are attempting, through such posts, to unfairly interfere with the independence of the Attorney General’s office.

The statement further pointed out that in relation to criminal cases, the Attorney General performs a quasi‑judicial function.

It added that based on the material presented by investigating officers, the Attorney General must decide whether or not to file charges against a suspect, or whether to proceed with indictments.

The BASL emphasized that the Attorney General must also consider whether the relevant evidence is legally admissible and whether, on that basis, there is a fair likelihood of securing a conviction.

The statement further noted that decisions of the Attorney General can be reviewed before the Court of Appeal by way of writ applications, or before the Supreme Court through fundamental rights petitions. (Newswire)

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The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has raised concerns over the process of promotions of Judicial Officers, Judges of the High Court and the Court of Appeal in Sri Lanka, drawing President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s attention to the matter.

In a letter addressed to the President, BASL pointed out that traditionally, promotions within the Judiciary have been granted on the basis of seniority, but in the recent past, however, there have been occasions where this principle has been departed from.

If seniority has been overlooked on the basis of merit, it is observed, presently there are no clear or established guidelines governing the assessment of merit in granting such promotions in the Judiciary. This absence of transparent criteria risks undermining the fairness and consistency of the process, it warned.

The BASL further emphasized the importance of a transparent and fair system in the granting of promotions and appointments in the Judiciary. Such a system is vital to maintaining public confidence in the Judiciary and ensuring that the administration of justice remains impartial and credible.

The BASL stressed that promotions must continue to be made on the basis of seniority, in keeping with the longstanding practice, until such time as there are objective and defensible guidelines governing the assessment of merit.

Accordingly, seniority may only be disregarded where there exists a specific and recognized demerit in respect of the particular Judge concerned or such other known compelling circumstances that are objectively identifiable. This approach will safeguard both the integrity of the Judiciary and the trust reposed in it by the public, it pointed out. 

As such, the BASL requested President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to take these considerations into account when deciding upon future promotions in the Judiciary. (Newswire)

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The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has urged the President and key officials to ensure the upcoming appointments of civil society representatives to the Constitutional Council are made through a transparent and consultative process.

In a letter addressed to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya, Speaker of Parliament Jagath Wickramaratne, and Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa, the BASL highlighted that the terms of the current civil society members, Dr. Pratap Ramanujam, Dr. (Mrs.) Dilkushi Anula Wijesundere, and Prof. (Mrs.) Dinesha Samararatne, will expire in January 2026.

The Constitutional Council, re-established under the 21st Amendment to the Constitution, plays a key role in approving appointments to high offices and ensuring the independence of key commissions, the letter said.

The BASL stressed the need for appointees to be individuals of “exemplary integrity,” with broad societal acceptance and the capacity to make meaningful contributions to the Council’s work.

The association also recommended that civil society and professional bodies such as the BASL be consulted in the appointment process, emphasizing the importance of stakeholder involvement in preserving the independence of Sri Lanka’s democratic institutions. (Newswire)

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President of the BAR Association of Sri Lanka (BASL), Rajeev Amarasuriya, on Wednesday (03 Dec) visited the Kandy Courts Complex and the Kandy Lawyers’ Complex, which were affected due to the recent floods in Sri Lanka. 

Rajeev Amarasuriya said in a statement that he visited the court complex together with the President and Members of the Kandy Bar and the Convenor of the BASL Outstation Bar Committee and met with several Judicial Officers.

“It was deeply saddening to witness the extensive damage caused by the flooding to the Court Houses, the Lawyers’ Complex, and the Law Library, which has suffered significant loss,” he said. 

Rajeev Amarasuriya further said that the first donation of publications to begin the restocking of the Kandy Law Library, a small but meaningful first step in a long process of rebuilding, was handed over today.

“The BASL will continue to do everything within its capacity to support our Membership and institutions affected by this disaster, and I am encouraged by the strong momentum the initiative has already gathered,” he added. (Newswire)

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Former BAR Association President and President’s Counsel Saliya Peiris has criticized the recent actions of the Police for publicly questioning the suspect arrested in the Weligama Pradeshiya Sabha Chairman Lasantha Wickramasekara’s murder case.

His remarks come after a video showing Police officers interrogating the suspect soon after his arrest went viral on social media.

Peiris said arrests and criminal investigations must be conducted strictly in accordance with the procedure established by law. He warned that parading suspects before the media, getting them to make statements, and circulating such footage may excite some sections of the public but would ultimately harm the prosecution once the trial begins.

“These childish acts do not enhance the image of the Police and are counterproductive. It calls into question the professionalism of the investigators and brings disrepute to the whole system,” he added.

Peiris emphasized that adherence to due process and maintaining the integrity of investigations are vital to ensuring justice and preserving public confidence in law enforcement. (Newswire)

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