Justice, Prison Affairs and Constitutional Reforms Minister Dr. Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe announced the Government’s plans to enact approximately 15 crucial laws in the upcoming weeks.

He noted that over the past 18 months, around 75 bills have been introduced and approved by Parliament.

Minister Rajapakshe revealed this addressing a media briefing held at the Presidential Media Centre on Wednesday.

“This period marks one of the most significant legal reforms in the justice system of our country. Over the past 18 months, approximately 75 bills have been presented and approved by Parliament, paving the way for fundamental changes,” he said.

The Minister also detailed the following key areas the Government hopes to address through multiple legislative reforms in the coming weeks:

1.⁠ ⁠Anti-Corruption

The government plans to enact a comprehensive anti-corruption act aimed at targeting bribery, fraud, corruption, and embezzlement. This includes granting enhanced powers and autonomy to the Bribery Commission and introducing new provisions to address sports and sexual bribery offenses.

2.⁠ ⁠Monitoring Assets and Liabilities

The assets and liabilities law will be stabilized, requiring all citizens to submit their statements to the Bribery Commission for diligent monitoring. This measure aims to ensure transparency and accountability in the declaration of assets and liabilities.

3.⁠ ⁠Illicit Goods and Hazardous Drugs

New legislation will be drafted to facilitate the confiscation of illicit goods and hazardous drugs. Additionally, an authority will be established to investigate assets acquired through criminal activities, enhancing the government’s ability to combat illegal trade and drug trafficking.

4.⁠ ⁠Legal Procedure and Marriage Regulations

Proposed amendments to the Primary Procedure Code and a new bill addressing marriage regulations will be introduced. The government also plans to amend the Muslim marriage and divorce law to incorporate universally acceptable changes, ensuring fairness and modernizing legal procedures.

5.⁠ ⁠Kathi Courts and Foreign Court Rulings

There are proposals for alterations in the Kathi courts to address emerging issues and improve their functioning. Additionally, a draft will be put forward to enforce the rulings of foreign courts, enhancing the effectiveness of international legal cooperation. (Newswire)

The post Govt to enact 15 new laws : Five key areas targeted appeared first on Newswire.

Opposition Leader MP Sajith Premadasa has emphasized the Samagi Jana Balawegaya’s (SJB) commitment to abolishing the system of executive presidency while assuring that they will not obstruct the holding of presidential elections.

He made the remarks while unveiling a comprehensive legal reform agenda titled “Legal Reforms for System Change” at an event organized to address the assembly of the Lawyers Association of the SJB.

The Opposition Leader asserted that the current executive presidency system violates the rights of citizens, creating a monopoly that hinders democratic processes. He clarified that the Samagi Jana Balawegaya advocates for the abolition of the executive presidency but will not obstruct the holding of presidential elections.

During the event, the Opposition Leader criticized the government for allegedly violating the voting rights of the people by not allocating funds for local government elections as scheduled. He pledged no support to a government impeding universal suffrage and reiterated that the abolition of the executive presidency would only occur after allowing citizens to express their opinions through an election.

The highlight of the event was the unveiling of the “Legal Reforms for System Change,” which aims to reshape the legal landscape of Sri Lanka. This comprehensive reform package encompasses diverse subjects, ranging from the decentralization of the Court of Appeal to a meticulous overhaul of the offices of the Attorney-General, Public Prosecutor, and Public Defender. It also underscores the urgent need for repealing draconian laws, such as the Counter Terrorism Bill and the Online Safety Bill, and emphasizes a commitment to transparent and fair legal processes. The document reflects the Samagi Jana Balawegaya’s dedication to fostering a legal system that serves the interests of the people and upholds democratic values. As the party champions these bold reforms, it invites a national discourse on the future of Sri Lanka’s legal framework, encouraging collaboration and engagement from citizens and legal professionals alike.

MP Sajith Premadasa, addressing the Lawyers Association, affirmed that individuals attempting to abolish the executive presidency for personal gain would not be tolerated, emphasizing that national interest should prevail over personal agendas.

Addressing concerns about the independence of the Constitutional Council, the opposition leader declared that its members are not puppets of the President. He emphasized the council’s role in limiting the powers of the Executive President and ensuring impartial, correct, and independent decisions.

The Opposition Leader outlined the economic policy of the Samagi Jana Balawegaya, emphasizing a bottom-up development approach. He stated that the party aims to generate resources through humanistic capitalism, promoting fairness, social justice, and equality.

MP Premadasa also touched on the importance of protecting democracy, preserving the rule of law, and revisiting fundamental rights within the Constitution. He proposed expanding the interpretation of fundamental rights to include new concepts such as health and education.

On the issue of corruption, he called for a new methodology, advocating for anti-corruption institutions with a constitutionally protected framework. He expressed a commitment to recovering stolen national assets and vowed not to make deals with those responsible for the country’s economic downturn.

Addressing concerns over anti-democratic laws, the opposition leader promised to revise such legislation if the Samagi Jana Balawegaya comes to power. He declared the intention to prioritize truth and freedom of expression, collaborate with stakeholders, and pass legislation that strengthens national security without compromising democratic rights.

The Samagi Jana Balawegaya’s ‘Legal Reforms for System Change’ – SJB’s proposed Legal Reforms (NewsWire)

The post Opposition Leader unveils ambitious Legal Reforms at SJB Lawyers meeting appeared first on Newswire.