The BASL urges the president to appoint a person with an unblemished character to hold the position of IGP

The BASL urges the president to appoint a person with an unblemished character to hold the position of IGP.In a letter to President Ranil Wickremesinghe, the Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has urged that it is of the utmost importance that the next Inspector General of Police be an officer whose service in the police force is exemplary, unblemished, and able to restore public confidence in the Sri Lanka Police.

The BASL stated that it is of the utmost importance that the best possible appointment be made to the office of IGP since public confidence in the Police is vital for the administration of justice and the rule of law.

The BASL said it was aware that the office of the Inspector General of Police fell vacant on June 26, 2023.

The BASL is of the view that prior to the approval of the appointment of the IGP, the procedures to be followed in regard to recommendations or approvals for appointments under Article 41B or 41C should be determined by the Constitutional Council as provided for in Article 41E(6) of the Constitution.

The BASL further said it has witnessed a serious erosion in public confidence in the Police.

This letter had been issued by BASL President Kaushalya Nawaratne and its Secretary, Isuru Balapatabendi.