JSA objects to move to raise judges’ retirement age

The Judicial Service Association of Sri Lanka (JSASL) has urged the Government to abandon its proposed constitutional amendment to extend the retirement age of judges serving in the country’s superior courts, warning that the move could affect judicial independence, stability and public confidence in the administration of justice.

In a letter addressed to Justice and National Integration Minister Harshana Nanayakkara, the Association said increasing the retirement age of Supreme Court and Court of Appeal judges would have far-reaching implications for the judicial system and could undermine the confidence placed in the judiciary.

The Government is expected to submit a proposal to the Cabinet shortly seeking to amend the Constitution to increase the retirement age of judges serving in the country’s two highest courts. The proposal has already come under criticism from several stakeholders, including the Bar Association of Sri Lanka.

The JSASL, which represents District Judges and Magistrates, formally opposed the proposal at its General Assembly held on July 11 and decided to convey its position in writing to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

In its letter, the Association warned that extending the tenure of existing superior court judges could delay promotions within the judiciary for nearly two years, preventing judicial officers from progressing to higher courts and senior positions.

It further cautioned that promotions to the High Court could also be affected, disrupting the established career progression system and creating an imbalance in judicial appointments.

According to the Association, the proposed amendment could weaken the professional judiciary by limiting opportunities for career judges to advance through the judicial hierarchy. It also expressed concern that the move could negatively affect the morale and motivation of serving judges and discourage talented young lawyers from pursuing careers on the bench.

The JSASL called on the Government to reconsider the proposed constitutional amendment, stating that abandoning the plan would help safeguard judicial independence and preserve public trust and respect for Sri Lanka’s justice system.