Supreme Court begins hearing petitions against Anti-Corruption Amendment Bill

The Supreme Court on Thursday (3) began hearing petitions challenging the Anti-Corruption (Amendment) Bill presented to Parliament by the Government.

The petitions are being heard before a three-judge bench comprising Justices Shiran Gunaratne, Mahinda Samayawardhena and Sampath Wijeratne.

A total of 14 petitions have been filed challenging the proposed legislation, including one by former Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris and several others.

The petitioners argue that certain provisions of the Bill violate fundamental rights guaranteed under the Constitution, including the sovereignty of the people.

They also contend that the proposed legislation would restrict the public’s right to information.

The petitioners have therefore asked the Supreme Court to determine that the Bill, if it is to be enacted, must be approved by a two-thirds majority in Parliament and endorsed by the people at a referendum.