BASL urges Govt to reconsider proposed judicial retirement age extension

The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has urged the Government to uphold judicial independence and refrain from proceeding with proposed constitutional amendments to extend the retirement age of judges, including those of the Supreme Court and Court of Appeal, unless such changes are demonstrably necessary and widely consulted upon.

In a media update issued yesterday, the BASL said its General Membership had unanimously adopted a four-page resolution on July 29 outlining its position on the proposed amendment.

The resolution called upon the President, the Government and all Members of Parliament to “uphold the Constitution, respect the institutional independence of the Judiciary, preserve public confidence in the administration of justice” and ensure that any constitutional amendments affecting the tenure of serving judges are developed transparently and are consistent with Sri Lanka’s constitutional traditions and international obligations relating to judicial independence.

The BASL said a delegation led by its President Rajeev Amarasuriya met Justice and National Integration Minister Harshana Nanayakkara on the same day to present its concerns regarding the Government’s proposal.

The delegation, which included BASL Deputy President Rienzie Arsakularatne, PC, Secretary Nalin De Silva, Treasurer Pasindu Silva and several former BASL presidents, submitted the resolution adopted by the membership, along with the Association’s considered position on the matter.

The BASL also presented its initial submission and report, supported by the Justice Sector of Sri Lanka Assessment and Strategic Action Plan on Commercial, Contract and Investment Law Enforcement – 2023, a report prepared at the request of the Ministry of Justice.

The Association said this was the first opportunity it had been given to formally present its views and concerns to the Government regarding the proposed constitutional amendment.

Meanwhile, Minister Nanayakkara has agreed to seek a meeting between the BASL delegation and President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to allow the Association to directly present its submissions, position and findings.