The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) announced that the recent statement made by Sarath Weerakesekera in Parliament was an unfounded, brazen attack on the Judiciary and the social fabric of the Country.
In a statement, the BASL stated that it was deeply concerned about the growing trend of members of parliament exploiting parliamentary privileges to make statements in parliament on matters that are sub judice.
The BASL is of the view that the Judiciary should be allowed to operate independently, free from external pressures, threats, or any interference, for a vibrant democracy to exist.
The BASL states that the United Nations Basic Principles have recognised the Independence of the judiciary as follows:
1. The independence of the judiciary shall be guaranteed by the State and enshrined in the Constitution or the law of the country. All governmental and other institutions must respect and observe the independence of the judiciary.
2. The judiciary shall decide matters before them impartially, based on facts, and by the law, without any restrictions, improper influences, inducements, pressures, threats, or interferences, direct or indirect, from any quarter or for any reason.
Therefore, the BASL is of the view that it is the duty of the government and the Opposition to respect and observe the independence of the judiciary, and any interference in the judicial process sets a dangerous precedent that must be strongly condemned.
