Extending Judges' Retirement Age Could Affect Judicial Independence: Ranil Wickremesinghe

18-Jul-2026

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Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe has warned that the Government's proposal to extend the retirement age of judges could undermine the independence and impartiality of the judiciary.

He made the remarks during the "Read with Ranil" youth interaction organised by the Smart UNP wing of the National Youth Front at the Cinnamon Grand Hotel in Colombo, while responding to a question from participants.

Wickremesinghe noted that the proposal has generated considerable opposition within the legal fraternity, with a majority of lawyers and many judges reportedly objecting to raising the retirement age beyond 65 years. Despite this resistance, he said, the Government appears determined to proceed with the proposal.

He observed that the issue has already led to significant public debate and questioned how far the Government was prepared to go in pursuing the measure despite widespread opposition. According to him, excessive pressure to implement the proposal could jeopardise the judiciary's independence and impartiality.

While acknowledging that the final decision rests with the Government, the former President cautioned that moving ahead with the proposal could intensify opposition from both political and non-political groups.

Responding to another question on what economic decisions he would take if he were President today, Wickremesinghe remarked that he no longer holds the office and therefore it would be inappropriate to speculate.

He added, however, that during previous opportunities in office, decisions had been taken according to the circumstances prevailing at the time. Today's leaders, he said, must formulate policies suited to a rapidly changing global environment.

The former President also said he would be willing to provide advice and support to anyone prepared to assume leadership and work towards the country's future development.