Government undermining judicial independence, says Opposition Leader

06-Jul-2026

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Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has criticised the Government's proposed constitutional amendment to increase the retirement age of Supreme Court and Court of Appeal judges, describing it as a serious threat to judicial independence and democracy.

Speaking after a public discussion organised by the Bar Association of Sri Lanka in Colombo, he said the proposal would raise doubts about the judiciary's credibility, particularly when several judicial vacancies remain unfilled.

Premadasa argued that if additional judicial capacity is required, the Government should appoint more judges rather than extend the retirement age. He said the Samagi Jana Balawegaya would continue to oppose measures that weaken democratic institutions and the independence of the judiciary.