Sri Lanka will respond soon to UN Special Rapporteur’s concerns: Minister Vijitha

18-Aug-2026

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The Sri Lankan Government will provide an appropriate response to the concerns raised by Margaret Satterthwaite, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers, regarding the draft 22nd Amendment to the Constitution, Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath said.

Margaret Satterthwaite had expressed concern in an official letter sent to the Sri Lankan Government regarding the proposed constitutional amendment to extend the retirement age of Supreme Court judges.

She had pointed out that the proposed amendment may not be consistent with international human rights standards relating to judicial independence, the right to a fair trial, the separation of powers, the ability of judges to perform their duties free from interference, and public confidence in the independence of the judiciary. She had also requested further information on the matter.

Responding to the concerns, Minister Vijitha Herath said the Government would soon send a detailed explanation to the Special Rapporteur through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Elaborating, he said:

“The amendment is being introduced to meet service requirements and expedite the disposal of pending cases. We will explain to her that this is a structural change and is not aimed at any particular individual.”

The Minister further said the Government’s response would clearly state that all actions are being taken within the framework of the Constitution and democracy, and that the amendment was not being imposed on anyone.