The Bar Association of Sri Lanka wants everyone from YouTubers to armchair lawyers to remember that the judiciary is “independent” and that reckless social media chatter could cost you more than just likes and shares.
The Bar Association has issued a special statement in response to the flood of opinions, memes, and “expert analysis” that have appeared on social media over the past few weeks about the Judicial Service Commission and other legal matters.
According to the BASL, the Judicial Service Commission functions as an independent institution that has long carried out its responsibilities with integrity. The association emphasized that protecting the independence of the law requires restraint and responsibility from citizens as well, especially when expressing views online.
The statement went further, warning that social media platforms like YouTube are not a free pass to throw around unfounded allegations. Reporting false news or spreading misinformation regarding matters that fall under the judicial system, it said, is against the law and could invite serious legal consequences.
In what reads like a direct caution to the growing trend of “trial by TikTok,” the BASL reminded the public that the rule of law depends not only on judges and commissions but also on citizens acting responsibly in their discourse.
The full statement concluded by urging caution and respect for the legal process, pointing out that irresponsible commentary risks undermining public trust in the judiciary and eroding confidence in the very system meant to safeguard rights and justice.
