The Judicial Service Commission has suspended Wellawaya Magistrate Manjula Ratnayake after a complaint lodged by the Inspector General of Police (IGP) led to an internal investigation into his judicial conduct.
The decision was made following a formal inquiry initiated by the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) based on a complaint submitted by the IGP to the Chief Justice. The complaint reportedly questioned several of Magistrate Ratnayake’s recent case rulings, prompting the JSC to examine the matter in detail.
After reviewing the findings, the Commission decided to impose an immediate suspension order, effective from October 30. Officials stated that the disciplinary measure was taken to ensure judicial accountability and to preserve the integrity of the legal process pending further investigation.
The suspension marks a significant move by the Judicial Service Commission, which maintains authority over the discipline and conduct of judges and magistrates in Sri Lanka. It also underscores growing tensions between law enforcement authorities and sections of the judiciary over the handling of sensitive cases in recent months.
Magistrate Ratnayake’s suspension will remain in effect until the completion of the ongoing disciplinary proceedings.
