A firm message from the Attorney General underscores judicial accountability, institutional independence, and the rule of law amid mounting social media pressure.
A strong statement from the Attorney General was issued amid escalating social media criticism targeting the Attorney General’s Department. Speaking during a meeting with a group of lawyers who visited his office to express solidarity, Parinda Ranasinghe stressed that his authority is subject to judicial review and public accountability.
Addressing the concerns raised, he stated: “I am not above the law. If I do something wrong, anyone has the legal space to seek relief before the Court of Appeal or the Supreme Court to challenge it.”
Ranasinghe said that criticism and legal challenge are legitimate features of a democracy, but warned that pressure campaigns could undermine institutional independence. He reiterated that the Attorney General’s role is to act independently, guided solely by the Constitution, statutes, and evidence placed before the courts.
The lawyers who met the Attorney General pledged their full support to ensure that prosecutorial independence is protected and that the work of the Attorney General’s Department continues without obstruction or intimidation.
Those present included former President of the Bar Association of Sri Lanka Upal Jayasuriya, along with President’s Counsel Maithri Gunaratne and President’s Counsel Nalinda Indatissa.
Separately, the Bar Association of Sri Lanka issued a statement underscoring that it is the duty of the government and law enforcement authorities to prevent any undue influence on the Attorney General in the exercise of his powers. The association stressed that safeguarding the independence of the Attorney General’s Office is fundamental to preserving judicial independence.
