CLA backs BASL’s warning against Sri Lanka’s judicial retirement age amendment, urging consultation to protect judiciary independence.
The Commonwealth Lawyers Association has strongly backed the Bar Association of Sri Lanka’s stand against the proposed constitutional amendment to increase the retirement age of superior court judges.
The CLA has also made an urgent appeal to Sri Lankan authorities to refrain from moving ahead with the constitutional amendment process, warning that reforms affecting the judiciary must be handled with transparency, consultation, and respect for the rule of law.
In an official statement issued on June 11, 2026, the Commonwealth Lawyers Association said it endorses the concerns already submitted by the Bar Association of Sri Lanka to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.
The association stressed that any constitutional reform affecting the judiciary should take place only after proper consultation and broad discussion with all relevant stakeholders.
It further observed that any action capable of undermining public confidence in the judiciary would be contrary to the rule of law and must be avoided.
The CLA noted that maintaining public trust in judicial institutions is essential for protecting democratic governance and the proper administration of justice.
For that reason, the association urged the Sri Lankan government to follow due procedure in constitutional reform and ensure meaningful consultation before introducing any amendment that affects the judiciary.
It also requested authorities to avoid steps that could irreparably damage judicial independence and weaken public confidence in the country’s court system.
Welcoming the stance taken by Sri Lanka’s legal professionals, the Commonwealth Lawyers Association said it fully endorses the logical and principled position contained in the letter sent by the Bar Association of Sri Lanka to the President on May 25, 2026.
Earlier, the BASL had urged the President not to proceed with the amendment, warning of possible adverse consequences for judicial independence and public trust in the administration of justice if the retirement age of Supreme Court and Court of Appeal judges is increased.
