BASL expresses concern on Mayor interfering legal proceedings

The Bar Association of Sri Lanka has hit out at the Mayor of Kaduwela, Ranjan JayalalPerera, following reports that he obstructed a lawyer during a public inquiry.

The professional body expressed "deep concern" after footage emerged of Perera reportedly hindering an Attorney-at-Law who was representing an animal welfare group. In audio recordings circulating on social media, the Mayor is heard claiming to be an "Unofficial Magistrate"—a title the Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) says is entirely "erroneous and misconceived."

The confrontation took place during an inquiry conducted by the Kaduwela Municipal Council.

Mayor Ranjan JayalalPerera allegedly suggested he was exercising judicial authority.

The BASL clarified that the Mayor was not acting under the authority of any Magistrate nor in any judicial capacity at the time.

The Association has strongly condemned the Mayor’s conduct, describing the encounter as a "serious interference" with the independence and professional duties of the legal profession.

The Bar Association of Sri Lanka has condemned the Mayor of Kaduwela for allegedly obstructing a lawyer and falsely claiming judicial powers.

The Bar Association of Sri Lanka says it is deeply concerned by the treatment of an attorney during a Municipal Council inquiry.

Audio recordings appear to show the Mayor, Ranjan JayalalPerera, claiming to be an "Unofficial Magistrate" while hindering a lawyer representing an animal welfare group.

The Association says Perera’s claims of judicial authority are "wholly erroneous," noting that he held no such legal standing.

They have described the Mayor’s actions as a direct threat to the independence of the legal profession.