Namal pushes for referendum over judges’ service period

Any proposal to extend the tenure of Supreme Court judges should be decided by the people through a referendum, Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) National Organiser, Parliamentarian Namal Rajapaksa said.

Parliamentarian Namal Rajapaksa said the government lost the people's trust by failing to fulfil its election promises and by imposing an unfair tax burden amid the rising cost of living.

He alleged that farmers, fishermen, students, businesses, and investors struggle due to fertiliser shortages, increasing food prices, high taxes, and rising utility costs.

Rajapaksa criticised the government's handling of crime, claiming organised criminal activity continued despite repeated assurances from the authorities.

He alleged that prisons became overcrowded because of delays in forensic reports and court proceedings.

Referring to the proposed constitutional amendment to extend the retirement age of Supreme Court judges, Rajapaksa claimed the government gives priority to the issue despite opposition from legal bodies.

He said that if the government considers extending the tenure of Supreme Court judges a national priority, it should seek the approval of the people through a referendum.

Rajapaksa urged supporters to strengthen the SLPP at the grassroots level, saying the party aims to build a modern political movement capable of meeting the aspirations of the country's younger generation.