Written submissions on 22nd Amendment due today

Written submissions regarding petitions challenging the 22nd Amendment Bill, if any exist, must be filed before 3.00 pm today (03), a five-judge Supreme Court bench directed parties yesterday (02).

The examination of petitions challenging the 22nd Amendment Bill concluded yesterday, with the bench ordering that the confidential determination on the constitutionality of the draft law be forwarded to the Speaker of Parliament.

Lawyers representing the petitioners commenced their submissions yesterday, with arguments on behalf of the Attorney General presented at the conclusion of those submissions.

The 22nd Amendment to the Constitution and Judicature Organisation Amendment Bills were presented by the government with the objective of expanding and streamlining judicial operations, Solicitor General Viraj Dayaratne stated while appearing for the Attorney General.

The petition hearing took place over two days, and Commonwealth Lawyers Association President Steven Thiru was present at the Supreme Court yesterday to observe proceedings.

Concluding the examination, the Supreme Court stated that its confidential determination regarding the constitutionality of the bill will be sent to the Speaker of Parliament, and directed parties to file any written submissions today.