LAWASIA raises concerns over judicial retirement age amendment

A proposed constitutional amendment extending the retirement age for Supreme Court and Court of Appeal judges in Sri Lanka faces opposition. LAWASIA warns that the change risks damaging public trust in judicial independence. Endorsing cautions previously raised by the Bar Association of Sri Lanka, the regional body highlights the importance of maintaining an impartial judiciary.

Current retirement age requirements stem from Article 107(5) of the Constitution, and changes should undergo thorough public consultation rather than ad hoc implementation. By referencing the Beijing Statement of Principles, the organization emphasizes judicial security and the separation of powers. The Sri Lankan government faces calls to abandon this amendment, avoid fragmented constitutional reforms, and prioritize meaningful stakeholder engagement to preserve the rule of law.