Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has raised questions over how the President became aware of a confidential Supreme Court ruling on the 22nd Constitutional Amendment, warning that such knowledge undermines judicial independence and poses a threat to democracy.
Addressing a meeting with Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) provincial councillors and seat organizers from Kalutara, Gampaha, and Colombo districts, Premadasa argued that the 22nd Amendment must be read together with the Judicature Act.
He noted that while the amendment affects Supreme Court judges, the Judicature Act impacts magistrates, high court, and district court judges, both ultimately aimed at extending the retirement age of judges, which he described as a “fatal blow” to judicial independence.
Premadasa stressed that democracy rests on the separation of powers between the legislature, executive, and judiciary, and warned that the amendment would erode this foundation, weakening judicial freedom and the rule of law.
He further alleged that the government’s broader intention is to roll back democracy and establish one‑party rule, pointing to the withdrawal of financial support for local government institutions and the appointment of members to youth organizations and civil security committees from lists controlled by the ruling party.
Premadasa also criticized the administration for attempting to pass the amendment solely in Parliament, despite constitutional provisions requiring a referendum in addition to a two‑thirds majority if public sovereignty is affected. He accused the government of seeking to strengthen the executive presidency rather than abolish it, consolidating power under a single party.
Calling on citizens to resist these moves, Premadasa urged participation in the peaceful SJB protest scheduled for 24 September, aimed at safeguarding democracy and protecting institutions such as the judiciary. (Newswire)
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