BASL renews call to all to adhere to constitutionalism, rule of law

• Expresses deep concern over statements attributed to various parties including those who were part of the protest groups which appear to undermine rule of law and constitutional governance
• Urges smooth and peaceful transition of power
• Looks forward to adherence to short time frame adopted by party leaders
• Calls upon those occupying President’s House, Temple Trees and the Presidential Secretariat to hand over custody of buildings to proper authorities
• Condemns acts of vandalism

Stressing that contribution and sacrifices made by the people seeking a real change are immeasurable, the Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) yesterday called for an orderly transition respecting the Rule of Law, and to Constitutionalism in the country.

Whilst it is important to keep in focus the demands and aspirations of the protesting public, BASL emphasised “Respect for the Rule of Law and to Constitutionalism is essential to protect the rights of the people of Sri Lanka and their livelihoods.”

A statement by BASL said it was deeply concerned by statements attributed to various parties including those who were part of the protest groups which appear to undermine the rule of law and Constitutional Governance in Sri Lanka.

“The BASL unequivocally states that at this decisive time in our county it is absolutely necessary that all citizens respect the Rule of Law and Constitutional Governance. It is not in the best interests of our country or its people to ignore the provisions of the Constitution which is the framework under which Sri Lanka is governed,” the statement emphasised.

BASL stressed respect for the Constitution, its Institutions and the Rule of Law will ensure the continuing functions of the Government which are vital to the life of the community and its people.

It recalled that the events of 9 July, are unprecedented in the history of the nation reflecting the deep dissatisfaction of the public, drawing hundreds of thousands of protestors to Colombo. The protests have led to the impending resignation of President Gotabhaya Rajapaksa. The Party Leaders Meeting has announced that the election of his successor will be held on 20 July.

BASL reiterated its call for a smooth and peaceful transition of power and welcomed the short time frame adopted by the Party Leaders which should be adhered to.

“We urge all parties to continue to find solutions to the current economic and political instability in a democratic manner, through the existing constitutional framework and legal process and to advocate for changes in a manner that does not undermine the administration of justice,” BASL said.

The BASL also noted that the President’s House, Temple Trees and the Presidential Secretariat are being occupied by members of the protest groups and that large crowds continue to visit the premises. The BASL is extremely concerned about reports of acts of vandalism at Temple Trees and the President’s House.

“We call upon those occupying these premises to ensure that the proper authorities are given custody of these buildings. We also call upon those occupying them to ensure the protection of documents and other public properties, many of which are of archaeological significance. We also call upon them to respect the sanctity of these buildings,” BASL said.