LAWASIA calls on Govt. to uphold judicial independence 

• LAWASIA urges SL Govt. to safeguard democratic values and ensure fair administration of justice
• Expresses grave concerns about recent incidents in SL that it believes threaten judicial independence and authority
• Reiterates fundamental principle that judicial orders must be adhered to until overturned by legitimate judicial body
• Warns any failure to comply undermines integrity of the judiciary and rule of law

The Law Association for Asia and the Pacific (LAWASIA) has called on the Sri Lankan Government to uphold judicial independence to safeguard democratic values and ensure fair administration of justice. 

In a statement issued yesterday LAWASIA expressed grave concerns about recent actions in Sri Lanka that it believes threaten the judiciary’s independence and authority.

The association voiced its support for a statement made by the Bar Association of Sri Lanka on 27 July which addressed similar issues. 

LAWASIA criticised recent remarks from high-ranking Sri Lankan officials, reported by the media, suggesting that the Supreme Court lacks the power to review certain appointments, arguing that such statements undermine the court’s authority.

While on 26 July the Sri Lankan Government informed Parliament that the interim order issued by the Supreme Court against Inspector General of Police Deshbandhu Thennakoon was not legally binding, LAWASIA emphasised that judicial independence and adherence to the rule of law are vital for ensuring effective justice and maintaining public trust in the legal system.

LAWASIA emphasised that judicial independence and adherence to the rule of law are crucial not just for the effective administration of justice, but also for preserving public trust in the legal system. The organisation warned that any weakening of judicial independence undermines both the integrity of the judiciary and the rule of law.

The organisation reiterated the fundamental principle that judicial orders must be adhered to until overturned by a legitimate judicial body, warning that any failure to comply undermines the integrity of the judiciary and the rule of law.