BASL Defends Judicial Independence Amid Social Media Commentary

COLOMBO (News 1st): The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has issued a statement condemning recent comments circulating on social media and other platforms that pertain to matters under the purview of the Judicial Service Commission and the judiciary.

The BASL reaffirmed that both the Judiciary and the Judicial Service Commission are independent institutions. 

The Judicial Service Commission—comprising the Chief Justice and two senior Judges of the Supreme Court—holds authority over the appointment, promotion, transfer, disciplinary control, and dismissal of judicial officers and scheduled public officers, including High Court Judges.

The BASL emphasized that the independence of the judiciary must be safeguarded against any form of external threats or interference, particularly those arising through social media posts, public commentary, or speculative claims by individuals on platforms such as YouTube regarding ongoing cases.

The BASL went on to note that such acts undermine the Rule of Law, threaten due process, and have the potential to erode public confidence in the administration of justice.

In light of this, the BASL drew attention to Article 111(C)(1) and (2) of the Constitution, which contain penal provisions concerning interference with the judiciary, indicating that legal action may be taken against individuals who engage in such conduct.