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Chief Justice highlights legal profession’s crucial role in defending democratic values
View(s):By Dilushi Wiejsinghe
Chief Justice Murdhu Fernando said yesterday the legal profession was required to play a critical role in safeguarding democracy, justice, and judicial independence.
Addressing the 51st Annual Convocation of the Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL), she stated, “A strong and independent bar working alongside the principal judiciary ensures that justice remains unshaken despite the turbulent storms that may later ensue.”
The BASL’s new president, Rajeev Amarasuriya, was inducted at the ceremony.
BASL’s new president Rajeev Amarasuriya (left) being inducted by Attorney General Parinda Ranasinghe
The Chief Justice urged the legal professionals to stand firm against any threats to judicial independence.
Looking to the future, the Chief Justice expressed optimism and called on the Bar to renew its commitment to values such as justice, transparency, and fairness. “Let us reaffirm our pledge to uphold these values and ensure that the legacy we leave behind is one future generations of lawyers can be proud of,” she said.
The Chief Justice said she also eagerly anticipated the day when “female colleagues will add colour to the leadership of the BASL, ensuring that it remains dynamic and representative of the diverse strengths of our profession.”
Addressing the convocation, Justice Minister Harshana Nanayakkara acknowledged the serious challenges facing the nation’s justice system and called for immediate action.
Chief Justice Murdhu Fernando addressing the convocation. Below Justice Minister Harshana Nanayakkara
Pointing out the overwhelming backlog of 1.1 million cases in Sri Lanka’s courts, he said, “In a normal developed country, every one million population has at least between 30-40 judges. In this country, for every 1 million, there are only 19 judges.”
The minister also highlighted the problem of staff shortages at the Attorney General’s Department. He said about 459 state counsel positions remained unfilled and 93,000 criminal cases were pending in the department. Despite these issues, he called for collective action, stating, “We need help from all stakeholders.”
The newly inducted BASL president, Rajeev Amarasuriya, listed his priorities for the upcoming year, emphasising ethics, legal aid, and the concept of “knowledge restrictions”.
Pix by Eshan Fernando
He said a proposal for an appeal review mechanism had already been submitted to the Bar Council. “We must ensure that the membership is afforded ample opportunities, including assistance and advice related to professional issues,” he said.
Mr. Amarasuriya also stressed the importance of inclusivity, particularly gender inclusivity.
“We must also conduct advanced programmes addressing the challenges faced by women lawyers in their integration into legal practice,” he added.
The election results for the BASL President for 2025-2026 were announced by Solicitor-General Viraj Dayaratne PC. Rajeev Amarasuriya won 4,497 votes, defeating Dr Sunil Abeyratne, who received 1,610 votes.
Charitha Galhena was the sole nominee for the post of secretary and was declared elected unopposed.
The results for other positions, including deputy president, vice president, and treasurer, were also announced, along with the presentation of the BASL’s 50th Anniversary Special Commemorative Volume and the 27th Law Journal to the panel.
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