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Sri Lanka parliament passes constitutional amendment extending judicial terms

Sri Lanka's parliament has approved a constitutional amendment that extends the tenure of judges. The legislative move marks a significant development in the country's judicial framework.

LSN Sri Lanka · 25 September 2026

Sri Lanka parliament passes constitutional amendment extending judicial terms

The Sri Lankan parliament has given its approval to a constitutional amendment aimed at extending the terms of judges serving in the country's judiciary. The amendment represents a substantial revision to the constitutional provisions governing judicial appointments and the duration of service for members of the bench.

The passage of the amendment through parliament signals support among lawmakers for the proposed changes to judicial tenure arrangements. Constitutional amendments in Sri Lanka require substantial parliamentary majorities, reflecting the significance of alterations to the country's foundational legal framework.

The decision comes amid ongoing discussions about judicial independence and institutional stability in Sri Lanka. Extending judge tenure periods has been presented as a measure intended to enhance continuity within the judiciary and provide greater stability to judicial proceedings.

The amendment's implementation will affect how judicial appointments and career progression operate within Sri Lanka's court system. The change modifies long-standing constitutional provisions that have defined the parameters of judicial service in the country.

The development is likely to generate further discussion among legal experts, civil society observers, and political stakeholders regarding the balance between judicial independence, institutional effectiveness, and constitutional governance in Sri Lanka.