Politics · Sri Lanka Bureau
Sri Lanka Parliament rules out referendum on judicial retirement bill
Sri Lanka's Speaker has clarified that a controversial bill adjusting the retirement age of judges will not require a public referendum. The legislative measure has drawn significant debate over its constitutional implications.
LSN Sri Lanka ·
Speaker Jagath Wickremaratna has confirmed that Parliament will proceed with the contentious judicial retirement age bill without subjecting it to a nationwide referendum, according to statements made on the matter.
The bill, which proposes changes to the retirement age framework for members of the judiciary, has become a focal point of political and legal discussion within Sri Lanka. Critics had questioned whether such constitutional amendments warranted direct public consultation through a referendum process.
Wickremaratna's clarification indicates that Parliament views the legislation as falling within its constitutional authority to enact without requiring voter approval through a ballot. The Speaker's position reflects the government's determination to advance the measure through the legislative process.
The judicial retirement age bill remains under parliamentary consideration as lawmakers balance concerns regarding judicial independence and institutional governance. The legislation has generated substantial debate among legal experts, political parties, and civil society groups regarding its broader implications for Sri Lanka's constitutional framework and the judiciary's autonomy.