Sri Lanka rejects UN criticism of constitutional amendment

Sri Lanka's government has issued a formal response to statements made by a UN Special Rapporteur critical of the 22nd Amendment, asserting that constitutional amendments fall within the country's sovereign authority and internal governance framework.

The 22nd Amendment, which modified key constitutional provisions, has attracted international scrutiny regarding its implications for institutional checks and balances. The UN Special Rapporteur had raised concerns about the amendment's impact on constitutional safeguards and democratic processes.

Government officials contended that the amendment was adopted through proper parliamentary procedure and reflects the will of the legislature. They characterized the UN statement as external commentary on matters that should be determined by Sri Lanka's own democratic institutions and constitutional processes.

The exchange reflects ongoing tensions between Sri Lanka's government and international human rights bodies over domestic legislative initiatives. The government has previously resisted what it describes as unwarranted external interference in Sri Lanka's internal affairs, while international observers have called for stronger protections for judicial independence and democratic institutions.

The 22nd Amendment remains a subject of domestic political debate in Sri Lanka, with civil society organizations and opposition parties continuing to voice concerns about constitutional implications.