Sajith Premadasa calls for constitutional reform and judicial independence in Sri Lanka

Sri Lankan Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has called for a broad national dialogue regarding constitutional reform and the strengthening of judicial independence. During a meeting with Commonwealth Lawyers Association President Steven Thiru in Colombo, Premadasa emphasized that structural changes to the country's governance framework must be inclusive, involving political parties, civil society, and legal professionals.

A key component of the discussion involved the potential establishment of a dedicated Constitutional Court or a specialized mechanism to review constitutional matters. Premadasa argued that such institutions should be designed to operate independently of political shifts, ensuring they remain credible regardless of which party holds power. The discussions also referenced the Commonwealth Latimer House Principles as a benchmark for assessing the separation of powers between the executive, parliament, and the judiciary.

In addition to judicial and constitutional matters, the meeting addressed the rule of law in relation to environmental justice. Premadasa stressed that meaningful reform is essential for rebuilding public trust in state institutions following the nation's recent economic and political turbulence.