Sri Lanka Bar Association Opposes Judicial Retirement Age Extension

The Sri Lankan government is considering a constitutional amendment to raise the retirement ages of Supreme Court, Court of Appeal and lower court judges by two years. The Cabinet approved the proposal on 27 July 2026, arguing it would retain experienced judges and help clear case backlogs.

The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) responded by passing a resolution at a special general meeting on 29 July 2026, urging the President, Parliament and the Ministry of Justice to uphold the Constitution and judicial independence. BASL President Rajeev Amarasuriya led a delegation that met with Justice and National Integration Minister Harshana Nanayakkara, presenting the resolution and demanding a transparent, widely consulted amendment process. The Judicial Service Association of Sri Lanka also rejected the plan. Critics say the amendment threatens judicial independence and could have long‑term constitutional consequences.