Bar Association of Sri Lanka legal and political controversy

The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has become embroiled in legal and political controversies involving allegations of corruption and constitutional reform. Initially, BASL President Rajeev Amarasuriya rejected bribery allegations filed with the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC), describing them as a “baseless personal attack” related to his professional legal work.

During this period, the BASL also expressed opposition to proposed amendments to extend the retirement age for judges, citing concerns over judicial independence. This tension escalated as demonstrators protested outside the BASL headquarters in Colombo, demanding Amarasuriya’s resignation. While the People’s Joint Opposition denied organizing the protests, they suggested the government might be inciting hostility against the association.

In response to the constitutional debate, the BASL filed a motion in the Supreme Court requesting that Chief Justice Preethi Padman Surasena recuse himself from hearings regarding the 22nd Amendment. The association argued that the Chief Justice’s potential interest in the amendment, which could impact judicial tenure, necessitates his withdrawal to preserve the integrity of the judicial process.