The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has issued a firm reminder that interference with the judiciary—particularly through social media commentary—could carry constitutional consequences.
Citing Articles 111(C)(1) and (2) of the Constitution, the BASL urged all actors, including law enforcement, media, and the public, to respect the independence of the judiciary, uphold due process, and protect the fundamental rights of citizens.
The statement comes amid a surge of online content targeting judicial decisions and personnel—content that, according to the BASL, encroaches on matters under the exclusive jurisdiction of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC).
The JSC, comprising the Chief Justice and two senior Supreme Court judges, is constitutionally mandated to oversee judicial appointments, transfers, promotions, disciplinary actions, and dismissals. The BASL reiterated that this body operates independently and must remain free from public pressure or speculative influence.
In a strongly worded warning, the BASL condemned attempts to sway judicial outcomes through social media posts, public speculation, and commentary by influencers and YouTubers. Such behavior, it stated, threatens the rule of law and risks undermining public trust in the justice system.
The association emphasized that individuals engaging in such conduct may be liable under constitutional provisions.
The statement was jointly issued by BASL President Rajeev Amarasuriya and Secretary Chathura Galhena.
( with the inputs from Daily Mirror)