COLOMBO (News 1st); The Colombo High Court Lawyers Association (CHCLA) accused Public Security Minister Tiran Alles of undermining the role of defense lawyers and the integrity of the judiciary in a recent public statement.
The CHCLA vehemently asserts that the defense of suspects, regardless of the charges, is a fundamental constitutional right enshrined in Article 13, guaranteeing due process.
The CHCLA argues that the Minister’s statement unfairly targets defense lawyers, attributing their efforts to defend clients to personal failings rather than upholding their professional duty.
They point out that criticizing lawyers while overlooking systemic issues within the police department, including accusations of corruption, is disingenuous and undermines the integrity of the legal system as a whole.
The statement strongly defends the independence and impartiality of judges, highlighting their dedication to upholding the law and delivering justice without fear or favor.
The Colombo High Court Lawyers Association urges the Minister to refrain from making any statements that hinder the legal profession’s ability to fulfill its duties as enshrined in the Constitution.
The The Colombo High Court Lawyers Association emphasizes the importance of upholding the values of justice, fairness, and the rule of law, and warns that obstructing the work of legal professionals can destabilize the very foundation of a democratic society.