Sri Lanka's government has moved forward with the 22nd Constitutional Amendment Bill, which proposes changes to judicial retirement age, despite significant objections from religious leaders, legal professionals, and international bodies.

The 22nd Constitutional Amendment Bill has been formally added to Parliament's order paper ahead of its expected presentation on August 18. Justice Minister Harshana Nanayakkara is scheduled to introduce the legislation, which seeks to modify the Judicature (Amendment) Act No. 2 of 1978 with new provisions governing the retirement age of judges.

The proposed amendment has generated substantial controversy since its gazetting on August 7. The Chief Prelates of Sri Lanka's three Buddhist Chapters, the Bar Association of Sri Lanka, opposition political parties, and several international organisations have publicly opposed the measure. Despite these objections spanning religious, legal, and political sectors, the government proceeded with formal parliamentary procedures.

Under Sri Lankan constitutional law, parliamentary bills can be challenged in the Supreme Court within 14 days of presentation. Upon receiving such a petition, the Supreme Court must deliver its determination to Parliament within three to 21 days. This legal framework means the amendment's path through Parliament could face judicial scrutiny before implementation.