The Bar Association of Sri Lanka has reported that the heads of the four Buddhist chapters have expressed concerns about the government's proposed constitutional amendment to extend judges' retirement age, claiming it would complicate the government's efforts to advance the measure.
The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has relayed concerns from senior Buddhist religious figures regarding a proposed constitutional amendment that would raise the retirement age for judges. According to BASL President Rajeev Amarasuriya, the Chief Incumbent of the Malwatu Chapter informed the association that the Chief Prelates of all four Buddhist chapters oppose the amendment.
Amarasuriya stated that the religious leaders have communicated their position in writing to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. The Chief Prelates view the proposed change to judicial retirement provisions as unsuitable, though the association did not elaborate on their specific concerns.
The BASL president suggested that this opposition from influential religious authorities could present a significant obstacle to the government's plans. He indicated that the administration may face practical difficulties in moving forward with the amendment given the stance of the prelates, who command considerable influence in Sri Lankan society.
