Sri Lanka's Cabinet has approved the publication of the 22nd Constitutional Amendment and Judicature Amendment bills, paving the way for parliamentary consideration of measures intended to strengthen judicial independence and efficiency.
The Cabinet of Ministers has endorsed moving forward with two significant pieces of legislation designed to reshape the country's judicial framework. Following a meeting on August 3, the government approved publishing the draft 22nd Amendment to the Constitution Bill and the Judicature (Amendment) Bill in the Government Gazette, a procedural step preceding parliamentary debate and voting.
According to official Cabinet records, both bills have been developed with the stated objective of reinforcing the independence of the judiciary while simultaneously enhancing the performance and efficiency of judicial operations. The legislative proposals represent a continuation of work initiated earlier, as the Cabinet had previously approved the drafting process on July 27, 2026.
Before reaching the Cabinet stage, the Attorney General's office conducted a legal review, confirming that the draft legislation adheres to constitutional requirements. This clearance from the nation's chief legal officer was a prerequisite for Cabinet approval. The Justice Ministry subsequently submitted the formal proposal to publish the bills, which the Cabinet accepted during its August 3 session.
The publication in the Government Gazette marks an important procedural milestone, making the draft bills available for public information before they are formally introduced to Parliament for deliberation and vote. The scope and specific details of the proposed amendments remain to be examined by legislators and the public during the parliamentary process.
