Cabinet Spokesman Nalinda Jayatissa stated he has no knowledge of a reported letter from Buddhist Chief Prelates opposing a constitutional amendment to extend judges' retirement age, claiming the religious leaders accepted the government's explanation during recent discussions.
Cabinet Spokesman Nalinda Jayatissa announced at today's media briefing that he is unaware of any letter reportedly sent by the Chief Prelates of the Malwattu, Asgiri, and Ramanna Nikayas to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake opposing the proposed constitutional amendment to extend judicial retirement ages.
Jayatissa, along with Justice Minister Harshana Nanayakkara, met with the three Chief Prelates on August 3 to present details of the 22nd Constitutional Amendment. According to the Cabinet Spokesman, discussions centered on the government's objective to expedite resolution of long-pending court cases and improve judicial efficiency. He stated that the Chief Prelates did not voice opposition during these meetings and that they accepted the government's clarification that the amendment would apply uniformly to all judges across the Supreme Court, Court of Appeal, and other judicial bodies, rather than targeting any individual judge.
Jayatissa noted that concerns raised during the discussions focused on whether the amendment targeted a specific judge. The Malwattu Chief Prelate reportedly acknowledged the severity of case delays in the judicial system, citing his own experience with a legal matter spanning nearly two decades. According to the Cabinet Spokesman, this acknowledgment from senior Buddhist leaders demonstrated their recognition that judicial reforms are necessary.
The government maintains that the amendment aims to streamline the judiciary and provide relief to the public by reducing case backlogs. Jayatissa confirmed that he and the Justice Minister are scheduled to meet with the Amarapura Nikaya Chief Prelate on August 4 to continue consultations regarding the proposed reforms.
