Sri Lanka's Catholic Bishops' Conference has called for safeguards to protect judicial independence following a Cabinet decision to extend the retirement age of judges.

The Catholic Bishops' Conference in Sri Lanka has voiced concerns regarding a Cabinet decision announced on July 27, 2026, to raise the statutory retirement age for judges. While acknowledging the government's rationale for the move—which centres on retaining experienced judicial officers amid expansion of the court system and planned regional Courts of Appeal operations—the religious body has emphasised the need to preserve judicial autonomy and constitutional protections.

In a statement issued by Rt. Rev. Dr. Harold Anthony Perera, President of the Conference, and Rt. Rev. Dr. P. Anton Ranjith, Secretary General, the bishops stressed that an independent and impartial judiciary remains fundamental to ensuring justice, protecting constitutional rights and upholding human dignity. The Conference argued that the doctrine of separation of powers must be maintained as a cornerstone of democratic governance.

The bishops outlined conditions they believe should guide any constitutional amendment on this matter. They called for any legislative changes to be explicitly designed to strengthen judicial independence rather than undermine it, and to address practical challenges including the shortage of judicial personnel and delays in case processing. The Conference also urged the government to conduct comprehensive public and stakeholder consultation before proceeding with the proposed amendment, ensuring broad input from affected parties and civil society before implementing constitutional changes of this nature.