Sri Lanka's Cabinet has given approval to advance two major legislative proposals aimed at strengthening judicial independence and improving court efficiency, with both bills now set for publication and parliamentary review.
The Cabinet has authorized the publication of draft amendments to both the Constitution and the Judicature Act, clearing the way for these proposals to proceed to Parliament for consideration. According to Cabinet Spokesman and Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa, the decision was made during a Cabinet meeting held on July 27, 2026, following a proposal submitted by the Minister of Justice and National Integration.
The two legislative initiatives—the draft 22nd Amendment to the Constitution Bill and the draft Judicature (Amendment) Bill—are designed to achieve dual objectives within the country's judicial system. Officials state that the reforms are intended to reinforce the independence of the judiciary while simultaneously enhancing its operational efficiency, particularly in addressing the substantial backlog of pending cases that has long challenged the court system.
Before receiving Cabinet approval, both draft bills underwent constitutional review by the Attorney General's office to ensure their legal soundness. The Legal Draftsman's Department was responsible for preparing the detailed legislative texts. With Cabinet endorsement secured, the bills will now be published in the Government Gazette as a prerequisite step before their formal presentation to Parliament for debate and voting.
