Parliamentarian Dayasiri Jayasekara has formally requested the Speaker to clarify what action Parliament has taken regarding serious allegations raised against Chief Justice Preethi Padman Surasena, including matters related to family assets, documentation, and judicial proceedings.
Member of Parliament Dayasiri Jayasekara has written to Speaker Jagath Wickramaratne requesting clarification on allegations concerning Chief Justice Preethi Padman Surasena that have been raised in Parliament. In his letter, Jayasekara outlined several claims that have been presented by parliamentarians, including questions about asset acquisitions reportedly valued at Rs. 185 million and a luxury residence in Colombo allegedly linked to the Chief Justice's son, as well as concerns regarding asset declarations and their documented sources.
The allegations also encompass doubts about the authenticity of personal documents such as birth and marriage certificates, and questions regarding delays in judicial proceedings related to the X‑Press Pearl compensation case. Jayasekara specifically asked whether evidence or documentation had been formally submitted to Parliament, whether preliminary investigations have commenced, and whether matters would be referred to independent authorities for examination.
Jayasekara emphasized that he has not determined the veracity of these claims, but warned that failing to address them could damage public trust in the judiciary. He noted that if the allegations prove accurate, they would necessitate investigation into concerns about judicial independence, ethics, and the rule of law. Conversely, if they are unfounded, public airing of such claims could harm the Chief Justice's reputation and the judiciary's standing.
The MP requested confirmation from the Speaker regarding whether the Attorney General's Department or other institutions had provided official responses, particularly concerning the X‑Press Pearl case. Jayasekara concluded by stating his request was intended to protect the integrity of the judicial system rather than to show disrespect to the judiciary.