Attorney-at-Law Jagath Abeynayake has written to the Bar Association of Sri Lanka urging it to take action against recent statements targeting the Chief Justice, arguing that silence on such remarks could undermine public confidence in the judiciary.

Jagath Abeynayake, a senior member of the legal profession, has formally requested that the Bar Association of Sri Lanka respond to recent statements made against the incumbent Chief Justice. In correspondence to the BASL President, Abeynayake expressed concern that certain remarks—reportedly made under parliamentary privilege—could damage public trust in the judicial system and have not been adequately addressed by the professional body.

The matter has emerged amid ongoing debate surrounding proposed constitutional changes. The 22nd Amendment to the Constitution and the Judicature (Amendment) Bill seek to extend the retirement age of judges by two years. According to Abeynayake, some BASL members have characterised these proposals as a mechanism to prolong the current Chief Justice's tenure, claims he described as misleading to the public. The BASL leadership, however, has taken a supportive position on the proposed amendments, which were recently gazetted and are subject to potential constitutional challenge within 14 days of parliamentary inclusion.

Abeynayake's central argument centres on what he perceives as the BASL's inconsistent approach to protecting judicial officers. He contended that statements targeting sitting judges in other circumstances would typically prompt a formal institutional response from the association. He questioned why similar protection was not being extended to the Chief Justice, cautioning that the association's silence could be interpreted as tacit approval of the remarks.

While Abeynayake clarified that his criticism was not personal to the Chief Justice, he emphasised the BASL's responsibility to maintain professional standards and defend judicial independence. He cautioned against allowing internal political disagreements among members to undermine the association's public position, warning that such divisions could diminish organisational credibility. Abeynayake has requested an opportunity to discuss the matter with the BASL Executive Committee.