An opposition MP has written to Parliament's Speaker asking what action has been taken regarding multiple allegations against Chief Justice Preethi Padman Surasena, while also calling for measures to protect the judiciary's reputation if the claims prove unfounded.
Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) MP Dayasiri Jayasekera has formally questioned Speaker Dr. Jagath Wickremaratne about his handling of allegations levelled against Chief Justice Preethi Padman Surasena. In a letter dated August 31, the Kurunegala District MP sought clarification on whether the Speaker had received documentary evidence from parliamentarians supporting the accusations and what steps, if any, have been taken in response.
The allegations encompass a range of matters, including the Chief Justice's son's acquisition of valuable property in Colombo, the circumstances surrounding that purchase, and questions regarding official documents belonging to the Chief Justice and his family members. MP Jayasekera confirmed that his inquiries followed public accusations connected to the high-profile X-Press Pearl case, which generated substantial attention in recent months.
In his communication, the MP also asked whether the Speaker had engaged with agencies authorized to investigate the assets of the Chief Justice and his family members. Additionally, Jayasekera raised a point about protecting institutional credibility, inquiring whether the Speaker planned to take action should the allegations be proven false, in order to safeguard the dignity of both the Chief Justice and the judiciary.
The letter represents the opposition's attempt to ensure transparency regarding the handling of serious accusations against the head of the judiciary, while simultaneously emphasizing the need for procedural fairness should the claims be found without merit.