The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has voiced its deep concern over recent allegations made by a Cabinet Minister in Parliament on November 8, 2023. These allegations pertain to an ongoing case related to the appointment of an Interim Committee for Sri Lanka Cricket and the alleged conduct of a judge of the Court of Appeal. The BASL emphasizes the critical importance of upholding the independence of the judiciary and condemns any undue interference with it.

Judicial independence is a fundamental principle of the rule of law, and any form of interference or threats to it is considered highly serious and detrimental to public trust in the judicial system. The BASL has consistently maintained that an independent judiciary is essential for upholding the rule of law in a free society, where judges are expected to make impartial decisions based on facts and the law, free from external pressure or influence, especially from the government.

The BASL underscores that discussions of ongoing court cases and references to judges within parliamentary privileges pose a direct threat to the independence of the judiciary. The legal community has repeatedly expressed serious concerns about this matter. The BASL reminds Members of Parliament that the right to represent a client is a professional right protected by law, and any threat to this right is considered an attack on the legal profession at large.

The BASL emphasizes that judicial officers must safeguard public trust, as the judiciary's foundation relies on the faith and confidence of the general public.