– The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has said it is yet to receive the complete video recordings of its recent meeting with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake regarding the proposed constitutional amendment to extend the retirement age of judges of the superior courts.

The BASL said the meeting comprised several stages, during which its representatives presented their concerns over the proposed amendment and its potential implications for judicial independence.BASL President Rajeev Amarasuriya opened the discussion by outlining the association’s concerns regarding the proposed changes and emphasising the importance of safeguarding the independence of the judiciary.

He also stressed that any decision to extend the retirement age of superior court judges should not be rushed and should be preceded by adequate consultation with relevant stakeholders, according to the BASL.BASL Deputy President Rienzi Arsakularatne, PC, subsequently made further submissions on the matter.

Emeritus Professor Savitri Goonesekere also presented her views, focusing on concerns about the potential impact of the proposed constitutional amendment on judicial independence.

Several former presidents of the BASL also participated in the discussion and contributed their views on the proposed amendment.The BASL said the meeting was intended to provide an opportunity for the association to present its concerns directly to the President, while emphasising the need for careful consideration and broader consultation before proceeding with any constitutional change concerning the judiciary.