Justice Minister Harshana Nanayakkara has rejected claims of divisions within the National People’s Power (NPP) over the Government’s proposal to extend the retirement age of superior court judges.

Responding to recent comments by senior NPP lawyer Lal Wijenayake, Nanayakkara said Wijenayake had expressed his opposition to the proposal during internal discussions and had also submitted his views in writing.

The Minister dismissed claims that Wijenayake had been asked to remain silent, saying he was present at the meeting and that no one prevented the senior lawyer from expressing his views.

Nanayakkara said differing opinions were natural in a democratic process, but stressed that the Government had reached a collective decision after discussions.

He said the proposal to extend the retirement age of judges was brought forward as part of efforts to expedite the disposal of cases, reduce the backlog in courts and strengthen public confidence in the judiciary.

Nanayakkara also rejected suggestions of a split within the NPP over the proposal, saying the party acts in line with its policy framework and that the Government had reached a consensus to proceed with the constitutional amendment.

He added that while individuals are free to express differing views on legislative proposals, the Government’s responsibility is to make decisions in the broader public interest. (Newswire)

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