Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa on Wednesday criticised the government’s proposal to extend the retirement age of judges, alleging it would undermine judicial independence and allow the executive to exert greater influence over the judiciary.

In a special statement, Premadasa said the government had received a public mandate to abolish the executive presidency and strengthen democracy, not to introduce constitutional changes that would make the judiciary “an instrument of the executive.”

He argued that the proposed amendment would weaken the separation of powers and damage public confidence in the independence of the courts. He urged the government to withdraw the proposal, warning that any attempt to interfere with the judiciary would pose a long-term threat to democracy.

Premadasa also said the Samagi Jana Balawegaya would oppose the proposed amendment and support efforts to safeguard the independence of the judiciary. (Newswire)

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