The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) Friday raised significant concerns regarding the prolonged delay in appointing judges to fill vacancies in the Court of Appeal.In a letter to President Ranil Wickremesinghe, the BASL highlighted the pressing issue of as many as five vacancies currently existing within the Court of Appeal.

The letter signed BASL President Kaushalya Nawaratne, PC and Secretary Chathura A. Galhena emphasized their duty to express deep concern over the situation, stressing the urgent need for attention. The association also underscored the pivotal role of the judiciary in upholding the rule of law, ensuring justice, and safeguarding citizens’ rights.

Full text of the letter titled ‘Concern over the prevailing crisis relating to the filling of vacancies in the Court of Appeal’:

“The Bar Association of Sri Lanka writes with grave concern regarding the prolonged delay in appointing judges to fill vacancies in the Court of Appeal. It is our understanding that there are, at present, as many as five vacancies in the Court of Appeal, as of today.

“As the apex body representing the legal fraternity of this country, we are duty-bound to express our deep concern over this situation and believe it merits urgent attention, particularly considering the potential adverse repercussions that would follow in the administration of justice.

“The judiciary plays a pivotal role in upholding the rule of law, ensuring justice, and safeguarding the rights of all citizens. However, the efficiency and effectiveness of the judicial system are significantly hampered when key positions remain vacant for extended periods. The backlog of cases would increase, leading to delays in the dispensation of justice, erosion of public trust in the legal system, and ultimately, the denial of justice to citizens. This could, in addition, further reduce Sri Lanka’s ratings in ease of doing business, which in turn, would hamper efforts at economic recovery.

“It is to be noted, further, that the absence of a full bench in the superior courts diminishes the diversity of perspectives and expertise which are crucial for comprehensive and balanced adjudication.

“We acknowledge the complexity and importance of the appointment process, but we would like to impress upon Your Excellency the need to ensure the prevailing situation does not continue indefinitely, and to this end, humbly request that this matter be given utmost priority. We would like to further request, with respect, that members of the private Bar who are held in high esteem are also considered when making recommendations for the filling of such vacancies.

“In conclusion, we would like to express our sincere commitment to continue to safeguard the principles of democracy and the sovereignty of the citizen, enshrined in our most hallowed Constitution.

“We look forward to your expeditious and favourable response.”