The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has expressed its deep concern about recent media reports highlighting statements made by certain Members of Parliament condemning the invocation of the Supreme Court’s fundamental rights jurisdiction by a citizen to challenge the issuance of liquor licences.

The BASL has in a media statement, stressed that every citizen of Sri Lanka has a fundamental right to seek redress from the Supreme Court, the apex court of our nation, as enshrined in the Constitution.

This right cannot be curtailed under the guise of parliamentary privileges, BASL said.

Full text of BASL statement:

“The BASL categorically condemns the claims made by these MPs suggesting otherwise. The BASL views with grave concern that any attempts to use parliamentary privileges to interfere with the independence of the judiciary directly or indirectly and will, in no uncertain terms, remain silent when attempts are made to weaken the independence of the judiciary. The recent trend of parliamentarians making statements that undermine the rule of law and the proper administration of justice is deeply troubling.

“Furthermore, the BASL is alarmed by reports of a citizen being summoned before a parliamentary privileges committee for expressing personal views on social media regarding an MP. The Constitution of Sri Lanka guarantees fundamental rights, including the freedom of expression, to all citizens. Holding individuals accountable before Parliament for expressing their views on the performance of elected officials is a clear violation of these fundamental rights.

“The right to freedom of expression is a cornerstone of a democratic society. Sri Lankan citizens have the right to express their views, including those critical of a legislator’s performance, without fear of retribution from Parliament.

“The BASL urges all parties to uphold the rule of law and respect the independence of the judiciary. Citizens must be free to exercise their fundamental rights, and parliamentarians should refrain from actions that undermine these principles and urge all stakeholders to uphold the principles enshrined in our Constitution, particularly the independence of the judiciary and the fundamental rights of citizens.

The BASL remains committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure the continued protection of fundamental rights and the proper administration of justice in the country.”