Lawyers demand resignation over alleged misconduct involving JICA and BASL
May 30, Colombo (LNW): A group of ten Presidents’ Counsels and 80 members of the Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) have submitted a letter to the BASL Executive Committee and a five-member Inquiry Committee.
They insist that any individual implicated in misconduct related to the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the BASL should be required to step down from their roles in the association if they do not voluntarily resign.
The letter asserts that this action is necessary pending the completion and final determination of the inquiry.
On 18 May, the BASL established a five-member committee consisting of Dr. K. Kanag-Isvaran PC, Dr. Faisz Musthapha PC, Ikram Mohamed PC, Rienzie Arsekularatne PC, and Geoffrey Alagaratnam PC.
This committee was tasked with investigating allegations concerning a BASL project funded by JICA aimed at promoting a transparent and competitive business environment (anti-corruption) in Sri Lanka.
The letter highlights the need for a thorough investigation to ensure full responsibility and accountability.
It stresses that recommendations should be impartial and accurately reflect the facts and findings, irrespective of the individuals involved.
To maintain credibility and public trust, the letter notes the importance of providing detailed and well-reasoned findings for each person allegedly involved.
This is essential for the association to fulfil its duties to the Bar, the public, and the country.
Furthermore, the letter underscores the necessity of considering any potential breaches of professional ethics as per the Supreme Court (Conduct and Etiquette for Attorneys-at-Law) Rules 1988 by the individuals involved.
Such consideration is vital for the Bar Council and its members to determine the appropriate measures to hold those individuals accountable.
