SC directs prompt Local Government polls, cites rights violations
August 22, Colombo (LNW): In a significant ruling, Sri Lanka’s Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice Jayantha Jayasuriya, directed the Election Commission to promptly organise the long-delayed Local Government elections.
The bench ruled that the failure to hold the polls, initially scheduled for 9 March last year, constitutes a violation of citizens’ Fundamental Rights by the Finance Ministry, Election Commission, and Attorney General.
The five-judge bench, including Justices Vijith Malalgoda, Murdu Fernando, Gamini Amarasekara, and Yasantha Kodagoda, delivered the decision in response to four Fundamental Rights petitions.
These petitions were filed by Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) General Secretary Ranjith Madduma Bandara, National People’s Power (NPP) MP Harini Amarasuriya, the Centre for Policy Alternatives, and PAFFREL.
The petitions named multiple respondents, including Treasury Secretary Mahinda Siriwardena and the Election Commission.
The petitioners’ legal team featured prominent counsel, including Upul Jayasuriya PC, Nigel Hatch PC, and Viran Corea PC, while the Election Commission was represented by Saliya Pieris PC, and the Attorney General by Additional Solicitor General Nerin Pulle.
This landmark decision underscores the judiciary’s stance on upholding democratic rights, pressing authorities to expedite electoral processes amidst public demand for accountability.
