The Supreme Court will resume today (2) the hearing of 67 petitions challenging the constitutionality of the proposed 22nd Amendment to the Constitution.

The petitions are being heard by a five-member bench comprising Chief Justice Preethi Padman Surasena and Justices Achala Wengappuli, Arjuna Obeyesekere, Sampath Abeykoon and Gihan Kulatunga.

The proceedings began yesterday, with the Court rejecting a request by petitioners’ counsel to refer the matter to a full bench.

The petitions focus on whether provisions of the proposed amendment are inconsistent with the Constitution, including changes relating to the retirement age of superior court judges.

The Supreme Court’s determination will be communicated to Parliament and will establish whether a two-thirds majority in Parliament is sufficient or whether a referendum is also required.