• Egalahewa (PC) questions why BASL was mum on MP Sumanthiran criticising the Judiciary

The Executive Committee of the Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) is to discuss an allegation levelled by the Sri Lanka Buddhist Lawyers' Association (SLBLA) against it with regard to the selective issuance of statements.

A statement issued by SLBLA President, President's Counsel (PC) Uditha Egalahewa, claimed that although it agrees with the sentiments expressed by the BASL to uphold the rule of law and to safeguard the independence of the judiciary, it strongly condemns the partisan and selective approach displayed by the BASL in issuing statements.

“We note with disgust, that the BASL was prompt in issuing a statement with regard to a speech made by Parliamentarian Dr. Sarath Weerasekara, calling it as a barren attack on the judiciary, when he was expressing his views on the denial of freedom of religion of the several Buddhist monks in the Kurundi Temple.”

"It is surprising that the BASL was completely silent and did not think it fit to issue a similar statement condemning the blistering attack on the judiciary by Parliamentarian M.A. Sumanthiran PC, who also happens to be a member of the BASL." The statement further read that the BASL should have proceeded to condemn the action of its own member for making such a derogatory attack on the judiciary. "For reasons only known to the BASL, they did not think it fit to do so. It is with profound disappointment that we observe the selective nature of the BASL's stance, wherein it appears to be inconsistent in its application of its principles."

"We are of the view that the BASL should, in issuing statements, act impartially without being subservient to extraneous political pressures exerted with ulterior motives for collateral purposes. It is our sincere hope that the BASL, as a pivotal institution committed to the sanctity of the legal profession, will earnestly reevaluate its approach and ensure a fair and impartial treatment of all matters concerning the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary." the statement further read.

When contacted by The Daily Morning to inquire about the allegation, BASL President attorney Kaushalya Nawaratna said: "We are going to have a meeting to discuss the statement issued by the SLBLA. We will discuss this at the Executive Committee. Thereafter, we will make a comment on their allegation."