In a significant move aimed at reforming Sri Lanka’s criminal justice system, the Cabinet of Ministers has approved a proposal to establish an independent Public Prosecutor’s Office. 

This was announced by the Cabinet Spokesperson Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa yesterday (8) at the weekly Cabinet media briefing. This initiative, according to the Government, is expected to address delays in the judicial process and enhance both transparency and public confidence in criminal proceedings.

According to him, the proposed office will function independently of the Attorney General’s Department and will be empowered to conduct prosecutions on behalf of the State. The establishment of provincial sub-offices is also planned to ensure broader accessibility and efficiency.

Earlier this year, a committee was appointed to address key issues regarding the creation of the said office, the Ministry of Justice said. The committee comprised prominent legal figures, including the AG or two of their appointed representatives, the Secretary to the ministry, a senior Judge with expertise in the judicial service (President’s Counsel and Supreme Court Justice Yasantha Kodagoda as the Chairperson), and the President of the Bar Association of Sri Lanka or a designated representative.

The said office is to be established by way of a new law along with any other required legal amendments to existing related laws.