Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa on Wednesday criticised the government's proposal to extend the retirement age of judges, alleging that the move would undermine judicial independence and increase executive influence over the judiciary.
In a special statement, Premadasa said the government had been elected on a mandate to abolish the executive presidency and strengthen democratic institutions, not to introduce constitutional amendments that would, in his view, make the judiciary "an instrument of the executive."
He argued that the proposed amendment would weaken the separation of powers and erode public confidence in the independence of the courts.
Calling on the government to withdraw the proposal, Premadasa warned that any attempt to interfere with the judiciary would pose a long-term threat to democracy and the rule of law.
The Opposition Leader also said the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) would oppose the proposed constitutional amendment and support efforts aimed at safeguarding the independence of the judiciary.
