The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has strongly condemned the conduct of Kaduwela Mayor Ranjan Jayalal, alleging that he obstructed and hindered an Attorney-at-Law who was representing an Animal Welfare Association at an inquiry conducted by the Mayor.
In a statement issued on the matter, the BASL said the incident occurred while the Attorney-at-Law was discharging professional duties on behalf of the Animal Welfare Association. The Association described the Mayor’s conduct as a serious interference with the independence and professional functions of an Attorney-at-Law.
The BASL further referred to audio recordings circulating on social media, as well as media reports, in which the Mayor is allegedly heard claiming to be an “Unofficial Magistrate” and suggesting that he was exercising judicial authority during the inquiry.
Rejecting this assertion, the BASL stressed that such a claim is wholly erroneous and misconceived. It pointed out that the Mayor was not acting under the authority of any Magistrate nor was he vested with or exercising any judicial power at the time of the incident.
The BASL emphasized that any attempt to intimidate, obstruct, or undermine legal professionals in the lawful discharge of their duties poses a serious threat to the rule of law and the administration of justice. The Association reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the independence of the legal profession and stated that it would take all necessary steps in response to the incident.
