Sri Lanka Catholic Bishops’ Conference opposes increase in retirement age of judges

23-Aug-2026

.

The Government has decided to increase the retirement age of judges, stating that this would enable the continued services of experienced and knowledgeable judges. However, before making any amendment relating to the retirement age of judges, adequate consultations must be held with the public and relevant stakeholders, the Sri Lanka Catholic Bishops’ Conference has stated.

This position was expressed in a statement issued by Archbishop Harold Anthony Perera, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Sri Lanka, and Archbishop Anton Ranjith, its Secretary-General, regarding the Cabinet decision taken on July 27, 2026 to increase the present retirement age of judges.

The statement further said:

“It is essential that the independence of the judiciary, the rule of law and the principle of separation of powers in the country be protected at all times.

“The social teaching of the Catholic Church recognises the need for the legislature, executive and judiciary to maintain an appropriate relationship with one another. At the same time, the independence necessary for the judiciary to discharge its responsibilities must be guaranteed.

“An independent judiciary is an essential safeguard for protecting justice, human dignity, fundamental rights and the common good of all citizens of the country.

“Therefore, the primary objective of the constitutional amendment currently being proposed should be to further strengthen the independence of the judiciary.

“Any constitutional amendments aimed at increasing the retirement age of judges should be based on the objectives of retaining experienced judges, finding effective solutions to the shortage of judicial officers in courts and avoiding unnecessary delays in the hearing of cases.

“Furthermore, appropriate consultations must be held with the public and relevant stakeholders before implementing such important decisions.”