Justice and National Integration Minister Harshana Nanayakkara told Parliament that no official Cabinet approval has been granted to extend the retirement age of judges in Sri Lanka’s judicial system, including those serving in the Supreme Court and the Court of Appeal.
The Minister made the statement in response to questions raised by Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa under Standing Order 27(2) in Parliament.
Nanayakkara noted that several professional groups have requested an increase in retirement ages, citing factors such as rising life expectancy and the migration of experienced professionals. However, he stressed that the Cabinet has neither approved nor finalized any proposal to extend the retirement age of judges.
“As a Government, we are considering these requests positively,” the Minister said, adding that while some proposals appear reasonable, others may be politically motivated.
He emphasized that no official decision has yet been taken on the matter.
The Minister also reiterated the Government’s commitment to safeguarding the independence of the judiciary and ensuring that judicial vacancies are filled.
He explained that the appointment of judges to the Supreme Court and the Court of Appeal falls under the authority of the President and that the Presidential Secretariat is currently taking steps regarding the appointment process.
“At present, I do not have information regarding the timeline or methodology being followed to fill those vacancies,” Nanayakkara said.