BASL Boycotts Courts Following Killing of Lawyer ⚖️

The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has declared a nationwide court boycott today, February 16, 2026, following the daylight assassination of Attorney-at-Law Buddhika Mallawarachchi and his wife in a high-security zone. • Key Resolutions: The BASL General Membership unanimously adopted a four-point mandate: Court Boycott: All lawyers are to refrain from appearing in courts across the country today. Security Demand: Urging the Government to end the "culture of brutal killings" and restore public security. Law Enforcement: Calling for the immediate apprehension of perpetrators and swift legal action. Media Concern: Expressing displeasure over the circulation of unverified narratives allegedly linked to the Police. • Economic & Social Context: The BASL highlighted an "existential threat" to the legal profession and the judiciary, drawing parallels to the 2004 assassination of High Court Judge Sarath Ambepitya. Such instability in the legal sector can impact investor confidence and the overall rule of law, which are critical pillars for Sri Lanka's economic stability. 🚨 • Status: Based on urgent resolutions passed during a Special General Meeting.