📜 SJB Raises Concerns Over Judicial Independence & 22nd Amendment

• Governance & Rule of Law: Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa questioned how the President learned of a confidential Supreme Court ruling on the 22nd Constitutional Amendment, warning it undermines the separation of powers and judicial independence. • Legal Impact: Premadasa highlighted that the 22nd Amendment, alongside the Judicature Act, aims to extend the retirement age of judges—affecting Supreme Court, High Court, District Court, and Magistrate judges—which he described as a threat to judicial freedom. • Democratic Institutions: The Opposition accused the administration of attempting to consolidate power, roll back democracy, and bypass a public referendum required for constitutional changes affecting sovereignty. • Public Action: The SJB has called for a peaceful protest on 24 September 2026 to protect democratic institutions and safeguard the judiciary.