⚖️ Sri Lankan Judiciary Vacancy Debate Raised in Parliament

• Political Context: Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa questioned the Government over prolonged delays in filling key vacancies within the higher judiciary, highlighting its potential impact on the administration of justice. • Judicial Vacancies: Four positions each in the Supreme Court and the Court of Appeal have reportedly remained unfilled for over six months, a delay Premadasa noted has contributed to the retirement of several career judges. • Government Response: Justice Minister Harshana Nanayakkara stated that these higher judiciary appointments are made directly by the President. While he assured Parliament that the vacancies will be filled, he could not provide an exact timeframe and will deliver a detailed response after consulting the Presidential Secretariat.