⚖️ Supreme Court Rejects Full-Bench Hearing for 22nd Amendment Petitions

• Bench Decision: Chief Justice Preethi Padman Surasena rejected President's Counsel M.A. Sumanthiran’s request—supported by senior counsel—to hear the challenges before a full bench. Proceedings will continue under the existing five-member bench. • Legal Argument: Solicitor General Viraj Dayaratne highlighted that under Article 132(3) of the Constitution, the Chief Justice holds sole discretion over bench composition. • Record Challenges: A record 67 Special Determination petitions were filed against the proposed 22nd Amendment Bill—the largest number of challenges against a constitutional amendment in Sri Lankan history. • Judicature Bill: Separately, five petitions have been filed challenging the Judicature Bill. • Venue Change: Following requests citing public access rights under the Constitution, proceedings were briefly adjourned and moved from Courtroom 502 to the larger Courtroom 501.