⚖️ Supreme Court Sentences Lawyer to 3 Years for Contempt

The Supreme Court of Sri Lanka has sentenced attorney-at-law Priyantha Jayathunga to a 3-year prison term following a conviction for contempt of court. • Sentence & Custody: The three-year custodial sentence is effective from 1 July 2024, accounting for the period the respondent has already spent in remand. • The Incident: The proceedings were initiated after the attorney, while appearing before the Court, accused three sitting Justices of suppressing the truth and acting with malice. He further alleged they had committed offenses under Section 289 of the Penal Code. • Judicial Ruling: A three-judge bench, including Justices Shiran Gooneratne, Achala Wengappuli, and Priyantha Fernando, ruled that the elements of contempt were fully established. • Legal Context: The case underscores the judiciary’s strict stance on maintaining the integrity of the legal profession and protecting the court from scandalous allegations that undermine public confidence in the administration of justice.