BASL calls for protection of Attorney General’s independence

The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has strongly emphasised that it is the duty of the Government and law enforcement agencies to ensure that there is no unwarranted interference with the exercise of the powers of the Attorney General.

In a statement issued in response to recent social media posts targeting the Attorney General, the BASL stressed that the Government must safeguard the independence of key institutions, including the Office of the Attorney General, which it described as essential for the preservation of the rule of law in the country.

The BASL expressed the view that the social media posts in question amount to an unfair attempt to interfere with the independence of the Office of the Attorney General. It further emphasized that the independence and integrity of the Attorney General must be protected at all times in order to uphold the cherished principles of justice and freedom.

Elaborating on the role of the Attorney General, the BASL noted that the office of Attorney General performs a quasi-judicial function in criminal matters. The Attorney General is required to determine whether a suspect should be charged or indicted based on the material submitted by the relevant investigating authorities. In doing so, the Attorney General must assess whether such material is admissible in law and whether it establishes a reasonable prospect of conviction.

The BASL further states that decisions of the Attorney General are subject to judicial review, either through the exercise of writ jurisdiction before the Court of Appeal or through the invocation of the Fundamental Rights jurisdiction of the Supreme Court.

Reiterating its stance, the BASL urged the authorities to ensure that the Office of the Attorney General is allowed to function independently, free from external pressure or undue influence, in the broader interest of justice and the rule of law.

The BASL’s statement dated January 20, 2026 was signed by its President Rajeev Amarasuriya and Secretary Chathura Galhena.