BASL flags delay in appointing RTI Commission chair

The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has sent a reminder to the Speaker of Parliament, who also serves as the Chairman of the Constitutional Council, regarding the long-pending appointment of the Chairman of the Right to Information (RTI) Commission. 

The BASL highlighted that the position has remained vacant for a considerable period and urged the Speaker to take serious cognizance of the matter and nominate the remaining member needed to fully constitute the RTI Commission.

In its letter dated August 1, 2025, the BASL expressed confidence that the Constitutional Council would be mindful of the public trust reposed in it, and that it would make an appropriate and widely acceptable recommendation to fill the remaining vacancy.

On May 28, 2025, the BASL highlighted that since the resignation of Retired Supreme Court Judge Upali Abeyratne on March 9, 2025, no appointment has been made to fill the post. The Chairperson’s role, as outlined in the Right to Information Act No. 12 of 2016, is pivotal to the Commission’s effective operation and its mandate to safeguard the public’s right to access information.

“The absence of a chairperson hampers the Commission’s ability to operate efficiently and discharge its duties,” the BASL letter stated, underlining the national significance of ensuring a fully functioning RTI Commission.

The BASL’s letter was signed by its President Rajeev Amarasuriya and Secretary Chathura Galhena.