The Government has defended its decision to extend the retirement age of superior court judges, citing the growing backlog of cases across the judicial system and a shortage of experienced judicial officers.
Cabinet Spokesperson and Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa said the Government recognised the severe burden placed on the public due to lengthy delays in court proceedings, from the Supreme Court to the Magistrates’ Courts.
Responding to a question at the weekly Cabinet media briefing, Jayatissa said the move to extend the retirement age was aimed at addressing several long-standing challenges affecting the justice system.
He noted that the concentration of certain courts in Colombo had also created additional difficulties for people living in outlying areas.
The Minister recalled that the number of Supreme Court judges had been increased from 11 to 17 and Court of Appeal judges from 12 to 20 through the 20th Amendment to the Constitution in 2020. However, he said no corresponding consideration had been given to the retirement age of judges at the time.
Jayatissa further said that the migration of professionals and the declining number of legal practitioners entering the judiciary had also contributed to the shortage of judges.
“The Government is aware of the large backlog of cases throughout the court system and the pressure this places on the public. Judges are also keen to expedite proceedings but face considerable pressure themselves. Speeding up the administration of justice is essential to maintaining public confidence in the judiciary,” he said.
