The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has expressed strong concerns over reports that the Cabinet of Ministers may consider reviewing the Attorney General’s decision to discharge three suspects in the Lasantha Wickrematunge assassination case.
In a letter addressed to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake on 7 February, BASL emphasised that while the Attorney General is a public functionary accountable for his decisions, he also performs a quasi-judicial role in criminal matters. The association stressed that prosecutorial decisions must be based on available evidence, legal admissibility, and the likelihood of securing a conviction.
BASL further noted that the Supreme Court has established that the Attorney General’s decisions can be reviewed through the writ jurisdiction or fundamental rights jurisdiction. However, the association firmly opposed any review by political authorities, warning that such interference could undermine the independence of the Attorney General’s office and the rule of law.
The letter also cited legal precedents affirming the necessity of fair and competent criminal investigations, underscoring that judicial and quasi-judicial officers must operate independently, even when their decisions are unpopular.
BASL urged the President to ensure that the Attorney General’s independence remains protected, reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding key legal institutions in Sri Lanka.
