Speaker Rejects Opposition’s Move to Probe Judicial Service Commission; Parliamentary Uproar Follows
By Lions Roar News Political Desk
COLOMBO, SRI LANKA (January 10, 2026) — Sri Lanka’s Parliament witnessed a stormy session on Friday as Speaker Dr. Jagath Wickramaratne formally rejected an opposition proposal to appoint a Parliamentary Select Committee (PSC) to probe the conduct of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC).
The Speaker’s ruling, which effectively quashed the opposition’s motion, ignited a heated debate over the separation of powers and the sovereignty of the people.
🏛️ Speaker’s Ruling: Defending Judicial Independence
Delivering his official opinion, Speaker Wickramaratne informed the House that Parliament does not possess the legislative power to investigate the functioning of the Judicial Service Commission.
- Key Justification: The Speaker maintained that such an investigation would constitute a direct interference with the independence of the judiciary.
- Constitutional Stance: He argued that protecting the judiciary from political overreach is a paramount duty of the chair, dismissing the opposition’s request as procedurally and constitutionally invalid.
🔥 Parliamentary Uproar: Opposition vs. Government
The ruling immediately triggered chaos in the chamber, with opposition members accusing the Speaker of suppressing their parliamentary rights.
The Opposition’s Argument:
- Sajith Premadasa (Opposition Leader): Stated that the Speaker’s decision violates the sovereignty of the people and the Constitution itself.
- Ajith P. Perera (SJB): Argued that judicial power originates from Parliament on behalf of the people, and the Speaker is undermining that very power.
- Gayantha Karunatileka: Emphasized that MPs were elected by the people to intervene when issues arise within the Executive, Legislature, or Judiciary.
The Government’s Defense:
- Bimal Rathnayake (Leader of the House): Accused the opposition of attempting to intimidate the judiciary. He noted that while in the past it was often the ruling party that pressured courts, today it is the opposition trying to cause “chaos” within the system. He maintained that once the Speaker delivers a ruling, it cannot be debated further.
⚖️ Tense Exchanges
The atmosphere turned particularly sharp when MP Dayasiri Jayasekara attempted to challenge the ruling. The Speaker cut him off, stating, “I have given my opinion. It cannot be discussed now.” Meanwhile, MP Nizam Kariyappar claimed the decision was a violation of the Standing Orders of Parliament, a charge the Speaker firmly rejected.
