ITAK Takes a Stand on Constitutional Amendment
The Ilankai Tamil Arasu Kachchi (ITAK) has called for a national referendum to be held before the proposed 22nd Amendment to the Constitution can be brought into law, insisting that the matter requires a direct public mandate rather than a simple parliamentary vote.
Amendment Seeks to Raise Retirement Ages of Senior Judges
The proposed 22nd Amendment centers on increasing the mandatory retirement ages of judges serving on the Supreme Court and the Court of Appeal. The move has drawn considerable attention from political parties and legal observers across the country, with opinion divided on whether such a constitutional change warrants broader public consultation.
ITAK Issues Formal Media Statement
In a formal media statement, the ITAK outlined its position, arguing that amendments of this nature — touching directly on the independence and structure of the judiciary — carry significant constitutional weight and cannot simply be passed through Parliament without the consent of the Sri Lankan people expressed through a referendum.
The party's stance adds a new dimension to the ongoing debate surrounding the amendment, placing the question of judicial reform squarely in the realm of public democratic accountability.
Broader Implications for Sri Lanka's Judiciary
The call for a referendum reflects wider concerns about the pace and manner in which constitutional changes affecting the judiciary are being pursued. Critics and political observers have noted that reforms touching on the tenure and retirement conditions of senior judges have lasting implications for the rule of law in Sri Lanka.
As debate over the 22nd Amendment continues, the ITAK's position is expected to intensify scrutiny on how the government intends to proceed with the proposed legislation.
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why do they care so much about judges retirement age? whats the real agenda here