Sri Lanka opposition threatens no-confidence vote over judicial delays

A Sri Lankan opposition lawmaker has threatened to introduce a no-confidence motion against the government if it continues to delay filling vacancies in the higher courts. Ajith P. Perera, a Member of Parliament for the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) party, stated that this action would be taken if the government fails to address the issue of judicial appointments.

Perera explained that while a no-confidence motion specifically targeting the President would require the support of 113 Members of Parliament, a motion against the entire government is achievable. He made these remarks during an interview with a private television channel. When asked by the journalist if the Speaker would accept such a motion, Perera responded, "We will see about that at the time."

He asserted that judicial authority rests with Parliament and that the people's power is exercised through the judiciary. Perera warned that the failure to appoint judges is paralyzing these crucial functions. He highlighted that he has raised this matter in the Constitutional Council and spoken about it in Parliament on three separate occasions.

The SJB, a major opposition party, has been critical of the current administration's handling of various national issues, including the economic crisis. The party has consistently called for greater accountability and transparency from the government. The threat of a no-confidence motion signals a potential escalation of political pressure on the government, particularly concerning the independence and functionality of the judiciary.

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We will see about that at the time.