UK Bar Council brings resolution supporting Sri Lanka lawyers and judiciary

A full meeting of the Bar Council, which represents barristers in England and Wales, has resolved to support the right of Sri Lankan judges and lawyers to adjudicate and practise law freely, fairly and independently. The resolution comes following the impeachment of Sri Lanka’s Chief Justice, Shirani Bandaranayake.

Maura McGowan QC, Chairman of the Bar, said:

“The Bar Council of England and Wales is extremely concerned about the impeachment of Shirani Bandaranayake, which we believe constitutes a grave threat to the independence of the judiciary in Sri Lanka and to the Rule of Law.

“The Bar Council condemns this action and seeks to offer its vocal support for judges and lawyers across Sri Lanka.

“The Rule of Law is essential to any functioning and democratic society, to ensure that its most vulnerable can enjoy effective access to justice.”