The direct appointment of Ramanathan Kannan as a High Court Judge is not a valid recommendation, the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has ruled, sources said.

The decision was made when the JSC convened a meeting on 23 February, 2017, and the conclusion has been conveyed to the President on that day itself.

Opening of the doors for the appointment of judges in a bid to achieve a personal gain or political leverage, use of the name of the Bar Association of Sri Lanka by certain individuals to represent the whole organization, the improper mechanism used for the appointment were among the points that had been considered. The JSC has taken matter into the consideration, after the Judicial Service Association (JSA) pointed out these facts, it was reported.

The JSC had apprised the President, through a letter, to withdraw the official paper while considering the appointment of Ramanathan Kannan is void from the beginning, sources close to the JSA said. 

The JSA further states it has been recognized as illegal, the decision of Ramanathan Kannan to continue functioning as a High Court Judge, under the circumstances. 

The JSA further states this appointment has posed a threat to the independence of the judiciary and says it is of the view that this appointment is unconstitutional.

A general assembly of the JSA to discuss this matter will be held on 1 April, 2017.