Colombo, Sri Lanka – 26 August 2026 – In a significant move aimed at strengthening Sri Lanka’s judicial system, the Minister of Justice and National Integration, on August 18, 2026, presented a pivotal amendment Bill to Parliament. Titled “Judicature (Amendment) – Bill No. 64/2026”, this proposed legislation seeks to introduce crucial changes to the venerable Judicature Act, No. 2 of 1978, promising enhanced judicial capacity and experienced retention within the courts.
The Bill, which was published in the Government Gazette on August 07, 2026, and subsequently ordered by Parliament to be printed as Bill No. 77, addresses long-standing discussions regarding judicial resourcing and the optimal age for judicial officers to serve.
Key Provisions of the Judicature Amendment Bill
The core of the proposed amendments focuses on two critical areas, as outlined in the Statement of Legal Effect:
- Increased High Court Judges: Clause 2 of the Bill amends Section 4 of the principal enactment, increasing the maximum number of High Court Judges from “not more than one hundred and ten Judges” to “not more than one hundred and twenty Judges.” This expansion is anticipated to significantly alleviate the existing caseload burden on the High Courts across the island, thereby potentially accelerating the delivery of justice.
- Enhanced Retirement Age for Judges: Clause 3 introduces a two-pronged change to Section 6 of the principal enactment regarding retirement ages. Firstly, it proposes to raise the retirement age for High Court Judges from sixty-one years to sixty-three years. Secondly, it stipulates that the retirement age for “all other Judges and Magistrates” shall be sixty-two years, overriding any contrary provisions in the Public and Judicial Officers (Retirement) Ordinance (Chapter 355). This move aims to retain experienced judicial minds within the system for a longer period, leveraging their expertise and contributing to judicial consistency.
Implications for Sri Lanka’s Judiciary
The proposed amendments hold substantial implications for the efficiency and experience of Sri Lanka’s legal framework. An increase in the number of High Court Judges is a direct response to the growing demand for judicial services and the complexity of cases. It is expected to lead to quicker case disposal rates and reduce the backlog that often plagues judicial systems globally.
Furthermore, raising the retirement age for various judicial officers underscores a strategic approach to capitalising on accumulated knowledge and experience. Senior judges and magistrates bring invaluable insights to the bench, and extending their tenure could contribute significantly to the quality and consistency of judgments.
Next Steps in Parliament
With the Bill officially presented and ordered to be printed, it will now proceed through the standard parliamentary process, which includes debates, committee stage amendments, and eventually, a vote. The government’s move signals a strong commitment to judicial reform and ensuring the integrity and efficiency of the country’s legal institutions.
DailyFC will continue to monitor the progress of this significant legislative development as it moves through the parliamentary channels, providing our readers with timely updates on its potential impact on Sri Lanka’s justice system.
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