Ready to face any risk when making the necessary changes for the country.

During a discussion between the Bar Association of Sri Lanka and President Anura Kumara Dissanayake regarding the constitutional amendment to raise the retirement age of judges, the President stated that he is prepared to face any risk in making necessary changes for the country. Responding to points raised by the Bar Association at this meeting held at the Presidential Secretariat, the President mentioned that no change can be made in the country without taking risks, and that even if he were to lose his position due to such changes, he is ready to accept it with equanimity and step down.

The President emphasized that he would never use his executive power or any other power beyond the scope of the Constitution, stating that he did not come into power solely with the aim of remaining in office. Addressing the views that he too might have to step down from office due to a constitutional amendment, similar to a previous president, he stated that he would not hesitate to make risky decisions for the people, regardless of the outcome he might face in the future.

Further commenting on making risky decisions, the President pointed to the ongoing investigations into the Easter attacks as the best example. He indicated that since the relevant investigations are being carried out by the intelligence agencies responsible for his own security, there is a certain risk to life involved, but he affirmed that he would continue with these investigations despite that risk.

The President also expressed his displeasure regarding the Bar Association of Sri Lanka issuing a statement clarifying its position on the morning of the scheduled discussion. He stated that while the Bar Association has the full right to issue statements, publicizing the content before a scheduled discussion hinders an open dialogue. However, he further added that he came to this meeting with the intention of discussing with an open mind.

Commenting on the process of filling judicial vacancies, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake stated that he expects to complete these tasks within a month. The President pointed out that the Easter case involves 23,000 charges and 3,000 witnesses, and since the three-member High Court bench hearing the case comprises the most senior judges currently in the High Court, they would also be the ones to receive appointments to the Court of Appeal as the next step.