SJB takes 22nd Amendment protest to Parliament gates as debate begins

By The Pulseline News Desk

The main opposition Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) stepped up its opposition to the Government’s proposed 22^nd Amendment to the Constitution on Thursday (24), taking its protest to the doorstep of Parliament as lawmakers began a two-day debate on the controversial legislation.

The protest, organised near Polduwa Junction in Battaramulla, drew large crowds despite heavy rain, with Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa joining SJB parliamentarians, party members and supporters.

Carrying placards and raising slogans, protesters called on the Government to withdraw the proposed amendment, arguing that changes affecting the superior judiciary should not be pursued without addressing concerns over judicial independence and the rule of law.

The timing of the demonstration gave the protest added political significance, with Parliament beginning debate on the Bill on the same day. The debate is scheduled to continue on Friday, when a vote on the proposed amendment is expected.

The proposed 22^nd Amendment seeks, among other provisions, to change the retirement age of judges of the superior courts. The proposal has triggered opposition from sections of the legal community, civil society groups and political parties, with concerns raised over its implications for the independence of the judiciary and the separation of powers.

The Supreme Court, however, has determined that the proposed amendment does not require approval at a referendum and can be enacted with a special majority in Parliament.

The Government has proceeded with the parliamentary process despite the opposition, bringing the legislation before Parliament for debate amid heightened political and public attention.

Security was also tightened around the Parliamentary complex today. A heavy police presence was observed at Polduwa Junction and near the main entrance to Parliament as lawmakers debated the Bill.

The protest also affected traffic in the Battaramulla area, with congestion reported around Polduwa Junction and Diyatha Uyana as SJB supporters gathered for the demonstration.

With the parliamentary debate continuing into Friday (25), the Government and Opposition are now heading towards a decisive vote on a constitutional proposal that has placed judicial independence, the powers of Parliament and the balance between the branches of government at the centre of a growing political dispute.

For the SJB, Thursday’s mobilisation was intended to take that opposition beyond Parliament and onto the streets.