BASL expresses concern over online and social media posts targeting judicial officers

Tuesday, 20 May 2025 03:28 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) in a statement yesterday expressed its deep concern about several online media, including social media posts, targeting judicial officers.

The BASL said it has observed that the said posts are being shared and commented upon by members of the public in a manner detrimental to the judicial officers concerned and the system of administration of justice.

In view of the pivotal role played by members of the judiciary in the dispensation of justice and the paramount requirement to ensure and safeguard the independence of the judiciary, the law provides specific process and procedure for scrutiny of judicial conduct.

The BASL is particularly concerned by recent content in certain online media, including social media platforms, which have published images of judicial officers and speculated on the facts of an inquiry without any substantiated basis, resulting in widespread public speculation on matters that are sub judice and subject to the jurisdiction of the relevant constitutional authority. Such conduct contributes to a culture of trial by media, which is both unethical and detrimental to the fair administration of justice.

The presumption of innocence is a cornerstone of our legal system and must be upheld at all times. Legal professionals and the public alike are urged to refrain from making statements, sharing opinions, or engaging in any conduct that could prejudice inquiries or lead to undue public pressure on the process.

It must also be emphasised that judicial officers, by the nature of their office, are not in a position to respond to public allegations outside the lawful forums available to them.

In light of the above, the BASL calls for responsible discourse, respect for due process, and the preservation of dignity when commenting on the conduct of judicial officers.

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