Justice Preethi Padman Surasena sworn in as 49th Chief Justice of Sri Lanka

Monday, 28 July 2025 04:22 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The most senior Supreme Court Justice, Preethi Padman Surasena was officially sworn in as the Chief Justice of Sri Lanka before President Anura Kumara Disanayake yesterday at the Presidential Secretariat.

He assumes office as the 49th Chief Justice of Sri Lanka, succeeding Chief Justice Murdu Nirupa Bidushinie Fernando, who recently retired. Last week, his appointment received approval from the Constitutional Council.

Having been called to the Bar in 1989, Justice Surasena subsequently joined the Attorney General’s Department, serving as a State Counsel. He was appointed as a High Court Judge in 2007. In 2016, he was appointed as a Court of Appeal Judge, becoming the President of the Court of Appeal in 2018, and a Supreme Court Judge in 2019.

Since then, Justice Surasena has served as a Supreme Court Judge, making him the most senior Supreme Court Justice after former Chief Justice Murdu Fernando.

Secretary to the President Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake was also present at the swearing-in ceremony.