Namal says referendum needed to extend Supreme Court judges’ tenure

Monday, 27 July 2026 06:47 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

MP Namal Rajapaksa

Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) National Organiser and MP Namal Rajapaksa yesterday said any proposal to extend the retirement age of Supreme Court judges should be approved by the public through a referendum.

Addressing a public gathering, Rajapaksa claimed the Government had lost the confidence of the people by failing to deliver on its election promises while imposing an unfair tax burden amid the rising cost of living.

He alleged that farmers, fishermen, students, businesses, and investors were facing increasing difficulties due to fertiliser shortages, rising food prices, higher taxes, and increasing utility costs.

Rajapaksa also criticised the Government’s handling of crime, claiming organised criminal activity continued despite repeated assurances from authorities. He further alleged that delays in forensic reports and Court proceedings had contributed to prison overcrowding.

Referring to the proposed constitutional amendment to extend the retirement age of Supreme Court judges, Rajapaksa claimed the Government was giving priority to the proposal despite opposition from members of the legal and judicial fraternity.

He said that if the Government regarded the proposal as a national priority, it should seek the approval of the people through a referendum.

Rajapaksa also called on supporters to strengthen the SLPP at the grassroots level, saying the party aimed to build a modern political movement capable of meeting the aspirations of the country’s younger generation.