BASL condemns criticism of Thissanayagam judgement

The Executive Committee of the Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) of the unanimous view that certain criticism made regarding the judgement in the Thissanayagam case are unwarranted. Such criticisms have been made by sections of the local and foreign public.

Thissanayagam was convicted by a Court of Law and has a right of appeal. The Superior Courts can and will reverse the verdict/sentence in the event of an error in law, the BASL said in a news release.While people have the right to constructively analyze judgements, the comments made do not amount to this. Thus such comments are unjustified and would prejudice the proper administration of law, the release said.

The BASL is strongly committed to the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary and condemns statements which tend to undermine either of the aforesaid.