Ministers Brief Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith on Judiciary Reforms and Anti-Corruption Law Amendments

Minister of Health and Mass Media Nalinda Jayatissa and Minister of Justice and National Integration Harshana Nanayakkara met with Archbishop of Colombo Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith today (August 6) for a special discussion on reforms in the judiciary and prisons sectors.

The meeting focused on updating the Cardinal on the current situation in the judiciary and prison systems, the key challenges they face, and the reforms the government plans to implement. The discussion also sought to address and clarify what the ministers described as misinformation circulating about the two sectors.

The ministers outlined the government's efforts and future plans to strengthen public confidence in the judiciary, ensure the timely delivery of justice, and resolve longstanding issues affecting the judicial and prison systems.

Speaking to the media after the meeting, Minister Nalinda Jayatissa also explained the government's proposed amendments to the Prevention of Corruption Act. He emphasized that the public's right to access information on the assets and liabilities of elected political representatives would remain fully protected and that the proposed changes would not undermine that right.

However, the minister said limited amendments have been proposed regarding the asset declarations of public officials and employees of statutory bodies, citing concerns over their privacy when such information is made publicly available.

Commenting on the proposed constitutional amendment, Jayatissa said it requires broad public consultation and adequate time for discussion. He added that strengthening the economy, consolidating democracy, and reinforcing the rule of law should remain the government's immediate priorities before proceeding with constitutional reforms.