UNP parliamentarian Ravi Karunanayake says that new laws need to be formulated to streamline the procedure relating to contempt of court.
Presenting a private members motion, the parliamentarian reiterated the need for such laws to strengthen democracy and maintain a free media.
Joining the debate parliamentarian Sujeewa Senasinghe said that the topic was timely as there are issues relating to
the rule of law in the country.
''In a recent case involving the Central Bank, the judge was asked how he can hear the case. I wish to table this document honourable chair; the 2008 Monetary Board to the honorable Minister of Finance, where this judge, P.M.M. Peiris, has been listed as consultant to the Legal Department.''
''So when there is a case against the Central Bank, can this judge hear this case? In terms of insulting court, Minister, you know that not only the people of the country, not only opposition MP's but judges too have a responsibility to not hear a case after they have considered the facts, even if they feel that they are connected in any way to the case. As the Minister of Justice you know that there are massive allegations being levelled against the court.''
The President appointed a committee to inquire into the impeachment motion against the Chief Justice. The members of this committee have concluded that Shirani Bandaranayake was not guilty of the charges levelled against her.''
''He has the report. He is a cabinet minister, The report has been presented, and I challenge him to table it here. As responsible MPs and lawyers, if you have any kind of feeling regarding the judiciary then you must table that report. Honourable chair, there is no law in the country. If we say that the law has gone to the dogs, the dogs will file cases against us,'' said MP Sujeewa Senasinghe
Inside Lanka News
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