Rule of Law at risk: Lawyers’ Collective raises concerns over not appointing new IGP

• According to the Constitution (Article 41C), the President must nominate  an IGP candidate approved by the Constitutional Council, emphasizing  the need for a candidate with an impeccable service record, devoid of  any allegations, to rebuild trust in the police

The Lawyers’ Collective has raised concerns regarding the prolonged absence of an appointment for the position of Inspector General of Police (IGP) in accordance with the Sri Lankan Constitution. The Collective emphasized that this vacancy has had a profound impact on the Police Department and the criminal justice system.   

Over the past eight months, the President has repeatedly extended C.D. Wickremeratne’s tenure as IGP, even after he surpassed the age of compulsory retirement. Another purported extension, made without the approval of the Constitutional Council, was noted to have occurred on or around November 3, 2023, the collective said in a statement.  

They pointed out that this leadership vacuum has contributed to a significant erosion of public confidence in the Sri Lanka Police over several decades. Issues such as a lack of independence, politicization, instances of torture, custodial deaths, and a lack of professionalism have all contributed to diminishing trust in the police force.   

A recent Supreme Court case of Mohammed Rashid Fathima Sharmila v K.W.G. Nishantha and others emphasized the need for a more professional and trustworthy Police force. The Lawyers’ Collective insists on the urgent restoration of public confidence in the Sri Lanka Police, as it is vital for the proper administration of justice and upholding the rule of law.   

The Collective highlighted that, according to the Constitution (Article 41C), the President must nominate an IGP candidate approved by the Constitutional Council, emphasizing the need for a candidate with an impeccable service record, devoid of any allegations, to rebuild trust in the Police.   

The Lawyers’ Collective also emphasized the importance of adhering to the highest standards of good governance in the selection process and suggests that the Constitutional Council establish rules governing its procedures to ensure a rigorous, merit-based, and accountable decision-making process.