Shemal reacts to accusations on SLR Constitution

By Susil Premalal

The Director General (DG) of Sports Professor (Rear Admiral) Shemal Fernando yesterday responded to accusations about Sri Lanka Rugby (SLR) published in certain media.

“I refer to the various articles published about the matters containing the amendments to the SLR Constitution”.

“On 17 April 2022, a ban was imposed on SLR by Asia Rugby (AR). On April 20, 2022, an initial Court Case was filed by SLR in the Court of Appeal (COA)”.

“On April 21, 2023, another Court Case was filed by SLR in the COA. On May 17, 2023, a ban was imposed on SLR by World Rugby (WR). On July 4, 2023, discussions commenced with WR and the then Minister of Sports”.

“On October 10, 2023, WR Chief International Relations and Participation Officer David Carrigy informed that the Constitutional Review Group (CRG) shall be chaired by WR and deputised by AR with members from main stakeholders as per the said discussions. Accordingly, I was appointed as a member representing the Ministry of Sports by the then Minister of Sports”.

“WR lifted the ban on November 7, 2023. Thereafter, on April 9, the CRG sent the draft Constitution to SLR. The same has been sent to the Attorney General for approval”.

Since SLR could not have their AGM on or before May 31, Gazette No 2386/08 dated 29 May was issued appointing me as the competent authority to carry out the election process”.

“As agreed by parties and stakeholders of SLR, the draft Constitution is to be presented at an SGM after giving notice under the current SLR Constitution. The stakeholders at the said SGM will act in terms of their rights under the Constitutional provisions”.

“At no point, the Ministry of Sports is responsible or will get involved in the said process other than as a facilitator. After the SGM, an AGM will be held for the election of office-bearers in terms of the provisions of the Constitution as per the resolution of SGM”.