The Hon. (Mrs.) Sagarika Athauda, Attorney-at-Law

¶ 01 Hon. Deputy Speaker, the office of Justice of the Peace (JP) was introduced in Sri Lanka during Governor Frederick North’s time in 1801 as an honorary recognition for persons of character rendering public service. It was clear that those facing criminal charges could not hold this role. The JP’s duties include attesting oaths, certifying signatures, and certifying documents requiring a magistrate’s attestation.

¶ 02 Under sections 45 and 45(6) of the Judicature Act, No. 2 of 1978, the Minister is empowered to make regulations relating to appointments, suspensions, cancellations, and terminations of JPs. Historically, however, political influence, lack of order, and absence of proper criteria led to public criticism and diminished respect for this honorary role. For example, “Gonawala Sunil,” a convicted person whose sentence was affirmed by the Court of Appeal, was nevertheless appointed a JP by the then political authority—signalling abuse from the late 1970s onward.

¶ 03 To restore dignity, Gazette Extraordinary No. 2439/34 of 04.06.2025 introduces new criteria and standards for JP appointments, suspensions, and cancellations. It distinguishes JPs appointed for an Administrative District from those appointed for the Republic, introduces a maximum age limit and minimum educational qualifications, and sets new recommendations for document attestation, including qualifications to certify documents in English. It also requires a medical certificate from a registered medical practitioner attesting to the appointee’s fitness to discharge duties.

¶ 04 The aim is to appoint respected, responsible individuals and re-establish the integrity, efficiency, quality, and continuity of the JP role. Strengthening the rule of law and the systems is essential. With these Regulations, the new Government takes a commendable step to restore the JP’s prestige. I conclude with support for these measures.