In a significant legal development today, the Supreme Court of Sri Lanka has issued an interim order preventing Deshabandu Tennakoon from carrying out his duties as the Inspector General of Police (IGP). This decision comes amid ongoing judicial scrutiny regarding Tennakoon’s appointment.
The Supreme Court’s ruling, delivered by a three-judge bench consisting of Justice Yasantha Kodagoda, Justice Achala Wengappuli, and Justice Mahinda Samayawardena, will remain in effect until the court resolves nine Fundamental Rights Applications that challenge the legality of Tennakoon’s appointment. The Court has also granted leave to proceed with these petitions, indicating that the case will continue to receive judicial attention.
The petitions, brought forward by a diverse group of legal experts including Geoffrey Alagaratnam PC, Upul Jayasuriya PC, Shamil Perera PC, and others, argue that Tennakoon’s appointment as IGP violates fundamental rights. Representing Tennakoon, Romesh de Silva PC will defend his position, while Senior Additional Solicitor General Nerin Pulle represents the Attorney General’s office.
This interim order marks a critical juncture in the ongoing legal battle and underscores the judiciary’s role in overseeing and regulating high-profile appointments in Sri Lanka’s public sector. The final outcome of these petitions will determine whether Tennakoon can resume his duties or if the appointment will be annulled.
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