Sri Lanka, Aug. 13 -- The United Nations Special Rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers, Margaret Satterthwaite, has raised concerns over Sri Lanka's proposed constitutional amendment to increase the retirement age of superior court judges, warning that the move could affect judicial independence and public confidence in the judiciary.

In a communication to the Sri Lankan Government dated August 7, 2026, Satterthwaite said the proposed amendment, in its reported form and implications, may not be consistent with international human rights standards relating to judicial independence and the right to a fair trial.

Under the existing Constitution, Supreme Court judges are required to retire at 65, while Court of Appeal judges...