Two new pieces of legislation extending the retirement age for judges came into effect following their passage in Parliament on Friday. The 22nd Amendment to the Constitution Bill and the Judicature (Amendment) Bill were both approved by significant majorities and endorsed by Speaker Dr. Jagath Wickremaratne.

The 22nd Amendment to the Constitution Bill received 158 votes in favor and 63 against. This legislation raises the retirement age for Supreme Court judges from 65 to 67 years and for Court of Appeal judges from 63 to 65 years. Additionally, the bill increases the number of Court of Appeal judges from 19 to 24 to address judicial workload and capacity.

The Judicature (Amendment) Bill was also passed on Friday, with 158 members supporting the measure and 62 opposing it. This amendment extends the retirement age for High Court judges from 61 to 63 years, as well as for District Judges and Magistrates from 60 to 62 years. It also authorizes an increase in the maximum number of High Court judges from 110 to 120. The legislation provides a framework for the establishment of additional Provincial High Courts and Provincial Civil Appellate High Courts, aiming to enhance regional judicial infrastructure.

Speaker Dr. Jagath Wickremaratne formally endorsed both bills on the day of their parliamentary approval, marking their official enactment. These legislative changes are seen as part of efforts to strengthen the judiciary by retaining experienced judges longer and expanding judicial capacity to meet demand.