Appointments of errant JPs to be quashed

Justice and Judicial Reforms Minister W.J.M. Seneviratne, in a media release warned that he has decided to use his powers under the Judicature Act to rescind the appointments of Justices of the Peace against whom complaints of irregularities have been received, after due inquiry by the police and on the recommendation of the Divisional Secretaries.

The media release stated that the Justice Ministry appoints Justices of the Peace under the powers vested in the Minister under sections 83 and 83 B. of the Judicature Act.

They are expected to strengthen people's community activities and perform functions conducive to welfare of the civil society.

Due to informal procedures adopted by the previous regime, certain people not worthy of the dignity of this post were appointed as Justices of the Peace and today among them there are JPs who use the official insignia of the Government of Sri Lanka on their documents, and some JPs charge fees to issue character certificates. These are serious offences, that have been brought to the notice of the Ministry.

Action will be initiated to inquire into such complaints and those found guilty will be disenrolled from the list of Justices of the Peace, the Ministry Media release announced.