Trial by Media: Bar Association of Sri Lanka Condemns YouTuber Predictions on Case Outcomes

The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has issued a statement on August 25, 2025, regarding comments made on social media and other platforms about matters within the purview of the Judicial Service Commission and the Judiciary, which are both Independent Institutions.

The Judicial Service Commission is a Commission consisting of the Chief Justice and two Senior Judges of the Supreme Court, which holds responsibility in relation to the transfer of judges of the High Court, as well as for the appointment, promotion, transfer, disciplinary control and dismissal of judicial officers and relevant scheduled public officers.

The BASL stated that it has “continuously stood for the independence of the judiciary, which must be safeguarded and protected from any form of outside threat or interference, sought to be affected through social media posts, statements, commentaries or purported predictions by YouTubers on case outcomes.”

According to the statement, such acts “undermine the rule of law, threatens the due process of law and can have potential to impact the public confidence in the administration of justice.”

The BASL also warned that “perpetrators of such acts can be dealt with in terms of the Law,” and drew attention to Article 111(C)(1) and (2) of the Constitution, which contain penal provisions regarding interference with the judiciary.

In its statement, signed by President Rajeev Amarasuriya and Secretary Chathura A. Galhena, the BASL emphasized the need for all stakeholders, including law enforcement authorities, to “safeguard the Rule of Law, due process and the protection of the rights and liberties of citizens at all times.”