Sri Lanka business chambers warn against CJ impeachment

Jan 10, 2013 (LBO) - A move by Sri Lanka's ruling coalition to impeach chief justice Shirani Bandaranaike through a controversial process which was decided as illegal by courts will harm the country, key business chambers said. She has denied the charges and expressed willingness to face a tribunal where rules of natural justice prevailed and due process was accorded.

"The Joint Business Chambers view with serious concern the on-going developments with respect to the impeachment motion brought against the Chief Justice and the possibility that it may lead to a grave constitutional crisis," business chambers warned.

"Such a constitutional crisis will not be in the best interest of the Country’s economic and business environment. It is likely to adversely affect the Country’s development process whilst significantly hindering the benefits from the peace dividend.

"We call upon all concerned to act with restraint and to respect and abide by the Constitution of the Country and hope that the Government will take the necessary steps to resolve the current impasse in the best interest of our Nation."

The statement was issued jointly by The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce (CCC),the Federation of Chambers of Commerce