SAARC Legal systems must modernise to keep pace with the region's development: PM
Legal systems in the South Asian region must modernise to keep pace with its development, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe emphasised. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the Silver Jubilee Conference of SAARC LAW on Friday (27), the Premier pointed out that it was essential to consider how to eliminate delays in the Legal system. “This is partly a job for the Bench, partly a job for the Bar, and partly a job for the Legislature,” he remarked.
He noted that the region had a common Legal background in that, most countries are practising the British Legal system, and as such, similar Laws are enshrined in all of them. “Unfortunately, in many instances, I would say similar outdated Laws. This is one of the challenges we have to meet.”
"More and more citizens are resorting to Law to resolve their disputes," Mr Wickremesinghe added, but queried, “How long does it take to resolve even a simple land dispute?”
"SAARC countries are now in a region identified as the next region of growth. However, dispute resolution in any commercial case takes too long, and that is one of the reasons that keeps back people from investing in South Asia," he pointed out.
“This is a fundamental issue that we have to tackle. If we do not resolve these issues, firstly, you’ll find people losing faith in the Judicial system. Secondly, you will find many opportunities for investment, which uplift the people of our region, being lost to us.”
He stressed the question was as to how countries in the region modernise and update their Legal systems to ensure they are both independent and efficient.
Mr Wickremesinghe admitted that all this was easier said than done. He knew this, being a lawyer himself. "It could not be done over night. Nevertheless, action was imperative."
“Over a period of time, the actions we take, the modernisation measures and new procedures we bring in, will enable us ensure we, at least, reduce the time taken to resolve disputes,” he concluded.
Chief Justice Priyasath Dep and SAARC LAW - Sri Lanka, Chairman Nihal Jayamanne P.C. also addressed the gathering.
The 3-day SAARC LAW conference, titled “Emerging Legal Trends in the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) countries,”that concludes today at the Taj Samudra saw the participation of legal personalities in the South Asian region, including Chief Justices, lawyers and academics.