News Today: Judicial Officers Fail to Submit 2024 Declarations

The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has raised concerns over the failure of judicial officers, excluding judges, to submit their 2024 annual asset and liability declarations. H.S. Somaratne, JSC Secretary, issued a circular to all High Court judges, requesting them to provide details on officers under their supervision who have failed to submit their declarations.

This action is part of compliance with the Anti-Corruption Act, No. 9 of 2023, which mandates that judicial officers and scheduled public officers appointed by the JSC must submit their annual asset and liability declarations, including those of their spouses and dependent children.

The circular also extends to district and magistrate courts, urging officers to submit their declarations without delay. The JSC has specifically requested information on how many officers in each zone have filed their asset and liability declarations and how many have not.

In January, the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) wrote to the JSC, highlighting the importance of timely submissions. These declarations are a critical part of transparency and accountability in the public sector.

The JSC’s request aims to ensure compliance with the Anti-Corruption Act, which aims to reduce corruption and promote transparency in Sri Lanka’s judiciary. It remains essential for all public officers, including judicial officers, to file their declarations annually to maintain the integrity of the system.