The upcoming retirement of the current Chief Justice in July 2025 has sparked an intense contest for success and power behind closed doors. According to credible judicial sources, two senior judges are actively lobbying the government, each trying to gain the upper hand in securing this top judicial post.
Power, Politics and the Rise of the “Iron-Fisted” Judge
Within Aluthkade’s legal circles, it’s an open secret that Padman Surasena, who publicly presents himself as a stern disciplinarian, rose to the position of President of the Court of Appeal through questionable means.
Political Patronage
While Padman Surasena cultivates an image of independence and authority, insiders acknowledge that his access to former President Maithripala Sirisena’s residence on Paget Road was secured through the influence of “Japan Indika.” It’s whispered in Hulftsdorp that Surasena frequently visited the residence and even washed chairs there — acts that allegedly paved the way for his success. Ultimately, he leapfrogged seven more senior judges to claim the post.
Reward for Loyalty
As head of Maithripala’s “Presidential Commission to Investigate Serious Fraud and Corruption,” Surasena recommended stripping Mahinda Rajapaksa of civil rights. As a reward, Maithripala bypassed protocol and seniority to appoint him President of the Court of Appeal — a move widely seen as political repayment.
Judicial Misconduct and Questionable Rulings
Tyranny in the Courtroom
Surasena is criticized for belittling junior lawyers and arbitrarily dismissing sensitive cases. Legal practitioners see this as judicial overreach and a pattern of personal vendetta cloaked in robes of authority.
The “50-Day Government” Controversy
As President of the Court of Appeal, Surasena suspended the cabinet appointed during the 2018 “50-Day Government,” benefiting PM Ranil Wickremesinghe. His elevation to the Supreme Court shortly afterward is seen as political quid pro quo.
The Hidden Deal
Ranil’s legal challenge to Mahinda’s 50-day cabinet landed before Surasena, Maithripala’s appointee. Surasena issued a stay against Mahinda’s cabinet, reinstating Ranil. Despite the Easter Sunday Commission’s damning recommendations against Maithripala, Ranil remained silent — widely believed to be part of this covert pact.
A Master of Political Survival
Maithripala’s Protégé
Surasena enjoyed privileges and fast-track promotions under Maithripala, even being backed by Ranil for the Supreme Court.
Betrayal of a Benefactor
Surasena later ruled for Maithripala’s eviction from the very residence where he once solicited patronage. The move shocked allies.
New Loyalties
He is now rumored to be aligned with the current ruling powers, maintaining influence while more qualified judges are overlooked.
Dark Shadows Over His Past and Present
Military Discharge
Surasena was allegedly discharged from the Kotelawala Defence Academy on mental health grounds, raising concerns over his fitness for office.
Family Tragedy
His father’s murder during the JVP insurgency may have contributed to his vengeful approach to criminal cases.
Backroom Promises
Reports suggest he’s offered covert judicial favors to secure the Chief Justice post — a move that deeply concerns the legal fraternity.
Lack of Legal Credentials
Despite repeated failures at Law College, Surasena rose via political connections. Legal circles mock his courtroom reliance on a laptop due to his inability to take handwritten notes.
Politically Engineered Rise
He leveraged ties with Maithripala during the Central Bank bond commission era and, with his wife, lobbied for his 2019 Court of Appeal appointment despite being junior.
Symbolic Loyalty and Supreme Court Promotion
He sat beside Maithripala at a ceremonial oath event — a performative political gesture. His favorable ruling on Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s citizenship case cleared the way for Gotabaya’s presidency, and Surasena was rewarded with a Supreme Court promotion.
Lack of Judicial Substance
Surasena rarely authored judgments and is seen as more focused on self-promotion than jurisprudence.
Ethical Scandals and Moral Failings
Extramarital Affairs
He’s rumored to have engaged in affairs with female lawyers, including Dilrukshi Boteju, whom he allegedly seduced under the pretext of legal support.
A Scandal That Could Not Stay Hidden
His wife discovered a love letter in the trash, sparking a domestic crisis. He is infamous for such affairs.
The Batalanda Whitewash
Surasena helped suppress the Batalanda Commission’s findings, shielding Ranil Wickremesinghe. His loyalty was rewarded with promotion.
Yet today, he cites the same report he once buried — a move seen as political posturing.
A Call for Judicial Purification
The judiciary must embody integrity and independence. But Surasena has cultivated improper ties, enabled Gotabaya’s rise after a trip to Dubai under “Yahapalanaya,” and has shown consistent political servility.
Rumors claim Maithripala has video evidence of Surasena’s sycophancy (symbolized by “washing chairs”) and may release it if needed.
As Sri Lanka pursues a clean judiciary under President Anura’s reforms, the public hopes such politically tainted candidates are filtered out — allowing the judiciary to reclaim its role as an independent guardian of justice.
This article reflects the personal views and interpretations of the author and does not represent the official position of Epistle News or its editorial team. The content is based on publicly available information, legal community commentary, and investigative observations. While care has been taken to verify key claims, readers are encouraged to approach the content with critical thought and seek out additional sources where necessary.
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