Jayawardena v. The People’s Bank – sllr 2002 volume 3 page 017

In the case between Jayawardena (Plaintiff) and The People’s Bank (Defendant), the court addressed whether writs of certiorari and mandamus may be invoked to quash or compel action on matters arising from a bank circular governing staff transfers. It was held that employment transfer issues rooted in contractual relationships constitute matters of private law rather than public law, thus precluding relief through writs of mandamus or certiorari. The distinction between statutory/public duties and contractual obligations was reaffirmed, emphasizing ordinary legal remedies for private disputes. This determination was grounded in relevant case law and legal commentary, underscoring that public law remedies, such as writs, are reserved for the enforcement of public duties.

Jayasinghe J. — It