Saman Weerakoon vs The Divisional Secretary – CA WRIT/400/2019-2022

In the case between Saman Weerakoon (Petitioner) and The Divisional Secretary, Kapugollewa Road, Horowpathana, among others (Respondents), the court addressed whether a Writ of Mandamus should be issued compelling the Divisional Secretary to grant a State land permit to the Petitioner based on legitimate expectation and recommendations by relevant authorities. The court determined that no such enforceable right or legitimate expectation existed in favor of the Petitioner, given the lack of a promise by a public authority and material misrepresentations by the Petitioner. The findings established that the Petitioner failed to approach the court with clean hands due to suppression of prior revocation of permits and ongoing parallel litigation. Reliance was placed on the principles governing