Anura Kumara Dissanayake vs. Hon. Upaly Abeyrathne and others – CA WRIT 166/2020-2024

In the case between Anura Kumara Dissanayake (Plaintiff) and the Chairman and members of the Presidential Commission of Inquiry, including Hon. Upaly Abeyrathne and others (Defendants), the court addressed the legality of the Commission’s proceedings and scope of authority. The key issue was whether the Commission exceeded its jurisdiction by accepting and acting on a complaint filed by a private individual, leading to findings, decisions, and recommendations that affected the petitioner. The holding determined that the Commission acted ultra vires, violating statutory limitations and principles of natural justice, as its mandate did not extend to investigate private complaints or summon the petitioner as a respondent on such a basis. The Commission’s actions and recommendations were quash