Hemantha Prematilaka Waragoda Withanage & others vs Dr. R. H. Samaratunga, Secretary to the Treasury and others – CA WRT 0394/19-2025

In the matter between Petitioners (Hemantha Prematilaka Waragoda Withanage et al.) and Respondents (Dr. R. H. Samaratunga et al.), the court addressed the issue of eligibility for concessionary vehicle import permits based on the establishment of the Provincial Co-operative Employees’ Commission. The court held that the commission, established by provincial statute, did not meet the constitutional establishment criteria under Circular No. 01/2018, and that previous erroneous practices did not create a legitimate expectation. This decision reaffirmed the principle that legitimate expectation must stem from lawful practices. The decision relied on the interpretation of Circular No. 01/2018 and the nature of legal establishment, emphasizing that an incorrect past practice cannot confer eligib