G. Alexander v. Mrs. J. M. C. Jayanthi Wijetunga et al. – SC SPL.LA.214/2011-2011

In the case between G. Alexander (Petitioner) and Mrs. J. M. C. Jayanthi Wijetunga, Secretary to the Chief Minister and others (Respondents), the court addressed the issue of whether the respondents were under a statutory or legal obligation to appoint the petitioner as principal of the relevant school. The application concerned a request for a writ of mandamus and special leave to appeal regarding the alleged failure to make the appointment. It was held that no such legal or statutory duty existed on the part of the respondents, and therefore, special leave to appeal was refused. The decision reaffirms the principle that a writ of mandamus may only be issued where a clear legal duty is established. Reference was made to statutory interpretation and the requirements for mandamus relief, hi