Dona Prema Kurugama Disanayeka v. S.J. Ranasinghe Disanayake et al. – CA PHC 36/2011-2017

In Dona Prema Kurugama Disanayeka v. S.J. Ranasinghe Disanayake and Others, the dispute centered on the right to vacant possession of a specific land. The court was required to determine the enforceability of a settlement jointly entered by the parties, including the mechanism for execution if the settlement terms—primarily the delivery of possession—were not honored. It was established that all parties confirmed adherence to the agreed settlement terms, prompting the bench to order that the Magistrate of Hambantota effectuate enforcement as stipulated. The case reaffirmed the principle that settlements mutually recorded in court constitute binding and enforceable orders, especially where parties provide express consent, and highlighted the court’s inherent power to ensure implementation.