Krishantha Senaka Thissa Jayasinghe v. N.A.K.L. Wijynayake et al. – CA PHC/APN/53/2017-2017

In the case between Krishantha Senaka Thissa Jayasinghe, Lokuyakdehige Jayantha Gunasiri, and others (Petitioners) and N.A.K.L. Wijynayake, W.A.M. Pathmasiri, the Thangalla Multi Purpose Cooperative Society Ltd., and others (Respondents), the court addressed whether a High Court order to frame charges for contempt was appropriate after an election—scheduled pursuant to a representation made in open court—was postponed. The court held that a statement by counsel regarding the scheduling of an election, particularly when relied upon by parties and forming the basis for court proceedings, can give rise to contempt proceedings if not honored. Reliance was placed on principles governing the significance of counsel’s representations to court and the mechanics of contempt proceedings under Sectio