M.G.M.M.Fernando vs Hon Attorney General – CA PHC/29/2010-2017

In the case between M.G.M.M. Fernando (Petitioner) and the Hon. Attorney General (Respondent), the issue addressed was whether the Court of Appeal possessed jurisdiction to entertain an appeal from a High Court order when the original matter commenced in the Magistrate’s Court and was subsequently appealed to the High Court. It was held that the Court of Appeal lacked jurisdiction in such matters where the proper appellate procedure did not vest such authority. The principle reinforced is that jurisdiction of appellate courts is strictly governed by statute and constitutional provisions, and an appeal pathway must be expressly conferred by law. The decision relied on constitutional provisions and established statutory principles, underscoring the necessity for strict compliance with appell