Vilma Dissanayake and Others vs Leslie Dharmaratne – sllr 2008 volume 2 page 184

In the case between Villma Dissanayake and Others (Plaintiffs) and Leslie Dharmaratne (Defendant), the court addressed the issue of whether a succeeding judge may continue proceedings under Section 48 of the Judicature Act (as amended by Act No. 27 of 1999) when judicial changes such as transfers or promotions occur, and the extent of the judge’s discretion concerning witness demeanour. It was held that a succeeding judge is empowered to continue proceedings unless there are significant concerns over the demeanour of witnesses, which were not present in this case. The decision reaffirmed judicial continuity and case management principles, emphasizing the necessity for efficient court administration when faced with judicial changes. The appeal against the Court of Appeal’s earlier judgment