The Court of Appeal yesterday (28) announced that the Competent Authority (CA) for Sri Lanka Rugby (SLR) Shemal Fernando should face a contempt inquiry on 15 May.
The Court deemed thus after considering a contempt of court petition filed against Fernando by six provincial unions led by the Western Province Rugby Football Union (WPRFU).
The provincial unions had petitioned the court after Fernando, who is also the Sports Ministry Director General, failed to oversee the Annual General Meeting (AGM) for the dissolved SLR by 21 January 2025 as proposed to the Court.
During yesterday’s court proceedings, the Attorney General (AG) withdrew representing the DG in the case. He informed the court that he is withdrawing from the case due to conflict of interest.
The Court ruled that the DG concerned had violated earlier court rulings and hence his actions had undermined Judicial authority warranting a contempt inquiry against him.
The Court also instructed all stakeholders in the sport to have utmost respect for the Judiciary and its decisions.
World Rugby has already set 14 June this year as its final ultimatum for the defunct SLR to amend its constitution and conduct the election of office bearers or risk a 24-month long sanction from international rugby.
(JK)
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