The Fundamental Rights (FR) petition seeking the arrest of Pastor Jerome Fernando was taken up by a three-member supreme court judge bench today (10). The bench comprised supreme court judges Murdhu Fernando, Kumuduni Wickremesinghe and Janak De Silva.  The petition filed by several religious leaders seeks legal action against Pastor Fernando under the United Nations International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) for the derogatory remarks made concerning Lord Buddha and other religious figures.

Appearing on behalf of the petitioners, President’s Counsel Sanjeewa Jayawardena stated that three out of the religious leaders who signed the petition are now seeking to withdraw from it.

Appearing on behalf of the Attorney General, Deputy Solicitor General Dileepa Peiris told court that in keeping with the court order to investigate the pastor’s finances under the Prevention of Money Laundering  Act, the reports have been submitted to the court.

The court decided that the next hearing should take place in the presence of the Chief Justice.

The next hearing is on 22 July.