WISADAMU

On the 20th and 21st of April 2026, our team proudly carried out the third phase of the “WISADAMU” project an initiative focused on providing free legal support to prisoners. This phase mainly aimed at giving legal advice to individuals who are often overlooked within the justice system, while continuing our effort to promote fair and equal access to justice.

The programme began on the 20th of April, when our team visited both the Colombo Magazine Prison and the Colombo Remand Prison. We continued our work on the 21st at the Welikada Prison complex. These visits were organized with the support of the Legal Aid Commission of Colombo, whose guidance and experience played an important role in making this programme successful.

As in previous phases, our team was divided into groups to manage the consultations effectively. Law students worked together with experienced lawyers, speaking directly with prisoners, listening to their concerns, and offering practical legal advice. During these sessions, we met many inmates, most of whom were facing serious legal and personal difficulties.

One of the most common issues we noticed was the difficulty in obtaining bail. Many prisoners were still in remand, not because they had been found guilty, but because they could not afford bail or did not have the required sureties. Some were in even more difficult situations, without family members, legal support, or anyone to help them through the legal process. Because of this, many remained in custody for long periods due to financial and social difficulties rather than actual convictions.

With the support of the Legal Aid Commission, our legal team worked hard to guide these individuals. We explained bail procedures in a simple way, discussed possible solutions, and helped them understand the next steps in their cases. Most importantly, we made sure they were aware of their rights, giving them a better understanding of their situation. 

The sessions, which went on from morning to afternoon, were not just about giving legal advice they were also about connecting with people. Listening to their stories made us realize how many individuals are living with uncertainty, financial struggles, and limited access to legal help. Some had been waiting for a long time simply because they had no one to speak for them.

This experience was both humbling and eye-opening. It showed us how important it is to make legal aid accessible, especially for those who are most vulnerable within the system. As law students, this initiative helped us connect what we learn in classrooms with real-life situations, while also reminding us of our responsibility towards society.

The third phase of the “WISADAMU” project strengthened our belief that justice should not be limited to a few, but should be available to everyone. It also encouraged us to continue working towards a more fair and compassionate legal system, where every individual is heard and supported.

Penned by

Leo  Tharushi Rathnayaka