CJ Expresses Hope for Public Trust in Judiciary Revival

Chief Justice Syed Refaat Ahmed today expressed optimism that the people of Bangladesh will regain their trust in the judiciary, as the country’s justice system embarks on a new journey following the July mass uprising.

"The proactive role of the interim government enabled the swift formulation of an ordinance for appointing judges to the apex court," he said while addressing a regional seminar titled "Judicial Independence and Efficiency in Bangladesh" at a hotel in Khulna. "The Supreme Court and the interim government are working closely to implement the judicial reform roadmap. Notably, the Law Ministry has made significant strides in establishing a separate secretariat for the judiciary," he added.

The seminar was jointly organised by the Supreme Court and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). It was presided over by High Court Justice Mohammad Ali, with UNDP Resident Representative Stefan Liller, European Union Ambassador Michael Miller, and Swedish Ambassador Nicolas Weeks among the distinguished speakers, according to a Supreme Court press release.

Thanking the interim government for its support, the Chief Justice noted that a significant number of new judicial posts have been created across various levels, which will help reduce the backlog of cases. He also mentioned that initial preparations for establishing a specialized commercial court have been completed.

Furthermore, Chief Justice Refaat Ahmed revealed that two special committees are actively working to launch the Supreme Court Research Institute in Cox's Bazar. He added that insights from seminars held across the country’s divisions will contribute to the development of a strategic plan for the judiciary's comprehensive modernization.

"I am hopeful that these initiatives will not only enhance judicial efficiency but also restore the public's confidence in our courts," he concluded.