Chief Justice Dr Syed Refaat Ahmed today spoke as the chief guest at theThe sixth Regional Seminar on Judicial Independence and Efficiency, organised by Bangladesh Supreme Court and the UNDP held in Rangpur. Photo: BSS

RANGPUR, April 5, 2025 (BSS) - Chief Justice Dr Syed Refaat Ahmed today emphasised the foundational role of judicial independence in upholding the rule of law. 

"Judicial reform is no longer a distant aspiration, it is unfolding now, he told a seminar here.

Speaking as the chief guest, Dr Refaat said: "Over the past eight months, we have taken bold and transformative steps to ensure true judicial independence, including the establishment of autonomous judicial bodies, digital innovation, and people-centric services."

He said the judiciary must be the architect of its own reform-transparent, accountable, and free from executive influence.

"I deeply value the strategic partnership with UNDP, whose continued support has been instrumental in advancing this reform agenda across the country," the Chief Justice further added.

The sixth Regional Seminar on Judicial Independence and Efficiency, organised by Bangladesh Supreme Court and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) was held today in Rangpur.

The seminar brought together senior members of the judiciary, legal experts, and development partners to promote transparency, efficiency, and accountability within the justice system, UNDP press release said. 

Sarah Cooke, British High Commissioner to Bangladesh, attended as a Special Guest. 

She reiterated the UK's commitment to justice sector reform and inclusive governance.

"An independent and efficient judiciary is vital for rule of law and the foundation upon which the rights and freedoms of individuals rest. It is more important than ever as Bangladesh charts the pathway to a democratic, inclusive, and prosperous future. 

"The Chief Justice's roadmap is both timely and transformative, offering a strategic vision that responds to citizens' aspirations for a fair, timely, and accessible justice system," said Sarah Cooke.

Stefan Liller, Resident Representative of UNDP Bangladesh, delivered the Welcome Remarks. 

He highlighted UNDP's long-standing partnership in supporting judicial reform in Bangladesh.

"The divisional seminars ensure an inclusive reform process by engaging judges across Bangladesh. @UNDP is proud to be part of this journey, building on over a decade of collaboration with the Supreme Court. Our support spans justice service delivery, digitalization, case backlog reduction, court administration, and access to justice for vulnerable communities," said Stefan Liller.

Justice Zafor Ahmed, Honorable Judge of the High Court Division, Supreme Court of Bangladesh, delivered special remarks, stressing the urgency of institutional autonomy for long-term judicial development.

A presentation was delivered by Md. Muajjem Hussain, Special Officer, Bangladesh Supreme Court, on the proposed framework of the "Independent Supreme Court Secretariat" underscoring its potential to enhance administrative and financial autonomy of the judiciary.

The regional seminar series continues to serve as a platform for meaningful dialogue and collaboration to advance judicial excellence in Bangladesh.