Chief Justice Syed Refaat Ahmed. -File Photo

 
DHAKA, Feb 17, 2025 (BSS) – Chief Justice Syed Refaat Ahmed today 
stressed the need for giving importance on harmonization of the 
judiciary and the executive during their separation.    

“The judiciary exists to uphold rights, deliver justice, and ensure that no 
person irrespective of status remains without redress. The executive, on 
the other hand, is tasked with implementing policies, maintaining 
stability, and facilitating governance. These functions, while separate, 
must harmonize, and not be in conflict with each other,” he said. 

He was speaking as the chief guest at the Deputy Commissioners’ 
Conference at auditorium of the Supreme Court of Bangladesh. 
  
The Chief Justice said a district where the judiciary functions 
independently, fairly, and efficiently is one where confidence in the legal 
system flourishes. 

And where the administration respects and supports this independence, 
governance reaches its highest moral standing, he continued.

“Our Constitution enshrines the separation of powers, yet practical 
governance requires seamless coordination. It is here that I seek your 
vigilance, wisdom, and cooperation,” he said. 

Article 112 of the Constitution mandates all executive and judicial 
authorities to support the Supreme Court and follow its orders, he said. 

“No government directive, circular, or notification can override or delay 
a Supreme Court order.  This Article in so far as relates to your role in 
executing judicial directives, assisting in case management and 
facilitating logistical necessities for the courts is fundamental,” he said.

Cabinet Secretary Dr Sheikh Abdur Rashid addressed the DC 

Conference while Registrar General of the Supreme Court Dr. Aziz 
Ahmed Bhuiyan gave the address of welcome.

The divisional commissioner of Sylhet division, DCs of Jashore and 
Natore district also spoke on the occasion.   

The Chief Justice said he was deeply aware of the immense responsibility 
placed upon his shoulders when he had the distinct honor of taking oath 
as the 25th Chief Justice of Bangladesh. 

“This role is not merely a position of leadership but a solemn trust 
bestowed by the people of this nation to uphold fairness, equity, and 
ensure access to justice for all, irrespective of their status or 
circumstances,” he said.

To this end, on September 21 last, he said that he unveiled a 
comprehensive Roadmap for Judicial Reform. 

“This initiative is a cornerstone of my vision to strengthen our judiciary 
and its capacity to serve the people with integrity and efficiency,” he 
said.  

He said that the judiciary has had a head start from August 2024 
onwards to devising its own internal reformist policy blueprint and has 
provided substantial input that has informed much of the legal 
framework has institutional independence that is now being placed 
before the Nation.

The Deputy Commissioner, in our administrative structure, embodies the 
convergence of governance, public service, and justice, he opined. 

“You (DCs) are the bridge between the executive authority and the 
people, bearing the delicate task of maintaining law and order, 
overseeing development initiatives, and upholding the dignity of the 
State,” he said. 

“Yet, an indispensable aspect of your role, which I wish to emphasize 
today, is your interface with the judiciary. The district judiciary and the 
district administration are two pillars standing in close proximity, each 
distinct in function yet inextricably linked in purpose,” he added.

The Chief Justice said that the Deputy Commissioners (DCs) play a 
pivotal role in ensuring justice reaches the most vulnerable segments of 
society through their active involvement in district legal aid committees, 
jail inspections, and collaboration with the judiciary.

As active members of the District Legal Aid Committee, DCs alongside 
District Judges are responsible for facilitating access to justice for 
underprivileged individuals, he remarked. 

Their leadership ensures that legal aid services are effectively delivered, 
case backlogs for indigent litigants are addressed, and public awareness 
about free legal assistance is enhanced, he said.

In jail inspections, DCs, alongside district judges, ensure that prisoners’ 
rights are upheld, detentions are lawful, and the living conditions in 
correctional facilities meet human rights standards, he said. 

Regular inspections prevent overcrowding, ensure the timely release of 
detainees eligible for bail, and reinforce accountability within the prison 
system, he mentioned.

“In law enforcement, DCs act as key coordinators between the judiciary, 
law enforcement agencies, and the local administration. Their role in 
executing judicial orders, ensuring timely investigation and prosecution, 
and maintaining law and order in tandem with district judges and 
magistrates fosters a justice system that is efficient, responsive, and fair,” 
he said. 

A well-coordinated effort between the administration and judiciary 
strengthens public trust and upholds the rule of law at the grassroots 
level, he opined. 

“The current situation demands that Deputy Commissioners (DCs) take 
firm measures to maintain law and order, ensuring stability and public 
safety. It is expected that they act decisively and responsibly to uphold 
the rule of law, thereby contributing collectively to national security,” he 
said.

At the outset of the conference, the Chief Justice recalled with due honour 
the memory of the martyrs of 1971, whose sacrifices gave us an 
independent nation, he said.

He also remembered the determined spirit of the student-led revolution 
of July and August 2024, which played a pivotal role in ending 
oppression and restoring justice, equality, and humanity.