Dhaka: Chief Justice (CJ) Syed Refaat Ahmed today highlighted the significant impact that judges’ opinions have in shaping the direction of the state and its history.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Justice Syed Refaat Ahmed made these remarks during his farewell address at the Supreme Court Auditorium, ahead of his retirement as the 25th Chief Justice on December 27. He acknowledged that the judiciary has sometimes been an unacknowledged accomplice in unconstitutional power and misrule, stressing that the moral deviation within the judiciary has historically compelled public action, as seen during the July Uprising of 2024.
Addressing the judges present, the CJ urged them to prioritize the pursuit of knowledge and continuous learning. He emphasized the importance of engaging in study and research to develop judicial expertise, urging judges to strive for excellence beyond mere execution of work.
The Chief Justice encouraged judges to broaden their knowledge beyond traditional learning to include subjects such as society, culture, anthropology, history, economics, and political thought. Additionally, he suggested exploring modern science and technology fields like artificial intelligence, environmental science, and cybersecurity to prepare for unforeseen legal challenges.
He articulated that all knowledge and societal understanding play a role in decision-making and judgment writing, reiterating the exceptional influence of judicial opinions on state direction and history.
Referring to the establishment of the Supreme Court Secretariat, Justice Ahmed stressed the need for the judiciary’s independence as the guardian of constitutional rights. He called for strict action against corruption within the judiciary, emphasizing judges’ responsibilities to ensure quick justice and avoid political influence.
He concluded by urging judges to rise above politics despite the law’s connection to broader politics. He warned that if the judiciary merely maintains balance for the ruling class, it would negate the need for a separate judicial institution, advocating for integrity and sound judgment in judicial duties.
The event was attended by judges from the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court, Attorney General Md Asaduzzaman, senior advocate Zainul Abedin, Supreme Court Bar Association President AM Mahbub Uddin Khokon, and other judicial dignitaries.