Dhaka: Chief Justice Syed Refaat Ahmed today emphasized the essential role of well-trained lawyers as vital pillars of an effective justice system. "The justice process advances with far greater clarity when lawyers regularly update their knowledge and strengthen their preparation. This allows judicial time to be used more efficiently and ultimately enhances their ability to deliver justice timely," he stated.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Chief Justice made these remarks during the inaugural ceremony of the 'Continuing Professional Development (CPD)' for advocates and the 'Digital BLT Online Platform' as the chief guest at the Supreme Court auditorium this evening. He highlighted that a well-trained lawyer is not only an asset to the people but also a necessary component of an effective justice system.
Refaat Ahmed noted the global transformation of legal and constitutional institutions, mentioning that the launch of the platform coincides with a period of rapid change in Bangladesh's legal profession due to digital transformation, cross-border economic activities, tech-driven governance, new forms of evidence, and the growing use of artificial intelligence in legal analysis. "We must now acknowledge that traditional models of legal practice, training, and court engagement are no longer sufficient for a modern, efficient, citizen-centric, and globally competitive justice system," he added.
The Chief Justice further explained that the CPD initiative reflects the momentum of various development programs undertaken over the past 16 months, during which the judiciary has consistently emphasized institutional strengthening and professional development as the twin pillars of long-term judicial independence. As part of these reforms, he mentioned several operational initiatives aimed at making justice more accessible and effective, such as the Supreme Court Helplines and Nationwide Judicial Helplines, paperless benches in the High Court Division, automated cause lists, and fast case management systems in selected districts.
"A transforming judiciary requires a transforming bar. Without this balance, the justice system inevitably moves towards imbalance. That is why today's CPD programme is so timely and indispensable for our lawyers," he remarked. The Chief Justice expressed optimism that Digital BLT would advance these ambitions further by bringing learning and research under a unified digital framework.
The event was chaired by Attorney General and Chairman of the Bangladesh Bar Council Md Asaduzzaman, and was also addressed by Vice-Chairman of the Bar Council and senior advocate Zainul Abedin, as well as President of the Supreme Court Bar Association and Chairman of the Bar Council's Human Rights and Legal Aid Committee AM Mahbub Uddin Khokon. Bar Council Executive Committee Chairman and senior advocate Md. Ruhul Quddus Kajol conducted the event, which was attended by prominent figures from the legal and judicial sectors, teachers and students from various academic institutions, distinguished members of the Bar Council, and representatives of development partners.