Chief Justice Syed Refaat Ahmed said on Saturday that the martyrs of the July-August students led revolution and their sacrifice impose upon us a solemn burden to ensure that the doors of justice remain open for all, regardless of status, power, or privilege.
The Chief Justice also said that the Supreme Court is not merely a seat of justice but a custodian of the Constitution, the protector of rights, and the conscience of the nation.
"Recent incidents, however, have reminded us that the conduct within our premises has, at times, fallen short of the ideals we revere and the aspirations we hold dear. This is not the Supreme Court Bar we envision, and it falls upon each of you to restore and uplift its dignity, ensuring that it remains a beacon of integrity, professionalism, and justice," the Chief Justice said while addressing as the chief guest at a workshop held at the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) auditorium.
The current SCBA executive committee organised this workshop for the newly enrolled High Court Division lawyers where Appellate Division Justice Zubayer Rahman Chowdhury, High Court Division Justice Farah Mahbub and former SCBA president Zainul Abedin also addressed the workshop, among others.
SCBA acting secretary Barrister Mahfuzur Rahman (Milon) conducted the workshop while incumbent SCBA president Barrister Mahbub Uddin Khokan presided over the programme.
During his speech, the Chief Justice said, "First pause to honour the memory of those who gave their lives for justice, freedom, and dignity-starting with the martyrs of the 1971 Liberation War. Their sacrifices carved the path to the sovereign state we serve today. Equally, I recall with reverence the martyrs of the July-August 2024 student-led revolution-a movement led by the youth of this nation, who reignited the spirit of accountability and equity. Their courage and ultimate sacrifice impose upon us a solemn burden to ensure that the doors of justice remain open for all, regardless of status, power, or privilege."
"As you join this noble profession, remember that ours is not merely a career but a calling a commitment to stand as the vanguard of justice, fairness, and the rule of law. Together, we bear the torch of truth and equity, illuminating the path for generations to come," the CJ said.
"Let us embody these principles in our words, actions, and decisions. The path of law is not without its challenges, but with courage, integrity, and commitment to the ideals of justice, we can fulfil our duty to the Nation, ensuring that the Rule of Law remains the guiding light of our society," the CJ noted.
When I took oath as the 25th Chief Justice of Bangladesh, I was acutely aware of the immense responsibility placed upon my shoulders. 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, the CJ said.
The judiciary stands as a cornerstone of our democracy, and its strength lies in the harmonious interplay between two integral pillars-the Bench and the Bar. The Bar is not merely a participant in the judicial process but an equal stakeholder in upholding the sanctity and efficacy of justice, the CJ said.
"As members of the Supreme Court Bar Association, your role extends far beyond advocacy; you are custodians of the legal profession and vital collaborators in the administration of justice. The nation, and I personally, place great expectations upon you to act with care, professionalism, and a deep sense of responsibility in aiding the judiciary to meet its constitutional mandate," the CJ said.
"To fulfil my vision of a judiciary that is independent, efficient, and accessible to all, I call upon every member of the Bar to align their efforts with the highest standards of integrity and commitment. Your advocacy shapes judicial decisions; your conduct reinforces public trust; and your insights enrich the legal discourse that drives reform. In this regard, I urge you to embrace your duties not only as representatives of your clients but also as partners in the shared pursuit of justice," the CJ said.
Together, the Bench and the Bar must rise to the occasion to address the evolving challenges of our legal system, from ensuring equitable access to justice to tackling delays and inefficiencies. The judiciary's success in realizing the ideals of fairness and equity depends significantly on your support, cooperation, and unwavering dedication. Let us move forward as a united force, bound by a common vision, to strengthen the rule of law and ensure justice for all citizens of Bangladesh. The responsibility is immense, but with your steadfast commitment, it is undoubtedly achievable, he added.
Advocacy should never become a tool for manipulation or deception; rather, it should reflect a balanced pursuit of justice where fairness to all parties is paramount. Upholding these principles in the face of challenges is what distinguishes a true lawyer from a mere practitioner of law, the CJ said to the new lawyers.
