Chief justice Syed Refaat Ahmed on Friday urged legal professionals to stay committed to ensuring justice as a universal right in society.
鈥榃hether in the courtroom, the classroom, or the community, let us remain committed to building a society where justice is not a privilege but a universal right,鈥� he said.
The chief justice made the call while addressing the Rajshahi University Law Alumni Association council at the Supreme Court Bar Association.
鈥楾ogether, we have the power to transform challenges into opportunities and to pave the way for a future defined by equity and integrity,鈥� he said.
Pointing at the alumni, he said that they carried the responsibility of upholding the ideals of justice, equality, and human rights. Their work as legal professionals, educators, and advocates played a pivotal role in shaping a society rooted in fairness and the rule of law.
鈥業t is imperative that we continue to use our knowledge, influence, and resources to champion the causes of the marginalised, strengthen the legal framework, and promote access to justice for all,鈥� he said.
Pointing at the Supreme Court lawyers, Refaat Ahmed said that they acted as bridges between the judiciary and the people as their role extended beyond the courtroom.
鈥榊ou educate citizens about their rights and responsibilities, empowering them to engage with the legal system. Your work ensures that the law is not an abstract concept but a living promise of fairness and equality for all.鈥�
Refaat Ahmed said that when he took the oath as the 25th chief justice of Bangladesh, he was acutely aware of the immense responsibility placed upon his shoulders.
From the very moment of his appointment, he recognised the urgency of addressing the challenges that have long impeded the full realisation of the judiciary鈥檚 potential.
鈥楾o this end, on September 21, I 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,鈥� said the chief justice.
鈥業n reinforcing the judiciary鈥檚 independence from the legislative branch, we have restored and strengthened the Supreme Judicial Council following the disposal of the 16th Amendment review case,鈥� he said.
Recognising the critical importance of access to justice, the chief justice introduced a capacity test alongside the existing means test for invoking legal aid services.
RULAA convenor Bodruddoza Badal presided over the function moderated by its member secretary Kamal Ziaul Islam Babu.