Outgoing Appellate Division judge Justice Syed Md Ziaul Karim, in his farewell speech on Wednesday, addressed claims of corruption within the judiciary, noting that such allegations often reached him unexpectedly.
He urged unity across all levels of the judiciary, from lower court officials to senior judges, to safeguard the integrity of the justice system.
鈥楯udicial management cannot succeed through individual efforts alone,鈥� Justice Ziaul said, stressing the need for collective responsibility.
He underscored the pivotal role of the Chief Justice, describing the position as the judiciary鈥檚 guardian, responsible for issuing clear directives, rewarding capable judges, and offering reprimands when necessary.
Justice Ziaul highlighted the importance of judicial independence, stating that judges must be free to express their thoughts and deliver judgments without external interference.
He called for support from individuals and groups involved in court welfare activities to resist challenges to judicial autonomy.
鈥楾he judicial system risks collapse if the moral failings of a few judges are not addressed,鈥� he warned. 鈥楿nity within the judiciary is crucial to overcoming these challenges.鈥�
Justice Ziaul emphasised the necessity of implementing High Court inspection reports and recommendations made under Article 109 of the constitution.
He argued that these measures would enhance transparency and accountability in the administrative and judicial processes of lower courts.
He also praised chief justice Syed Refaat Ahmed鈥檚 proactive supervision, saying that CJ鈥檚 supervision had been instrumental in addressing the challenges faced by lower courts and their judges.
Chief Justice Syed Refaat Ahmed, who leads the six-member Appellate Division, shared his experiences of working alongside Justice Syed Md Ziaul Karim in both the High Court and the Appellate Division.
Speaking during the farewell event, attorney general Md Asaduzzaman and Supreme Court Bar Association president AM Mahbub Uddin Khokon lauded Justice Ziaul Karim鈥檚 contribution, highlighting his 20 years as a judge and 18 years as an advocate.