Judicial reforms to mark 'new dawn' for Bangladesh: CA Yunus

Highlighting the importance of reforms in the judiciary, Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus today (22 June) said these reforms, if fully implemented, will mark a 'new dawn' for Bangladesh, fulfilling the aspirations for which so many have sacrificed.

"Let us not dwell on the past obstacles. Instead, let us move forward, act decisively and realise the dreams of our martyrs by building a society of equality, dignity and liberty," he said, adding that ensuring an independent and efficient Judiciary will significantly advance these pursuits.

The chief adviser was speaking as the chief guest at a national seminar on 'Judicial, Independence and Efficiency' with Chief Justice Syed Refaat Ahmed in the chair.

In order to safeguard the district judiciary from executive and political influence, Yunus said steps have been taken to formulate rules for judicial transfers.

"The creation of a separate secretariat is a proposal that we cannot walk away from. A separate secretariat would grant the judiciary the structural autonomy to adjudicate without external pressure," he said.

Yunus said it is also commendable that as part of the reforms, the Supreme Judicial Council has been made fully operational, ensuring judicial accountability and independence.

He extended his heartfelt gratitude to the chief justice for leading these reforms. "His initiative in visioning and visiting every division of Bangladesh to garner support in inculcating a consensus has fostered a strong sense of ownership in the process, in all judicial officers and other stakeholders."

In this demanding work of reforming the judiciary, Yunus said they have not been alone. "I'm very deeply grateful for the generous support provided by the European Union, the UK, UNDP, Sweden and our partners across the international community."

The chief adviser said the judiciary's leadership in driving this reform is truly inspiring.  They are deeply committed to achieving an efficient and independent judiciary, and they look forward to its effective realisation, he added.

"The fate of these crucial aspirations and initiatives depends entirely on our collective efforts. We must keep in mind that our actions during this significant period will echo through time, and we'll make it happen," said the chief adviser.

Yunus said three magic words -- judiciary, independence and efficiency -- define the foundation of society, and the July uprising gave them the opportunity to build that civilisation.

"And this is where we are, defining each step of that foundation…..nothing can work until we go back to these three words and establish them," he said.

CA Yunus said this seminar is particularly timely and significant as it has been convened during a pivotal period of reform of Bangladesh.

"Every nation awaits a moment of transformation, an opportunity to mark a new beginning. This is our moment," he said, adding that this juncture does hold the key to a nation's future in human history and such opportunities are rare.

He said they have a long road ahead to fulfill the promises of the July uprising, and they bear an ingrained responsibility to honor this sacred memory of those who laid down their lives in the July uprising.

The chief adviser laid emphasis on ensuring justice for the heinous crimes against humanity committed during the months of July and August of 2024. "Today, the nation stands united in its determination to hold the perpetrators accountable."

He said they aim to create a just society where liberty, equality and dignity would guide all their actions.

The chief adviser said in considering reform initiatives, they must assess the effectiveness and credibility of various institutions and structures in shaping Bangladesh's future.

Law Adviser Asif Nazrul and Attorney General Md Asaduzzaman were present during the event.