One Year of Chief Justice’s Reform Roadmap: Implementation Nears Completion
Today marks one year since Hon’ble Chief Justice Dr. Syed Refaat Ahmed announced his Roadmap for judicial reforms on 21 September 2024.
Over the past year, Bangladesh’s judiciary has seen major transformations in transparency, independence, and institutional efficiency.
Judicial Appointments Reform
The Supreme Court Judges Appointment Ordinance, 2025 was enacted, creating the Supreme Judicial Appointment Council chaired by the Chief Justice.
Judges are now appointed transparently on merit, efficiency, and integrity.
Steps Toward Judicial Independence
Proposal for a separate Judicial Secretariat sent to the Law Ministry; High Court ordered establishment within three months.
Bangladesh Judicial Service Formation Rules, 2025 enacted, replacing the 2007 rules.
Policy drafted for fair transfer and posting of judges.
Transparency & Accountability
A 12-point directive to eliminate corruption in judicial services is under monthly review.
Supreme Court helpline launched in 2024, now expanded nationwide with 64 district-level helplines.
Over 3,000 calls have already been served.
Technological Modernization
Paper-Free Benches introduced in the High Court from January 2025.
Over 400 computers supplied to district courts and 71 to remote Chowki Courts.
120 judicial officers provided with laptops.
Legal Aid & Access to Justice
Capacity Test introduced to ensure no accused stands without legal representation.
Nationwide legal aid instructions implemented via the National Legal Aid Services Organization.
Case Management & Backlog Reduction
Separate civil and criminal courts created through reorganization of Sessions Divisions in September 2025.
232 new judicial posts created, including 191 District and Sessions Judges.
Judicial Integrity & Discipline
The Supreme Judicial Council revived in 2024, leading to resignation, retirement, or removal of several judges over misconduct.
Investigations continue against four judges.
Professional Development & Welfare
Chief Justice Fellowship drafted to enhance judicial skills.
Judicial Pay Commission reconstituted with Justice S M Emdadul Haque as Chairman.
Interest-free vehicle monetization facilities approved for judges.
Security & Infrastructure
New policies adopted to ensure security of judges and court premises.
The International Crimes Tribunal building renovated and relaunched in 2024.
Awareness & International Cooperation
Regional conferences on judicial independence and efficiency held across divisional cities with UNDP support.
Seminars on environmental justice and judicial independence organized in Dhaka.
Judicial diplomacy strengthened with visits to Brazil, South Africa, Turkey, Thailand, UAE, and others.
Cooperation secured with UNDP, EU, JICA, UNICEF, and other global partners.
Outlook
Within just one year, Chief Justice Dr. Syed Refaat Ahmed’s Roadmap has transformed Bangladesh’s judiciary from policy paper to practical reforms. With transparency, accountability, and modernization at its core, the justice system is on course toward becoming efficient, independent, and people-friendly at international standards.
