With most of the major sectors of Bangladesh currently undergoing some reform, there is arguably no sector that is at a more critical juncture than the judiciary. To that end, we share the concern expressed by the Office of the Chief Justice of Bangladesh about recent events within judicial premises nationwide.
Our justice system has historically not been known for efficiency, and has been plagued by significant issues which have over the years eroded public trust. However, all of the recent events and challenges are only adding to its inability to deliver timely and effective justice.
We commend the chief justice for issuing clear directives for all courts and tribunals to continue their functions normally and emphasizing the judiciary’s crucial role in serving the nation’s greater interest. For this to be successful, we need a more patient and understanding people as well as all the support the judiciary needs from other stakeholders.
However, while we can sympathize with the challenges that the judiciary faces, this does not pardon them from needing to become more efficient. While we understand that many of the delays and denials could be attributed to systemic inefficiencies, insufficient resources, and above all, bureaucratic inertia and political will, we have been given the opportunity to correct these wrongs that have plagued the justice sector for far too long and have no place.
For Bangladesh’s judiciary to fulfill its role effectively, it needs the complete support of not just the interim government but also the general population. With that said, we also expect that the historical issues of delay and denial of justice that have unfortunately become its hallmark traits be eliminated once and for all, ensuring that justice is accessible and equitable for all citizens.
