Outgoing Appellate Division Justice Ashfaqul Islam Emphasizes Judicial Independence and Public Trust at Farewell Ceremony

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Retiring Supreme Court Appellate Division Justice Md. Ashfaqul Islam on Tuesday issued a firm reminder to the judiciary that a judge’s primary allegiance must remain solely with the Constitution, the law, and their own conscience. Addressing his farewell ceremony in the Chief Justice’s courtroom, he emphasized that judicial independence precludes subservience to any individual, group, or external seat of power.

Justice Islam, who marked his 67th birthday and final working day after a judicial career spanning more than two decades, highlighted the pressing need for the judiciary to modernize to meet public expectations. He underscored that reducing case backlogs and fostering a more efficient, service-oriented legal environment are critical challenges for the institution’s future. Reflecting on the nature of judicial authority, he invoked Alexander Hamilton, noting that a court’s true strength lies not in force, but in its integrity, independence, and the depth of public trust.

The ceremony was attended by Chief Justice Zubayer Rahman Chowdhury and fellow members of the Appellate Division. During the proceedings, Attorney General Md. Ruhul Quddus Kajal and Supreme Court Bar Association President A.M. Mahbub Uddin Khokon delivered tributes to the outgoing justice. Justice Islam maintained that the judiciary functions as a custodian of the nation’s democratic spirit and human dignity, asserting that it is not enough for justice to be done; it must be visibly manifest to the public to ensure continued confidence.

Concluding his address, Justice Islam called for a unified effort between the bench and the bar. He stressed that the judiciary is a collective institution requiring the commitment of judges, lawyers, and staff alike. He expressed his expectation that the bar and the bench would continue to work in concert to uphold the dignity and independence of the institution, ensuring that its strength remains a reflection of their shared responsibility.

Justice Islam’s tenure began on August 27, 2003, when he was appointed as an Additional Judge of the High Court Division, becoming a permanent judge two years later. He was elevated to the Appellate Division on December 8, 2022.