Bangladesh - September 2025

On 2 September, the High Court Division of the Supreme Court delivered a landmark judgement, restoring the Supreme Court’s authority over the control and discipline of lower court judges. The decision overturns previous constitutional changes under Article 116, which had granted these powers to the president. The Court also directed the formation of a separate judicial secretariat within three months to be run by the Supreme Court. The move shifts administrative control of lower court judges to the judiciary, responsible for overseeing judicial appointments, promotions, disciplinary measures, and budgeting. The verdict follows petitions submitted by several Supreme Court lawyers in August, who challenged the constitutionality of the existing Judicial Service (Discipline) Rules, 2017. Rights and legal experts have welcomed the ruling, noting that it marks a significant step toward enhancing judicial independence and reinforcing the separation of powers in Bangladesh. 

Sources: The Daily Star (1), The Daily Star (2), Prothomalo