Law Adviser Prof Asif Nazrul has said that the possibility of abolishing the death penalty in Bangladesh will not be considered until the ongoing trials of those accused of fascist acts are concluded.
Prof Nazrul was speaking to reporters following a meeting with UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk at the Secretariat yesterday.
During their discussion, Turk raised the possibility of revoking the death penalty. In response, the adviser emphasized that this is not feasible in the current context, as the death penalty has been integral to Bangladesh's justice system for over a century.
The law adviser highlighted the grave nature of the situation, noting that thousands of young lives were lost to fascist violence during the student-led uprising in July and early August. He explained that, in light of these events, abolishing the death penalty is not currently under consideration.
He further asserted that any major legal changes must align with societal values and aspirations.
Prof Asif Nazrul mentioned that the UN Human Rights Commission is engaged in legal reforms to improve the acceptability of trials at the International Crimes Tribunal. They have also assured support in areas such as forensic expertise, technical assistance, and capacity building.
Reassuring Volker Turk, the adviser said that justice would be served in these trials, emphasizing that the proceedings are not motivated by revenge.
“There will be no injustices like those witnessed in previous courts. We have nothing to hide; anyone is welcome to observe the trials,” he said.
UN representative Turk expressed full support for various government initiatives, particularly concerning reform efforts, transitional transformations, and the historical significance of student and public uprisings.
The adviser also conveyed the government’s commitment to judicial independence, noting that the Chief Justice has proposed the establishment of a separate judicial secretariat, which the government is willing to support in principle. The specifics will be decided through further discussions.
Prof Nazrul informed Turk about the Judicial Reform Commission and the government’s reform plans to ensure the independence of both higher and lower judiciary branches.
Election Commission search committee to be announced soon
When asked about election discussions, the law adviser said there had been no direct conversations on the subject. However, he confirmed that the election process has commenced, saying: “Our journey toward elections has begun.”
He added that a search committee has been formed to establish the Election Commission.
“Once the proclamation is signed by our Chief Advisor, the public will be informed,” he said.
Prof Asif Nazrul added that once the search committee is operational, the Election Commission will be established.
“We are committed to conducting an extraordinary, free, and fair election this time. The voter list needs updating. I can only say that our journey toward elections has begun,” he affirmed.
