Legal, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs Adviser Dr Asif Nazrul announced that almost all criminal cases filed against the student and public movements that took place between July 1 and August 5 have been withdrawn.
He said this during a press conference at the Law Ministry on Tuesday, where he highlighted the ministry’s achievements over the past 100 days.
The adviser highlighted that the draft for the new Cyber Protection Ordinance, 2024, was nearing completion, following the repeal of the Cyber Security Act, 2023.
This new ordinance, which is being developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology (ICT), aims to address computer-related crimes more effectively.
He clarified that cases involving speech offenses under the previous Cyber Security Act would be withdrawn, although cases related to hacking and computer crimes would remain ongoing.
The adviser also provided an update on judicial appointments, revealing that the Ministry of Law had assisted in the appointment of 5 new judges to the Appellate Division, 23 to the High Court Division, and 109 to lower courts.
In addition, 4,300 law officers have been appointed across 61 districts. These appointments, he said, will expedite the withdrawal of politically motivated and false cases, a process made possible by the unprecedented scale of recruitment.
Asif Nazrul assured that steps are being taken to prevent the ongoing practice of "case trading," and legal actions will be pursued against those involved.
The adviser also announced the appointment of 20 special public prosecutors to handle explosive cases in the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and shared that the Ministry of Law had supported the reorganization of the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT), with 11 new prosecutors, including the Chief Prosecutor, appointed.
Regarding the amendment to the International Crimes (Tribunal) Act, 1973, Dr Nazrul said that a draft has been prepared in accordance with international standards and recommendations from national and international human rights organizations.
The draft, which aims to ensure justice for crimes committed during the previous fascist government and during the July-August period, will be presented to the Advisory Council for approval on Wednesday. Once the ordinance is passed, necessary actions will follow, he added.
Asif Nazrul also mentioned that the draft law for the appointment of judges to the High Court and Appellate Divisions of the Bangladesh Supreme Court is in its final stage, with hopes that future appointments will be made under this new law.
He added that asset declarations from judges, officials in the Registration Department, and employees of the Ministry of Law are currently being verified.
When asked if the proposed amendments to the International Crimes Tribunal law would include trials for political party leaders, Asif Nazrul responded, "Please wait a day or two. The amendment still needs to be approved by the Advisory Council. Our proposal does not grant the court direct powers, but the court can recommend disciplinary actions if deemed necessary."
Dr Nazrul further elaborated on the Ministry's role in the ratification of the international convention against enforced disappearances, noting that the Ministry has provided support for the formation of a commission to investigate and take legal action against those responsible for disappearances that occurred during the previous government.
In his briefing, Dr Nazrul also mentioned the formation of a Judicial Reform Commission aimed at establishing an independent and effective judiciary.
He revealed that the commission met with him on November 12 and hopes to present a comprehensive reform proposal soon.
Similarly, the Constitutional Reform Commission and the Election Reform Commission are receiving full support to carry out necessary reforms, with plans for dialogue with political parties once their reports are received, he addressed.
The law adviser also addressed questions about the government's commitment to fair elections.
He stressed that the government is working to implement reforms that would ensure a fair electoral process and hopes for a swift election, so advisors can return to their previous professions.
Responding to questions regarding the possibility of filing a red alert for criminals outside the country, Dr Nazrul confirmed that Bangladesh, as a member of Interpol, can apply for red alerts if necessary.
In a pointed comment about ousted Sheikh Hasina, Dr Nazrul accused her of abandoning her party members and fleeing the country, mentioning: "Sheikh Hasina abandoned her party members and fled. Three days before her escape, she sent her relatives abroad. Party members should ask her why she fled, leaving them behind."
On the topic of political movements, he reaffirmed that the government does not seek to emulate the repressive actions of the previous regime. While acknowledging the disruption caused by unjustified movements, he assured that the government is monitoring the situation closely and will take appropriate action when necessary.
