Govt committed to ensuring an independent judiciary

Law Minister Md. Asaduzzaman at a reception function on Friday in Khulna said the government is committed to ensuring an independent judiciary noting there will be no scope for any executive interference in judicial appointments, transfers or postings.

"We want an independent judiciary. There is no scope for the government to interfere in the law making, transfer or posting of judges," the law minister said while addressing a reception and induction ceremony for lawyers as the chief guest.

Referring to the country's recent political transition, the minister added, "Thousands of people had to be injured and killed and many had to serve jail terms to recover the country from the situation left behind by the Awami government. We want a solution to this situation and the judicial system will be independent."

He stressed the importance of strengthening the legal profession and enhancing institutional standards within the judiciary and bar associations, and asked judges and lawyers to discharge their professional duties with integrity and competence.

"There is no alternative to training for improving the professional skills of lawyers," he said, adding that training programmes would soon be introduced in district bar associations across the country with assistance from a British organisation.

Addressing newly enrolled lawyers, the law minister said an influence free judiciary is essential for ensuring justice, rule of law and democratic accountability. "To further consolidate democracy, rule of law and human rights in Bangladesh, the judiciary must be transformed into a prestigious institution like a pilgrimage site," he added. 

He also urged lawyers to uphold professional ethics and remain detached from unethical practices, saying, "Lawyers must further improve their standards of honesty, integrity and professional competence and distance themselves from all forms of unethical activities."