Law Adviser Dr Asif Nazrul on Sunday said the establishment of the rule of law remains Bangladesh’s most pressing challenge, even though notable progress has been achieved through recent reforms.
Speaking at a policy dialogue in Dhaka, he stressed that sustaining these gains would depend largely on the sincerity and commitment of an elected government following the next national election.
Rejecting criticism that reforms have been inadequate, Asif Nazrul said the scale of changes introduced within a short timeframe was unprecedented in the country’s history. “Never before has Bangladesh seen this level of reform in such a limited period,” he remarked.
Referring to economic indicators, the adviser said the exchange rate has stabilised while remittance inflows have increased due to improved mechanisms that ensure funds are retained through formal channels. He added that reform commissions have been functioning at a high level, with six out of ten key recommendations already accepted.
He warned that misinformation and persistent negativity could undermine public confidence. “Constructive criticism is necessary, but spreading negativity weakens trust and progress,” he said.
Asif Nazrul also emphasised that judicial independence without accountability cannot ensure justice. He called on judges of the higher judiciary to strictly follow the code of conduct, noting that accountability is essential for meaningful independence.
Highlighting institutional improvements, he said legal aid services have expanded fivefold and that, in principle, all necessary steps have been taken to strengthen judicial independence. “If accountability is ensured, the system will deliver for the people,” he added.
