Death penalty abolition not feasible in current context: Asif
Asif Nazrul, adviser on law, justice, and parliamentary affairs, said that abolishing the death penalty is not feasible given the current realities in Bangladesh.
He made these remarks during a meeting with UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, on Tuesday (October 29), later briefing reporters.
Asif Nazrul explained, “Mr Turk raised the issue, and I responded that it is not currently possible due to our penal system and a century-old judicial framework, both of which include provisions for the death penalty. The idea of abolishing it, especially amid ongoing trials for heinous crimes, including murders by fascists responsible for thousands of deaths, is not practical.”
He added that any significant legal reform must align with societal aspirations.
The UN has been involved in providing support for legal reforms, particularly in improving the standards of trials within the international criminal tribunal framework.
Asif Nazrul said, “They have assured cooperation in areas such as forensic support, technical assistance, and capacity building.”
Assuring Turk, Asif emphasised that justice in these tribunals is pursued not out of revenge but out of commitment to fairness, with transparency as a guiding principle: “Anyone is welcome to observe these trials.”
Asif also highlighted Turk’s support for the government’s reform initiatives, especially in the wake of the recent student-led uprising and transition to an interim government.
Turk expressed satisfaction with the government’s reform efforts.
Two key expectations were communicated by the High Commissioner, including the independence of the judiciary.
“I assured him of our commitment,” Asif said, noting that the Chief Justice has already proposed establishing a separate judicial secretariat—a concept accepted in principle, with further discussions planned to finalise details. Turk was also briefed on the proposed Judicial Reforms Commission.
Asif said the High Commissioner was informed of the government’s reform plans for both the High Court and lower courts, which aim to enhance judicial independence. Turk expressed satisfaction with these developments.
