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The law ministry is set to hold a meeting on Saturday with experts to discuss three drafts concerning the much-debated Supreme Court Judges Appointment law, according to law adviser Asif Nazrul.

Speaking at a discussion titled Dialogue for Democratic Reconstitution on Judiciary—organised by the Centre for Governance Studies at the CIRDAP auditorium in the capital—Asif Nazrul said that the ministry had received three separate drafts.

These include proposals from the Chief Justice of Bangladesh, the Judicial Reform Commission, and the caretaker government of 2007–2008.

‘We have reviewed the drafts and found them largely similar, with minor differences on key issues,’ he said. ‘Based on these drafts, the Ministry of Law, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs has prepared a draft law through broader consultations.’

The adviser emphasised that the ministry intends to enact the law as soon as possible, incorporating insights from experts, politicians, academics, and other stakeholders.

‘If we can appoint 30 to 40 Supreme Court judges, it will significantly enhance judicial services for the next 30 to 40 years,’ Asif Nazrul stated, adding that the law is expected to be enacted within a month.

Nazrul also highlighted the necessity of establishing a separate Secretariat under the Supreme Court, as proposed by the Chief Justice. ‘We will consult stakeholders and aim to establish the secretariat within three months,’ he said.

Additionally, he announced plans to establish a permanent prosecution service to depoliticise the attorney service. ‘This will be completed within six months,’ he assured.

The government also plans to amend procedural laws to address flaws in the existing legal framework within the next year, the adviser added.

Nazrul underscored the importance of public consensus on judicial reforms, stating, ‘Greater consensus will make it harder for future governments to roll back these reforms.’

Reflecting on past judicial practices, Nazrul criticised the politicisation of the judiciary, stating, ‘The judiciary was previously used as a tool for oppression and human rights violations under the Awami League government.’

He also stressed the need for fair elections and smooth power transitions to uphold democracy.

‘We urge various reform commissions to ensure that their recommendations reflect the need for credible elections and democratic governance,’ he concluded.