Law Adviser Dr Asif Nazrul on Wednesday expressed optimism that Bangladesh’s caretaker government system and independence of the judiciary will remain safeguarded even after a change of government, calling them “fundamental pillars of governance.”

Speaking at a programme marking Human Rights Day 2025 at Hotel Intercontinental in Dhaka, Dr Nazrul said, “Hopefully, these two fundamental pillars of governance will stay secure and remain unchangeable.”

He noted that the caretaker government system is already protected under the Supreme Court’s verdict, while the Supreme Court Secretariat Ordinance now designates the Supreme Court itself as its guardian.

According to him, these legal frameworks are key guarantees for advancing human rights in the country.

Dr Nazrul also highlighted recent legal initiatives, including the National Human Rights Commission Ordinance and the Prevention of Disappearances Ordinance, which he said will further strengthen accountability and state institutions.

He pledged to continue supporting civil society in defending these laws after leaving office.

Referring to the Police Commission Ordinance, he acknowledged that while a fully empowered commission has not yet been established, its creation is expected to exert positive pressure on the government as an independent body.

Dr Nazrul also pointed to several achievements in the legal sector, including the introduction of a speedy trial process, expansion of legal aid and service-delivery reforms at the local level.

He urged all stakeholders to preserve these reforms and work collectively toward building a more developed Bangladesh.

Other speakers at the event included Ministry of Housing and Industries Adviser Adilur Rahman Khan, Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Legislative and Parliamentary Affairs Secretary Dr Hafiz Ahmed Chowdhury, UNDP Bangladesh Representative Stefan Liller and Swiss Embassy Representative Alberto Giovanetti.