UN rights chief learns abolition of death penalty not an option in Bangladesh

Law Adviser Dr. Asif Nazrul said on Tuesday that abolishing the death penalty is not feasible in the current context.

He made the remark following a meeting with UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk in Dhaka.

During the meeting, discussions on several issues including the potential repeal of the death penalty, that the UN always encourages, were held.

During the discussion, Turk was told however, that such a change is impossible given the established penal system and century-old justice framework in Bangladesh.

He said "With thousands of young lives lost at the hands of fascists, it is out of the question to suddenly abolish the death penalty. Any significant legal reform must align with societal aspirations."

Asif Nazrul clarified that the UN Human Rights Commission is engaged in legal reforms to enhance the acceptability of the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) law.

He also mentioned the UN’s assurances of support in areas like forensic assistance and technical capacity building.

The law adviser reassured High Commissioner Turk that justice would be served in the tribunal, clarifying that the proceedings are not motivated by vengeance. "There will be no injustices like those seen in previous courts. Nothing will be concealed; anyone can come and observe the trials," he stated.

Moreover, Asif Nazrul noted that High Commissioner Turk expressed support for the current government's reform initiatives, particularly regarding transitional transformation and the historical uprising of students and citizens.

Turk highlighted two key expectations, one of which was judicial independence. In response, the adviser confirmed the government’s commitment to this goal and mentioned a proposal for a separate judicial secretariat put forth by the Chief Justice.

Regarding the establishment of an independent judiciary, Asif Nazrul shared the government’s reform plans for both higher and lower courts, which were met with satisfaction by the High Commissioner.