A human rights organization strongly criticized recent irregularities and discriminatory treatment against legal professionals in Bangladesh. The Justice Makers Bangladesh in France (JMBF) condemned the cancellation of pro-Awami League lawyers’ candidatures in bar association elections based on political ideology. The JMBF highlighted police interference in bar associations’ polls in various districts under the ruling Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP)-led government.
Expressing concern, the rights body called for an environment where lawyers of all beliefs can freely exercise their democratic rights. It urged exemplary action against those responsible through international-standard investigations supervised by the United Nations Human Rights Council. The JMBF emphasized that such incidents violate Bangladesh’s Constitution and fundamental human rights recognized by the UN.
The JMBF stated that these incidents are not isolated irregularities but part of a systematic process of political exclusion targeting a section of the legal community. It warned that such actions undermine the independence of bar associations as professional bodies, risking public confidence in the justice system. The rights body emphasized that these actions are unacceptable within the country’s legal framework and principles of justice.
The JMBF criticized the lack of neutrality, transparency, and equal rights in the bar associations’ processes. It highlighted the ineligibility of candidates without proper hearings or the chance to defend themselves, violating natural justice and due process principles. The organization also condemned interference by administration and law enforcement agencies, stating that it abuses power and undermines the rule of law.
Raising concerns over repressive measures against lawyers, the JMBF warned about the loss of neutrality by election authorities and the orchestration of unopposed elections. It cautioned that such trends could jeopardize the independence of the legal profession and the impartiality of the justice system. The rights body called on international organizations and institutions to take note of the situation in Bangladesh’s bar associations and implement necessary measures.
