Bangladesh’s Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Md. Anisul Haque emphasized that ensuring justice requires upholding the rule of law, due process, and the right to legal representation even for those accused of the most heinous crimes. He made these remarks on Wednesday at Dhaka University’s Nawab Nawab Ali Chowdhury Senate Bhaban during a seminar organized by the Center for Advanced Legal Studies (CALS) to launch a research report titled “Legal Representation in Death Penalty Cases in Bangladesh: An Empirical and Conceptual Analysis.”

The minister noted that although many countries have abolished the death penalty, Bangladesh’s current social context makes its removal complex. Referring to the Ramisa murder case, he said the government demonstrated its commitment to the rule of law through prompt investigation, DNA testing, and trial, while also ensuring state-funded legal defense for the accused. He added that despite criticism on social media, the government has not deviated from fundamental legal principles.

He further stated that the government is expanding legal aid programs, strengthening district-level committees, promoting alternative dispute resolution, and encouraging pro bono legal services to ensure access to justice for the poor.