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Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Md Asaduzzaman on Thursday said the next parliamentary election will be held under a non-partisan caretaker government, following a landmark Supreme Court verdict restoring the system.
Speaking at a press briefing at the ministry, the minister described the move as a reflection of the government’s commitment to credible elections and democratic accountability.
He also acknowledged the long-standing demand of the BNP, calling the development “the outcome of years of political struggle.”
Earlier in the day, the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court upheld a High Court judgment that declared key provisions of the 15th Amendment unconstitutional.
By dismissing three separate appeals, the apex court effectively reinstated both the caretaker government system and the provision for a referendum.
“Insha’Allah, the next election will be held under a caretaker government,” Asaduzzaman said, adding that the verdict marks a significant step toward ensuring free and fair voting.
He noted that the movement led by BNP chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia had long demanded such a framework to guarantee people’s voting rights.
The minister reiterated that the government had consistently viewed aspects of the 15th Amendment as “ultra vires” to the Constitution.
“The High Court declared parts of the amendment illegal, and the Appellate Division has now upheld that ruling. As a result, the judgment has attained finality,” he said.
He further announced that a high-level committee would be formed to examine the verdict in detail and recommend necessary constitutional amendments. The process will include public consultation and may involve a referendum to finalize the framework of the caretaker government.
“As many as 54 issues identified in the judgment will be addressed comprehensively,” he said, adding that the July National Charter would serve as a guiding document in shaping reforms.
The minister emphasized that any amendments would aim to strengthen independence, sovereignty, democracy, good governance, human rights and the rule of law.
Attorney General Md Ruhul Quddus Kazal confirmed that the Appellate Division’s decision upholds the High Court ruling, thereby restoring the caretaker government system and referendum provisions in principle.
