Bangladesh’s military-backed interim government has agreed to separate the judiciary from the executive beginning next month.

The law adviser to the government was quoted as saying the separation will become effective Nov. 1, and any problem resulting from the move will be resolved through discussions.

Despite opposition from some officials, the Daily Star reported Tuesday most organizations and the Bangladesh Bar Council welcomed the decision, saying it meets the expectations of the country’s lawyers and its people.

The bar council said the process had been delayed by those officials who felt they might lose power if the separation takes place, the report said.

"Separation of the judiciary is a long-term movement of the lawyers. It is becoming possible due to the government's willingness and the Supreme Court's firmness," the council said in a statement.

Bangladesh has been under emergency rule by the interim government since January after months of political violence largely between the country’s two main political parties.

Since it rose to power, the interim government has been cracking down on what it terms corruption. It also has been under growing pressure to hold elections, which are now expected to occur by next October. // Copyright 2007 by United Press International


Publication date: 23 October 2007   

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