Law Adviser Dr Asif Nazrul on Wednesday expressed optimism that the country’s caretaker government system and the independence of the judiciary will remain protected even after the change of government.

“Hopefully, these two fundamental pillars of governance will stay secure and remain unchangeable,” he said while speaking at a programme marking Human Rights Day 2025 at Hotel Intercontinental in the capital.

He said the caretaker government system is already safeguarded by the Supreme Court’s verdict, while the Supreme Court Secretariat Ordinance now has the Supreme Court itself as its guardian.

“These two issues form the fundamental guarantees for advancing human rights,” he said, adding that recent legal measures—such as the National Human Rights Commission Ordinance and the Prevention of Disappearances Ordinance—will further strengthen accountability and state institutions.

He also pledged to stand with civil society in defending these laws after he leaves office.

Referring to the Police Commission Ordinance, he said that although a fully strong commission could not be established, its formation is expected to create positive pressure on the government as an independent body.

Nazrul highlighted several achievements, including the speedy trial process, expanded legal aid, and service-delivery reforms at the local level.

He urged all stakeholders to safeguard the reforms already achieved and work collectively to build a more developed Bangladesh.

Adviser to the Ministry of Housing and Industries Adilur Rahman Khan, Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Legislative and Parliamentary Affairs Secretary Dr Hafiz Ahmed Chowdhury, UNDP Bangladesh Representative Stefan Liller, and Swiss Embassy Representative Alberto Giovanetti also spoke at the event.