Dhaka: Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Adviser Prof Dr. Asif Nazrul today expressed his view that the Awami League (AL) perceives oppression against the populace as its constitutional right. Addressing a gathering at a book launch event held at the Supreme Court Bar Association Auditorium, he described the AL as a “fallen fascist” entity that prioritizes power over public will.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dr. Nazrul was speaking as a panelist during the launch of the book titled “Revolutionary Constitutionalism: And Why It Was Essential to Declare the Fifteenth Amendment Unconstitutional,” authored by Senior Advocate of the Supreme Court Dr. Sharif Bhuiyan. During his address, Dr. Nazrul criticized the AL’s political approach, alleging that it seeks to diminish the legacy of Ziaur Rahman while elevating Bangabandhu to the pinnacle of recognition.
Dr. Nazrul characterized the 15th Amendment as a “terrible” move and questioned whether it stemmed from arrogance or ignorance, ultimately concluding it was the former. He asserted that the AL believed its authority was so unshakeable that it could implement oppressive measures without fear of public dissent.
He further questioned the concentration of power in the Prime Minister’s role and the numerous restrictions on fundamental rights, noting that such constitutional debates were previously non-existent. Reflecting on his early journalism years, Dr. Nazrul observed that terms like “transparency” and “accountability” were once absent but have now become focal points of discussion. He suggested that the newly launched book could invigorate constitutional studies.
Dr. Nazrul emphasized the importance of understanding the Constitution’s history, advocating for continued study and discussions to popularize constitutionalism among the populace. He stressed that despite extensive debates during the Constituent Assembly, public awareness remains limited, and increased discourse could foster greater interest.
The event featured remarks from several distinguished speakers, including Judicial Administration Training Institute Director General Justice Md. Emdadul Haque, Head of the Election Reform Commission Dr. Badiul Alam Majumder, and Dhaka University Law Department Dean Dr. Muhammad Ekramul Haque. Barrister Sara Hossain, Senior Advocate of the Supreme Court and Executive Director of Bangladesh Legal Aid and Services Trust, chaired the event, which was also attended by eminent jurist Barrister Dr. Kamal Hossain.