Corruption Will Trigger Legal Action, Not Just Administrative Measures

Md. Asaduzzaman, Minister for Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, has issued a stern warning regarding corruption within the judiciary and public service. Speaking on Wednesday, 18 February, during his first official day in office at the Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, he emphasised that integrity is inseparable from the role of a judge.

“By definition, a judge is honest. The very term implies integrity,” the minister stated. “Anyone found engaging in corruption will not face merely administrative measures; a formal legal case will also be initiated. No one can expect to evade accountability by resorting to corrupt practices.”

The minister addressed officers from both divisions of the ministry in an introductory meeting, highlighting the importance of ethical conduct and transparency in public service. Dr. Md. Rezaul Karim, the ministry’s public relations officer, confirmed the minister’s statements.

Md. Asaduzzaman stressed that while allegations of corrupt judges or officials occasionally surface, such labels should not imply that dishonesty is inherent to the office. “A judge is, by nature, an upright individual. There is no separate category of ‘honest judge’; the concept of honesty is intrinsic to the position. I do not wish to see a distinction drawn between honest and dishonest judges,” he remarked.

He also addressed officials concerned about financial pressures, acknowledging that some may feel their salary is insufficient to meet personal needs. “If you feel that your official pay cannot sustain your household, it is not obligatory to assume this responsibility. You may choose to practice law privately, which remains an option even after retirement. This is the message I wish to convey,” he said.

Regarding corruption more broadly, the minister reiterated the government’s zero-tolerance approach. “Anyone who thinks they can escape the consequences of corruption is mistaken. Administrative action alone is not enough; legal proceedings will be pursued wherever there is evidence of wrongdoing. This is a principle that must be remembered by all,” he concluded.

Key Takeaways from the Minister’s Address

This address underscores the ministry’s firm stance on accountability and ethical governance, reinforcing the principle that public office carries both privilege and responsibility.