Brussels, May 3: The Bangladesh Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) has rejected the nominations of 42 out of 90 lawyers for the upcoming elections scheduled for May 13-14, citing their connections to the Awami League. This decision has sparked international outrage and criticism from around the globe.
Furthermore, allegations have emerged regarding discrimination against Awami League-supporting lawyers in recent bar association elections across various districts, raising serious concerns about the fairness of the electoral process.
On April 30, Roman Javorscek, President of the Council of Bars and Law Societies of Europe (CCBE), expressed his concerns in a letter to Bangladesh Prime Minister Tariq Rahman regarding these incidents. The CCBE represents bars and law societies from 46 European countries, encompassing over one million lawyers.
Citing information from the Paris-based human rights organization Justice Makers Bangladesh in France (JMBF), Javorscek noted that from February to April 2026, numerous Awami League-affiliated and independent lawyer candidates were barred from participating in elections. Some were prevented from submitting their nomination papers, while others faced physical violence.
He also mentioned that in certain cases, nominations were rejected on the grounds that the candidates were “collaborators of fascism.” Additionally, there are accusations against the police for pressuring some candidates to withdraw from the elections or labeling them as associates of the previous government to hinder their participation.
The CCBE referenced the fundamental principles concerning the role of lawyers as outlined by the United Nations, emphasizing the need for the safety, independence, and operational freedom of legal professionals.
Moreover, the new convention from the European Council, which pertains to the protection of the legal profession, was highlighted, with a call for Bangladesh to adopt and implement it promptly.
The CCBE urged the Bangladeshi government to conduct bar association elections in a manner that allows all lawyers to participate equally and without discrimination. They also demanded thorough investigations into any reported irregularities, intimidation, threats, or violence during the elections.
In conclusion, the CCBE emphasized that all lawyers should be able to perform their duties without fear, pressure, or harassment, ensuring the independence of the justice system and the rule of law.
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