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before becoming law, and seven were repealed. “The remaining 16 ordinances will undergo further scrutiny and necessary action will be taken later,” he said.

Asked about the referendum ordinance and the legality of the referendum held alongside the national election, Salahuddin said, “It is a factum valet, or valid by occurrence. The ordinance was issued, the referendum was held, and it has legitimacy. There is no need for a new law on this, as no further referendum will be held on this matter.

If in the future a referendum is required, it will either be a constitutional referendum under Article 142 or a separate law will have to be enacted. So there is no reason for threats. Its validity already exists. It is not illegal.”

On opposition threats of agitation, he said there is no scope for confusion regarding the referendum, as the matter is pending before the court and its decision will be final.

He emphasised that the government is proceeding with transparency on constitutional matters and will establish the necessary legal framework in due course.

The law minister alleged that certain quarters are spreading confusion by claiming the government has “discarded ordinances.”

He argued that transparency and accountability are clearly stated in the preambles of the laws, including repeal bills, which explicitly mention the reasons.

As examples, he cited bills relating to the National Human Rights Commission, the appointment of Supreme Court judges, and the Supreme Court Secretariat, noting that these required further consultation with stakeholders.

On the law concerning enforced disappearances, Asaduzzaman said ambiguities in definitions and trial processes could cause future complications, requiring more detailed examination.

He also said there were gaps in the Human Rights Commission ordinance regarding investigation, fines, and compensation, adding that the government has already initiated discussions with stakeholders, and a consultation meeting may be held after mid-May.

He compared the current government’s approach with the one that came after the 2007–2009 caretaker government and converted only 54 of 122 ordinances into law, while the rest were annulled.

“In contrast, we have converted a larger number of ordinances into law. For those that have not yet become law, we also have a clear plan and genuine intent,” he said.

Asked about judicial independence and show-cause notices against lower court judges, the law minister said steps were taken because their names were used by coaching centres, and due to misconduct on social media.

The home minister then added, “We also want the judiciary’s independence. But that independence means independence in conducting trials.”

Salahuddin, however, questioned whether making the judiciary “super-independent or sovereign” would serve the welfare of the state, stressing the need for harmonious cooperation among all organs of government.