Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Md Asaduzzaman today said that honesty is inseparably linked with the term "judge", warning that no one involved in corruption would be spared.
"Judge means honest. The very word carries the quality of integrity," he said, adding that anyone found guilty of corruption would face not only administrative action but also criminal prosecution.
The minister made the remarks while addressing an introductory meeting with officials and employees of both divisions at the Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs on his first working day, following his oath-taking as minister.
Earlier, secretaries and senior officials of the ministry formally welcomed him, an official release said.
Referring to widespread claims about corrupt judges and officials, Asaduzzaman said there is actually no separate definition of an "honest judge".
"A judge is honest by definition. I do not want to see judges through the lens of honesty or dishonesty," he said.
The minister further noted that those who feel their government salary is insufficient to support their family should reconsider joining the judiciary.
"If anyone thinks they cannot manage with their salary, they don't need to take up this job. They may choose legal practice instead, especially since judges have the opportunity to practice law after retirement. This is my common message," he added.
On corruption, the law minister issued a firm warning: "If anyone thinks they can get away with corruption, that will not happen here. Anyone involved will face not only administrative measures but also corruption cases. Everyone must remember this."
