Appellate Division upholds validity of interim government's oath

The Appellate Division has upheld the High Court's verdict declaring the oath and formation of the interim government led by Dr Muhammad Yunus as constitutional.

A seven-member full bench headed by Chief Justice Dr Syed Refaat Ahmed delivered the order on Thursday morning (4 December).

The apex court rejected the leave to appeal against the High Court's decision.

Yesterday Wednesday, the court fixed today for the order after hearing arguments. Attorney General Md Asaduzzaman, Additional Attorney General Barrister Anik R Haque represented the state. Writ petitioner Advocate Mahsin Rashid argued for the petitioner. Barrister Ruhul Kuddus Kajol and Advocate Mohammad Shishir Monir appeared as intervenors.

On Tuesday (2 December), hearing began on the leave to appeal against the High Court's order upholding the interim government's oath and formation.

During Tuesday's hearing, Advocate Shishir Monir said: "The people's mandate is the greatest validity. The basis of legitimacy is the trust and faith of the people."

On Tuesday, senior advocate Mohammad Mahsin Rashid argued for the petitioner. The Attorney General brought contempt charges against him for making derogatory remarks about the court. Later, the Appellate Division sought an explanation from Mahsin Rashid over the comments.

Notably, in December last year, senior advocate Mahsin Rashid filed a writ in the High Court challenging the validity of the interim government's oath. The High Court dismissed the writ and ruled that no one can question the interim government, as it enjoys the people's legitimacy. He then sought permission to appeal in the Appellate Division.