Dhaka: Dismissing BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia’s allegation that the judiciary is not independent, Law Minister Anisul Huq on Sunday said all should talk about the judiciary with respect.

‘Her allegation is totally baseless. We all should be respectful to the judiciary and court. I’m hurt that she had said this. But it’s totally untrue,’ he said while talking to reporters after inaugurating a workshop organised by Bangladesh Employers’ Federation at a city hotel.

About the graft cases against Khaleda, the minister said, ‘The judge will deliver the verdict examining the evidence and witnesses.’

Replying to a query, he said there is no provision in the Constitution about maintaining seniority in appointing the Chief Justice. ‘Article 95 of the Constitution clearly stipulates that the President will appoint the Chief Justice. It’s mentioned nowhere that the Chief Justice will have to appointed on seniority basis.’

Asked about the resignation of Appellate Division’s senior-most judge Justice Abdul Wahhab Miah, Anisul described it as his personal decision. ‘A judge can resign from his post. The law minister has nothing to say in this regard.’

He also said judges will be appointed to the High Court and Appellate Division very soon.