Bangladesh Govt Firm on Bringing Sheikh Hasina Back to Face Justice
Information and Broadcasting Adviser Dr. Zahed Ur Rahman stated the government has no hesitation in bringing former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina back to face ongoing legal proceedings. He also noted that her statements from India could impact bilateral relations.
Information and Broadcasting Adviser Dr. Zahed Ur Rahman addressed a press briefing at the conference room of the Press Information Department located in the Secretariat in Dhaka on September 8. During the briefing, Dr. Zahed Ur Rahman discussed the government's official stance regarding the return of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the current state of relations between Bangladesh and India.
Addressing reporters during the official briefing at the Secretariat, Dr. Zahed Ur Rahman stated that the government has absolutely no hesitation in bringing Sheikh Hasina back to the country. He explained that upon returning to Bangladesh, she will be required to face the judicial processes and the verdicts concerning the numerous cases filed against her.
Elaborating on the diplomatic and procedural aspects, the Adviser mentioned that the issue of bringing Sheikh Hasina back has been placed as a condition in connection with the Prime Minister's visit to India. Reiterating the firm position of the administration, Dr. Zahed Ur Rahman emphasized that the government's clear stance is that Sheikh Hasina must return to the country.
Clarifying the method of her return, the Information and Broadcasting Adviser noted that it is not a matter of forcefully apprehending her and bringing her back, but rather that she should return to the country on her own accord. However, he explicitly pointed out that she is currently a fugitive accused and that there are already court verdicts issued against her.
Furthermore, Dr. Zahed Ur Rahman shared details regarding the legal status of her cases, mentioning that the Chief Prosecutor of the tribunal has stated she no longer has the opportunity to file an appeal. Consequently, he added, upon returning to Bangladesh, she must go entirely through that established legal process.
Commenting on the diplomatic front, the Adviser observed that the remarks Sheikh Hasina has been making while residing in India are naturally generating negative reactions within Bangladesh. He cautioned that while ongoing efforts are being actively made to improve and strengthen relations with India, occurrences of this nature could potentially impact those bilateral efforts.
