- विज्ञापन -
Dhaka: Bangladesh’s Interim Government has no plans to ban the Awami League, but individuals within its leadership accused of serious crimes, including murder and crimes against humanity, will face trial in the country’s courts, according to a statement from the Chief Adviser’s Press Wing on Thursday.
In a meeting with a delegation from the International Crisis Group, led by Comfort Ero, Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus confirmed that the government has set two potential timelines for the upcoming elections. He assured the group that the election dates would remain unchanged.
Professor Yunus also mentioned that the government has not ruled out referring Awami League leaders to the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, following a UN fact-finding mission’s report on possible crimes during the July uprising. “It is very much on the table,” he said, emphasizing the Interim Government’s commitment to accountability.
Regarding the elections, Yunus reaffirmed that they would not be delayed due to any demands. If political parties only seek limited reforms, the elections will be held in December. However, if more extensive reforms are requested, the vote will be postponed to June next year. He emphasized that the election process would be fair and transparent, stating, “We have no reason to change the election dates.”
The Chief Adviser also revealed that the Consensus Building Commission has started discussions with political parties, and efforts are underway to finalize and sign the July Charter, which will guide the government’s policies in the coming months.
The statement noted that officials from the International Crisis Group praised the recent arrest of Rohingya insurgent leader Ataullah, calling it a sign of the Interim Government’s commitment to peace and stability in refugee camps. The delegation also urged more engagement with the Arakan Army, which controls much of Myanmar’s Rakhine State. Yunus acknowledged these concerns, stating that Bangladesh is working to mobilize humanitarian aid for Rohingya refugees and hopes that the upcoming special UN conference on the Rohingya crisis will bring more international attention to the situation.
Comfort Ero expressed support for Bangladesh in countering misinformation targeting the country and its Interim Government. Finally, Professor Yunus reiterated Bangladesh’s desire for strong relations with India but expressed concern that much of the misinformation against Bangladesh has originated from Indian media.
