UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk urged Bangladesh to learn from past political violence, stressing the need for justice for victims of summer protests. His visit follows a major political shift after former PM Sheikh Hasina’s departure, as a transitional government prepares for elections. Turk emphasized sustainable reforms and adherence to due process in future legal proceedings.
The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, urged Bangladesh not to repeat historical patterns of political violence during his recent visit. He emphasized that justice must be sought for the 736 lives lost and the over 22,000 individuals injured during the summer protests. Turk cautioned against pursuing criminal cases based solely on political affiliation, particularly targeting members or supporters of the former ruling party. Turk’s visit follows the significant upheaval in Bangladesh’s political landscape, marked by mass protests against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who fled to India in early August. The protests, led by students, called for political reforms and accountability, resulting in severe clashes with law enforcement, further escalating the violence. In the wake of Hasina’s departure, a transitional government, guided by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, has taken charge, with plans to hold fresh elections in the next 18 months. The recent court actions reflect growing accountability, as warrants were issued against Hasina and several officials for their roles in the violence and alleged crimes against humanity. Turk strongly advocated for justice, calling for an end to the silencing of dissent, corruption, and abuse of power. He highlighted the necessity for sustainable reforms to prevent past abuses from resurfacing, emphasizing the importance of a national process of truth and healing for society’s future. While he acknowledged the need for criminal justice, Turk also stressed the imperative of adhering to due process and fair trial standards in all legal proceedings.
The article focuses on remarks made by UN High Commissioner Volker Turk during his visit to Bangladesh, amidst a backdrop of political turmoil following violent protests against the former government. The protests led to significant casualties and a political transition, with a new government promising elections in the near future. Turk’s emphasis on justice and reforms underscores the international community’s concerns over the rule of law and human rights in Bangladesh.
In conclusion, the UN rights chief has called for Bangladesh to learn from its past by seeking justice for the violence perpetrated during the recent protests. Turk’s statements highlight the urgency for reform and adherence to human rights standards in the face of political change, urging a collective journey towards healing and accountability in the nation’s tumultuous landscape.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
