Staff Reporter :
The interim government is committed to securing the release of Bangladeshi workers in the United Arab Emirates who have been sentenced to jail, including life imprisonment, for participating in demonstrations supporting the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement.
Md Touhid Hossain, the Foreign Affairs Adviser for the interim government, announced that efforts will be made to address the situation.
“Some Bangladeshi workers in the UAE have been jailed for demonstrating in favour of the student movement.
We are closely observing the situation. Chief Adviser Dr Yunus will discuss this with the UAE government to seek their release and prevent further imprisonment,” Hossain stated during a media briefing at the Foreign Ministry on Sunday. Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen was also present at the briefing.
“Every country has its own laws. The actions of the workers were driven by their sentiments.
Our primary goal is to secure their release,” the Foreign Affairs Adviser added.
Hossain also outlined plans for improving services for Bangladeshi workers abroad.
“The Foreign Ministry will work to ensure that Bangladeshi workers in different countries receive better services from our consular offices.
We will strengthen our efforts to ensure workers receive fair treatment and appropriate salaries,” he said.
Addressing questions about the timing of upcoming elections, Hossain emphasised the interim government’s commitment to a free and neutral electoral process.
“We must hold an election. However, I cannot specify the timing at this moment.
The government will announce a roadmap outlining the next steps. Our immediate priority is to restore law and order to ensure stability,” he explained.
Hossain also urged the media to adhere to accurate reporting standards. “The media is expected to publish news with thorough fact-checking to ensure correct information is provided. Critical news can and should be reported, but it is important to verify facts before publication,” he concluded.
In reply to a question about India’s concern about its seven-sister states, he said, “If we want to keep stability in the seven sisters, stability of Bangladesh is also necessary.”
Regarding the reforms of the country, he said, “There has been a kind of revolution in the country. Now it needs a reform of different sectors. But before it we need stability in the country.”
Before the starting of the view exchange meeting one minute silence was held to honour those who were killed during the student movement.
Meanwhile media asked the advisor whether the president has received the resignation letter from the former prime minister to which he answered, “As far as I know a letter has been issued in lieu to the resignation.”