Bangladesh’s Interim Government, led by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, will not ban the Awami League, but leaders accused of crimes will face trial. Elections are set for December or June, based on reform requests. Yunus confirmed accountability efforts and addressed Rohingya crisis support. The government aims for improved international relations, especially with India.
On March 21, 2023, Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser, Professor Muhammad Yunus, announced that the Interim Government has no intentions to ban the Awami League. However, any leaders accused of serious crimes, such as murder and crimes against humanity, will face prosecution in the nation’s courts. This statement was made during a meeting with the International Crisis Group delegation, headed by Comfort Ero.
Professor Yunus confirmed that the government has established two potential timelines for upcoming elections. He reassured the delegation that the set election dates will remain unchanged. If political parties demand only minor reforms, the elections are slated for December; should they seek comprehensive reforms, the elections will be postponed to June of the following year.
The Chief Adviser indicated that the possibility of referring Awami League leaders to the International Criminal Court has not been dismissed, following a UN report detailing crimes during the July uprising. Yunus emphasized that accountability remains a priority for the Interim Government, stating, “It is very much on the table.”
The Consensus Building Commission has already initiated talks with various political entities, aiming to finalize the July Charter, which is intended to serve as a foundational policy framework. Additionally, the delegation commended the recent arrest of Rohingya insurgent leader Ataullah, viewing it as evidence of the Interim Government’s commitment to maintaining peace in refugee settlements.
Comfort Ero’s group encouraged further engagement with the Arakan Army in Myanmar’s Rakhine State. Professor Yunus acknowledged these concerns, mentioning that concerted efforts are underway to enhance humanitarian assistance for Rohingya refugees. He expressed optimism that an approaching special UN conference on the Rohingya crisis would elevate international focus on the situation.
In a concluding note, Professor Yunus expressed a strong desire for improved relations with India while noting challenges posed by misinformation campaigns directed against Bangladesh from certain Indian media sources.
In summary, Professor Muhammad Yunus clarified that the Awami League will not face a ban by the Interim Government. He highlighted the government’s commitment to conduct elections as planned, while also addressing accountability for serious crimes. The discussions with the International Crisis Group underscored the government’s focus on humanitarian issues, especially concerning Rohingya refugees, and the pursuit of stronger international relations and awareness.
Original Source: www.aninews.in
