UAE Announces Amnesty for Bangladeshi Nationals Convicted for Rioting

Abu Dhabi: Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has announced an amnesty for 57 Bangladeshi citizens who were convicted for their involvement in riots against the government of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of Bangladesh.

Details of the Amnesty:

• Amnesty Decision: The UAE government has decided to pardon these convicted individuals, cancel their sentences, and deport them from the country. This decision follows a review of their cases and is part of a broader effort to address issues related to foreign nationals involved in legal disputes.
• Sentences: The convicted individuals had received severe penalties, with three of them sentenced to life imprisonment and 53 others given 10-year prison terms. Additionally, a Bangladeshi national who had entered the UAE illegally was sentenced to 11 years in prison.
• Charges: The charges against these individuals included participating in illegal protests and causing disturbances to public order. Their actions were deemed to have violated UAE laws and regulations related to public demonstrations and peace.
• Diplomatic Contact: According to Arab media, the decision to pardon these individuals came shortly after a communication from Bangladesh’s interim President, Mohammad Yunus, to the UAE President. This diplomatic interaction may have influenced the amnesty decision.
• Political Turmoil in Bangladesh: The rioting and unrest in Bangladesh, which began in July, led to significant political upheaval. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled to India amidst the student protests. Following her departure, the country’s leadership was taken over by the Army Chief, and Nobel laureate Dr. Mohammad Yunus was appointed as the head of the interim government.
• UAE’s Humanitarian Gesture: The UAE’s decision to pardon and deport the Bangladeshi nationals reflects a humanitarian approach and a desire to maintain diplomatic relations with Bangladesh, especially during a period of political transition in the country.
• Media Coverage: The amnesty decision has been widely covered by local and international media. For detailed reports and updates, refer to news sources such as Arab News and Gulf News.
• Diplomatic Implications: The move is seen as a gesture of goodwill by the UAE towards Bangladesh, potentially strengthening diplomatic ties and showcasing the UAE’s role in international humanitarian efforts.

Further Information:

• UAE Government Statements: For official statements and further details about the amnesty decision, visit the UAE Government’s official website and follow updates on Twitter.
• Bangladesh Government Updates: Information related to the political situation in Bangladesh and the interim government’s activities can be tracked through Bangladesh’s official news channels and Twitter.

This development highlights the UAE’s ongoing commitment to diplomatic relations and humanitarian considerations in the context of international legal and political matters.