Press Release
Dhaka, February 7, 2025: Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) today expressed grave concern over the recent acts of vandalism and violence in Dhanmondi 32 and across the country, criticizing the government's passive response limited to statements rather than concrete action. TIB describes the emerging situation as a threat to democratic transition, good governance, and state stability, emphasizing that the government's effective role in controlling and addressing such situations is crucial.
Urging all to avoid destructive actions and adhere to the rule of law, TIB Executive Director Dr. Iftekharuzzaman said, "There is no denying that the dictator Sheikh Hasina, accused of genocide alongside her cronies, during the authoritarian regime fueled by an insatiable desire for partisanship and dynasticism, has inflicted the most irreparable damage to Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the Liberation War, and its spirit. The public outrage has escalated due to systematic rights violations and manipulative actions by the dictator Sheikh Hasina and her allies. Still, condoning nationwide hurt and violence that avoid judicial prosecution is reprehensible. After the July uprising, such violence across the nation poses a significant threat to Bangladesh's stability and international reputation.”
TIB’s ED further stated "Despite receiving prior notifications regarding violence, law enforcement agencies, along with the Army supporting them, and the government have exhibited a concerning indifference toward implementing effective control and preventative measures. While the interim government's commitment to restoring peace and order by addressing and removing the extensive accumulation of trash in the state apparatus of 16 years of authoritarian regime cannot be overlooked, it is crucial to question the proactive engagement of the government and associated institutions in managing emerging situations with a comprehensive risk mitigation strategy, especially in light of recent events. It is essential that government must not evade responsibility by merely issuing a statement claiming the incident was ‘unexpected and unintended’, but have to take visible and decisive actions to address such situations within legal framework.
Dr. Zaman cautioned that the current situation risks empowering groups seeking to resurrect the fallen authoritarian government. He also underscored that, “This could severely impede the progress toward establishing a 'New Bangladesh' that was initiated through unprecedented public sacrifices. Simultaneously, the potential for democratic transition, good governance, and particularly social and state stability will shake on the brink of collapse. It is crucial to remember that ensuring exemplary punishment and accountability for the specific crimes of all accomplices of authoritarianism, including Sheikh Hasina, is the top priority for comprehending the dream of 'New Bangladesh.' However, it is essential to adhere to the principles of domestic and international law rather than resorting to vindictive and self-destructive mob justice."
TIB expects that the government will take visible and significant actions within legal frameworks, move beyond issuing mere statement in addressing violence, protect democratic rights of all citizens, abandon the practice of harassing dissenters through lawsuits, and foster tolerance among all stakeholders.
Media Contact:
Mohammad Tauhidul Islam
Director, Outreach and Communication
Phone: +8801713107868
Email: tauhidul@ti-bangladesh.org
