Dhaka: Leaders of different political parties have stressed that national unity along with an active role of the international community is essential for a sustainable solution to the Rohingya crisis. They unanimously emphasized the need for safe, dignified, and sustainable repatriation of the displaced Rohingyas.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, political party representatives shared their views today while attending the ongoing three-day stakeholders’ dialogue on the Rohingya crisis at Hotel Baywatch. The Office of the High Representative for the Rohingya Issue and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs are jointly organizing the event titled “Stakeholders’ Dialogue: Takeaway to the High-Level Conference on the Rohingya Situation” with the aim of engaging global stakeholders to find solutions to the prolonged Rohingya crisis.
Speaking at the event, BNP Chairperson’s Adviser Ismail Zabihullah said that previous governments backed by BNP had been successful in repatriating Rohingyas through diplomatic efforts. However, he criticized the then government under Sheikh Hasina for failing to tackle the situation politically and diplomatically in 2017, which led to the current predicament. Zabihullah asserted that if BNP is voted to power, it will remain committed to resolving the Rohingya crisis with international support.
Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Secretary General Professor Mia Golam Parwar emphasized the humanitarian and Islamic duty to support the Rohingyas. He stated that the Holy Quran commands the defense of the persecuted, and Jamaat will advocate for humanitarian assistance, justice, and a sustainable solution. Parwar called for holding Myanmar authorities accountable before international courts like the ICC and ICJ and stressed the need for educational and skill development programs for Rohingya youth.
National Citizen Party (NCP) Member Secretary Akhtar Hossain highlighted the forced displacement of the Rohingyas and demanded the trial of those responsible for the genocide in Arakan at international courts. He asserted that the ultimate solution lies in ensuring the dignified and safe return of the Rohingyas to their homeland.
Amar Bangladesh Party (AB Party) General Secretary Barrister Asaduzzaman Fuad acknowledged the importance of continuing efforts for Rohingya repatriation. He also underscored the necessity of long-term humanitarian, social, and economic programs for the Rohingyas residing in Bangladesh.
Other speakers at the event included Gana Adhikar Parishad General Secretary Rashed Khan and Islami Andolan Bangladesh Presidium Member Professor Ashraf Ali Akon. High Representative for the Rohingya Issue and National Security Adviser of Bangladesh Khalilur Rahman was present, and the session was moderated by Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam.
All participating political leaders agreed that the Rohingya crisis is not solely Bangladesh’s responsibility but a regional and international issue. They emphasized the need for coordinated global action to resolve the crisis. The three-day international dialogue will conclude tomorrow.