Dhaka: Liberation War Affairs Minister Ahmed Azam Khan today declared the government's commitment to eliminating enforced disappearances, killings, tyranny, and torture from the country. "There will be no place for enforced disappearances, oppression, and torture in society," he asserted, expressing the government's vision to build the nation under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. The minister made these remarks while visiting the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre (BCFCC) in anticipation of the International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances, set to be observed tomorrow.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Minister Azam Khan highlighted the significant role the BNP has played in opposing enforced disappearances, killings, and torture over the past 18 years. The current government is dedicated to fostering a democratic and prosperous Bangladesh. He also reminisced about the hardships endured by former prime minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, noting that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman had participated in anti-disappearance and anti-killing movements from abroad, even while facing torture himself.
State Minister for Liberation War Affairs Ishraque Hossain, addressing the occasion, emphasized the government's resolve to end the era of enforced disappearances. "The government wants to send a clear message that the days of enforced disappearances are over," he said, advocating for a justice-based society. He assured that crimes against humanity would no longer be tolerated and stressed the elected government's accountability to its citizens.
The government is actively working to bring justice for past incidents, Hossain added. In response to inquiries, he stated that it was expected for individuals accused of killing approximately 2,000 students and members of the public during the 2024 mass uprising to remain incarcerated. He assured that these individuals would face trial before the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) in accordance with international standards.
Tomorrow, the International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances will be commemorated nationwide. The Ministry of Liberation War Affairs plans to organize a rally at BCFCC at 10 am.