Dhaka: The interim government has issued a strong warning regarding the broadcasting of statements by Awami League leader Sheikh Hasina, who is a fugitive accused in crimes against humanity cases. “The broadcasting and publicity of audio of Awami League leader Sheikh Hasina, a convicted criminal and fugitive accused of mass killings and crimes against humanity, on Bangladeshi television, news and online outlets is a serious violation of the Anti-Terrorism Act 2009,” said a statement issued by the Chief Adviser’s Press Wing here today.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, in December last year, the International Crimes Tribunal banned the broadcasting of the former dictator’s statements inciting hatred. “We have noted with regret that some media outlets on Thursday, defying the law and court orders, broadcast a speech of the ousted dictator, in which she made false and provocative statements. We are warning media officials involved in such criminal propaganda and firmly saying that immediate legal actions will be taken if anyone publishes Sheikh Hasina’s statements in the future,” the statement read.
The statement emphasized the importance of maintaining national stability and preventing confusion. It highlighted that during the July uprising, Sheikh Hasina fled Bangladesh after being accused of ordering the massacre of hundreds of peaceful protesters. The International Crimes Tribunal has convicted her, and she remains under trial for crimes against humanity.
Under Bangladeshi law, the activities of the Awami League have been banned. The Anti-Terrorism Act 2009 provides for legal action against any person or organization promoting, publishing, or broadcasting the activities or speeches of leaders from the banned party.
The statement also touched on the preparations for a free and fair election under the interim government’s leadership, headed by Professor Muhammad Yunus. It emphasized the need for media outlets to act responsibly and refrain from broadcasting Sheikh Hasina’s speeches, which are seen as destabilizing.
The government warned that any media outlet violating these restrictions would face legal accountability under Bangladeshi law. Broadcasting Hasina’s comments threatens the democratic transition and misleads the public, the statement concluded.