Dhaka: Social Welfare and Women and Children Affairs Minister A Z M Zahid Hossain has publicly challenged former autocratic ruler Sheikh Hasina to return to Bangladesh and face legal proceedings. In his remarks to journalists, he emphasized the government’s stance that Hasina should demonstrate her claimed courage by appearing before the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT).
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Minister Zahid Hossain expressed his views after inspecting the construction of a sports complex for individuals with special needs in Savar. He remarked, “Someone said she would return to the country boldly. We also want that if she has the courage, she should return and face the law at the ICT. Then it will be understood what kind of courage she really has.”
The minister highlighted the significance of August 5, 2024, as a day when real courage was witnessed in the country. He reiterated the government’s and public’s eagerness to see Sheikh Hasina face the judicial system, insisting that her acquittal or conviction would be determined solely by the court’s judgment.
Minister Zahid Hossain further stressed his personal belief that Hasina’s return and submission to the judiciary would demonstrate respect for the rule of law. He underscored the government’s zero-tolerance policy against corruption, promising that no irregularities would be tolerated under any circumstances.
Addressing concerns about potential irregularities in the ongoing sports complex project, the minister confirmed that only six percent of the construction work had been completed. He assured that an investigation would take place and that anyone found guilty of corruption would face consequences, regardless of their position.
Senior officials from the Social Welfare Ministry and the Women and Children Affairs Ministry were present during the minister’s visit.