Amnesty International on Tuesday urged Bangladesh authorities to make sure that the proposed interim government ensures people’s right to life and free speech.

In response to the announcement of a new interim government being formed following Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s resignation amid widespread protests in Bangladesh, Smriti Singh, Regional Director for South Asia at Amnesty International, stated: “The primary responsibility of any interim government must be to safeguard people's right to life, free speech, and peaceful assembly while working to de-escalate potential violence.”

“Any steps taken to advance beyond this tragic chapter in Bangladesh’s history must be grounded in the principles of justice, accountability, and preventing recurrence.”

“The human rights violations in the last three weeks that have led to the death of more than 300 people, with thousands injured and arbitrarily arrested, should be independently and impartially investigated in a transparent manner,” said Smriti.

“We also call again for the establishment of a prompt, independent and impartial investigation into the deaths and injuries resulting from the protests. Those found responsible must be held accountable and the victims of the violence should receive full reparations from the state, which includes compensation, rehabilitation and guarantees of non-repetition,” Smriti added.

“It’s an opportune moment for any new interim government in Bangladesh to show solidarity with its people, protect the most vulnerable and not repeat the mistakes of the past.”

—-