According to a report published in The Daily Star today on August 15, 2024, Mr. Rahman and Mr. Huq were placed on a 10-day remand by Dhaka Metropolitan Magistrate Md Mamunur Rashid on yesterday August 14, 2024, in connection with a case over the death of a shopkeeper in New Market on July 16, 2024. It is deeply troubling that during the court proceedings, pro-BNP-Jamaat lawyers actively prevented any legal representation for the accused. Two lawyers who bravely attempted to represent Mr. Rahman and Advocate Huq were not only denied entry into the courtroom but were also subjected to physical assault by unruly BNP-Jamaat lawyers.
Additionally, the fact that both Mr. Rahman and Advocate Huq were denied the basic right to speak in their own defense during a hearing that lasted a mere three minutes is a grave violation of justice and human rights. The subsequent attack on their legal representatives and the public humiliation through the throwing of eggs at the accused on the court premises further underscores the politically motivated nature of this case.
Mr. Robert Simon, Chief Adviser of JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF), strongly states, "The actions taken against Mr. Rahman and Advocate Huq are not only a blatant disregard for the rule of law but also a dangerous precedent of political persecution. The right to a fair trial, including legal representation and the opportunity to defend oneself, is fundamental in any democratic society."
Advocate Shahanur Islam, Founder President of JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF), adds, "We urge the relevant authorities to ensure that justice is served without political bias. The legal system must remain independent and impartial, safeguarding the rights of every individual, irrespective of their political affiliations."
JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF) calls for an immediate investigation into the conduct of the courtroom proceedings and the protection of the rights of Mr. Rahman and Advocate Huq. We also demand that those responsible for obstructing justice and assaulting legal professionals be held accountable.
We call on the interim government to take immediate action to review these cases, ensure the protection of the legal rights of all accused, and restore confidence in Bangladesh's justice system. Only through a commitment to genuine justice and the fair treatment of all citizens can the government hope to establish itself as a true defender of human rights.
We stand firm in our commitment to upholding justice, human rights, and the rule of law in Bangladesh.
Thank you,
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