What Are the Implications of Extremism Under Yunus's Rule?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Former Minister Arafat highlights severe human rights abuses under Yunus.
- Allegations of a militant group targeting various societal members.
- Immunity granted to perpetrators, hindering justice.
- International Crimes Tribunal taking action against army officers.
- Concerns raised by former Prime Minister about the rule of law's absence.
Dhaka, Oct 23 (NationPress) Former Bangladesh Minister and Awami League figure Mohammad Ali Arafat criticized the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus on Thursday, alleging significant human rights abuses and asserting that the rule of law has disintegrated in the country.
In a post on X, Arafat remarked, "Since July 15, 2024, a carefully orchestrated plan by Muhammad Yunus has allowed a militant faction of his self-styled student supporters to execute attacks against police personnel, Awami League members, minority community individuals, journalists, lawyers, and cultural advocates in Bangladesh."
He further noted that the individuals responsible for these heinous acts have been granted immunity, effectively shielding them from any legal repercussions for their actions, while the victims remain without avenues for justice.
Arafat asserted that those who perpetrated these crimes openly—with firearms, machetes, cleavers, Chinese axes, and sticks—have evaded accountability.
"Under the unconstitutional and illegitimate governance of Yunus, where human rights have been grossly violated, Bangladesh is devoid of the rule of law; only the dominance of extremists exists," he declared.
The Awami League leader pointed out that legal actions have been initiated against police and military officials who were merely fulfilling their duties to protect citizens and public assets from arson and violence, highlighting that many have been detained on "trumped-up charges" of enforced disappearances and homicides.
On Wednesday, the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) in Bangladesh mandated the incarceration of 15 army officers connected to three distinct cases involving enforced disappearances, killings, and other alleged crimes against humanity during the Awami League administration, as reported by local press.
Previously, on October 11, the Bangladesh Army headquarters disclosed that 15 officers were placed in military custody following formal charges in three ICT cases.
In a recent address, former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina strongly condemned the detainment of the army officers, emphasizing the absence of the rule of law in Bangladesh under Yunus's interim leadership.
"I am astounded by the expectation that the army would hand over these officers to the judicial system. Where is the law? There is no rule of law in this nation. This government is illegitimate, and its actions are unlawful. Why should these officers be surrendered to such a regime?" she questioned during a virtual meeting with party officials from Naogaon.