Media carrying Hasina statements will incur immediate action

Publication or broadcast of deposed Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's statements from her hideouts will invite immediate legal action, the interim government warns as it finds her words provocative.

The post-uprising government issued Friday a statement of warning after some media outlets had aired a speech by Hasina in which she made "false and provocative" remarks.

"Broadcasting or disseminating audio recordings of convicted criminals and fugitive accused charged with genocide and crimes against humanity-specifically the leader of the Awami League, Sheikh Hasina-on television, news, and online outlets in Bangladesh constitutes a serious violation of the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2009," says the statement released by the Press Wing of the Chief Adviser of the interim government.

"Moreover, in December last year, the International Crimes Tribunal prohibited the broadcast of hate-inciting statements by former autocrats," it notes.

"We regret to note that on Thursday, some media outlets ignored legal and court directives and aired a speech by the deposed autocrat, in which she made false and provocative remarks," the note of forbiddance reads.

"We caution all officials of media organisations engaged in such unlawful dissemination and firmly state that any future publication or broadcast of Sheikh Hasina's statements will result in immediate legal action," the government forewarns.

"At this crucial moment in our nation's history, we cannot afford the risk of unnecessary confusion. It must be remembered that Sheikh Hasina fled Bangladesh after facing grave allegations of ordering the massacre of hundreds of peaceful protesters during the July Uprising," the press statement says.

"The International Crimes Tribunal has found her guilty, and she is currently under trial for crimes against humanity. Furthermore, under the laws of Bangladesh, Awami League's activities have been banned, and according to the same Anti-Terrorism Act of 2009, any individual or organisation involved in promoting, publishing, or broadcasting the activities or speeches of its leaders is subject to legal prosecution."

It says that under the leadership of Professor Muhammad Yunus, the interim government is working to guide Bangladesh toward a future based on justice, accountability, and democratic integrity.

"For the first time in generations, the people of Bangladesh are preparing for truly free and fair elections.

"At such a time, we urge media outlets to exercise caution and responsibility in handling Sheikh Hasina's audio recordings and speeches, which are aimed at creating instability and inciting violence in Bangladesh."

The end note warns: "The dissemination, rebroadcasting, or publication of her comments, speeches, or any inflammatory statements jeopardise the stability of Bangladesh's democratic transition and serves only to mislead the public. Any media outlet violating these restrictions will be held legally accountable under the laws of Bangladesh."

mirmostafiz@yahoo.com