UN calls for calm, urges all to refrain from violence

The United Nations Human Rights Office urges all to remain calm and to refrain from violence in the wake of the death of July protester Sharif Osman Hadi and the violence after the death.

Jeremy Laurence, UN Human Rights Office spokesperson, on Friday said,  “We are deeply troubled by the killing of Sharif Osman Bin Hadi, a prominent leader of last year’s protests in Bangladesh, who has died of his injuries after being shot last week”.

“We call for calm and for everyone to refrain from violence,” he added.

“Retaliation and revenge will only deepen divisions and undermine the rights of all.”

The UN urges the authorities to conduct a prompt, impartial, thorough and transparent investigation into the attack that led to Hadi’s death, and to ensure due process and accountability for those responsible.

Several protests have erupted at various locations around the country after Hadi’s death was announced, six days after he was shot. Some buildings have been torched and vandalised, and a number of journalists have reportedly been assaulted, he added.

 “With the parliamentary elections scheduled for February, it is vital to ensure an environment in which all individuals can participate safely and peacefully in public life, and freely express different views”.

 “We urge the authorities to uphold the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and security of journalists at this critical time and prevent further escalation of unrest.”

mirmostafiz@yahoo.com