The interim government has issued a stern warning regarding the broadcasting of speeches by Sheikh Hasina, who has reportedly fled to India.
In a statement released on Friday (August 22), the government said that broadcasting and publishing audio from Sheikh Hasina—an Awami League leader, a convicted criminal in a criminal case, and a fugitive accused of genocide and crimes against humanity—on Bangladeshi television, news, and online outlets is a severe violation of the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2009. The statement added that the International Crimes Tribunal also banned the broadcast of hate speech by the former dictator in December of last year.
"We have noted with regret that some media outlets, on Thursday, defied the law and court orders by broadcasting a speech from the ousted dictator in which she made false and provocative statements," the statement read. "We are warning the media officials involved in such criminal acts of propaganda and are strongly stating that immediate legal action will be taken against anyone who publishes Sheikh Hasina`s statements in the future."
The statement further explained, "At this critical moment in our nation`s history, we cannot risk creating unnecessary confusion. It is important to remember that Sheikh Hasina fled from Bangladesh after serious accusations, such as ordering the massacre of hundreds of peaceful protesters during the July mass uprising. The International Crimes Tribunal has convicted her, and she is currently on trial for crimes against humanity.
Furthermore, under Bangladeshi law, the activities of the Awami League have been banned, and the same Anti-Terrorism Act of 2009 provides for legal action against any person or organization that promotes, publishes, or broadcasts the activities or speeches of their leaders."
"The interim government, led by Professor Muhammad Yunus, is working to lead Bangladesh towards 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."
The government`s statement concluded by urging the media to exercise caution and responsibility when broadcasting Sheikh Hasina`s audio and speeches, which are intended to create instability and incite violence in Bangladesh.
The statement said that the broadcast and rebroadcast of her comments, speeches, and any of her provocative statements risk harming stability on Bangladesh`s path to a democratic transition, and only serve to confuse the public.
It also stated that any media outlet that violates these restrictions will be held legally accountable under the laws of Bangladesh.
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