Interim Govt: Publishing Hasina's remarks to cause legal action

Any future publication or dissemination of statements from deposed former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will result in immediate legal action, the interim government has said in a statement issued Friday. 

The statement issued by the Chief Adviser's Press Wing said promoting or airing Hasina’s remarks through television channels, news platforms, or online media in Bangladesh is a violation of law, especially given her conviction for genocide and crimes against humanity.

It added that in December, the International Criminal Tribunal banned the broadcasting of hate speech directed at the former dictator.

“We are deeply concerned that some media outlets ignored the law and court rulings by broadcasting a speech by the ousted dictator on Thursday. In that speech, she made false and inflammatory claims,” the statement says.

“We strongly warn media personnel involved in this type of criminal propaganda. From now on, anyone who publishes or promotes Sheikh Hasina’s statements will face immediate legal action.”

The statement mentioned that Sheikh Hasina fled the country after being accused of ordering the killing of hundreds of peaceful protesters during the July uprising. She has been convicted by the International Criminal Tribunal and remains on trial for further crimes against humanity.

It says that the Awami League is banned in Bangladesh, and under the Anti-Terrorism Act, any individual or organisation that promotes the activities or speeches of its leaders can be prosecuted.

“Broadcasting Sheikh Hasina’s provocative speeches, which aim to incite violence and create instability, risks damaging the democratic transition. Any outlet that spreads or rebroadcasts her remarks will be held legally accountable under Bangladeshi law,” the statement warns.