Protesters accuse govt of failure over execution of 2 B’deshis in Saudi Arabia

The Network for People’s Action (NPA) has held a protest rally in Dhaka, accusing the government of failing to protect two Bangladeshi nationals who were executed in Saudi Arabia over allegations of involvement in “immoral activities”.

The rally was held in front of the National Museum in Shahbagh on Friday afternoon.

The event was chaired by Ferdous Ara Rumi, spokesperson for the NPA Central Council. Among those present were Hasnat Kaiyum, president of the State Reform Movement; Tajnuba Jabin, an organiser of Alternatives; and teacher and researcher Maha Mirza.

Speaking at the rally, Hasnat Kaiyum criticised the government’s response to the executions, saying its remarks were more brutal, offensive and humiliating than those of previous governments.

He called on the authorities to explain within seven days what steps they were taking to protect expatriate Bangladeshis facing legal cases and harassment abroad.

Tajnuba Jabin condemned the executions, alleging that the Saudi authorities had carried them out without adequate accountability. She questioned why the two Bangladeshis had not received legal assistance from the Bangladeshi government while they were in prison.

Researcher Maha Mirza said the government, particularly the Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment, had a responsibility to protect migrant workers rather than treat them merely as sources of income.

She urged the authorities to disclose their plans to ensure the safety and rights of Bangladeshi expatriates.

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