In an extraordinary diplomatic gesture, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has issued a pardon for 57 Bangladeshi nationals who were previously convicted in connection with protests against former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The protests had occurred across various streets in the UAE, reported the Al Jazeera.
The presidential pardon, announced on Tuesday, September 3, includes the annulment of the sentences for these individuals and the initiation of their deportation from the UAE. The Emirates News Agency (WAM) reported that Chancellor Dr. Hamad Al Shamsi, UAE Attorney-General, has ordered an immediate suspension of the sentences and the commencement of deportation procedures.
Dr. Al Shamsi emphasized that while the UAE values the right of its residents to express their opinions, this right must not escalate into actions that could potentially undermine the nation’s interests and security.
On July 19, the Abu Dhabi Federal Court had sentenced three Bangladeshi nationals to life imprisonment and ordered the deportation of 54 others following their involvement in the riots related to job reservation issues in Bangladesh.
The UAE’s decision reflects a balance between upholding national security and offering a humanitarian resolution to the affected individuals.
