TDS Desk:

BNP will enact a law to prevent enforced disappearances in accordance with the United Nations’ International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance if it is voted to power, says its acting chairman.

Tarique Rahman, now staying in London, said this in a statement on Thursday on the eve of UN-declared International Day for the Victims of Enforced Disappearances to be observed today and marking Bangladesh’s signing of the instrument.

“Enforced disappearance is a crime against humanity and a sheer violation of the people’s fundamental rights. Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina used it as a tool for state-sponsored repression,” Tarique Rahman said, referring to the data of several trusted human rights organisations.

“We’ll adopt a law, if we’re voted to power, in light of the UN’s International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance to ensure justice of the cruel crimes against humanity,” he said.

Over 700 people were victims of enforced disappearances by members of different law enforcement agencies during the 15-year rule of the ousted Awami League government, the BNP leader claimed.

During her rule, Sheikh Hasina indulged in unleashing members of law enforcement agencies to carry out enforced disappearances with a motive to create panic in the country, he said.

“It’s a very painful matter, as to date not a single case of justice in this connection has been served,” said Tarique Rahman, the eldest son of former three-time Prime Minister Khaleda Zia.

The victims of enforced disappearances were beloved members of their respective families but their dreams, love and beautiful future were snatched away using the tool, he said.

“I’m calling for global unity and solidarity in seeking justice and accountability against the individuals and institutions responsible for these inhumane crimes,” Tarique Rahman said, describing enforced disappearances as an internationally recognised crime.