The Human Rights Support Society (HRSS) has expressed deep concern over the execution of two Bangladeshi citizens in Saudi Arabia, demanding an independent investigation into potential negligence and institutional failure.
According to media reports, the two citizens, identified as Nazrul Islam Abdul Bashir and Sweety Akhtar, were executed on 14 October.
The human rights organisation highlighted that neither the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bangladesh nor the relevant diplomatic mission was aware of the matter prior to the executions.
HRSS added that this lack of notification raises fears of serious failures in the protection of expatriate citizens and consular assistance mechanisms.
Consequently, it urged the full public disclosure of complete information regarding the charges brought against the deceased, the judicial process, their opportunities for self-defence, and their access to legal aid.
Emphasising that ensuring the rights, justice, and legal aid for Bangladeshi citizens detained abroad is a crucial state responsibility, HRSS noted that the incident raises serious questions regarding the roles of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment, and the relevant embassy and consulate.
The rights body insisted that an independent investigation must be conducted to determine whether there was any negligence of duty or lack of co-ordination among these entities.
Calling for strict accountability, HRSS demanded that full case files, trial records, sentencing documents, and execution details be collected from Saudi authorities and made public.
Moreover, it urged both the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment to provide a clear public explanation detailing their roles, shortcomings in fulfilling their duties, and why the relevant information was not obtained in a timely manner.
HRSS added that if an independent and impartial investigation proves negligence or failure of duty, legal action and punishment must be ensured against those responsible.
The organisation also called for an updated list of Bangladeshis incarcerated in foreign prisons, including Saudi Arabia, to be compiled to guarantee qualified lawyers, consular access, and lawful appeal opportunities for those facing capital punishment or serious charges.
In addition, HRSS urged that necessary information and support be extended to the families of the deceased, alongside effective diplomatic engagement with Saudi authorities to secure a full explanation of the event.
To prevent future occurrences, the rights group pressed for institutional reforms to establish an effective co-ordination mechanism among ministries, embassies, and consulates for the rapid collection and regular tracking of information regarding arrests, trials, and sentences of Bangladeshis abroad, as well as the provision of emergency legal aid.
HRSS concluded that the duties of relevant ministries in protecting migrant rights cannot be confined to mere formalities.
Fixing accountability for any negligence or failure in this incident is essential, and the government must take immediate measures to ensure justice and effective legal assistance for all Bangladeshis detained overseas.
