Communist Party of Bangladesh (CPB) has questioned the government’s diplomatic role following the execution of two Bangladeshi nationals in Saudi Arabia, alleging that the authorities failed to investigate the incident or lodge a protest.
Speaking at a demonstration rally in front of the National Press Club on Thursday, the party leaders also demanded diplomatic initiatives to secure the release of over 20,000 Bangladeshis currently imprisoned in various countries, including Saudi Arabia.
Addressing the rally, CPB Central General Secretary Abdullah Al Kafi Ratan alleged that Saudi Arabia executed the two Bangladeshis by beheading without holding any prior discussions with the government.
He criticised the government for failing to uncover the reasons behind the execution and warned that the Saudi Embassy in Dhaka would be besieged if effective measures are not taken.
Ratan further highlighted the plight of expatriate workers, noting that migrants such as Nazrul Islam and Sweety Akhter had to return home after suffering torture in Saudi Arabia, while many female workers return pregnant.
He said Saudi Arabia must answer for these incidents.
CPB Central Committee Member Fazlur Rahman questioned the role of the foreign minister, calling for an examination into whether he is serving the interests of Bangladesh or those of the United States.
Pointing out that children from poor families sell land and assets to migrate abroad and that their remittances benefit the national economy, Rahman condemned the government’s failure to take effective action over the execution.
He warned that an irresistible movement would be forged if appropriate measures are not taken against Saudi Arabia.
Meanwhile, CPB Presidium Member Ragib Ahsan Munna mentioned that due to a lack of employment opportunities at home, many citizens migrate abroad after selling their property and send money back while working under harsh conditions in Saudi Arabia.
He added that despite being subjected to torture, many returning workers fail to receive remedy.
Munna also criticised governments for failing to speak out effectively against Saudi Arabian wrongdoings for a long time, adding that the current government lacks the courage to protest the beheadings carried out in the name of Shariah law.
