UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk on Friday expressed deep concern over the killing of Sharif Osman Hadi, a prominent leader of last year’s protest movement in Bangladesh, and urged all sides to exercise restraint.
In a statement, Türk said Hadi died from injuries sustained in a shooting last week. He called on all parties to refrain from violence, warning that retaliation would only worsen tensions.
“Retaliation and revenge will only deepen divisions and undermine the rights of all,” Türk said.
He called on the authorities to conduct a “prompt, impartial, thorough and transparent” investigation into the attack and to ensure accountability through due process for those responsible.
Protests broke out in several parts of the country after Hadi’s death was announced on Thursday, six days after the shooting. Reports said some buildings were set on fire and vandalised, while a number of journalists were assaulted.
With parliamentary elections scheduled for February, Türk stressed the importance of maintaining a safe and peaceful environment for public participation and the free expression of differing views.
“I urge the authorities to uphold the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, ensure the safety of journalists, and prevent further escalation of unrest at this critical time,” he said.
The UN High Commissioner said that his office stands ready to work with the Bangladeshi authorities and other stakeholders to support efforts to protect human rights and prevent further violence.
