Withdrawal of all cases against Hasina?
It is reported in the front-page news of 2nd July DS that the Awami League (AL) will include among others, demand for withdrawal of all, what they called false, cases filed against their party chief Sheikh Hasina. Previously, the party was demanding her release and sending abroad for her specialized treatment of serious ear and eye ailments.
This demand for 'withdrawal of false cases " is a new one and almost impossible for this government to accept because it will create many legal complications. Firstly, this govt cannot accept, irrespective of the merits of the cases, that the cases filed against her were 'false'. Secondly, if her cases are withdrawn at this stage without following the judicial process, the others who have really committed heinous crimes like murder, extortion, misuse of power and helped militants to kill their opponents will raise their heads and demand for unconditional release under the shadow of Sheikh Hasina.
We have heard a leader of a political party openly equating a young son of their party chief with Hasina. Their party supporters will immediately start agitation for the release of their leaders citing the release of Hasina. I think the AL should not allow them to use the name of their leader as a shadow for other real criminals. It should not join those who do not want a free, fair and credible election in the country.
The AL has already earned credibility among the people for their democratic exercise in taking decisions in the last few days. They should not place such demands as will undermine their credibility.
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