Abu Dhabi: The President of the UAE, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, has granted a pardon to Bangladeshi citizens involved in recent protests in the country. The President has ordered the cancellation of their prison sentences and initiated arrangements for their deportation.
Following the directive, UAE Attorney General Chancellor Dr. Hamad Al Shamsi has issued instructions to begin the necessary legal procedures. The protests in the UAE were held in solidarity with student demonstrations in Bangladesh, where over 100 people were killed during protests against the government’s job reservation policies.
The Attorney General emphasized the UAE’s commitment to protecting the right to express opinions within the framework of the law. However, he urged all residents to respect the country’s laws and not engage in activities that could harm the nation’s interests. He also reassured that the government provides legal avenues for expressing views, ensuring these rights do not turn into actions that jeopardize public safety.
Last month, 53 individuals were sentenced to 10 years in prison, and one person to 11 years, for participating in these protests. Following the court’s decision, Bangladeshi diplomatic missions in the UAE urged expatriates to abide by local laws and refrain from engaging in illegal activities.
Violating the law can lead to visa cancellations, imprisonment, fines, and bans on re-entering the UAE. The Bangladeshi Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate General in Dubai also advised their citizens to avoid recording or sharing videos and photos of such activities, as well as participating in or spreading rumors.
The UAE Attorney General initiated an urgent investigation into these protests following the unrest in Bangladesh over job reservation policies. The investigation, under the direct supervision of the Attorney General, found that the accused had committed crimes by gathering in public places to incite unrest, obstructing law enforcement, and violating individual freedoms.
The investigation also revealed that the protesters had committed other offenses, such as causing harm, obstructing traffic, damaging public and private property, and calling for protests that disrupted public order. Videos of these activities were recorded and circulated online, further endangering the UAE’s interests and public safety.
Note to Expatriates
Authorities have urged all expatriates living in the UAE to respect the country’s laws and regulations. They should avoid participating in or organizing any gatherings, demonstrations, or activities that could create public unrest without prior authorization from the relevant authorities. Additionally, they should refrain from spreading rumors, recording, or sharing videos or messages related to such activities on social media.
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