Human Rights Watch urges Bangladesh to end prolonged detention of political opponents

Human Rights Watch called on Bangladesh authorities Monday to end prolonged pretrial detention of politicians and others linked to deposed Awami League government, saying hundreds remain jailed without charge after mass arrests following Sheikh Hasina’s ouster in August 2024.

Rights group said many detainees were arrested on murder allegations without apparent evidence, while families and lawyers reported denials of bail and medical care. It said at least 10 Awami League office holders have died in prison since prime minister Tarique Rahman took office in February.

Human Rights Watch cited former chief justice ABM Khairul Haque, 82, who was repeatedly re-arrested in new cases after securing bail before being released Aug. 19.

“Under one government after another, hundreds of opposition members have been locked up without evidence or due process,” said Elaine Pearson, Asia director at Human Rights Watch.