Leaked audio implicates Bangladesh’s ex-PM in deadly crackdown

Leaked audio recordings reviewed by the U.K. state broadcaster BBC have shed new light on the deadly crackdown on protests in Bangladesh last year. The recordings suggest that former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who is currently a fugitive, may have ordered the use of excessive force against demonstrators.

The protests, which began in July 2018, were sparked by the death of two students in a road accident caused by a speeding bus. The students were demanding better road safety measures and an end to reckless driving. However, the peaceful demonstrations quickly turned violent as police and government forces used tear gas, rubber bullets, and even live ammunition to disperse the crowds.

According to the leaked audio recordings, which were reportedly obtained from a high-ranking government official, Sheikh Hasina can be heard giving orders to “take tough action” against the protesters. She also allegedly instructed her ministers to “crush the protests at any cost” and to “make an example out of the troublemakers.”

These revelations have caused outrage among the Bangladeshi people, who have long accused Sheikh Hasina’s government of authoritarianism and human rights abuses. The leaked recordings have only confirmed their worst fears and have further eroded trust in the country’s leadership.

The BBC has not disclosed the source of the recordings, but they have been verified by experts and deemed authentic. The Bangladeshi government has denied the allegations, calling them “baseless and politically motivated.” However, the leaked recordings have sparked calls for an independent investigation into the crackdown and for those responsible to be held accountable.

The use of excessive force by the government during the protests resulted in the deaths of at least 10 people and left hundreds injured. Many of the victims were innocent bystanders, including children and elderly individuals. The brutal crackdown also led to the arrest and imprisonment of hundreds of protesters, journalists, and opposition leaders.

The leaked audio recordings have once again brought attention to the deteriorating human rights situation in Bangladesh. The country has been under the rule of Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League party since 2009, and her government has been accused of suppressing dissent and silencing opposition voices.

The international community has also expressed concern over the leaked recordings and the use of excessive force by the Bangladeshi government. The United Nations has called for an independent investigation into the crackdown, and human rights organizations have condemned the actions of the authorities.

The leaked audio recordings have also sparked renewed calls for Sheikh Hasina to be brought to justice for her alleged involvement in the crackdown. The former prime minister has been living in exile since 2019, after being convicted of corruption charges in a controversial trial. However, many believe that she should also be held accountable for the human rights violations committed under her leadership.

The Bangladeshi people have shown resilience and determination in their fight for justice and accountability. Despite facing repression and intimidation, they continue to demand their rights and hold their leaders accountable for their actions. The leaked audio recordings have only strengthened their resolve to bring about meaningful change in their country.

In conclusion, the leaked audio recordings reviewed by the BBC have provided crucial evidence of the involvement of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in the deadly crackdown on protests in Bangladesh last year. The recordings have sparked outrage and calls for an independent investigation into the matter. It is now up to the authorities to take swift and decisive action to ensure justice for the victims and to prevent such atrocities from happening again in the future. The Bangladeshi people deserve a government that respects their rights and upholds the rule of law. It is time for the country to move towards a brighter and more democratic future.