Image Credits - The Economic Times
In response to escalating unrest in Bangladesh, Bangladeshi expatriates in the UAE are calling for their fellow nationals to maintain peace and avoid political demonstrations. This plea for calm comes after months of unrest in Bangladesh, which has seen significant protests against the government, leading to the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the anticipated formation of an interim government.
The Bangladeshi embassy in Abu Dhabi has issued a statement urging expatriates to respect local laws and live harmoniously. The embassy emphasized that gatherings, processions, and the display of slogans are prohibited without proper authorization under UAE law. Additionally, it has warned against recording or sharing footage of any protests on social media.
A consular official informed The National, “We have issued advisories to our citizens to avoid engaging in any illegal activities within the UAE. It is crucial for them to remain peaceful, maintain harmony with other nationals, and show great respect for the local laws.”
The embassy’s caution follows recent demonstrations organized by Bangladeshi nationals in the UAE, which resulted in legal action against several individuals. The Abu Dhabi Federal Court of Appeal recently sentenced three Bangladeshi citizens to life imprisonment for inciting public protests, while 53 others received ten-year sentences and one person received an eleven-year sentence for illegal entry to participate in the demonstrations.
The unrest in Bangladesh originated from student protests and subsequent detentions related to a controversial quota system for government jobs. The turmoil has led to flight cancellations by airlines such as Emirates and FlyDubai, which have suspended services to Dhaka and Chittagong, citing safety concerns.
Long-term Bangladeshi residents in the UAE have voiced strong opposition to the violence. H Rashid, a Dubai-based businessman of over 30 years, stated, “There must be peace, that is the only way. I have told my staff we are guests in this country. “I advise them to pray for Bangladesh but to avoid staging protests or taking to the streets here, as that is not permitted.” We see on the news how people set fire to buildings and destroy property in Bangladesh—all this destruction is wrong.” Rashid added that political issues should remain separate from their life in the UAE.
Another long-time resident, who requested anonymity, echoed these sentiments, saying, “We came here to earn money, not to talk politics. We hope for good things for Bangladesh. We should focus solely on promoting peace and tranquillity.”
The Bangladeshi community’s call for tranquillity underscores the broader need for expatriates to navigate their political sentiments within the legal frameworks of their host countries.