In a significant diplomatic gesture, UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has ordered the pardon and repatriation of 57 Bangladeshi nationals who were previously sentenced to life imprisonment. This decision was announced on Tuesday by the Presidential Press Wing in a statement released to the media.
The 57 individuals were convicted by the Abu Dhabi Federal Court of Appeal after participating in a protest on July 19, 2024, in solidarity with the quota movement in Bangladesh. The protest, which involved expatriate Bangladeshis, led to the arrest and subsequent sentencing of the individuals involved. Among them, three were sentenced to life imprisonment, 53 received 10-year sentences, and one individual was sentenced to 11 years in prison.
Protesting or participating in demonstrations is strictly prohibited in the UAE. The country has stringent laws against such activities, with penalties that include life imprisonment. Despite warnings, the expatriate Bangladeshis proceeded with the protest, resulting in their arrest and trial.
The move to pardon these individuals is seen as a diplomatic effort to strengthen ties between the UAE and Bangladesh. The repatriation process is expected to begin shortly, with the individuals being sent back to Bangladesh.
This development marks a significant turn of events in the ongoing discourse surrounding the quota movement, which has garnered international attention. The families of those involved have expressed relief and gratitude towards both the UAE government and the Bangladesh government for their efforts in securing the release and safe return of the expatriates.
