The President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, has graciously issued a pardon for 57 Bangladeshi expatriate workers who were previously convicted to various prison terms for participating in demonstrations across several UAE cities in July 2024, in response to the mass killings in Bangladesh during the anti-discrimination students movement.
This decision follows a recent telephone conversation on 28 August 2024 with UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan by the Hon’ble Chief Advisor to the Interim Government of Bangladesh, Professor Muhammad Yunus. The discussion encompassed a wide range of bilateral issues, including trade, investment, and employment of human resources, with particular attention to the cases of detained Bangladeshi citizens and the release of 57 Bangladeshi expatriate workers.
Subsequently, on 03 September 2024, the UAE Attorney General issued a directive to suspend the execution of the sentences, which included the cancellation of the penalties and the arrangements for the deportation of those convicted.
This decision exemplifies UAE’s commitment to humanitarian values, the strong and enduring bond of fraternity and friendship between Bangladesh and the UAE, as well as the compassionate leadership of the UAE.
The Government of Bangladesh expresses its profound gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and the government of the UAE for their swift and considerate intervention