UN rights chief calls for prompt, thorough investigation into Hadi’s killing

Retaliation and revenge only deepen divisions and undermine the rights of all, he says

United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk has called for a “prompt” and “thorough” investigation into the killing of Inqilab Moncho Convenor Sharif Osman bin Hadi.

In a statement issued on Friday, Türk also demanded that the perpetrators of the attack be held accountable following the due process of law.

“Retaliation and revenge will only deepen divisions and undermine the rights of all,” Türk was quoted in the statement.

“I urge the authorities to conduct a prompt, impartial, thorough, and transparent investigation into the attack that led to Hadi’s death, and to ensure due process and accountability for those responsible.”

Hadi, a frontline fighter of the July Uprising that toppled the Awami League government, was shot in Dhaka on Dec 12. The news of his death came on Thursday. He was undergoing treatment in Singapore.

The news sparked protests in the streets of Dhaka. Crowds of people attacked the newspaper offices of The Daily Star and Prothom Alo. Chhayanaut, the iconic Bengali cultural institution, also came under attack.

Türk called for calm, urging everyone to refrain from violence.

Referring to the parliamentary elections scheduled for February, Türk said it was vital to ensure an environment in which all individuals can participate safely and peacefully in public life, and freely express different views.

“I urge the authorities to uphold the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and security of journalists at this critical time, and prevent further escalation of unrest,” Türk said.