- Web Master
- September 13, 2023
Dhaka Tribune, August 25, 2023
Rohingyas held peaceful rallies demanding justice for
genocide in Myanmar in 2017 and five-point demands including dignified
repatriation with full civil rights in their own homes.
Rohingya leaders said that the gathering was held separately
in the rain in four camps of Ukhiya and Teknaf from 10:30am-12:30pm on Friday.
The gatherings aimed to vocalize a spectrum of concerns,
such as expeditious repatriation to Myanmar, the acknowledgement of their
ethnic identity, the establishment of a secure zone for Rohingyas within
Myanmar, the restoration of their homes, and the assurance of civil liberties
in the Rakhine State.
Designating August 25 as Genocide and Black Day, the
Rohingyas held a collective desire to return to their homeland, Arakan in
Myanmar, and to secure justice for the atrocities inflicted upon them.
Under the rallying theme of "Go Back Home,"
Rohingya community leaders from various camps and blocks articulated their
multifaceted demands, all united by a single call – "We want
justice."
Gatherings took place in Ukhiya’s Kutupalong, Jamtali of
Palangkhali, Maynarghona, and Leda camp in Teknaf.
Within these rallies, they called for a just trial for the
2017 killings and assaults, immediate repatriation of Rohingyas with unwavering
dignity, the restoration of civil rights, the repeal of the Myanmar Citizenship
Act of 1982, the reclamation of their Rakhine homes, and the creation of a
protected zone for Rohingyas within Myanmar.
The international community, including the United Nations,
was earnestly urged to translate these demands into action. The Rohingyas
expressed gratitude to the Bangladeshi government for providing them with a
safe haven.
Security arrangements were bolstered by the Armed Police
Battalion (APBn), district police, and other law enforcement agencies, ensuring
order and safety during these gatherings.
The rallies mark the anniversary of the Rohingyas' departure
from their homeland on August 25, 2017. This exodus followed immense
persecution and genocide within Myanmar's Rakhine state.
The first significant rally was held on August 25, 2019,
within the camp, under the leadership of Master Muhibullah. He was later
assassinated by members of the Myanmar group Arsa.
Caption: The
Rohingyas hold a peaceful rally demanding justice for the genocide in Myanmar
in 2017 and five-point demands including dignified repatriation with full civil
rights in their own homes in Cox’s Bazar on Friday, August 25, 2023. Photo:
Dhaka Tribune