Interim government condemns and regrets New York assault incident

The interim government has expressed deep regret over the incident of egg pelting on National Citizens Party (NCP) member secretary Akhtar Hossain at JFK International Airport in New York of the USA.

A statement issued by the press wing of the chief adviser on Tuesday (September 23) expressed grave concern and deep regret.

The statement said that the interim government of Bangladesh informs with deep sorrow that in a reprehensible incident that took place in New York last Monday, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and National Citizen Party (NCP) leaders--Akhtar Hossain and Tasnim Zara--were subjected to politically motivated attacks. It is alleged that the attacks were carried out by close associates and supporters of ousted dictator Sheikh Hasina.

The statement said: "This heinous incident reminds us of the toxic and violent political culture that prevailed during Hasina’s rule. The interim government is firmly committed to breaking this evil legacy and building a peaceful, democratic and inclusive Bangladesh."

It also said that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had taken several special measures in advance to ensure the security of the Chief Adviser and his accompanying political leaders. After arriving at John F. Kennedy International Airport, the delegation was first taken through the VVIP gate and taken to secure vehicles. However, suddenly, due to visa-related complications, they were forced to take an alternative route at the last minute.

Although the interim government requested to continue the VVIP protocol and security, the airport authorities unfortunately rejected the request, complaining in the statement that as a result, the members of the delegation were put at risk. Immediately after the incident, the interim government through the Bangladesh Mission in New York quickly contacted the New York Police Department. One person has already been arrested and a formal investigation has been initiated.

In the wake of this incident, the security of the Chief Adviser and all the delegation members has been further strengthened, the statement said, adding that security is being ensured in close coordination with US federal and local law enforcement agencies.

It said: "The interim government once again makes it clear that our commitment to democracy and the rule of law is unwavering. No incident of political violence and intimidation, whether in Bangladesh or abroad, will be tolerated. Strict legal and diplomatic measures will be taken against these activities."