No media to broadcast Sheikh Hasina's statements, legal action if violated: PM's Adviser

Prime Minister's Information and Broadcasting Adviser Dr Zahed Ur Rahman has urged all media outlets not to broadcast or publish any statements by Sheikh Hasina, in line with the court directive. He also warned that the government will take necessary action if the court order is violated .

He made the remarks while responding to questions from journalists at a press conference at the Secretariat on Tuesday, August 4.

Dr Zahed Ur Rahman said the government had previously issued an advisory to the media on this matter. If anyone publicises in advance that Sheikh Hasina will give a speech and then broadcasts or publishes it, that will constitute a violation of the court order .

"We reiterate our call to everyone not to engage in such activities," he said. "It is the responsibility of every individual and institution to respect the court's directive. The government's duty is to ensure the implementation of the court's decision."

Expressing his personal opinion, he said that without the court order, it would not have been right to prevent the broadcast of Sheikh Hasina's statements. Those who disagree with the court's order can challenge it in court. However, as long as the court order remains in force, everyone must comply .

Responding to a question about Sheikh Hasina's recent statement that she would return to the country, Dr Zahed Ur Rahman said the government is already trying to bring her back through extradition .

"Sheikh Hasina is currently a death row convict. If she returns to the country, she will be arrested. She will then have all the opportunities provided by law—including appointing lawyers and defending herself. The government will accept the court's final verdict," he said.

He added that the government believes in the rule of law and justice will be ensured in Sheikh Hasina's case as well.

On the question of those who helped Sheikh Hasina flee the country, the adviser said the political situation at the time was exceptional. The government currently has no initiative to investigate who was involved in that incident.

Regarding the government learning about former IGP Benazir Ahmed's bail days later, Dr Zahed said he was not sure about the matter and could not immediately provide an explanation, but would discuss it with the Home Minister.

Responding to a question about whether the previous government's influence still persists in the administration, he said it was not possible to change everyone who served at various levels of the administration over 15 years overnight.

"People associated with the previous government are still present in various institutions across the country, especially in the administration. It is not possible to remove so many people at once. Bringing in new people to replace those who have risen through various levels over 15 years takes time," he said.

He further said that transfers alone are not enough; new officials also need to acquire skills. The government is gradually making necessary changes, but not in a way that would cause the state's service delivery system to collapse.