The President of the UAE, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, has ordered a pardon for the Bangladeshi nationals involved in last month’s protests and disturbances across several emirates.
According to a WAM report, the directive includes dropping the sentences of those convicted and arranging for their deportation from the country.
Following the President’s order, Dr. Hamad Al Shamsi, the UAE Attorney-General, issued instructions to halt the implementation of the sentences and start deportation procedures. He also emphasized the importance of respecting UAE laws, highlighting that the right to express opinions is protected by the state within its legal framework. The Attorney General noted that the country provides lawful means for expressing views, ensuring that these rights do not harm national interests or public safety.
The pardon follows the recent sentencing of three Bangladeshi nationals to life imprisonment and the deportation orders for 54 others after serving prison terms for their involvement in riots and protests in the UAE. The court had sentenced the three to life imprisonment for inciting demonstrations to pressure their government over job reservations in Bangladesh. Additionally, 53 others received 10-year sentences, and one individual received an 11-year sentence for illegal entry and participating in the protests.
After these incidents, Bangladeshi missions in the UAE urged their nationals to adhere strictly to local laws, warning against actions that could lead to visa cancellations, jail time, fines, and bans on re-entry into the UAE.