UAE Sentences 57 Bangladeshis, Promoting Harmony and Legal Awareness

In a recent ruling, a UAE court handed down sentences to 57 Bangladeshis for participating in unauthorized protests against their own government, highlighting the importance of respecting local laws. The court’s decision, which saw three individuals receiving life sentences and others varying from 10 to 11 years, underscores the UAE’s commitment to maintaining public order and security.

During the trial, the court-appointed defence lawyer emphasized that the gatherings were not intended to incite violence and argued that the evidence was insufficient. This case has brought attention to the UAE’s stringent regulations on protests, reflecting the country’s priority on stability, given that nearly 90% of its population is composed of expatriates, with Bangladeshis being the third largest group.

The protests, which took place across various streets in the UAE, were in response to decisions made by the Bangladeshi government. Despite the peaceful intentions claimed by the defendants, the court found that the marches disrupted public security, obstructed law enforcement, and endangered both public and private property.

In a bid to maintain peace, the police had issued warnings to the protesters, asking them to disperse. The court’s ruling includes deportation orders following the completion of their sentences, emphasizing the importance of adherence to local laws.

The Bangladeshi government has yet to comment on the court’s decision. However, the Bangladeshi consulate in Dubai has proactively urged its citizens to respect the laws of their host country through a social media post, fostering a sense of responsibility and legal awareness among expatriates.