Statement on the Situation in Bangladesh by Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey on 20 December 2025.
I join the people of Bangladesh in mourning the loss of Sharif Osman Hadi and convey my sincere condolences to his family and loved ones. I am deeply concerned about the situation in Bangladesh following the recent violence in Dhaka and other areas of the country.
I urge respect for the rule of law and for the authorities in Bangladesh to ensure safety of all, including of the media. In this regard, I welcome the statement of the interim Government which promises to hold those responsible for violence to account and which calls for restraint, responsibility, and an abiding commitment to reject hatred. I join in this appeal for calm and the highest degree of prudence and forbearance at this critical time.
