The Muslim Youth Movement of Malaysia (Abim) strongly condemns the death sentenced imposed on Motiur Rahman Nizami, the Amir of Jamaat-E-Islami Bangladesh, for so-called ‘crimes against humanity during the country’s bloody 1971 independence struggle from Pakistan’. The sentencing had been decreed by the Bangladesh Supreme Court without reasonable proof of the charges against Amir Motiur Rahman Nizami.

This execution is also a sign of the downfall of the nation which is seeing many leaders of Jamaat-E-Islami and other opposition parties being persecuted by unfair and lopsided legal procedures.

The sentenced proclaimed on Moitur Rahman Nizami has been widely decried all over the world. Renowned contemporary Muslim intellectual, Professor Tariq Ramadan, has lashed out at this punishment as suppressing democracy and against the dignity and rights of man.

The political situation in Bangladesh has drawn the broad attention and concern of the international community and the current execution of Sheikh Nizami must be highlighted as wake-up call for all who believe in human rights and democracy to voice out our condemn and criticism towards the corrupt leaders and dictators of Bangladesh.

Abim urges the government of Malaysia to express its firm stand by condemning this tragedy which is battering human rights and democracy in Bangladesh.

A clear and compelling position voiced out in this issue shall display our government’s ardent commitment in defending democracy and human rights as well as being the respected voice of the Muslim community on the international stage. It may also save a human life.

MOHAMAD RAIMI AB RAHIM is president, Muslim Youth Movement of Malaysia (Abim).