Saudi Execution of Two Bangladeshis ‘Deeply Tragic’: Law Minister

Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Md Asaduzzaman on Tuesday described the execution of two Bangladeshi nationals in Saudi Arabia as deeply tragic, saying the government would issue an official statement after reviewing the relevant legal documents and international conventions.

He made the remarks while speaking to journalists after attending a reception for meritorious students at Mingram Secondary School in Shailkupa upazila of Jhenaidah on Tuesday afternoon.

The minister also said the absence of opposition members from the committee formed to work on constitutional amendments would not lead to any significant legal or political complications.

He emphasised that the National Parliament would be the primary forum for deliberations on constitutional amendments, with the process proceeding in accordance with parliamentary conventions rather than through confrontation or boycotts.

“The main process of constitutional amendment will take place in the National Parliament. When the bill is placed before Parliament, opposition lawmakers will be present and participate in the discussions. Therefore, their absence at the initial stage will not create any major deadlock,” he said.

Responding to questions about legal assistance for expatriates and the role of Bangladesh's overseas missions in supporting detained citizens, Asaduzzaman cautioned against making generalised allegations against embassies.

He said Bangladesh's diplomatic missions worldwide, including those in the Middle East, were working sincerely to provide services to expatriate workers.

However, the minister warned that any official found responsible for negligence or irregularities would face strict legal action following an investigation.

Referring to the recent beheading of two Bangladeshi nationals in Saudi Arabia, Asaduzzaman described the incident as extremely distressing and unfortunate.

He said he would refrain from making an immediate assessment until the Vienna Convention and the relevant provisions of Saudi Arabian law had been thoroughly examined.

Earlier, the minister attended the student reception as the chief guest, where he spoke about the importance of building a merit-based society.

Local educationists, students, and leaders and activists of BNP's affiliated and associate organisations were also present at the event.