AL calls for repatriation of Rohingyas

The Awami League yesterday called upon the Myanmar government to take back Rohingyas from Bangladesh.

“I urge Myanmar to take back the Rohingya intruders in line with the recommendations of the Annan Commission,” AL General Secretary Obaidul Quader said.

He was briefing reporters after a meeting of party secretaries at the AL president's Dhanmondi office.

The AL spokesperson expressed grave concern at the massive exodus of Rohingyas.

Several thousand Rohingyas intruded into Bangladesh through different border points in Ukhia and Teknaf of Cox's Bazar and Naikhyangchhari of Bandarban in last four days.

The exodus of Rohingyas began after at least 89 people were killed in northern Rakhine State of Myanmar on Friday.

The AL leader said a difficult situation was created in Bangladesh following the influx of Rohingyas. “We are facing an adverse situation centering on the issue.”

Rohingyas were being forced to flee the country as horrific attacks were being carried out on them, said Quader, also the road transport and bridges minister.

“We are providing shelter to them on humanitarian grounds. But the situation is getting difficult for us.”

He urged the Myanmar government to address the Rohingya refugee crisis through bilateral discussions in line with the recommendations of the Annan Commission, led by former UN secretary general Kofi Annan.