Dhaka, Sep 14 (V7N)– The government has strongly condemned an attempted attack on Information and Broadcasting Advisor Md. Mahfuz Alam in London, describing it as an act of intimidation against democracy. The condemnation came in a statement from the Chief Advisor’s Press Wing on Saturday night.

According to the statement, the incident took place on September 12, when Advisor Mahfuz Alam was leaving a program organized by the University of London to mark the first anniversary of the July Revolution in Bangladesh. A group of protesters reportedly threw eggs at a vehicle of the Bangladesh High Commission and tried to block its movement. The Metropolitan Police quickly intervened and restored order.

Initial reports confirmed that Mahfuz Alam was not inside the vehicle that came under attack. The Bangladesh High Commission said it was in constant contact with police, who assured the advisor of “full security” during his visit.

This was not the first such incident. Earlier, during his official visit to New York, Mahfuz Alam faced a similar attack when protesters hurled eggs and bottles at an event organized at the Bangladesh Consulate General, breaking the glass door. The consulate later urged U.S. authorities to take action.

Chief Advisor’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam condemned the London attack, stating:

“The government condemns this latest attack with the same firmness as we did after the incident in New York. In a democracy, there is no place for attacks in place of reason, or terrorism in place of debate. Violence is not protest; intimidation is not freedom of expression.”

The government stressed that while freedom of expression, assembly, and peaceful protest are the cornerstones of democracy, they must be exercised responsibly and with respect.

The statement also noted that attacking a diplomatic vehicle and attempting to obstruct its movement was not only reckless but also a violation of international diplomatic norms. The Metropolitan Police was praised for its swift response, and further cooperation was sought to identify and prosecute those involved.

The government also announced three measures in response:

1. Urging the Metropolitan Police to conduct a full investigation, use video evidence, and prosecute the attackers on charges of vandalism, assault, and obstruction.

2. Calling on expatriate politicians and organizers to unequivocally reject violence and intimidation, regardless of party affiliation.

3. Reaffirming the right to peaceful protest while ensuring equal rights of officials, students, and citizens to speak and assemble without fear.

The statement concluded by emphasizing:

 “Democracy demands passion, but it also demands self-restraint. Both are needed to ensure the security and dignity of all citizens in Bangladesh’s democracy.”

END/SMA/AJ