A group of 61 lawyers, previously arrested during the tenure of the interim government and described as supporters of the Awami political camp, staged a human chain in Dhaka on Tuesday, calling for the prosecution of former Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus. The demonstration took place at around 12:30pm in front of the Dhaka Metropolitan Sessions Judge Court premises and proceeded peacefully.
During the programme, participants raised a series of slogans and voiced strong objections against what they described as politically motivated restrictions imposed on their professional activities. According to their claims, lawyers identified with the Awami political ideology have faced obstacles in participating in bar association elections, as well as in conducting litigation and representing clients in court proceedings.
They argued that such limitations undermine both professional independence and the broader principles of justice. Several speakers stated that the measures taken against them amounted to discrimination based on political affiliation, which they said is incompatible with the rule of law in a democratic system.
A written statement was read out by Advocate Mahfuzur Rahman, a recently released lawyer who had previously been detained. In his remarks, he called for the withdrawal of cases filed against lawyers arrested in earlier phases. He further alleged that prolonged detention of legal professionals without adequate judicial remedy has resulted in a denial of justice.
He also warned that continued harassment of professionals on political grounds could weaken public confidence in the judicial system. Other participants echoed similar concerns, emphasising the importance of judicial neutrality and equal professional rights regardless of political belief.
Several senior and mid-level lawyers, including Advocates Obaidul Islam, Liton Mia, Md. Touhid, and Shamin Al Sohag Saiful, also took part in the event. Organisers confirmed that the programme concluded peacefully without any reported disruption.
Participants reiterated that if their demands are not addressed, they may initiate larger-scale programmes in the future. They also called upon the authorities to ensure full independence of the judiciary and to guarantee equal professional opportunities for all legal practitioners.
Summary of the Human Chain Programme
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Type of event | Human chain demonstration |
| Location | Dhaka Metropolitan Sessions Judge Court premises |
| Time | Tuesday, 9 June, around 12:30pm |
| Participants | 61 arrested and released lawyers |
| Main demand | Judicial action against Muhammad Yunus |
| Key allegations | Political discrimination; obstruction in elections and legal practice |
| Key slogan | “We demand justice against Yunus” |
| Outcome | Peaceful conclusion with warning of future action |
The organisers concluded by urging institutional reforms to ensure impartiality within the legal system and to prevent what they described as politically influenced interference in professional legal practice