The BNP on Tuesday called for the dissolution of the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) as part of a broader police reform agenda, citing allegations of human rights violations and extra judicial killings.
"After analysing RAB's activities, our committee has recommended its dissolution," BNP Standing Committee Member Hafizuddin Ahmed said at a press conference at the party chairperson's office in Gulshan.
Presenting the recommendations submitted to the Police Reform Commission, the BNP leader also called for the formation of a "police commission" to build a people-friendly and humane police force.
The specialised unit was formed during the BNP-Jamaat coalition government in 2004.
Asked why the abolition of the RAB is being sought without reforming the force, Hafizuddin said: "The RAB has been condemned globally and it has turned into a monster in the country. Most of the murders, enforced disappearances, and extrajudicial killings in the country were carried out by the RAB. That is why we have recommended its abolition."
The BNP has recommended taking necessary measures so that the Armed Police Battalion, or APBn, and police station officials can perform their duties after the RAB is dissolved.
"If the RAB is abolished at this moment, we believe it will send a positive signal to the people," he said.
In December 2021, the United States imposed sanctions on the RAB and seven of its former and current officials accusing them of serious human rights violations.
Since then, the Bangladesh government has repeatedly requested the US to lift the ban, but there has been no response.
The US has always said the process of lifting sanctions is "complex." —Agencies
