The recent custodial death of Abdul Latif, a prominent lawyer in Bangladesh, has ignited outrage and condemnation from various human rights organizations. On May 25, Latif reportedly succumbed to a stroke while in the custody of the authorities, leaving many to question the accountability of the state regarding human rights violations. His death has been described as part of a troubling trend where individuals are detained without trial, often under dire conditions, raising alarms over the integrity of the judicial system.
Latif, who previously served as the Public Prosecutor for the Satkhira Judge Court and was associated with the Awami League, had been in hiding following the protests in July 2024. He was arrested on December 12, 2025, alongside his son, by the Satkhira District Detective Branch (DB) Police. His family and colleagues have alleged that he endured inhumane treatment while incarcerated, citing issues like poor food quality, inadequate sanitation, and a lack of necessary medical care.
- Prolonged detention without trial — Latif was held for over five months without clear judicial progress.
- Inhumane prison conditions — Reports indicate he faced poor nutrition and lack of medical attention.
- Call for independent inquiry — Justice Makers Bangladesh demands a thorough investigation into Latif's death.
Justice Makers Bangladesh (JMBF), based in France, has condemned the circumstances surrounding Latif's demise, emphasizing that detaining individuals without clear evidence contradicts the principles of justice. The organization highlighted that Latif's case is not an anomaly, but rather indicative of a broader pattern of political retaliation against members of the Awami League, particularly after the government’s recent political shifts.
Shahanur Islam, the Founder President of JMBF, articulated that the ongoing culture of political vendetta undermines public trust in the justice system. He stated, "The death of senior lawyer Abdul Latif in Satkhira prison is not an isolated incident, but part of a larger narrative of injustice since the fall of the Awami League government." JMBF is urging the Bangladeshi authorities to form an independent inquiry commission to investigate Latif's death and hold those accountable for his treatment and the circumstances leading to his passing.
