The Council of Advisers, the interim cabinet of Bangladesh, has granted final approval to the Enforced Disappearance Prevention and Redress Ordinance, 2025, introducing the death penalty as the maximum punishment for the crime of enforced disappearance, according to an official announcement.
Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam confirmed the decision following the 47th meeting of the Council of Advisers, held on Thursday with Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus in the chair.
Speaking at an afternoon press briefing at the Foreign Service Academy on Bailey Road in Dhaka, Shafiqul stated that the ordinance aims to prevent cases of enforced disappearance and ensure justice for victims and their families.
He emphasised that the inclusion of capital punishment reflects the gravity with which the interim administration views such offences.
Chief Adviser’s Senior Assistant Press Secretary Foyez Ahammed and Assistant Press Secretary Suchismita Tithi also attended the briefing.
The ordinance is expected to come into force immediately upon gazette notification, marking a significant step in the country’s efforts to uphold human rights and strengthen legal safeguards against state and non-state actors involved in unlawful detentions.